𝒦3𝓁𝒷𝓊𝑔

<-♡->

[k3lbug]

✧𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕✧

𝑷𝒓𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒈𝒖𝒆

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𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 1

1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4

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𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 2

1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4

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𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 3

1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4 ✧ ...

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𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 4

1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4 ✧ ...

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𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 5

1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4 ✧ ...

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𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 6

1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4 ✧ ...

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𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 7

1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4 ✧ ...

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𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕

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𝑬𝒙𝒕𝒓𝒂

Explanations: 1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4 ✧ 5 ✧ 6 ✧ 7

Purebred Darlings: 1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3

Extra: 1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4 ✧ 5

✧𝑨𝒔𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒂𝒈𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒏✧

[k3lbug]

What would happen if a tsum equivelent to mc apperead, right after all the tsum's went home?

War. Maybe even bloodshed.

[k3lbug]

Cleaner shrimp anon here again with more stuff! -Before Jamil makes his intentions known, Darling assumes *Kalim* is Jamil's darling, given how much the guy fuses over him and controls him. Poor Jamil can't catch a break, especially when right before his overblot Darling acuses his of being a terrible yandere to his darling (making Kalim drop out with hypnosis) -Silver keeps hopping into Darling's dreams, and if there are other yanderes in the dream... well, they don't stay long. He just makes sure he gets rid of them "off-screen" so we don't suffer from a 'nightmare" -Idia geeking out after seeing Maleus' CLASSIC tamagochi, begins to despair when Maleus spends time with Darling using it. Damn it, if only he could get his hands on a cult-classic like that Darling would spend time playing with him too! (not how that works buddy) -Knowing how much Leona likes ancient texts, Lilia makes it a point to borrow books like that from Briar Valley and read them where the lion can see, knowing the man has too much pride to ever ask for them. It's revenge for the Spelldrive incident. And also from spite cause' of Leona's pining for Darling.

-Lowkey battle between VIl trying to get Darling to eat all overly-healthy, and Heartslabyul boys all trying to get Darling into sweets. Includes a lot of verbal trashing from both sides, coercion of the Darling, and Leona+Ruggie pissing both sides off by slipping Darling meat (that much is not healthy! and they won't have room for sweets)

-To add to last point, after they find out how Idia is eating, they all reach a secret agreement that none of them will EVER let that man kidnap Darling. Good lord the living conditions- (Ortho is annoyed after overhearing, but can't exactly defend his brother in this regard)

-Silver asks Vorpal (Riddle's horse) to sabotage Riddle if he tries to take Darling on any romantic horse rides. Vorpal is, understandably, very torn about it (the pormise of all the great snacks... but Riddle is his rider!)

-Darling weaponises Lilia's gifts of "baked goods" by feeding them to the yanderes who annoy them, if they're withing shove-in-the-mouth distance.

-Jamil makes an allience with Ruggie: he can't exactly kidnap his Darling into his family home, on account of Kalim, so he plans to escape and settle in SunsetSavanna slums with Darling, and share with Ruggie in exchange for help with the whole kindapping and escaping and then living there (of course, both actually plan to backstab the other)

I love you and all you do for this world (aka my delusions)

[k3lbug]

Happy Pride month to all who celebrate. Special shout out to my wife!

[k3lbug]

✧Reader is mainly based on my own personality✧

✧Some tags I added but wouldn't work✧

𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 3 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 1

𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕 ✧ 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌 2 ✧ 1 ✧ 2 ✧ 3 ✧ 4 ✧ ...

Whoooshhh

You opened your eyes to find a truly intense storm out in the middle of the sea. Looking around a bit more٫ a man and a woman made their way into your line of sight. The man looked to be passed out while the woman tried to swim with him to safety.

A distant voice suddenly rang out٫ "Hurricane a comin'! Stand fast! Secure the riggin'!"

After that٫ everything went white٫ accompanied by a woman's melodious voice. You assumed it must've been the girl you just saw.

"Look! He's breathing."

Soon٫ the white obscuring your vision cleared away like fog٫ revealing some seashore. The man from earlier was not accompanied by a much older man and a scruffy dog instead٫ leading him away from the ocean. The older man must've been looking for him since he was calling out his name prior: "Eric".

"A girl...rescued me٫" Eric mentioned in a daze٫ "She had the most...beautiful voice..."

Once they were gone٫ the girl from earlier popped out again from behind a rock٫ looked positively head over heals for the man despite having just met.

"My heart...Oh, how it pounds! Yes. I know it. The day will soon come...part of your world!"

The waves rose around her٫ mimicking her excitement. Actually٫ only now did you notice that her lower half was mermaid tail.

As if things couldn't become more ominous٫ your view was forcefully shifted away from the girl and instead moved to two menacing eels stalking up at her from the shadows and chuckling. What a delightful way to end a dream...

❥

Like any other morning٫ you woke up to Grim practically on top of you while he muttered nonsense.

"Mrrrghrow...The trick to tests...is if there're two choices...it's a trick question..."

And he went back to snoring. Great...You sat up and stretched to hopefully get what remained of your exhaustion before trying to wake up your roommate.

"Rise and shine, Grim٫" you greeted٫ shaking his little (read: humongous) belly.

"MYAH! Don't surprise me like that. You'll make me forget everything I memorized!" Grim yowled٫ "Today's the last day of final exams, y'know. You and I are still technically one student put together, so you better not tank my grades, ___"

"This, from the last-minute crammer...٫" you sighed. Your little direbeast sure was acting a bit strange compared to his usual.

❥

"The test is over, whelps. Put your pens away and hand over your answer sheets like good little dogs. And with that, I do believe exams have come to a close٫" Crewel announced٫ causing cheers to erupt throughout the classroom. "Down! SIT! Don't start celebrating yet. Any bad boys who fare poorly in their exams...will be given mandatory remedial lessons over the winter holidays. Consider yourselves warned.

Class dismissed."

"Whew, FINALLY. It's over!" Ace rejoiced.

"I gave it my absolute best. All that's left now is to wait for our scores to come back٫" Deuce said.

"Myah hah hah! No lousy test is a match for my brilliant mind٫" Grim sang out.

They were all surprisingly confident in their answers. These were the same three you once watched start trying some bullshit ritual some upperclassmen told them to supposedly "help retain their knowledge for the test." Something was definitely fishy.

"Really? You guys usually look like your lives just flashed before your eyes after written exams. Now you're changing your tune?" Ace teased.

"Heh heh. You bet your bottom thaumark l am. Today marks the dawn of a new and improved me! You better be ready, 'cause soon you'll all be callin' me 'Galaxy Brain Grim' and beggin' for scraps of my knowledge٫" your fluffy companion bragged from your side.

"That's a bold claim, but I'm pretty confident in my performance this time myself. No offense, but I'm definitely gonna outscore you٫" declared Deuce.

"Says the guy who's perpetually biting his lip and barely staying above a failing grade٫" Ace began to taunt again٫ "Of course, this test was a piece of cake for me, so I'm pretty sure I'm gonna come out on top."

"Grim, you did ONE last-minute cram session٫" you reminded٫ unable to decide if you were amused or exhausted by their verbal competition.

"What can I say? Geniuses like me can breeze through class without havin' to slave away at their desk like you do."

"Anyway," Deuce interrupted٫ "exams are done and dusted. I'm gonna hit up the Track Club. Actually٫ ___, I wouldn't mind too much if you came watc—"

Ace quickly cut in before Deuce could finish٫ "Y'know, I could stand to get in some exercise at the Basketball Club myself. Let's break this huddle for today, guys."

"Let's head back to the dorm, ___. I'm dead on my feet after that all-nighter٫" Grim groaned٫ lifting his paws up towards you as if to insist you carry his lazy butt. So٫ of course٫ you carried his adorably lazy butt back to Ramshackle.

❥

The following week٫ it was the same deal as always: Ace and Grim setting each other off and then involving others with their antics. This time٫ though٫ something seemed off.

"Hold it right there, Grim! You're not gettin' off easy today, you hear me?!"

"Myeh heh heh! Maybe you shoulda put your name on it if you wanted it that bad!"

"Why, you...!"

"What is it this time?" You complained٫ following shortly behind the duo.

"Seriously, don't they ever get tired of this?" Deuce wondered٫ obediently walking beside you like a loyal guard dog.

He was also carrying your bag along with his due to much pushing from himself. He framed it as a "practical way to build muscle" or whatever.

"Hey, ___! You're the prefect, so do some prefecting!" Ace called out٫ "This lousy furball swiped the doughnut I bought and ate it! AGAIN."

"I didn't steal nothin'! I just saw a snack left abandoned on a desk and gave it a home outta the goodness of my heart٫" Grim reasoned. That had to be one of the worse defense cases you've ever heard.

Ace argued back٫ "It's not abandoned if it's on somebody's desk! If you're gonna keep runnin', l've got some wind magic up my sleeve with your name on it."

"Oh YEAH? Try me! I've got fire magic ready to—" Grim stopped him before he could finish his whole threat. That was really unlike the proud٫ little furball.

"....Erk!" There both yelped.

"Y'know what? I think I'll skip the magic today. I don't wanna get sent to wash even MORE windows٫" the red had an obviously forced grin.

"H-heh. For once, I think you've got the right idea٫" Grim joined in٫ just as nervous. "I'd be embarrassin' myself if I was the only one usin' magic, so I'll let you off easy this time."

"...Huh?" You voiced in confusion. Something was definitely going on here٫ but you didn't know if you wanted to find out what.

"Wow. It's not every day I see you two de-escalate one of your fights without outside intervention٫" Deuce noted٫ "Normally, you go at it until the classroom's blasted to bits and the headmage comes storming in."

"Hey, what kinda punk would I be if I started fighting with a weasel over one lousy doughnut?" Ace wondered. Wasn't he just squabbling with Grim yesterday about some loose change on the ground?

"Why do you always have to get in one last smart remark?!" Grim fussed.

"C'mon٫ ___. Let's head to class٫" the former playfully bumper into your side٫ not really giving you room to refuse since he wrapped his arm around your shoulders٫ again.

❥

"It's time for class to start, whelps. Get to your seats. First, I'll pass back your tests٫" Crewel stated٫ a large stack of papers in his hands.

"This is it—the moment of truth٫" Deuce braced himself.

"Myah hah! Gimme! Gimme! I want that test, Prof!" Grim exclaimed.

"Settle down, Grim. Stay. STAY!" Crewel scolded٫ "I'll call you up by your class number. Number one!"

By the time he got to your class number٫ you felt kind of nervous for some reason. The week before the tests٫ Riddle had made you study with him on account of you being at a disadvantage due to you still being so new to this world٫ in his word's at least.

Getting your test back٫ you were surprised to see you had received a 96! Despite creeping you out SEVERELY٫ Riddle was a pretty good tutor.

"Good job٫ pup٫" Crewel congratulated٫ giving you a soft pat on the head and reassuring smile before you headed back to your seat.

"SWEET! I got a 92!" Ace cheered.

"I got an 88! I never thought l'd see the day I scored over 80٫" Deuce admitted٫ still somewhat in shock.

"Check it out, ___! I got an 85!" Grim celebrated.

"You went from failing grades to an 85?" You questioned٫ now completely sure something was up.

"Hey, I don't like what you're implyin'!" Grim huffed.

Crewel walked over and added٫ "You appear to have studied a great deal for this exam. Yes...A great deal indeed, compared to your quiz scores. In fact, the class average has gone up to a degree one might call...unusual."

Ace spoke up next٫ asking٫ "And what's that supposed to mean?"

"The average test scores across every level of potionology are over 90. Professor Trein has remarked upon similarly positive trends in his magic history classes٫" Crewel remarked

"Say what?!"

"Mraaah?!"

"Uh-oh. I don't like where this is going..."

With how the three of the responded٫ they were definitely apart of this٫ and it was a whole of a lot bigger than you originally thought.

Crewel carried on٫ "The school's fifty highest achievers will be posted in the hall. You can look forward to seeing that shortly. Now, let us begin today's lesson. Open your textbooks."

❥

"Okay, where am I in the top fifty?" Grim cheerfully made his way through the other students.

"With an average score over 90, we've gotta be in there, right?" Ace though aloud٫ looking along side Grim.

Honestly٫ why was it so important to them? Usually٫ they cried tears of joy at just passing٫ but now they cared about making the top 50?!

"First ten places...nope. Twenty...nope. Forty-eight, forty-nine, fifty...nope. Wait a minute—I ain't in here at all!" Grim cried out.

"N-neither am I...٫" Deuce mourned.

"Seriously٫ with scores only in the 80's٫ how did you think you'd make it in the top 50?" You had to ask٫ unable to help yourself.

"Hey! It was really hard to get those scores! How can people seriously score higher than that!" Grim seemed on the verge of a tantrum.

"Hooold up. There's a list of the total scores each top achiever got across all subjects٫" Ace pointed out٫ "The top thirty scored perfect marks—500 points!"

"PERFECT MARKS?!" The other two exclaim.

That's the people you expected to be up there: ridiculously smart people like Riddle and Leona; not people like these three who have better chances of praying to get a good grade than getting one of their own merit. Still٫ though٫ it was weird; could thirty students really ace every test?

"Something's definitely fishy here...٫" you muttered.

"B-but if I don't make it into the top fifty, that counts as a breach of contract!" Grim yelped.

"Wait, 'contract'? Oh no. Grim, did you...?" Ace hesitantly trailed off.

"Judging by the look on your face, Ace, don't tell me you also—" Deuce nervously started٫ but was abruptly interrupted.

Out of nowhere٫ sea anemones grew from their heads with a loud "Bwooop!"

"MYAH! What in the world?! A sea anemone just sprouted outta my head!" Grim yowled.

"G-Grim, you made a contract too?!

You big cheater!" Deuce complained.

"Yeah, whatever, Deuce. You're just as guilty, keepin' your friends close and your anemones closer over there!" Ace admonished.

"I'll just give it a quick tug, and...OW!

It's not comin' out!" Grim whined.

"What's going on here?" You questioned٫ completely out of the loop.

"I came to see what all the commotion was. Why am I not surprised it's you guys? What're you doing?"

You turned to see Jack now right behind you٫ staring at the other three like something just grew from their—Well...

"Jack, did you make a contract too? Wait...You don't have an anemone!" Deuce pointed out in shock.

"So much for looking like a bad boy. You're more of a square than Loosey-Deucey over here!" Ace shouted.

"Okay, what? I'm completely lost here. What are you talking about, and what are those things growing outta your heads?" Jack asked.

"Look, it's, uhhh...MROW?! What now? This dang anemone's yanking my head!" Grim cried out

"Owww, geez! It's gonna rip my noggin off!" Ace whined.

"So when he wrote 'absolute obedience,' this is what he meant..." Deuce groaned in pain.

"AaaAAAaaaAGH!"

"What now? The way they were walking, it was like the anemones were pulling them in that direction. Is a picture that stupid still worth a thousand words...?" Jack observed.

"We'd better follow them٫" you grumbled.

"Huh? Where do I come in here? This is none of my business٫" the wolf claimed.

"Is the big puppy scared?" You taunted.

You could tell you got to him purely from the way his cheeks began to burn and his ears pinned back.

"W-who're you calling a big puppy?!" Jack nearly growled٫ but looked away to calm himself down. "Tch. You're starting to fit in around here a little TOO well. Fine. I'll keep you company for a little while, at least. Let's get one thing straight, though—this is purely out of curiosity. I wanna see what caused this. I couldn't care less about those guys. Just so we're clear on that."

"Got it٫ you just wanna play knight in shining armor٫" you continued to tease٫ walking ahead of him.

"Th-that's not what I said at all!" Jack denied.

❥

Soon٫ the two of you found yourselves in the Hall of Mirrors.

"Oh, it's the Hall of Mirrors...The place that leads to every dorm٫" Jack thought out loud.

"Wow...٫" you marveled at the sheer amount of other students with similar anemones on their heads٫ just like Ace٫ Deuce٫ and Grim.

"I was so sure I'd make the top fifty!"

"Blast it all, I've been had! That cheating cephalo-punk!"

"My school life is doomed now. Doooomed!"

"Huh? It's not just the three stooges...There are other students here with sea anemones coming outta their heads٫" Jack observed٫ protectively pulling you closer to him. "I'm seeing some sophomores and juniors in here, too. And they're all going through the mirror leading to Octavinelle Dorm."

"They re all moaning about their test placement...٫" you noticed and pointed out to Jack.

"Let's head over and see what's up٫" he decided٫ and you nodded in agreement.

So٫ you both headed for the mirror that lead to Octavinelle's dorm house and stepped through it together. After the disorientation wore off٫ it's safe to say you were left in awe.

"Wow, the whole dorm is underwater!" You excitedly observed.

"For real?! Night Raven College is so cool!" Jack exclaimed before quickly correcting himself. He clearer his throat before reminding you٫ "Just remember we're treading on another dorm's turf. Keep your wits about you."

You nodded٫ which seemed to reassure the beastman.

❥

Inside٫ you both didn't have to wait too long to find where all the effected students ended up.

"Look at all these people٫" you commented٫ gazing at the sea of anemones that had sprouted from the heads of these boys.

"There's gotta be a hundred-no, closer to two hundred people here. What is this place, anyway? Some kinda coffee shop?" Jack wondered٫ "'Mostro Lounge'? Where did Ace and the others go?"

Suddenly٫ the lights dimmed. You felt something soft nudging you but soon realized it was just Jack's tail guiding you closer to him as a precaution.

Just as quickly as the lights had dimmed٫ something akin to a stage light shone on a boy that was in front of the crowd. Instead of the school uniform٫ he was in a gray٫ purple٫ and black suit with a hat and bowtie. Maybe it was it dorm uniform٫ you guessed. At the moment٫ you were getting major rejected theater kid vibes.

With a hand to his chest٫ he began to make a speech of sorts٫ "Well, well. What have we here? A band of misfortunate souls who failed to break into the top 50. Welcome to the Mostro Lounge. I'm sure you're all WELL aware of who I am, but let's go over it again anyway. My name is Azul Ashengrotto. I am the housewarden of Octavinelle Dorm, the manager of the Mostro Lounge cafe, aaand...as of today, you have to listen to everything I say."

"Say what?" You overheard Jack mutter. Personally٫ you were just thinking about how you can't but up with any more of these sadistic bastards. Why couldn't they be like Jack. He was chill٫ so far anyway...Please٫ whatever or whoever is out listening٫ don't make you eat your words...

Azul continued٫ "You made a bet with me, and subsequently lost. As per the terms of our contract, you are to devote yourselves to my service until such time as you graduate."

"Hey, hold on. This is all a huge scam!"

Wait٫ was that—

"You're...Ace Trappola, a freshman, if memory serves. Your accusations are insulting, frankly. I upheld my end of the bargain and provided you with an impeccably flawless study guide for your exams. If you used it properly, you should have scored at least a 90."

"Yeah, and I did. I got a 92!"

"Why, that's wonderful news! I'm delighted to have been of service٫" Azul praised.

"But you never told me you'd given the same study guide to this many other people!"

"Yeah, Ace is right." Was that Deuce that said that? "No study guide could help us break into the top fifty when the deck's this stacked!"

"When everybody else is scorin' over 90, even with my 85, my spot in the rankings is no different than when I was failin'!" And there was Grim...

None of them knew how to keep their mouths shut. Honestly٫ what did they expect? Why would some random housewarden give them such a good deal٫ and here at NRC of all places?!

"Have you boys never heard of client confidentiality?" Azul asked٫ then began to quote٫ "'I want an easy way to score high marks. I don't want to flunk out. I want to goof off until the night before the test...' All of you fools—I mean, gentlemen—had your own reasons for seeking my help with your finals. Details such as who made a contract with me, what kind of contract it was, and why it was made...That's all privileged data. Who am I to divulge someone's personal information to a third party? I am a man of integrity, thank you very much. You will find this exact topic covered extensively in the non-disclosure agreement clause on page 127 of your contract. I simply abided by its terms."

His logic was hard to argue with. And٫ honestly٫ these guys basically brought it on themselves for acting like such fools.

"O-okay, then what happens to the fire magic I put up as collateral for the study guide?" Grim hesitantly asked.

"Y-yeah! And what about my water magic?" Another student questioned.

"Give me back my signature spell!" A demanded.

"What's this? Have you really all forgotten the terms of your contract?" Azul dramatically lamented before quoting٫ "I will provide you with a final exam study guide. In exchange, you will leave one 'personal specialty' in my possession. Should you earn a spot among the school's fifty highest achievers, your power will be returned to you and I will continue to provide you with study guides for all exams until such time as you graduate. However, in the event that you do not earn a spot among the school's fifty highest achievers٫ you will act with absolute obedience to me until such time as you graduate."

"As outlined in the contract, I now control every part of your beings down to every last hair on your heads. In other words, your powers are mine, to return or not as please٫" Azul sadistically delighted.

"That ain't fair!" Ace argued.

"No wonder Grim and Ace weren't fighting with magic٫" you thought back to earlier. You were almost too wrapped up in thought to notice Jack stepping in front of you.

"Y'know, I've been listening to this whole spectacle...and ALL of you disgust me!"

Shock rang out around the whole room.

"J-Jack?! What are you doing here?" Deuce stuttered out.

"Oh, are you...? No, I don't see an anemone on your head٫" Azul offhandedly remarked٫ "I'm afraid we're having a staff meeting right now. If you don't have a stake in this matter, I must ask your leave for us to sort this out internally."

"Grrr...You think I don't have a stake in this? I was planning on studying on my own and out scoring these guys in a fair competition. And now you've ruined that. I think I DO have a stake here!" Jack argued back.

"This is the last thing I need right now٫" you groaned٫ placing your head in your hands.

"___? Jack? Are you here to save us?!" Grim cheered.

"Don't get me wrong. I'm disgusted with every last one of you٫" Jack reminded٫ "Why would I side with the slimeball offering shady backroom deals OR the guys who chose to let others do their work for them?"

"What are you here for, then?" Ace wondered.

"Actually, I think Jack's right. He's given me the wake-up call I needed٫" Grim announced٫ "If you wanna win, you gotta snatch that victory yourself! In other words...If I can snatch my contract from Azul by force and tear it up, it's null and void!"

"Hey, now that you mention it..." One student thought it over.

"Who needs specialties when we've got numbers?! GET HIM!" A Savanaclaw student led the charge. You were truly surrounded by idiots...

"These guys are hopeless٫" you lamented.

"Dear me. I really didn't want to resort to violence, but alas٫" Azul sighed with a shrug٫ "Jade. Floyd. Play with them for a bit."

Two insanely tall twins emerged from out of nowhere. Actually٫ you were pretty sure you've seen them before. Yeah٫ when you were checking out potential victims for the mysterious injuries.

"Understood, sir."

"Oh man, I get to squeeze 'em all? Ha ha, nilice."

Okay٫ you really didn't like that second one already...Thankfully٫ Jack seemed to sense your unease and made sure to keep you away from any potential danger behind him the whole time.

"Geez, what a bunch of wimps. They're barely worth squeezing٫" the less kept of the twins whined. You guess that one was Floyd.

"It's like a whole school of feeble small fries٫" Azul mocked.

"How many kindsa magic can this Azul guy bust out?! I call shenanigans!" Ace complained.

"Did Azul's golden contract deflect all of your attacks?" Jack pointed out in shock.

"Argh. This is just showing me how hard I lean on my specialty normally...٫" Deuce criticized.

"Without his fire magic, Grim's nothing more than your garden-variety weasel٫" Ace commented.

"Myah...I ain't a weasel...٫" Grim cried٫ barely having the energy to argue before collapsing to the ground.

"You have all signed these golden contracts. An official contract is completely unbreakable, regardless of how many bodies you throw at it. No magic can harm this document in any way. Heh heh heh... As long as the sea anemones stay on your heads, you will have no choice but to follow my orders. Why don't you start by cleaning up the lounge? You can handle ingredient prep work afterward. Go on, now. On your feet and get to work!" Azul ordered.

"Is this for real...?" Ace moaned.

"Jade. Floyd. You're in charge of instructing the new staff."

"Yes٫ sir."

"Yessir!"

"You're...Jack Howl from Savanaclaw Dorm. And you're ___ from Ramshackle Dorm, I believe? I would appreciate it if you took your leave now. Why don't you come by as customers next time? You're welcome whenever you like٫" the housewarden took your hand in a faux polite gesture.

You could hear the growl coming from Jack as he grabbed you by the upper arm and pulled you away.

"C'mon, ___. We'd better fall back and regroup."

You agreed; even if you wanted to argue٫ the fury radiating off of Jack at the moment kind of scared you.

❥

Jack seemed to have cooled off to his usual self once the two of you made it back to Ramshackle. When he realized how hard he was gripping your arm he began to thoroughly apologize no matter how many times you told him you were fine.

"I think it's safe to say that everybody with an anemone stuck on their head...gambled on Azul's contract and lost٫" Jack stated. You both were able to conclude this as fact.

"The terms of said contract were apparently to place in the top 50. But with the sheer number of students signin' on most of them never stood a chance of getting in at all. That was Azul's game from the start."

"I DID find it weird that Grim managed to score over 80 on a test٫" you added.

"I mean, c'mon! If you're gettin' good grades off someone else's work, what does that even prove?" Jack huffed٫ "You're throwin' away a perfectly good opportunity to show others what you're capable of. Frankly, you're cheating yourself."

"If the rest of the student body here were as principled and tedious...I mean, as 'serious' as you, it would spare me such grief!" Crowley mourned. Hold on—Crowley?! When did he get here?!

"WHOA! Headmage?! You startled me!" Jack yelped.

Crowley sighed٫ "So transpires another year of me being unable to clamp down on Ashengrotto's little 'side business.'"

"What do you mean, 'side business'?" You questioned.

"Azul Ashengrotto: Sophomore. Housewarden of Octavinelle Dorm. Much like Rosehearts, he is a highly capable student already running a dorm as a sophomore, but...He's a bit—no, I daresay QUITE a bit troublesome."

"Are you talking about him swindling people? Seems to me like one word from the headmage could put a stop to this whole thing٫" Jack acknowledged.

"Ah, but it is precisely BECAUSE I am in a teaching position that I cannot prohibit his actions."

"Why not?" he inquired.

"Here's the thing about those study guides that Ashengrotto handed out to the students. There was no illegitimate activity involved in their production. Nobody snuck looks at test questions or answers beforehand. It was crafted exhaustively by hand, after researching the past century's worth of Night Raven College exam questions and their patterns. In other words, it's an entirely legitimate study guide٫" the Headmage admitted.

"A century's worth of test questions?!" You repeated in disbelief.

"Huh. Well, I'll be. If he did all that by hand, the guy's got chops٫" Jack praised before asking٫ "Hm? Wait...So the problem is that there IS no problem with it?"

"You strike right to the heart of the matter, Howl٫" Crowley admitted٫ "As a teacher, I can hardly prohibit a student from crafting an exam study guide via honest work. Nor can I prohibit a student from 'kindly' sharing their notes with friends."

"If you did, you'd basically be tellin' students, 'no studying' AND 'no helping your buds.' Grr...Talk about a seriously briny pickle٫" Jack grumbled.

"That it most certainly is٫" Crowley agreed.

"And earlier you said 'another year,' yeah?" the beastman wondered٫ "Did the same thing happen last term?"

"Indeed it did. Of course, last year his study guides didn't have quite the reputation they carry this year. So the commotion was much more contained, relatively speaking. This year, on the other hand, rumors abounded throughout campus that if one wished to score well on a test, they should visit the Mostro Lounge٫" Crowley thought back.

"And I'm guessin' the nasty little caveat in the contract in the event of a breach stayed hush-hush because of that binding NDA٫" Jack surmised.

"So it would seem. Thus did Ashengrotto have a steady stream of students lining up to accept his bargain this year. And the test average across all subjects and years has jumped above 90, much to my chagrin. Of course, I would be even more chagrinned if all of our subject averages were failing grades. But still!"

"What you're saying is that most of the student body cheated٫" you restated٫ "Wow٫ you suck at your job."

"Hey!"

"Does that mean that there are guys from last year who lost the bet and still haven't gotten their powers back?" Jack went on to question.

"Actually, he returned the powers he took from students last year as part of an arrangement he made with me. In return, I granted him permission to run the Mostro Lounge on school property."

"What?!" Jack gaped.

Crowley then went on to explain how the deal went.

"So you bargained with a terrorist?" You asked.

"By definition٫ Mr. Ashengrotto is not a terrorist٫" the Headmage argued.

"Close enough٫" you brushed off.

"Talk about brazen. I mean, blackmailing the headmage into a deal? No wonder Leona wants nothin' to do with this guy٫" Jack sighed.

"And when he offered to contribute 10% of the proceeds to the school...Why, how could I say no to such a mutually beneficial arrangement?"

"Wait, so you're gettin' something from it?!" Jack was left dumbfounded. You weren't really surprised٫ though.

"Dear oh dear. I can only wonder what demands he'll make of me this year٫" Crowley lamented٫ putting on his "woe is me" act all over again. "Whatever he wants, I will undoubtedly be forced to acquiesce. What else can I do for our idiotic—ah, that is, our poor, unfortunate students? My immense kindness always gets the better of me. Ashengrotto 'merely' studies diligently, then shares his rightfully-earned knowledge with other students out of the kindness of his heart...It wouldn't do for a teacher to discourage such earnest behavior. Why must every student in our school arrive with some amount of baggage to sort out?!

Oooh, woe is meee!" Oh٫ there it is!

You have a pretty good idea where this whole charade was headed.

"And that's where you come in, ___٫" Crowley added.

"Yayyy...٫" you sarcastically cheered.

"Would you be so kind as to persuade Ashengrotto to cease this little game of his?"

"I don't think anybody could 'persuade' him to do anything!" You argued.

"Incidentally, Ramshackle Dorm's food expenses have been mounting as of late, as I recall. You must be terribly strapped for cash...And alas, I'm so preoccupied researching a way to return SOMEONE to their home, I have so little time to address other problems...Oh, but don't worry about me, really. I am, as you know, a philanthropist to the core."

"With teachers like this, no wonder our students are the way they are٫" Jack grumbled.

"You are a horrible person٫" you deadpanned before ultimately relenting٫ "but٫ fine! I'll do what I can."

"You'll accept my request, then? Wonderful, ___! I knew I saw potential in this prefect! Then I'll be going now, as l am a very busy man. I'm counting on you!"

You were sure you heard the cheers of children and the happy cheers of animals as the old bird left.

"Boy, you never know when the headmage'll pop up٫" Jack noted٫ "Okay, so what exactly is your plan here? Because you're kinda right—just going up to Azul and askin' him nicely isn't gonna get you anywhere."

"Gathering intel seems like the place to start٫" you guessed. With every task Crowley gave you٫ you felt more and more like a stalker.

"True. A successful hunt starts with learnin' all you can about your target. You actually know your stuff٫" Jack commended٫ "Besides, letting Ace and the others stew in the mess they made might help 'em learn something from this."

You agreed. Just the thought gave amused you—Oh٫ no٫ they were rubbing off on you...

𝑻𝒂𝒈𝒔:

@emysan12 @baddieontheblog @stuff6969fuckyou @coffee-or-hot-cocoa @fruitofdiscord @ladydoe8 @boxpersonnn @charming-mage @the-holy-pigeon @yan-lorkai @middaymoony @yuuna-dear @curatoroffiction @jokesterreality @neufora @bobbnohjjj @p9rcilla @kisesmor @gardenmadeofpaper @gloomuraaii @silverluna3-blog @chaoticotaku @julia-loves-cupcakes @treycloverslover @m1lly69 @akira3na @uniquecutie-puffs @ceramic-raven @shycreatorreview @yuu-twisted @sanyu-thewitch05 @that1breadstickk @16-shieanne16 @nnx01 @ottachy @littlepotaaatosimp @sleepystuffnigth @chaoticmoontimetravel @foolsparadisedio @sewingsimplysews @your-l0cal-magical-girl @noblognamepleasee @sugar-sprinkles @danielapuppy41 @ransackedhouse @solaaaaaaar @eevee-133 @akira3na @princessloveweird @toxiwaaa @danna001 @animesimp420 @dissarraymania @rambzlezz @thegalaticnacho091 @nimbleonslaughtentity @yumuramma @thegargoylemalleusstaresat247 @justatimidcreator @glumet-shadow @mysticmoonhashira @daisy-flower21 @sincerelyruu @coolnekochan9961 @kittyhogger @swweetmilk @atomatoho3 @cursedmoonlove @cookiemonster3665 @cr4zyrainbowcutie @waterpisser @cupid73 @00hellohello00 @menyiix

[k3lbug]

So I know you said that some yanderes mistake others for their darling until their true darling appears. Is there a definite way to tell that someone is your darling? Like magic wise? Or are they all going off vibes?

More to that point if there isn't a definitive way to tell then are the real darlings out there for each of the boys and they just think we the 'reader' are their darling?

There isn't really a definite way. They just kinda feel it٫ I guess. For the guys٫ I personally like to leave that part up to you all as the reader to interpret whichever way you'd prefer.

[k3lbug]

So uh quick question

How would the tsum event translate into this universe?

Im leaning towards the tsums are even more yanderish but its outweighed but how outrageously cute they are so you dont even realize.

[k3lbug]

Hiii~ Cleaner shrimpy, reporting back after some rest! And a special separate hello to m1lly69 from the notes of the last ask! May scenarios be plentiful and entertaining. Anyways: -Sam has a bet pool going on with uninvolved students about Darling's love life. Who will they have a romantic development with? When, to what extent? Will that person end up in a ditch soon after? Octatrio is very salty over being denied participation because they are technically subjects of the bet too.

-If Darling says what their favourite color is, how long would it take before someone dyes their hair that color? Maybe not long at all - Floyd is there, and he sure loves impulsive style changes. He would even go into his merman form and try to dye his scales for Darling! The right coloring is important in sea courtship after all. (Jade is fake-crying the whole time about his twin breaking off from their duo aesthetic) -After Deuce semi-accidentally baits Darling into hanging out via cute animal (a rabbit got into the drinks that make you small, and he can't leave the poor thing alone until it wears off -it was kind of his fault for accidentally spilling it when placing bottles around the maze for a tradition), other yanderes begin to scheme about how to do the same. Silver, of course, is the best at this, being able to summon basically any woodland critter. Ruggie tries to pass *himself* off as a cute fluffy fur to pet (it does not work). Jade and Floyd harass Azul by saying if he put some weight back on he'd be a truly cute round octopus and maybe then Darling would hang out with them!

-After Vargas decides he wants Prefect to experience broom flying even if they can't do it themself (shhh he doesn't know about that ride with Epel), Ace experiences some of the most wonderful and most STRESSFUL moments of his life: taking Darling out on a broom flight and trying not to mess it up. He can barely even concentrate with his Darling hugging him like that! Cut him some slack if he messes up and the ride ends up janky (because Deuce certainly won't)

-Jealous of Ace, Deuce (semi-forcefully) takes Darling out on a romantic drive to the beach after borrowing the motor from Ignihyde again, just like he did for Epel. The two have a wonderful time watching the sunset. Idia is furious with his dormmates for enabling this lovey-doviness with HIS darling. poor guys get constantly hacked and harrased online after that.

-The best-worst cooking team-up! Trey and Jamil agree to *try* teaching Lilia some cooking. It's a win-win! Lilia gets to maybe get an idea on how to make something edible for Darling (he won't), and the other two get a first-hand lesson in how to make poisoned food without any poison (for tormenting and getting rid of rivals <3)

-Since they've gotten to know Darling, every single Houswarden meeting devolves into even more posturing and insults, and arguments than before. Most of the time it ends with Crowley collapsed crying in a corner while everyone throws shade, full on their egos that THEY will be the one chosen. They get to the actual meeting subject... eventually.

-Romantic yanderes pick up on the fact Crewel is Darling's platonic yandere and *will* interfere with them at every turn, so they team up to get rid of him. Unfortunately for them, Crewel is a fully-mature mage, and a teacher. To him, this is nothing more than a volunteered extra-credits assignment for Darling Care classes. He mercilessly critiques every strategy the students throw at him, assigning points based on merit. Riddle almost has a crash-out when he doesn't get full marks. (for the sake of fairness and Crewel's continued life, Maleus considers this sort of thing to be below him - it would make Darling sad after all).

-After seeing Lilia's cooking, Darling jokingly tells Epel that it might even be worse than Vil's strongest poison. Vil, of course, hears of it (through Rook) and will not let it stand. He prepares his poison and goes to ask Lilia to cook, so they can square off. Mortifyingly, Vil's poison loses. Some unfortunate student gets overheard saying that maybe Lilia should be Pomefiore's Housewarden then (since Strongest Poison is the fight category for that dorm), not knowing that in a few hours he'll be poisoned. rip NPC

-When Ortho is done with Idia's passiveness and wants to motivate him to act, he threatens to reveal to Darling just what kind of Darling hentai Idia watches (and reads. and quite possibly makes).

-Ortho accidentally discovers Idia and Rook are both fans of a certain amateur smut author. What's worse, that author is *Vil* (he just wants to cast himself as the lead with his Darling as his love interest, but if he's creating beauty he might as well share it with the world! he is not one ot shy away from potential criticism). He innocently informs Epel.

Heheheh I love these

Fun fact: When courting٫ male octopi often dramatically change color to appease their potential mate. So٫ it wouldn't be to far off to say that Floyd saw Azul doing it and thought it looked fun before deciding to join in just for the love of the game.

[k3lbug]

Hello, cleaner shrimpy here again to bring more scenarios~! -Trey puts a love potion in a cupcake for his Darling, but! Grim intercepts, and ends up falling for the first person he sees. Unfortunately for literally everyone, that person is Crowley.

-Darling comes to a board game night hosted by the Boardgame Club. Now, both Azul and Idia are stuck between their pride and competitiveness (I mean of course they are, it's *them*) versus not wanting Darling to hate them for destroying her in games and being obnoxious about it (it's a true struggle) -Lilia goes through 5 stages of grief realising that all 3 of his 'sons' pine for 1 romantic Darling, the one he *also pines for*. Worse yet, all of them are too dense to realise the others love Darling. Get this man some fermented berry juice, he needs it.

-Light Music Club karaoke night in town! Or rather, Cater and Lilia's plan to lure out and fucking murder Jamil for mind controlling their Darling (Kalim is bait).

-Jade brings his mom's famous octopus carpaccio to share with Darling <3 all the while making brief but direct eye-contact with Azul every time he feeds them a forkful. -Remember Zazu-alike advisor from Sunset Savana? Yeah, he visits NRC for some business and accidentally learns of Leona's 'new' Darling. And how many other people also fight for them. Of course he reports everything to Falena. This brings a very, very awkward next family visit for Leona.

-Lilia gleefully breaks rules to bring Darling all of the books about forceful yanderes he can find. It's a perfect tactic really: competitors won't be able to pull anything on his Darling, and it's not like it's actually impacting *his* or his boys' chances at all. None of them would stoop to such tactics after all! (and if they did, it's not as if the knowledge would save Darling from people this powerful <3) -Crewel accidentally wins this year's 'most platonic darlings among students' award between faculty. Poor man is just too invested in his pups.

-Vil and Crowley team-up to make Darling some actually nice clothes! Unfortunately, Vargas finds out and demands to join (have you seen this guy's fashion sense in Vargas' Camp 2 event???).

-Do animals have Darlings? Well, apparently Lucius does. Poor Grim will never know how close he is to getting kidnapped by a cat at any given moment. The only reason it hasn't happened yet is that Trein's permission (and help) would be needed, and the man can't do that to the poor Prefect.

-Silver asks wild animals to look after his Darling, accidentally causing a mice & bats infestation at Ramshackle.

-Everyone snaps and tries to kidnap the Darling. As fate would have it though, they try at the same time. It's a very intense game of reverse hot potatoe with an unconscious Prefect until Crewel steps in and rescues them, before verbally demolishing all the trouble students.

-The moment Georgina Leech sees Darling, she decides to one-up her sons and kidnap them first. It doesn't matter whichever one will win Darling's heart later at home, or if they will even *share*, Darling stays with the family (unfortunately for the Leeches, once NRC faculty finds out, Darling doesn't stay kidnapped for long. This does however spawn a battle of 'polite' emails between Georgina and Crewel - and occassionally Crowley but he is too much of a coward for it and makes Trein deal with his share)

-Our Favourite Ghost Bride comes back to check on things, and immediately throws shade at Idia for not having wed Darling yet. Idia throws it right back what with her not realising her Darling was *right there* and *willing* for over 500 years. He ends up slapped.

Bring me more and my life is yours! 🙏 It's like an addiction reading these to the point I actually feel high

[k3lbug]

Im so desperate for the RSA character design releases that I started to dream about a shit load of them last night. I also for some reason did something very dangerous just to spite Crowley because he killed my beloved who was for some reason Kirby. I honestly have no idea what goes on when I dream at night.

[k3lbug]

After reading part 2 of the Phantom Bride event, I know Idia is associating Darling with those perverted hentai stories in he head, but I can't prove it (sorry if this offends you).

Oh٫ it absolutely does not. I was thinking about this every single time is character came up when I was writing. Actually٫ the thought comes up every time I write for his character in general. Man is 100% a perverted gooner while isolated in his cave of a room all day.

[k3lbug]

Cleaner shrimp anon here~

Love the new chapters, and I'm glad you enjoyed my last ask :) Here are some more scenarios for this au that live rent-free in my head, in no particular order: -Kalim accidentally starting an assassination conspiracy against Crowley because he attempted fortune-telling magic, which showed a crow as a symbol of misfortune for his Darling, in the Light Music Club right in front of Cater and Lilia. Dots were connected, Cater realised how many times Headmage's orders put Darling in danger (I mean, he did send mc into a mine with a monster, had them investigate mysterious incidents, then resolve the Octavinelle situation etc etc), and so they recruited EVERYONE in love with Darling, and also some poor coerced randos, into trying to kill Crowley. -Floyd cockblocking Azul at every possible opportunity by insinuating he'd cannibalize us, because "Octopi eat a lot of shrimp, you know~". -Jade trying to sabotage Silver's plans to hang out with Darling by slipping a poisoned mushrooms among the ones he sells to the cafeteria, because he knows Silver *will* eat that mushroom risotto when it shows up. Silver ends up as the only unharmed risotto-eater - Lilia's cooking upped his poison resistance *a lot*. -Floyd vs Trey yandere battle for platonic darling Riddle, their modes of love for a 'friend' are just too different. -Remember Azul trying to recruit (rizz up) Jamil in canon? Yeah, he totally adds him to his list of platonic darlings after his overblot - only to find out Jamil is *also* pining for his romantic darling (and he *just* finished negotiating custody sharing with the other two!) -Jamil being Kalim's platonic darling (unrequited), and then OctaTrio's platonic darling (still unrequited) as well, starts yandere evasion manouvers (MC watches in fascination and notes what works for their own attempts) -Jade making fun of Floyd getting his teeth brushed, until he too starts getting the same treatment (Floyd is both vindicated and slightly sad that this care isn't unique to him). It is very effective at shuting the eels up, and wiping those wide smiles from their faces. -Trey Covert-Dentist Clover fully encourages Darling's attempts to 'help Leeches with dental hygiene' (jealous? no, he knows this is an act of rejection and hate). Some Heartslabyul students are getting flashbacks every time those two talk about it. -Every time Vil tries to appeal to Darling, someone comes out of the woodworks to talk about Neige. Every. Single. Time. -Each night it's a battle between yanderes trying to invade Ramshackle, and those trying to stop the invasions. Idia threatening (over tablet) to vaporize Rook with a laser if he comes any closer. Ruggie sneaking around only to get a cauldron to the face. Azul trying to do 'reconnaisance' only to step into not one, not two, but THREE traps set up by separate people. Somehow Maleus misses all of that while out on a walk by Ramshackle. -A diner party (courtesy of Scarabia) where all of MC's yanderes attented, and subsequently tried to poison each other (whether lethal or not). Food/drink swappings and other shenanigans ensue, and Darling ends up poisoned. Everyone justifiably panicks. -Darling borrows Deuce's hoodie. Not to be outdone, Ace forces his jacket on them. All the other catch wind of this and try to impart their own clothes. Cue very bundled up Darling in a *ridicuolous* amount of layers.

I absolutely adore you. Please keep sending me thought bubbles to add sneak into the au! 🙏

[k3lbug]

♡Some tags I put but they didn't work♡

𝑷𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒐𝒎 𝑩𝒓𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 2

𝑴𝒂𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒕 ♡ 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 1 ♡ 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒕 2

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑶𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝑺𝒊𝒅𝒆:

"I considered the outcome that the ghost bride might take a liking to the prefect٫ but I never expected this...!" Crowley cried.

"Charging technomantic energy. Target: Night Raven College, main building. Technomantic beam firing in five, four, three, two..."

"W-Wait! Hold on there a second٫ Mr. Shroud٫" the Headmage quickly interrupted. "There's still time before any drastic measures are needed..."

"But now it's not only my big brother at risk٫ but big (sis/bro) at risk٫ too! If not now٫ then when?!" The humanoid demanded.

"Yeah٫ I'm with Ortho!" Ace agreed.

"Me٫ too!" Deuce followed.

"Yeah! Me٫ three!" Epel join in before taking a quick glance at Rook and quieting back down. Snitches stay snitchin'.

"Dear, oh dear. Where do we go from here?" Crowley silently sobbed.

Azul spoke up٫ "You need not worry on that score! I would like to make up for the shortcomings of my dormmates, Jade and Floyd. My word, they have no idea how to treat a lady. I, on the other hand, can offer you an Azul Ashengrotto guarantee: I'll get the Circle of Severance on her hand."

"Oh٫ please. You just want ___ to see you as their savior. I'M your guy if you want advice on how to woo a cutie."

"Wow, Cater. You seem pretty into this٫" Deuce commented.

"What can I say? I'm in my element!" The ginger joked.

"Yeah٫ right! He just wants the same thing as Azul!" Ace pointed out.

"Nuh uh!" Cater٫ rather terribly٫ defended. He quickly tried to correct his tone by inviting Deuce along٫ "You should come with, Deucey. The more wingmen the merrier!"

"Wait, me?! This kind of stuff isn't really my strong suit...I don't know the first thing about girls' feelings! And I really don't want to mess up any chance of rescuing ___."

"Oh, so you're just gonna abandon 'em? I see how it is٫ and I'm sure they will٫ too٫" Ace taunted.

"What?! No! I would never do that!" Deuce argued.

"Then get to scootin' I'm sure ___'s just waiting for you to swoop in and save the day," Ace mocked٫ absolutely sure the other would make a total fool of himself in front of you.

"You know what? You're right. I couldn't live with myself if something happened to ___ and there was something I could do about it!"

"There you go! Shoot your shot and sweep her off her ghostly feet!" Ace mockingly grinned.

"Okay, count me in, Cater! Let's band together and crash that wedding hall!"

"Oh, Deucey. You can't even see how he's playing you."

"I suppose I might as well throw my hat into the ring as well٫" Lilia mused٫ "I could barely call myself a teacher if I failed to make up for my student's deficiencies."

"That sounded so cool!" Epel admired.

"Heh. The matter is in good hands, rest assured٫" the bat fae reassured.

Cater soon chimed in٫ saying٫ "Too bad you won't even get a turn, Lilia. Cay-Cay's gonna slay-slay!"

"Heh, I believe you'll both find me a very hard act to follow٫" Azul promised.

❥

Smack after smack sounded throughout the makeshift wedding venue.

"WHY WAS I REJECTED?!" Azul demanded.

"Gyahaha! She smacked you good, Azul!" Floyd practically cackled.

"I analyzed the first team's data and came up with the perfect approach by the ghost's standards. I gave her a bouquet of roses and sang a clarion love song! Where did I go wrong?!"

"She said you talked too much and lacked any shred of sincerity. It rubbed her the wrong way٫" Jade pointed out with delight.

"Of course it did. You're not gonna get anywhere talkin' a lady's ear off٫" Leona groaned.

"Leona, you were the first to be rejected. You're hardly in a position to act SMUG٫" the octo mer reminded.

"Aw man, talk about a downer. I thought I was on fire!" Cater whined.

"I fail to see how your flippant chatter would spark anything but annoyance. Even the ghost was put off by your shallowness٫" Vil sighed.

"So, why are you here again, Deuce?" Trey asked.

"I was trying to save you and ___. But the moment I came face-to-face with her, I got cold feet. I blanked and couldn't think of anything to say٫" the freshman admitted.

"She told me I was too cute by half٫" Lilia mentally sobbed٫ showing not a hint of sadness on his actual expression. "Oh, the vicissitudes of being as cute as a button..."

The fae made a dramatic show out of his sniffling.

"For Lilia of all people to receive the slap of rejection...٫" Sebek mourned٫ "HOW?! YOU'RE EVEN CUTER THAN THE GHOST HERSELF!"

"Would you stop shouting?!" Eliza demanded. "Why must modern men be such brutish cads? They come courting and don't even have the decency to wear nice suits. Oh, Idia, darling, I knew you were the only one for me. No one else comes close!"

"I couldn't agree more, Your Highness٫" Puffy wholeheartedly agreed٫ "These suitors are all hopeless knaves who wouldn't know gentlemanly conduct if it slapped them in the face."

"I cannot BEAR this. How could I be outshone by someone as antisocial as Idia?!" Vil loudly complained.

"That shut-in prolly can't even sing!" Leona joined in.

"Idia's nothing like the rest of you. Like I said, he's a perfect prince٫" Eliza rebuked. "I'm sure he'd love to join me in a song. He's just a tad shy at the moment."

"Hate to break it to you٫ Princess٫ but your 'perfect prince' is a D1 freak٫" Cater interrupted٫ "He's probably salivating over that darling you kidn- ahem! I mean took in as we speak."

"Eugh٫ don't make me think about it..." Leona groaned his ears pinned to his head. Truthfully٫ he was more so jealous of the shut-in for being able to be somewhat alone with you.

Eliza let out a loud gasp in response before accusing٫ "Slander! My Idia would never do that! He's loyal to me and only me!"

"Dear me, those claims are absolutely delusional٫" Lilia observed٫ "It seems to me you're projecting your notions onto Idia and refusing to see who he really is. So long as you gaze into the distance, you'll never find what you seek. It's much more important to see what's right in front of you.

"Enough with your gibberish. I know what

I've found. And that's Idia, my perfect prince!"

Puffy remained silent at her side.

"This whole endeavor was a waste of time. We need to get the ceremony preparations underway٫" Eliza decided.

"Your Highness, you must be worn out after dealing with these humans. Surely there's no rush٫" Puffy urged.

"Aww, you're worried about me? Tee hee, that's so sweet of you, Puffy! You've been my dearest friend through thick and thin ever since we were alive٫" the ghost bride reminisced.

"Yes...Your friend. Of course. That's why I'm here, Your Highness."

"Now, show Idia and my precious ___ in."

"Augh...٫" Idia groaned٫ looking absolutely mortified as he was wheeled in due to being frozen just like the others. He was dressed up nicely in a gothic suit and even had his usually unruly hair tied back.

"Oh, IDIA! That long fitted jacket really enhances your air of nonchalance. Its black color and gothic style contrasts delightfully with your bright hair, and those white lilies are as charming as your smile٫" Eliza praised.

"Nana took the liberty of pulling his hair back. It's a minor, yet critical detail٫" Grampy added٫ "Now you can enjoy his lidded eyes and flawless features unobstructed!"

"He's positively dashing! I expected nothing less of the attendants who helped my mother and father prepare for their own nuptials. Idia, darling, you look every bit the perfect groom! I'm absolutely beside myself!" The ghost bride all but squealed.

"Ugh, this embarrassment burns. I mean the parts that aren't already on fire, that is. Did I lose a bet or something? Or maybe this is a dream. Can I wake up now? | just wanna go back to my room٫" Idia anxiously rambled.

Deuce was the first of the guys to say something٫ "Whoa, Idia's dressed to the nines!"

"He's as frozen as we are. They wheeled him in here on a stand٫" Trey audibly observed.

"She slapped Idia too? Bridey's downright ruthless!" Cater grimaced.

"I resent that. I'll have you know I just gave him a teensy poke because he tried to run٫" Eliza argued٫ but then looked around in a bout of confusion. "Hold on٫ where's Nana and my dear ___?"

"Nana's just adding the finishing touches to their outfit. They should be out any second now٫" Grampy reassured her.

"Hold on! ___'s here٫ too?!" Idia shouted in a panic.

"You didn't know? That's surprising٫ given your tendency to stalk them so often and all٫" Vil taunted.

"Well٫ in case you haven't noticed٫ I'm just as frozen as the rest of you!" he rebuked.

Eliza let out a small٫ joyous gasp٫ "I wasn't aware you two were so close already. Isn't this just perfect? We're already becoming such a happy family!"

♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡ ♡

𝑩𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝑶𝒏 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝑺𝒊𝒅𝒆:

"Oh٫ Princess Eliza was right. You really are just the cutest thing!" The ghost٫ that you recently learned was called "Nana"٫ gushed.

Nana٫ among many other ghosts٫ had been helping get you ready for whatever role you were being given in this whole wedding. She had just finished adding the final touched to your hair and makeup and was now helping you get dressed into this absolutely gorgeous gothic outfit that was somehow exactly your size.

At one point٫ you had asked Nana what exactly was she doing; she only told you she had a vision. Now٫ looking at yourself in the mirror٫ you were couldn't believe you ever doubted her. You couldn't even believe that was your own reflection. The version of yourself in the mirror looked hauntingly beautiful. You did feel somewhat like a dress up doll٫ though.

"Won't I upstage the bride/groom like this?" you hesitantly asked.

"Nonsense! Princess Eliza demanded I make you as cute as can be٫" Nana brushed off and pinched your cheek.

"If you say so...٫" you sighed.

"Now٫ best not to keep the princess waiting٫ Your Majesty~."

The way she drew out that title٫ and just her calling you that٫ sent anxious shivers down your spine.

❥

You were just about to enter the makeshift ceremony hall with Nana when you suddenly heard someone complaining at ear-shattering decimals. Wait٫ was that Idia's voice?

"Stunning rescue, guys. You crashed and burned, and now you're nothing but a pile of wreckage٫" the Groom-to-be complained٫ "Shouldn't you normies be good at all this vapid socializing stuff? Aren't you embarrassed?!"

After٫ you heard Eliza join in٫ "You are SO right, honey dearest. Any other guy is a total wreck compared to you! And the way you tell people hard truths when they don't want to hear them? Well, that takes real kindness and integrity! You're just so perfect, I can't wait a minute longer. WE'LL HOLD THE WEDDING TONIGHT!"

"Wait, TONIGHT?!" Idia exclaimed.

You burst through the doors٫ too flustered by this new information to even hear Nana calling after you.

"Like TONIGHT٫ tonight?!" You repeated in equal disbelief.

A loud silence fell over the room once you barged in. It was soon broken by Eliza's mirthful squeals.

"Oh my Seven! You look absolutely adorable!" She fawned٫ clasping your hands in her own. "Aren't they just precious٫ Idia dearest?"

"Y-Yeah...just precious...٫" Idia murmured٫ his cheeks turning about as pink as the ends of his hair.

"Just imagine: tonight, when the clock chimes midnight, we'll seal our eternal marriage with a kiss!" Eliza droned off to Idia and then you٫ "And we'll seel our familiar bond for eternity! Then you'll shed your mortal forms, and together, our souls will depart for our lives together!"

"And leave this mortal coil without getting to read my manga?! NOOO!" Idia cried out.

You glared at him. When was his ass gonna learn to stop resisting in the more irritating way possible. That's why he's getting wheeled around on that thing.

"Guys! You gotta get me out of this!" The housewarden began to beg.

"Well, well, well. It sounds like you've found someone who loves you in spite of your bad attitude٫" Vil pointed out.

"Yeah, y'know what? Good on you for finding your soulmate٫" Leona agreed.

You made sure to look out the window. If those two agreed one more time you were sure you might see a pig fly past.

"What?! Wh-What about ___?!" Idia shrieked in despair.

"Don't bring me into this٫" you warned.

"We'll come up with something٫" Lilia said thoughtfully. Well whatever it was٫ they better hurry it up before you become the next NRC ghost rumor.

"It's finally happening! Our princess's wedding, 500 years in the making! Back in the old days, this event would've merited a nationwide celebration. But our neighbors were ungrateful scoundrels! They betrayed us without a second thought٫" Granpy recalled.

"Just remembering it makes me want to die all over again!" Nana followed suit.

"Now, now. No use crying over fallen kingdoms. Getting upset won't make it any better٫" Eliza comforted.

"Princess...٫" they both murmured٫ their hearts seemingly touched.

"Ooh, I have an idea. I'll make all these suitors groomsmen. They can be part of the ceremony! That way we can have the kind of merry wedding you two want٫" the bride thought aloud٫ "Okay, everyone. You're going to help celebrate the start of our life as a little family!"

"Can we NOT?! Please, somebody, anybody... Ah! AZUL! Aren't we Board Game Club buddies?! You're a fast talker; talk some sense into this ghost!" Idia begged again.

"To think that Idia, king of all introverts, would get married before me...I can't see through all my tears of joy. My heartfelt congratulations. I'm sure it's going to be a wonderful wedding!" Azul congratulated.

"NOOOOOO!"

"Also٫ since ___ is one of the very few on the bridal side٫ would it be all to much trouble to ask if I could be the one to walk with them down the aisle—"

Azul's request was immediately shot down by everyone present٫ including you.

❥

The events leading up to the ceremony were all honestly just one big blur to you. You were still trying to process the fact that you were more likely than not gonna become a ghost in a couple hours. And even worse٫ a ghost with Idia for the rest of eternity. Oh٫ and a clingy princess٫ too٫ but you weren't as upset about that one.

At the moment٫ you stood beside Eliza at the alter as the maid/man of honor. The rest of the guys were forced to sit and watch as wedding guests. Every so often you would glance over at Idia's fear-ridden expression. It helped calm your nerves from your impending demise.

"Ahh, I get to walk down the aisle like I've always dreamed of...And with my perfect prince. I'm finally getting married!" Eliza squealed in excitement.

Idia٫ on the other hand٫ had began to anxiously ramble to himself as if he finally snapped٫ "Idia attempts to flee...But his body is numb all over and he can't move! Looking for healer! I don't have any skills that remove debuffs!"

"Argh, if only I could unbind myself!" Deuce groaned out.

"Would you stop squirming? This is a sacred ceremony. Our princess's wish is finally coming true!" Puffy٫ a ghost you learned was incredibly close to Eliza٫ scolded٫ "She's a pure and noble soul who's harbored this dream since she was young. And tonight, at long last, her loving heart will join with her perfect prince. Nothing could be better...Such a joyous occasion..."

Honestly٫ it seemed to you that Puffy was in love with Eliza٫ and not in the creepy kind of way like you've grown to know here; like the sweet and pure kind you were so used to at home. You pitied him٫ but Eliza seemed to be dead set on Idia being her true darling for some odd reason.

"We've got a problem!" A different ghost interrupted.

"Hm? What's going on?" The former questioned.

"Some rascals got through the gate!

They're barreling toward the wedding hall and tearing through our troops!"

"What did you say?!" Eliza demanded٫ seeming to also have heard the ghost's warning. "Just who are these rude wedding crashers?!"

"A short boy with red hair, one with a heart mark on his face, another with delicate features, and a blond boy with a bob cut!"

No way...THEY were your rescuers?! You'd rather just die already.

"That would be Riddle, Ace...٫" Trey trailed off.

"...Epel, and Rook٫" Vil completed.

"You see?! We could've muscled our way in from the start!" Jack fussed.

"What happened to stealing the bride's heart, I wonder?" Azul lamented.

"If I'd known how this was going to go, I'd have gone for the strong-arm approach too. Then Bridey would've never even seen the herbivore٫" Leona complained.

"I'll bet you all a bread roll Riddle snapped first٫" Cater wagered.

"Aha ha, I could totally see that! Count me in. I'll throw in two bread rolls, Seabream٫" Floyd joined.

"It's not a bet when you're on the same side, you know٫" Jade corrected.

"Can't argue with that!" The third year agreed٫ leading to laughter breaking out among all of them.

You could only look at those bread rolls longingly. Soon you'd be turned into a ghost and lose the ability to eat such a delicacy٫ along with the ability to eat at all. At least if you were going down then you were taking someone down with you...AHEM—Idia—AHEM!

"Our lives hang by a thread and you're all joking around?!" Idia practically shrieked.

"We can't allow anyone to spoil the princess's big day!" Nana announced.

"The intruders must be apprehended!" Grampy decreed.

"I've got it!" Lilia victoriously called out.

"Got what? Ear damage from that loudmouth crocodile always hovering around ya'?" Leona retorted.

"How dare you disrespect Lilia like that٫ you overgrown housecat!" Sebek shouted.

Cater sighed٫ "Poor thing doesn't even realize the insult was towards him..."

"Your highness٫" the bat fae politely addressed٫ "I've a proposition. It's only natural for married individuals to want alone time with each other٫ so what if you leave dear ___ with me—Ahem!—us and we look after the sweet thing while you spend time with your beloved Idia? And no baby sibling wants to see their big sister or brother act so lovey dovey. Plus٫ you can visit whenever you like٫ as well."

That honestly sounded like a pretty thought out plan. How long was he thinking about that. The thing is٫ though٫ you've already come to terms with becoming a ghost. You've already come up with a mental list of ghost activities you can do! A quick glance at Idia was all it took for you to guess that he probably wasn't a fan of that plan either.

"How do I know you'll keep your promise?" Eliza harshly questioned.

"Fae's honor٫" Lilia replied wholeheartedly.

The phantom thought hard for a minute until she finally caved.

"Oh٫ fine! Just make sure to hold up your end and let me have my precious ___ whenever I want to see them!"

"As I said: fae's honor٫" the vice restated. Unlike Eliza٫ you've learned to be wary of the legitimacy of a "fae's honor".

❥

"Idia Shroud, do you take this woman, in sickness and in health...٫" Grampy paused to sniffle٫ which soon snowballed into a sob. " Oh, I just can't stop from tearing up! It's all so moving!"

"Silly Grampy, how can you cry on such a happy day? If you start, then I might...I might...٫" Eliza began to sniffle too. "Oh Grampy, this will make me so happy!"

"They're really working themselves up٫" Jack noted.

"We have to stop this wedding somehow!" Deuce stated.

"But we can't move a muscle!" Sebek٫ not at all passively٫ aggressively reminded.

"I'm kinda checked out, to be honest٫" Floyd admitted٫ "Shrimpy's safe and all٫ yeah? We can go once Firefly Squid smooches the bride, right? Ugh, get on with it already!"

Lilia quickly joined in٫ "Agreed. My lower back is sore from being stuck in this position. Just give her the ol' smoocharoo, would you?"

"You heard Lilia! Make haste and 'smoocharoo' the bride!" Sebek ordered.

"Dude, I will literally DIE if we smoocharoo٫" Idia reiterated٫ "What's wrong with you people? Have you no compassion? Do you post joke comments on tragic videos online too?!"

"All I'm seeing is less competition٫" Floyd plainly stated.

"Oh my! We're not even done with the vows and you're already clamoring for the kiss? No need to rush. This kiss is coming soon enough, tee hee!" Eliza joyfully giggled.

Genuinely٫ you were starting to agree with them. Right about now٫ you could really go for a nice meal and a long hibernation after today's events.

Very soon٫ chanting began to resound throughout the temporary ceremonial hall. The whole thing was the phrase٫ "Smooch that ghost!" over and over again. You found yourself joining in about halfway through. That was also when Idia seemed to lose all life behind his eyes.

"WOULD YOU CUT IT OUT?!" He screamed.

"All we can move is our mouths; we've got nothing better to do٫" Lilia defended. Well٫ you could move٫ but chanting seemed more fun than just standing there.

"Ahh, soon it will be midnight. Then it'll be time for our kiss! Once we seal our marriage with a kiss, my darling and I will live together forever in the land of the dead. And I'll finally be happy!" Eliza explained. You couldn't help but feel bad for her٫ too. For her sad view on what a person's happily ever after should be٫ and for thinking Idia was the perfect prince of that happily ever after.

"All right, perhaps we should take this seriously٫" Vil stated.

Trey started٫ "I would, but there's nothing we can do to—"

"STOP THE WEDDING!"

The doors flew open٫ a familiar voice resounding throughout the room.

"I know that voice!" You heard Deuce murmur٫ and you knew it too.

Ace?! And what the hell was he wearing?! The man had on some sort of red٫ plaid suit٫ a ribbon tied to the jacket's lapel on one side٫ and his bangs tied back. Actually٫ he'd probably look put together if he wasn't huffing and puffing like he was about to blow some poor little pig's house down.

"Made it under the wire!" Ace grimace.

"AAAACE!" Idia cried out٫ looking at Ace like he personally saved him of his sins.

"What do you want?" Eliza deadpanned٫ but soon began to worry. "Wait, you have a heart mark on your face. Are you one of the wedding crashers?! Don't you dare try to ruin my extra-special day!"

"Special, schmechial. You're just shovin' what YOU want down everyone's throat! I'm gonna get this ring on you and send you off, once and for all!

"You won't lay a hand on our princess!" Puffy declared.

"Tch. Didn't think there'd be even more retainers in here!"

"We'll fend him off, Your Highness٫" Nana called out.

"Get the kiss in now; we'll keep them occupied!" Grampy followed up.

"All right!" Eliza agreed.

You felt like you were watching some sort of medieval drama. Could they hurry this up already? Your fun was over and you were getting pretty tired of- Was he beating the ghost with a flower bouquet?! And was he winning?!

"Argh, I keep beating 'em, but they're just coming back for more. Lousy ghosts٫" Ace grumbled.

"Princess, quickly! The kiss!" Nana shouted.

"Idia, darling, must you keep evading me with this silly display of stubbornness?" earnestly questioned٫ and you had half a mind to hold him in place to get this over with sooner.

"Well, you see, uh... Aha ha... Hahaha... I just think a first kiss should be special!"

Yeah٫ he was absolutely lying through his teeth. Grim's given better lies than that.

"Look at Idia over there. See how he's bobbing his head, trying to avoid her?" Ace pointed out to the other ghosts٫ "Let's be real here. Your princess is clearly wrong about her true darling loving her back, and you all know it!"

"...Everything we do is for Her Highness's benefit٫" you heard Nana admit٫ sounding more as if she were trying to convince herself instead of Ace٫ "We've watched over her since she was a little girl. She was so kindhearted and hopeful. All in the land looked forward to seeing what her future would be like. But alas..."

Grampy began to elaborate for her٫ "Our neighbor attacked us without warning, and all was lost in a single night. Yet still she smiles. She never once blamed us for failing to protect her when she needed it most. 'It's fine.' 'Don't worry about it.' 'I'm okay.' 'Surely one day...' That's all she ever says."

"She may say those things, but she's clearly not fine!" Nana broke back in٫ desperation evident in her voice٫ "She dreamed of meeting her prince for 500 years, yet she never did. She must've lost hope somewhere along the way."

"We, her retainers, want but to help the princess get the one thing she desires. Our beloved, tragic princess...٫" Grampy concluded.

You looked back to Eliza's frantic attempts at getting a kiss from Idia. She didn't deserve this; she deserved someone who actually loved her back just as much. Eliza was too kind for anyone here. She was one of the very few to show you genuine care. A type of care you were beginning to forget even existed. You had started step toward her when you heard Ace make another statement.

"For one thing, that 'perfect prince'? Doesn't exist. Never has, never will."

"What do you mean he doesn't exist?" She distressed.

"No darling or yandere's gonna meet your every ideal! That's just common sense."

"How dare you speak to Her Highness that way!" Nana harshly denounced.

"Princess, do not listen to him. You have your perfect prince right here٫" Grampy tried to soothe over.

"And she's stuck on this nonexistent Mr. Right because YOU keep getting her hopes up!" Ace continued to reprimand٫ but then let out a sigh. "This isn't my first rodeo with this stuff, so lemme break it down for you. You might feel sorry for her, but treating the princess with kid gloves isn't doing her any favors! Looks to me like you're a buncha enablers who'd rather take the easy way out than have a tough conversation!"

"Feels like being called out all over again٫" a certain vice housewarden murmured٫ gaining an awkward laugh from his media fiend of a companion.

Oh٫ so he's having war flashbacks. What's next? Is he gonna punch the bride?

"Tell your princess the truth. Looks aren't everything when it comes to finding your darling٫" the redhead demanded.

"Well, how else should I choose the perfect prince then?" Eliza dejectedly wondered.

"You're STILL missing the point. You gotta drop the whole 'perfect prince' requirement٫" Ace groaned in irritation٫ "As for the perfect PARTNER...How about someone you can laugh and cry with?

Someone who'll stick with you through all the hard times? That's the kind of person you should be looking for. Geez, you know how embarrassing it is to have to spell it out for you? How is it that none of you ever taught your princess something so basic? You've spent 500 YEARS with her, and in all that time, you haven't done anything that actually benefits her!"

You were just as surprised as the ghost retainers٫ but for different reasons. That poser! You were the one to tell him that's how people fell in love in your world! Sure٫ it happened kinda like that here too٫ but not exactly like how he just described! Hold up٫ was he gauging your reaction right now?! That piece of shi—!

"Ace is right٫" Riddle agreed٫ Rook and Epel on each side of him. When did they get here?! And what were they wearing٫ too?!

"Housewarden Riddle!" Ace cheerfully greeted. Who is this and what have they done to Ace?

"Oh hey, Rook and Epel are back too!"

Grim?! Where had he been this whole time?! Huh٫ that's what you get for being too invested in eavesdropping you guessed.

"Do you two have any idea how late you are?" Vil scolded.

"My apologies, Vil. I found myself lost so often without you to light my way٫" Rook mourned.

"What? I thought you were busting up ghosts with giddy abandon٫" Epel said. You weren't surprised.

"Housewarden, you've come to save us! I can't thank you en—" Deuce began٫ but was soon cut off by the very one he was thanking.

"CATER. What time is it?"

"Huh? Uhh...11:35, according to the clock٫" the third year answered.

"We have less than half an hour before the date changes. Let's dispatch these ghosts posthaste!" The housewarden ordered.

"Wait, why are you asking? What's going on?" Cater hesitantly asked.

"All right! Team Tux is reunited and back in action! You ghosts might as well pack it in now. It's way past time you released Idia٫" Ace declared. Also٫ what did he just call their group? You don't even know why you're still surprised.

"But...٫" both Nana and Grampy trailed off.

"You can still start over٫" Rook reminded٫ "After all, you wouldn't want your dear mademoiselle to be seen as some evil ghost who terrorizes her darling, would you?"

"Excuse me? Are you calling me an evil ghost?" Eliza interjected٫ "I...I'm not trying to be evil! I just—"

"Don't listen to anything they say, Your Highness. You've done nothing wrong٫" Puffy disrupted٫ only adding to her delusions.

"Puffy...٫" she spoke beneath her breath.

"Dude, did you hear what I said about enabling?" Ace fussed.

"Can't you see you're doing something wrong?" Epel disputed.

"Yeah! What they said!" You just heard Idia very quietly mumble to himself.

"I don't care if it's wrong. I want Her Highness to be happy. I'd take on the whole world to make that happen. That's MY lingering attachment! MY wish!" Puffy argued.

You couldn't decide if you found that sweet or concerning. Okay٫ maybe concerning because now he was growing at a rate of becoming King Kong by sunrise.

"Wha...Wha...What in the world?! The big one's gettin' even bigger!" Grim yowled.

"He's manifesting five centuries' worth of attachment at once!" Riddle frantically pointed out.

"I sense a power within him that dwarfs all the other ghosts٫" Rook noticed٫ "We can't stay here. Everyone, get behind us!

"Did you miss the part where none of us can move٫ along with the fact that ___ is on the other side of him?" Vil sarcastically quipped.

"Ah, yes, quite. In that case...Epel. Move these glorified logs to a corner of the cafeteria!"

"Understood!"

Just looking at Eliza made it obvious how distressed she must've felt. She's been waiting for this day for 500 year only for it to end up turning into a total disaster. You felt yourself close the distance between the two of you and embrace her from behind. Eliza obviously hadn't expected such a thing since she froze just as hard as the others had from her magic.

"I will protect the princess...to the very last!" Puffy loudly proclaimed as he began to battle the remaining boys.

The princess spun around in your embrace٫ holding you in return. You felt her bury her face in you hair٫ peaking at the battle every so often out of fear. Eliza also held her hand to the back of your head٫ gently rubbing it as she kept your face pressed against her chest. You guessed it was so you didn't have to see one of her closest confidants in such a state.

You had a good feeling that the duel was over when you felt Eliza's hold on you go slack.

"Whew, finally got 'em! Take THAT!" Ace cheered.

"Woohoo! That's how it's done!" Grim celebrated.

"Oh no! Noooo!" Eliza wailed.

"There are no more guards. We should be able to get the Circle of Severance on her now٫" Riddle smugly claimed.

"Let's finish this before she blows a gasket!" Epel announced.

"No, no, no...٫" she continued to spiral٫ still managing to have somewhat of a grip on you despite most of it having gone loose.

You heard footsteps draw near and peaked up from where Eliza held your face against her chest to get a better look. For a ghost٫ she was surprisingly comfortable.

Ace was the one to approach٫ smug grin on his face as he asked٫ "Any last words? You can say goodbye to your precious ___ and Idia if you—"

"PUFFY!" Eliza cried out٫ cutting off Ace completely.

Idia was left totally forgotten by the phantom in favor of rushing over to Puffy's side. You٫ however٫ were carried with her like a mother with her toddler.

The three former let out a collective "Huh?"

At the ghost's side٫ Eliza set you down next to her and moved Puffy to lay in her lap. The way she looked as if she were about to break out into tears compelled you to lay against her shoulder; she seemed to appreciate that.

"Oh, Puffy... How could this happen?!" Eliza asked as she choked back a sob٫ "You took a beating defending us from those villains!"

"Wait, you're calling US villains?" Ace was most definitely taken aback٫ trying to act like this was his main character moment instead of there's. People these days...

"Don't be sad, Princess. I always feel happy when you smile٫" Puffy did his best to cheer her up. Right after٫ he began to fade away.

"Puffy? Why are you fading away?" Eliza desperately asked.

"I fear I exhausted all my energy in that fight٫" he replied٫ "Your Highness...I hope you'll always have reason to smile. I wish good fortune upon you. May you live happily ever after with your prince..."

"No...No, don't leave me!" Eliza called out٫ "Your support is what's carried me through all the hard times and helped me follow my dream! I need you!"

"Princess..."

"Oh my...Of course! I've finally figured it out. My real prince...It's you, Puffy!"

The was another collective shock٫ but this time it was٫ "What?!"

Princess...No, Eliza٫" Puffy addressed٫ "You've always been the only one in my heart, ever since we were alive."

"Oh, Puffy. I love you..."

Eliza gave Puffy a loving kiss٫ and barely a second after he started to gain back his visibility.

"Hm? My injuries are healing!" He exclaimed.

"It must be the power of love٫" Eliza believed٫ "You've been saved by true love's kiss!"

"Huzzah! What wonderful tidings!" Ghost attendants cheered.

"Huh? What just happened?" Ace gaped٫ "Am I the only one having trouble keeping up?"

"They're clearly painting us as the bad guys...٫" Riddle observed.

"Idia, dear?" Eliza called out.

She stood up and started to make her way over to the former groom while dragging you along with her. You felt like a ragdoll.

"Uh, yeah?"

"I'm so sorry!"

"Huh?"

"I'm afraid I cannot return your affection for me. I feel terrible, truly...It's not you, it's me. You're a dreamboat, you really are! I'm sure that one of these days, you'll find someone even better than me. You know٫ actually٫ I would just hate for my dearest ___ to feel lonely while Puffy and I make up for lost time together. Would you be a dear and look after them whenever I'm not visiting?"

Eliza nudged—no٫ not nudged—shoved you into Idia's arms and gleefully clasped her hands together. She still seemed to believe in full faith that he was perfect٫ and now she was trying to set you up with him! Unbelievable...

You peered up at him and didn't like the expression on his face one bit. You could just tell his mind was flooded with perverted thoughts at the moment. Quickly٫ you got back on your own two feet.

Soon٫ Eliza made an announcement٫ "Listen up, everyone! I have an announcement to make! I have found my true soulmate. I'm going to marry Puffy!"

The room rang out with congratulations and cheers from every ghost present.

"Ahh, a true love found, ending 500 years of despair! What a touching scene."

Oh٫ look who finally decided to show up: the Headmage. By his side was Ortho. Once the little android saw you and Idia safe and sound٫ he quickly rushed over to the both of you and tightly embraced you both٫ as well.

"IDIAAA! BIG (SISSS/BROOO)! I'm so glad you're both okay!"

"Hi٫ Sweetheart. I'm sorry we worried you٫" you softly replied٫ gently rubbing his back in reassurance.

"Uh...Yeah, we're safe...Sure...٫" Idia stuttered out٫ "I mean, it's cool, but she didn't really expect me to marry her, right? That's a huge imposition. It's all good, just...y'know. Right? Why do I feel like the one who got dumped?!"

You snickered at him before retorting٫ "It's practice for the future."

"Worry not, Idia. Surely someone wonderful awaits you in the future٫" Rook reassured٫ the complete opposite of your own statement. "Have a good cry tonight, and you'll start afresh tomorrow."

"Dude, PLEASE quit it with the sappy pep talk٫" Idia complained.

Did your comment really have less of an effect than Rook positive one? No fair! You decided to take you ragebait elsewhere.

"Gracious. What a fine mess that was٫" Lilia sighed٫ stretching his muscles now that he can move again.

"At least now we can finally move٫" Azul pointed out.

"Everyone's cheeks okay?" You wondered.

"Don't remind me of that!" Vil rebuked. That's the reaction you wanted.

"Ace, you really outdid yourself back there!" Trey praised.

"Heh heh. That's right, you should be grateful٫" the asshole bragged٫ "Especially since I had to make up for your terribad singing!

"Please, forget that ever happened٫" begged Trey.

"Epel. You went up against that huge ghost and didn't even flinch. That takes guts. I haven't been giving you enough credit!"

"Jack, you're embarrassing me."

"Oh, am I? Sorry."

"It was still nice, though. Thank you!" Epel practically beamed at the praise٫ glancing at you to make sure you heard it too.

"Thanks to your quick thinking, Rook, no one was hurt during the fight. I applaud your presence of mind٫" Jade commended.

"Ah٫ Monsieur Prémédité! You would have undoubtedly done the same, were you in my shoes."

"No, Jade would've simply looked on and chuckled٫" Azul corrected.

"Interesting. I suppose there is also beauty in leaving matters to fate٫" the hunter concluded.

"You're one powerful goldfishie! Seein' all that got me in the mood to throw down.

C'mon, punch me a little٫" Floyd insisted.

"This is not the time nor the place!" Riddle scolded.

"Aww, lame٫" the eel pouted before zoning in on you next٫ "C'mon٫ Shrimpy٫ hit me!"

"Absolutely not."

"Aww٫ boo..."

"Cater, let's get you back to the dorm!" Riddle demanded.

"Why me?"

"You took second place in the croquet tournament yesterday! If you don't serve me tea before the day is out, you'll violate rule 703!"

"Wait, that's a rule?!" Cater yelped٫ "No wonder you were so obsessed with the time. Talk about fastidious! Well, since you did save me and all, let's hustle back to the dorm! Care to join us٫ ___?"

"No٫ thanks...٫" you quickly replied.

Not long after the two left٫ the newly weds began to make an announcement. Puffy started it with٫ "If I may say something to all of you...I want to apologize for the trouble we put you through."

"At least you helped me find my true love. I'm very grateful to you all!" Eliza stated.

"Seriously, what a buncha troublemakers٫" Ace grumbled beside you٫ "But hey, all's well that ends well. We don't have to force this ring on your finger now.

"Yes. We're going to take our honeymoon now, completely regret-free٫" her highness delightedly agreed.

"Then things'll finally be back to normal!" Ortho added.

"Uggggh, this sucks. I hate it here. I'm gonna have phasmophobia for ages٫" Idia groaned.

"I'll be sure to pop by for a visit next year and give you an update!"

"JUST STAY GONE!"

Wow٫ for once they all finally agree on something. A shame٫ she actually grew on you.

Eliza and and puffy were the last of the ghost to disappear. As they did٫ she waved and blew you a small kiss goodbye. You waved back.

"My, my. What an eventful day this has been. There were many twists and turns, but everything's over and done with now, so we can put this whole thing behind us—" Crowley was abruptly interrupted by a certain blonde hunter.

"Come now, Headmage٫" Rook tutted٫ "Surely you could think of a more fitting closing line?"

"Ah! Yes, I suppose you're right. And so the prince and princess lived happily ever after. The end."

"I've met five year olds who can make better endings than that٫" you deadpanned.

"Well if you're so good٫ then you come up with something!" Crowley complained. You felt like you were arguing with a toddler.

"Wait٫ I think I hear Professor Trein looking for you right now٫" you looked away٫ trying to listen for something. You looked back and Crowley was gone.

Yeah٫ that was total bull. You were pretty sure Professor Trein wasn't even on campus today٫ but the dumbass believed it. Thank whatever's out there for idiots٫ because damn life would be boring without them.

𝑻𝒂𝒈𝒔:

@emysan12 @baddieontheblog @stuff6969fuckyou @coffee-or-hot-cocoa @fruitofdiscord @ladydoe8 @boxpersonnn @charming-mage @the-holy-pigeon @yan-lorkai @middaymoony @yuuna-dear @curatoroffiction @jokesterreality @neufora @bobbnohjjj @p9rcilla @kisesmor @gardenmadeofpaper @gloomuraaii @silverluna3-blog @chaoticotaku @julia-loves-cupcakes @treycloverslover @m1lly69 @akira3na @uniquecutie-puffs @ceramic-raven @shycreatorreview @yuu-twisted @sanyu-thewitch05 @that1breadstickk @16-shieanne16 @nnx01 @ottachy @littlepotaaatosimp @sleepystuffnigth @chaoticmoontimetravel @foolsparadisedio @sewingsimplysews @your-l0cal-magical-girl @noblognamepleasee @sugar-sprinkles @danielapuppy41 @ransackedhouse @solaaaaaaar @eevee-133 @akira3na @princessloveweird @toxiwaaa @danna001 @animesimp420 @dissarraymania @rambzlezz @thegalaticnacho091 @nimbleonslaughtentity @yumuramma @thegargoylemalleusstaresat247 @justatimidcreator @glumet-shadow @mysticmoonhashira @daisy-flower21 @sincerelyruu @coolnekochan9961 @kittyhogger @swweetmilk @atomatoho3 @cursedmoonlove @cookiemonster3665 @cr4zyrainbowcutie @waterpisser

[k3lbug]

Had a random thought. So, okay, random ocean fact, some cuddlefish will pretend to be female to make themselves less of a target by bigger aggressive males so they can get close to the females for mating purposes. (Very random, very funny)

Could a darling potentially have the ability to *Present* as a yandere to avoid getting targeted by a Yandere? Kinda like a protective barrier?

Most definitely. However٫ there are cases where some darlings are better at acting than others.

[k3lbug]

So... I'm pretty sure you've heard thatm oray eels open their mouths at their partners as courting, *but*!!! do you know who else they open their mouths like that for? That's right, shrimp! Cleaner shrimp to be exact, as a request for cleaning.

Cue Floyd trying to mouth-gape at his darling as a display only for her to go "Ah yes, I am your 'Shrimpy', so naturally if you open your mouth-" and go all Trey "The tooth maniac" Clover on him pulling out a toothbrush and toothpaste out of nowhere to forcibly brush his teeth.

This is actually hilarious and I am literally in love with you for giving me this mental image

[k3lbug]

Hi! If it's not spoilers or anything, for the Leech parents is Papa Leech a darling or is it a Yan x Yan situation making Jade and Floyd like Yan^2

Love ya <3

I believe I've said somewhere before that there's a lot of mer couples in the deep sea that are in yan x yan relationships٫ leading to what would basically be the closest thing to purebred yanderes. Eel species٫ such as the Leeches٫ are perfect examples of this.

[k3lbug]

Hey! Quick question about beastfolk in your au: Do they 'smell' darlings? Like how in a lot of fics where mc is female, they can smell the blood on their period or something like that? Thanks in advance! Sorry if you've already answered this! If you have feel free to ignore!

No٫ its not really something that be detected like that. You can't smell someone's personality traits. Fae٫ however٫ tend to be much more observant and can identify darlings much easier than other species can.