This is more of a curious question if anything. If you plan on writing the Playful Land event with Ernesto/Fellow & Gino/Gidel, will they be platonic yanderes to reader (considering Fellow is 26 and Gidel is somewhere between 9-12)??
Gino/Gidel will be. I'm not entirely sure about Ernesto/Fellow yetŁ« though.
do you think during book six (or just anytime idia does sometime to darling) heāll would give darling the persephone special (kiddnapping darling and bring them to Styx without anyone knowing and maybe a few +ās that are connected to hades and Persephone) or would he just be a āwatch from afar cuz to scared to mess upā yandere
(if talking about this you think would spoil to much for future story you may ofc may ignore that part)
Also some headcannon thingys!!!!! (Halloween Skully event spoiler ahead)
I can just see the yanderes FUMMING during the Skully event with him kissing not only them (annoying but tolerable to an extent) but DARLING to! (Perhaps he may even get so bold as to place his kiss on the cheek instead of the usally hand š¤«)
donāt even get them started on how Skully has the balls to kidnap their precious darling they went crazy finding out he kidnapped them! Thankfully Skully is a very nice kidnapper!!! Not like that changes much how the yandere feel butttt yk
few more head cannons about the Skully event cuz I love it<3
all the yanderes fighting about wanting to be on darling team and when itās decided to just do draws to pick teams their all praying to be on darlings team! (Their totally not planing skullys funeral when he gets on a team with darling not once but TWICE)
also how Skully held darling before they woke up In beginning thankfully none of the yanderes know about that, itās a little secret that only Skully and his dear darling gets to know!(he totally believes its fate that he met darling and his idol in the same placeand may or may not have been stalking darling ever since they arrived in twisted wonderland as a ghost)
all the yanderes totally drooling over darlings new fit it may beā¦gloomy? But hey who said you canāt look cute well dressing gloomy!
Malleus was totally about to hurt that kid in the original for just disrespecting him now imagine throwing in him being a yandere and his darling being the one they kidnapped! He most definitely ended up rather killing her (rip) or sparing her if his darling happens to love kids and never wanting one to get hurt! He would never want his darling to be mad at him for hurting a child (even if in his mind she totally deserves to get blasted down by lightning for disrespecting him and hurting his darling)
*when the yanderes are at the tub getting darling and grim out and safe*
āOh dear finally are you alright my dear!?ā -riddle or any yandere who fits those words
āoh yea he was surprisingly sweet about kidnapping me lol definitely the best way Iāve been kidnapped!ā -darling
*insert Jamil sweating profusely suddenly well fighting/talking with Skully for some āunknownā reason!*
(Loved the newest chapter btwš½š canāt wait for more especially how Octavinelle will be like)
āatolla jellyfish anon (worked up the courage to send another one in the name of my favs/loves Idia and Skully double skeleton as I like to sayšā ļø)
Dont worryŁ« I'm already mapping out how I want Book 6 to go. š
As for the Halloween eventŁ« I'm so totally tempted to rewrite it once it gets closer to Halloween. It's actually something I've been wanting to do but I've been holding off til it was the right season. š
It seemed your dreams wereŁ« once againŁ« switching stories. This timeŁ« instead of the oceanŁ« the background was a vast desert in the middle of the night. Worst of allŁ« it felt so terribly dry. A complete 180 compared to your last set of dreams.
Upon recollecting your thoughtsŁ« the silhouette of a man on horseback strode into the corner of your vision.
"You...are lateŁ«" the man remarkedŁ« the sneer made obvious in his voice.
Right afterŁ« a shorter man appeared before the previous one. This one was dressed in what looked to be basically rags.
"A thousand apologies, O patient one. But I got it!" The man pleaded.
"Trust me, my pungent friend You'll get what's coming to youŁ«" the former promised.
ThenŁ« a trail of light suddenly appearedŁ« grasping the the wealthier man's full attention. He orderedŁ« "Quickly! Follow the trail! Faster!"
The light eventually led to a place in the sand that began to rise from its former place.
"At last, after all my years of searching...The Cave of Wonders."
With his wordsŁ« a red parrot moved to perch on the man's shoulder and repeatedŁ« "Awk! Cave of Wonders!"
"Now, rememberbring me the lamp!" He ordered the street rat as he headed for the tiger-shaped cave.
ThenŁ« the cave began to speakŁ« "Who disturbs my slumber?"
FinallyŁ« everything went black.
ā„
In the morningŁ« you dragged yourself out of bed and to the bedroom doorŁ« exhaustion still heavily clinging to you. You stumbled into the hall while trying to rub the remains of sleep from your eyes.
"Hey, Kelsey. Why so bleary-eyed?" One of Ramshackle's resident ghosts asked.
"You look like you've seen a ghost. Heh heh hehŁ«" another chuckled.
"Today's the last day of the fall semester. Look sharp and don't bungle the landingŁ«" a third reminded.
"Oh yeah, tomorrow's the first day of the winter holiday. Have you two decided what you'll be doing?" The first ghost wondered.
"Huh? What's a win-ter holly-day?" Grim sounded outŁ« dragging his littleŁ« tired body to your side.
"It's when school lets out for the season. Most students go home to celebrate the new year with their family. They have fancy dinners, tooŁ«" the ghost explained.
"Wait, there's FOOD?!" The direbeast exclaimed.
"And plenty of it. Roast turkey, pie, a ham as big as your head, you name it...Not that us ghosts can eat, of courseŁ«" the slimmer ghost added.
"Some ghosts head home to the netherworld to spend holidays with the family too, y knowŁ«" the previous ghost went on.
"Yeah, and some of 'em never come back! Heh heh heh!" The chubbier ghost laughed.
"Spendin' time with the family while gettin' your grub on sounds nice..." Grim thought aloud.
It did sound nice...You couldn't help but think back to previous holiday breaks with your family. What was your family doing right now? It's been months since you disappeared. Were they even still looking for you? Had they lost hope? You missed them deeply...
"I wonder if the headmage's actually looking into a way for me to go home..." you sighed to yourself.
"If I know Crowley, he's totally forgotten about it by nowŁ«" Grim commentedŁ« having overheard your wishful thinking.
His ears flattened after looking up to see your mournful expressionŁ« though. The little beast nudged your leg with his head until you picked him up. ThenŁ« he rubbed his furry face against your cheek in an attempt to cheer you up.
"Say, what's your family do, Grimmy?" One of the ghost questioned.
"My family? Hmm...I don't remember 'em. I remember wakin' up hungry and alone. It was real cold. I was waitin' out there for someone to come get me for ages. What happened after that again? It's all so foggy...But hey, I'm a forward-facin' kinda guy anyway! The future's way cooler than the past! Especially 'cause I'm gonna be a rich and powerful sorcerer! Gah ha ha!"
The ghost sniffledŁ« "Awww, poor little Grimmy had it rough!"
"How'd you like to spend the holidays sitting around the fireplace with us?" Another suggested.
"Myah ha ha! If there's good food to be had, consider me ready for some holiday cheer!" Grim cheered.
ā„
"Listen up, whelpsŁ«" Professor Crewel announcedŁ« "Your holiday vacation starts tomorrow. I'm sure all of you are foaming at the mouth to get back home. But every year, there's always some foolish pup who forgets about his homework and spends the whole break goofing off. Just remember that I have a severe punishment in store for any such slackers out there. Are we clear?" The crack of his whip reverberated around the room. "You have permission to use the Dark Mirror to return home for the holidays. Report to your dorm mirror once you've packed your things!"
"Yes, Professor!"
"Ugh, finally! A break from this cramped dorm life!" Ace celebrated.
"Good grief. Night Raven College doesn't kid around with holiday homework. Look at all thisŁ«" Deuce lamentedŁ« looking through the mountain of work in front of him.
"Speaking of going home, I guess you haven't found a way back yet, ___?" Ace pointed out as he began to flip through the worksheets himself. It almost seemed like he was trying to distract himself from his own question. Hopefully you were just thinking too much into it...
Before you could give an answerŁ« Deuce asked you another question. "Will you two be spending the holidays in your dorm? Y'knowŁ« you can stay with me and my mom for breakŁ«" Deuce offeredŁ« "I'm sure mom wouldn't mind. ActuallyŁ« I'm pretty sure she'd love to meet you...OāOnly if you want toŁ« of course!"
Once again leaving no room for your replyŁ« Ace quickly butted in. "You could also stay at my place for the holidays! I meanŁ« My folks definitely wouldn't mind a new face to babyŁ« especially now that my brother's moving out and all..."
"ThanksŁ« but we kinda already have plansŁ«" you mentioned.
Grim gleefully replied for youŁ« "Yup. We've made plans to have ourselves a feast with the ghosts!"
"Oh, right. There're plenty of ghosts on campus, so I guess it won't be just the two of youŁ«" the redhead noted.
"But when school lets out, don't the cafeteria and school store shut down too?" Deuce worried.
"Mrow! I didn't even think about that. Where'm I supposed to get the food for my feast?!"
"I'd really rather not go hungry over winter breakŁ«" you groaned.
"Sounds like you'd better check in with the headmage soonŁ«" the former commented.
"You need Crowley's permission to use the Dark Mirror, so my guess is he's probably there right now. Let's find outŁ«" Ace declared.
ā„
Walking into the Mirror ChamberŁ« you were immediately overcome with the sheer amount of murmuring from excited students chattering. Everywhere you looked was packed full of students. You hadn't seen this place so full since the entrance ceremony.
"Wow, it's already packed with students going homeŁ«" Deuce observed.
"Hah, they all look so antsyŁ«" Ace chuckled and started looking aroundŁ« "Now then, where's that headmage?"
"All right, everyone. Announce your destination to the Dark Mirror and keep a tight hold on your belongings. If you let go for any reason while in transit, your luggage will get spirited away elsewhere. If you have any possessions you absolutely cannot afford to risk losing, send them by post from the school store.
It didn't take long to find him. Crowley was beside the Dark MirrorŁ« instructing student traffic on what to do and what order to go through the mirror in. Hold onŁ« what the hell is he wearingā?!
"He's in total party mode!"
It's snowing outsideŁ« and the damn bird look like he's headed to some luau after this! SoŁ« his ass gets to go to some tropical island while you have to freeze in that rundownŁ« decrepitŁ« old dorm house he gave you? PlusŁ« shouldn't he being doing research to find a way to get you homeŁ« LIKE HE PROMISED YOU? Why does he look ready to relax by the shore while drinking damn piƱa coladas?!
"Wearing an aloha shirt in the middle of winter?! He's obviously ready to go on a tropical vacation!" Ace accused.
"He's not even trying to hide itŁ«" Deuce sighedŁ« shaking his head.
"Hey, Headmage! We gotta talk!" Grim demanded.
"Why, hello. What brings your merry little band here?" Crowley wondered.
"Are you actually trying to find a way home for me?" You questioned in a huff.
"Ah...Ahhh! Ahhh, yes! Of course! A way home for you! Ha ha ha! Why, I'm expending every effort!" He nervously answeredŁ« most definitely pulling this straight from his ass. "In fact, I'll be spending the winter break expanding my investigation area to a tropical land I've never visited before. That's how deeply my diligent streak runs."
"You don't look dressed for an investigation to meŁ«" Ace muttered in exasperation.
"What he said! You look ready to go soak up the sun!"
"How could you suggest that? I've only clad myself in appropriate attire for my venture. When in a foreign land, do as the locals do. Escaping winter's frigid bite to kick back in a hammock and sip coconut juice while gazing at the tranquil ocean waves...I have NO such refined and indulgent vacation plans whatsoever, I assure you.
"What an incredibly specific denial..."
"It ain't fair for you to have all the fun! I wanna go on a tropical vacation too. Take us with you!" Grim complained.
You could've swore you saw the man grin at Grim's request before reschooling his expression.
"WellŁ« I wouldn't mind all too terribly watching over to extra fledglings. WhyŁ« it could even be a good faāAhem!ā...I meanŁ« a good instructor/student bonding activity! SoŁ« how about itŁ« ___?"
Crowley placed a clawed hand on your hairŁ« but you pushed it away and shook your head.
"Thanks. ButŁ« noŁ« thanksŁ«" you replied. Aside from the fact that you felt being dragged around by Crowley would be a nightmareŁ« there was also a part of you that felt it was highly likely he might loose you like a negligent parent forgetting their kid at Walmart.
Crowley sighedŁ« "OhŁ« well...If you'd truly prefer to stay on campusŁ« then I have a critical job for you. It's so critical, the very survival of Night Raven College hinges upon it."
"The school's survival? Really?" You raised an eyebrowŁ« not convinced.
"If it's so critical then how come you were practically just begging them to go on your little vacation with youŁ«" Ace pointed out with a deadpanned expression. Crowley ignored him.
"Ahem. The fires in our campus cafeteria and fireplaces are all furnished via fire fairy magicŁ«" the Headmage explainedŁ« "They've lived in the cafeteria fireplace for many years...But if we don't supply them with dry firewood every day, they will fade away. Should the fire fairies disappear, our whole campus would be gripped with cold every winter. You can see how the school's survival would be at stake."
"You know, I've wondered how the school stays so warm without central airŁ«" Deuce commented.
"So it was magic. Kinda obvious in hindsightŁ«" Ace added.
"Normally, our kitchen ghost takes over fire duty during extended school breaks..." Crowley went onŁ« "But this year, his daughter had a baby, so he's visiting the netherworld to see his first grandchild. Thus, I would like you two to handle things in his absence. Should you take on this job, your holiday provisions will be provided in full. I'll even arrange for a holiday feast. Roast turkey, pie, a ham as big as your head...In fact, I'll throw in some piping hot spare ribs and mashed potatoes to sweeten-er, salt?āthe deal. What do you say?"
"Mrah! Sounds like a one-way ticket to a food coma!" Grim pointed out in shock before grinningŁ« "H-hmph. I guess I'll hear you out, at least."
"Dude, you are a born suckerŁ«" Ace groaned.
"Ghosts can have grandchildren?" You questioned.
"Look, it was a miracle of love, okay? Don't sweat the details."
"OhŁ« I'm sweating them..." You muttered below your breath.
Crowley continuedŁ« "More to the point, someone needs to handle fire duty if you want to stay warm over the holidays. Just by throwing firewood into the fireplace every day, you'll stay both warm AND well-fed. That is, as we say, two birds with one stone. Oh, what a generous deal!"
"Y'know, this does sound like kind of a gimme compared to the usual messes you dump in our lapsŁ«" Grim thought aloud.
"Doesn't it, though? You would be surprised at just how kind I can beŁ«" Crowley pridedŁ« "Oh yes, and since I'll be out for a while, I'd like to give this to you."
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a phoneŁ« handing it to you with a smile like he just solved your every problem.
"Ooh, a smartphone?" Ace wondered.
"You can use this to call me in the event of any emergencyŁ«" explained the HeadmageŁ« "It is to be used ONLY for emergencies, mind you. Do try not to burn through its data cap browsing Magicam or the like. Now then, if you'll excuse me, I have many students to transport home to their families. I'll leave the rest in your capable hands. Ah, I'd better make certain to peruse some tourist pamphlets before I set out. Goodness gracious, I'm so very busy..."
And with thatŁ« Crowley headed back to the Dark Mirror's sideŁ« lost in his own world.
Grim cackled in delightŁ« "Myah ha ha! Now I get to chow down on a fancy feast over the holidays!"
"I still get the feeling you just took a sucker's deal, but hey, whatever floats your boatŁ«" Ace hesitantly contributed.
"Hey, guys! You can stop standing in the middle of the hall and blocking traffic now! OhŁ« heyŁ« ___!" Ruggie stopped just short of the four of youŁ« dragging along a massive amount of luggage.
"Ruggie? Wait, what's with all that luggage?!" Deuce gawked with wide eyes. "A backpack, three duffel bags, and a giant cooler..."
"Oh, this? Shyeheehee. I took all the food that was about to hit its sell-by date at the cafeteria and the school store. Since we're about to go on break, they gave 'em to me basically for free."
"For real? There's no way you can eat all thatŁ«" Ace pointed out.
"You'd be surprised. The neighborhood kids devour this stuff like, well...a pack of hyenas. Besides, gotta make sure my grandma eats well over the holidays. Speakin' of which," the hyena turned to you before going onŁ« "you should come visit one day. I'm sure Gran and the kids would love to meet ya. WhelpŁ« this frozen food ain't stayin' frozen for long. Gotta run! Smell ya next year!"
AndŁ« he was gone. Not without playfully nudging his shoulder against yours while passing youŁ« though.
"There he goes...What was that about 'neighborhood kids,' though?" Deuce wondered.
Jack soon came over to you guys and started to answer his questionŁ« "Ruggie comes from a place where food is a bit scarce. So whenever school lets out for a long break, he stocks up on all the food he can get and shares it with the local kids."
OkayŁ« that was actually pretty sweet of him. AlsoŁ« quite unexpected from greedy hyena.
"What about you, Jack? What's with that planter you're hauling? You taking up gardening or something?" Ace asked.
The wolf repliedŁ« "It's a cactus I've been growin' in my free time. It'd wither up if I didn't keep it watered over break. A-anyway, enough about me!"
"Ruggie's sharin' his food with a bunch of kids who ain't even family, huh? Never knew he had it in himŁ«" Grim noted.
"Hyenas believe in sharing spoils equallyŁ«" Jack explainedŁ« "I'm sure that's how Ruggie was raised."
"Hmph. The mere thought of a feeding frenzy like that gives me the willies. I can barely stand the noise one kid makes as it isŁ«" Leona huffed as he walked up behind Jack.
"Does that mean you're skipping out on visiting your family, Leona?" Jack wondered.
"Man, I wish. Nah, they'd give me no end of grief if I did. I'm goin'. Ugh, talk about a holiday choreŁ«" the lion groaned. You had half a mind to say a smartass commentŁ« but you decided to hold your tongue.
"But you're not bringing anything?" The former observed.
"So? I got my wallet and smartphone. What else do I need? I've got clothes at home anyway."
"This's a whole different kind of extremeŁ«" Grim huffedŁ« crossing his little arms. StupidŁ« rich people...
Ace sighedŁ« "You're not even bringing your homework, are you?"
"Homework can wait until after break. Holidays are for restingŁ«" Leona statedŁ« then put a hand on your head. "Later, herbivores." With thatŁ« he was off as well.
"He's good enough to do anything when he applies himself, so why doesn't he?" Jack grumbled to himself before turning back to the rest of you. "Well, I know I'll be getting mine done. You guys had better do the same. Later."
"Whatever you say, tryhard. See you next year, huh?" Ace called out as Jack headed for the Dark Mirror.
"Leona's commitment to his principles is actually impressiveŁ«" you heard Deuce murmur.
"Okay, froshes! Don't let those bad boy upperclassmen give you any bad ideas, you hear?" You felt a pair of arms wrap around you from behind as the cheerful voice began to ring in your ear.
"In our dorm, if you don't turn in your homework, Riddle makes sure it's off with your headŁ«" another reminded.
"Hey, Trey. Hey, CaterŁ«" Ace greetedŁ« a slight tinge of irritation present as he tried to tug you away from Cater's holdŁ« but managed barely any success.
"Ugh. Going home is kind of a drag for me, tooŁ«" Cater sighedŁ« nuzzling his face in your hair like you were some sort of emotional support animal. "I just know my sisters are both coming home. They don't care if it's the holidaysāthey'll run me ragged anyway. You should totes come alongŁ« Cutie. I just know they'd love youŁ« and maybe leave me alone for a bit..."
"NoŁ« thanks. Me and Grim already have plans..." you declined.
"AwŁ« booŁ«" the redhead poutedŁ« "WellŁ« I wish I could stay over at your house instead,
Trey!"
"You'd be welcome to, but we'd be running you just as ragged. Winter is the patisserie's busiest time of the yearŁ«" Trey pointed out with slight amusement.
"Oh yeah, your family runs one of those, huh? So much for any escapeŁ«" Cater lamentedŁ« once again burying his face in your hair.
You noticed Deuce go still before letting out a yelpŁ« "Erk! Housewarden Rosehearts!
Sorry for blocking the way!"
"Hm? Oh, it's you boys. If you're going to stand around and congregate, at least stay near a wall. OhŁ« helloŁ« ___. CaterŁ« do you might not smothering them?"
"Oh, right. The housewarden's got an extreme case of helicopter parenting waiting for him at home. No wonder he's not enthused about heading backŁ«" Ace whispered in return.
"Riddle, I'm not allowed in your house, so I won't be able to bring by any cakes..." Trey beganŁ« "But you're always welcome to visit me at the store. I'm sure Chenya will drop by to hang out, too."
"Yes, you're right. I think...l'm going to try talking with Mother someŁ«" Riddle repliedŁ« "I don't know if she'll listen, but even so."
"...All right. Good luckŁ«" his vice wished.
"What'sa matter, Goldfishie? Don't wanna go home? Then here's an idea: don't. We're not. C'mon, you can join us in the stay-at-school club. Heh heh!"
And just like thatŁ« you felt your soul leave your body. You didn't even need to look at Riddle to know he felt the same.
"Where did you come from, Floyd? And would you kindly refrain from sticking your nose in business you know nothing about?
It's quite irksome."
"He's right, you know. It's never a good idea to blindly pry into others' family affairsŁ«" Jade agreedŁ« catching up to his twin.
"Aw, c'mon, Jade. It's boring spending every new year with the same old suspectsŁ«" Floyd whinedŁ« "Besides, Goldfishie's so teeny, I'm sure Azul would love to keep him as a pet!"
OkayŁ« you actually had to suppress a small chuckle at that one...
"I'm sorry? Would you like to say that again? You're awfully brazen to take that tone with the head of Heartslabyul. And speaking of heads, I'll have yours for this!"
"R-Riddle, no! This is NOT the place, my guy!" Cater panickedŁ« trying to calm Riddle downŁ« and subsequently letting you go.
"Settle down, Riddle. You're letting him goad you againŁ«" Trey soothed.
While they calmed Riddle downŁ« you felt yourself getting pulled in another direction.
"NowŁ« that's just not trueŁ« FloydŁ«" Jade correctedŁ« both of his hands grasping your upper armsŁ« "I feel we've found quite the interesting new suspect~."
"Sooo, Floyd and Jade! Your family's in the Coral Sea, right? Why aren't you visiting them?" Cater askedŁ« trying to redirect the conversation.
"We and Azul live in the far northern reaches of the Coral Sea. At this time of year, the whole surface is covered in ice floesŁ«" Jade explained.
"What he said! It's hard gettin' home with all the freezy-freeze, and it's boring there anywayŁ«" Floyd whinedŁ« "So the three of us prefer to go home on spring break instead, when the ice has melted."
"Wow. Living under the sea has all kinds of challenges, huh?" Trey thought aloud.
"Hmph! The last thing I need is to spend the new year with you Octavinelle boysŁ«" Riddle huffedŁ« protectively pulling you away from the TweelsŁ« "I'll be going now. I bid you all a pleasant holiday." He looked to just you. "And good luck staying away from them..."
"Good grief. Well, at least he's got his moxie backŁ«" Trey offered with a shrugŁ« "As for you guys, don't cut TOO loose over the holidays, okay? See you around."
"I should be getting home, too...Ah, but first, a commemorative photo!" Cater pulled you into the photo by the waistŁ« making a kissy face towards you for the picture. "Hashtag #FallSemesterLastDay #WithTheFroshes
"So, little Shrimpy. If you and the Seal stayin' on campusŁ« you should definitely drop by Octavinelle, y'know. We'd be happy to keep you companyŁ«" Floyd offered.
"A fine idea, brotherŁ«" Jade commendedŁ« "Ah, what a delightful holiday this is shaping up to be. You're welcome anytime. Now then, if you'll excuse us..."
You watched as the two left the Mirror Chamber while eerily chuckling together. You didn't like that at all...
"Erk...Just lookin' at their faces makes me think back to when they were workin' me like a dog in the Mostro LoungeŁ«" Grim whined.
"Yeah, that was brutal stuffŁ«" Deuce sighed in agreement.
Ace scoffedŁ« "Don't remind me."
"Well, the crowds are thinning out. We should probably head out, ourselvesŁ«" Deuce observed.
"Good call. Oh yeah, ___..." Ace rememberedŁ« "We should trade Magicam IDs now that you've got a smartphone. Y'know, in case something comes up."
"Oh, good idea. I'll share mine, tooŁ«" Deuce added.
"There we go. Registered. Feel free to hit me up if you get bored over winter break!" Ace mischievously grinned.
"I'll think about itŁ«" you mused.
"Feel free to reach out if you need anything at allŁ«" Deuce reassuredŁ« "My mom's probably waiting on me, so l'd better go.
___, Grim, happy holidays."
"Yeah, I'll do the same. ___, Grim, see you next year!"
You and Grim watched as the two hurried off.
"I've always thought of those guys as a couple of loudmouths, but now that they're gone..." Grim admittedŁ« "It's clear as crystal just HOW loud they've been! Buncha meddling so-and-sos..." SoŁ« the grumpyŁ« little thing continued to grumble the whole way back to Ramshackle.
ā„
The morning after everyone leftŁ« you and Grim walked out of Ramshackle. You both were about to make your way to the cafeteria to do the job Crowley assigned when you found a thick sheet of snow covering the ground.
"Ooh, check it out, ___! We got a whole blanket of snow out here!"
"No wonder it seemed chillyŁ«" you notedŁ« "We'd better check on the fireplace."
"Yeah, maybe the fire fairies are feelin' the chill, too. Better bring 'em some firewood. Ooh, and I can check out the kitchen an' see if they got any leftovers while I'm there! La-la-laaa!"
After only a few steps on the cold groundŁ« the baby made you pick him up to carry him the rest of the way. It was honestly the most peaceful you've felt walking around since arriving here. WellŁ« besides for Grim rustling around inside your coat for a comfortable position.
Once you both made it to the cafeteriaŁ« Grim climbed out onto a nearby table and shook himself to refluff his fur.
"Geez, it was cold out there! My paws feel like icicles!"
"How? You barely touched the ground for a second before demanding to be carried."
"That's besides the point! NowŁ« hurry up and get that firewood in the fireplace."
You let out an amused snort at his antics as you made your way over to the firewood. You tossed some into the fireplace before getting distracted by the sight of the small fire fairies coming out to use the woodŁ« causing it to crackle as they did so.
"Ahhh... You guys must be the fire fairies. I'm feelin' warm and fuzzy just being near youŁ«" Grim purred.
SoonŁ« another sound began to overpower the fire fairies' crackling. It sounded like it was coming from the kitchen.
"Hm? What's that I hear over the crackling fire? Chopping? And...sizzling meat?! And now my nose is tinglin' with the spicy aroma of foreign cuisine! It's coming from the kitchen. Let's see what's up, ___!"
NowŁ« how the hell was he able to discern that...You weren't given very long to think on it before having to chase after the gluttonous pit personified.
Peaking through the kitchen doorŁ« you noticed a bunch of left behind students cooking together. They must've all been from the same dorm since their outfits all followed the same design. In the center of the room was a student instructing them on each step of the preparation process.
You were pretty sure you remember the boy from the Spelldrive incident from a while back. JamilŁ« was it? Not only thatŁ« but he was often around Kalim or talked about by him. You knew that because since the Spelldrive incidentŁ« you often found Kalim around you. He seemed to have a habit of finding you whenever you finally managed to get alone time. Kalim was definitely sweeter than most boys hereŁ« but he was way too overbearing. So much soŁ« that at some pointŁ« you started hiding whenever you heard his voice.
"Once you're done cooking the vegetables, boil the thawed meat. Don't forget to add the nuts once the oil is heatedŁ«" Jamil reminded.
"Yes, sir!"
"Vice Housewarden, will one tablespoon of spices be enough?"
"The housewarden's palate veers spicy. Add another teaspoonŁ«" the vice advised.
"What's goin' on in here? It's winter break, but the kitchen's full of students!" Grim wonderedŁ« openly wandering in without an invitation.
"Hm? You're..." Jamil trailed off.
"Hello there. Nice to meet youŁ« againŁ«" you greetedŁ« scooping Grim up in you arms. Knowing himŁ« the little beast might try eating everything in sight if he got hungry enough.
"AhŁ« yes. You're Kalim's friend. Your names were ___ and Grim, yes?"
Grim puffed up in prideŁ« "Dang, you got a good memory, uhhh...What was your name again?"
"JamilŁ« right?" You askedŁ« hoping to have gotten it right.
The boy seemed a bit surprised that you rememberedŁ« a brief smile gracing his lips.
"Correct. Jamil Viper, vice housewarden of Scarabia Dorm. I make it a point to memorize people's names and faces. Not to mention, you two have made quite the names for yourselves since you first enrolled. You'd be hard-pressed to find anyone at this school who doesn't know who you are."
"At any rate...Why are you here on campus when it's winter break?"
"We ain't got anywhere to go home to for the holidaysŁ«" the direbeast repliedŁ« "Not to mention, the headmage personally gave us a super-special job. We're tendin' the fireplace. I'm as diligent and competent as they come! Only makes sense that the headmage would turn to me when he needs help!"
You didn't have the heart to break it to Grim that Crowley was only hyping the job up so that he'd want to do it.
"Oh, is that a fact? The headmage personally asked you, you say..." Jamil repeated before mutteringŁ« "This could be my chance..."
"Hm? Didn't catch thatŁ«" Grim deadpanned.
"I said that if the headmage is relying on you, you must be a tremendous talent indeedŁ«" he repeatedŁ« but you could tell that it was absolutely not the same thing. What was this guy planning...
"Sorry to interrupt, Vice Housewarden, but I'm done prepping the vegetables."
"Okay, I'll be right over."
"That soup you're makin' looks pretty good. I ain't ever smelled anything like it beforeŁ«" Grim praised.
"It's a traditional Scalding Sands recipe, you seeāWait. An idea occurs to me. I'm sure something brought us together. Would you care to join us for our meal?"
You've been betrayed by offers of food too many times. SadlyŁ« you could no longer trust it.
"I don't knoā"
"Really?! You mean it?"
"Absolutely. It won't take much longer to finish. Why don't you two lend a hand?"
You never agreed to this. HoweverŁ« nowŁ« you were somehow being forced to help cook. At least you could see what was going into the food this way...
"Man, these spices smell amazing!" Grim admiredŁ« his mouth practically watering.
"They're used in traditional Scalding Sands cuisine. It makes for a unique flavorŁ«" Jamil clarifiedŁ« "I'll teach you how to use them, so watch closely."
"You got it!"
"I thank you for your help."
He probably shouldn't thank the two of you just yet. Your assigned job was basically your usual activity: Watching to make sure Grim didn't cause chaos. It mainly consisted of any one person job becoming a two person job. For the most partŁ« you were babysitting the contents of one of the potsŁ« stirring it every so often.
"Is it okay if I put this brown powder in the pot now?" Grim impatiently asked.
"Not yet. You put in garam masala at the very end or it spoils the fragranceŁ«" Jamil skillfully answered.
"Wow! You sure know your way around a spice rackŁ«" your dormmate applauded.
"I cook on a daily basis, so it's only naturalŁ«" the second year casually repliedŁ« "We're almost done here. Let's put on the finishing touches."
And soon enoughŁ« the cooking was finally over. You watched Grim as he did a little celebration dance at his work.
"Woohoo! It's done! Mmm, yeah, those spices are seriously drool-inducing.
"Good work. I couldn't have done it without your help. Thank youŁ«" Jamil smiled as he and the others started packing up the food. "We'll eat in the dorm. Come with me."
"Mya ha! You bet we're comin'! I can't wait to dig in. I'm starvin'!" Your furry black hole cheered.
"That should do it. All right, boys, get this to the dorm!" The vice housewarden announced.
"Yes, sir!"
"So, why're you guys stayin' on campus over winter break?" Grim wondered.
"Well..." Jamil trailed off againŁ« while other Scarabia members remained silent. "It's a bit of a long story."
"In that case, forget we askedŁ«" you stated with a forced polite smile. You were not going through another dorm's issues and play therapist.
"It was the housewarden's orders. Everybody in Scarabia has to stay..." One student mumbled.
"We can't go home even if we want toŁ«" another followed.
"Shhh. Don't go into it. We brought this on ourselves as it isŁ«" Jamil reprimandedŁ« "Now, let's get this food back to the dorm before it gets cold. Scarabia's got the warmth of summer year-round.
I think you'll enjoy a taste of the tropics there."
"Woo-hoo! Now that's what I call paradise!C'mon, ___!" Grim exclaimed.
"Whoa, Grim, slow down!" You yelped.
MentallyŁ« you were screaming. You've long learned now that nothing on this campus comes without a catch. Why did the universe hate you? This was not your circusŁ« and definitely not your monkeys; soŁ« why do you keep getting thrown into situations that involve you?!
"I'm sure the housewarden will be delighted to have you as visitorsŁ«" Jamil reaffirmedŁ« "Would you care to come over?"
All of a suddenŁ« his voice felt incredibly soothing. NowŁ« for some strange reasonŁ« you were compelled to go along with his every word.
"I'd be happy to!" You gleefully grinned.
"What a pleasure it is to know you'll be coming to see us, ___," the boy praised. He placed a hand on the small of your back and began leading you forward. "Now then, Scarabia awaits."
ā„
After arriving at Scarabia's dorm realmŁ« it took you a good minute to just take everything in. From the decorations to the architectureŁ« it was all just so...so breathtaking!
"So this is Scarabia Dorm. It really is sweltering like it's summer over here!" Grim complained.
"I'm sure it's a welcome reprieve from the cold. Come, this wayŁ«" Jamil ledŁ« still leading you forward by the small of your back. It almost felt like he felt you'd change your mind any minute now and flee.
InsideŁ« the dorm building was even more gorgeous. You probably looked like a lost puppy as you tried admiring everything. ThenŁ« the sound of clapping ripped you from your daydreams.
"Boys, we have guests! Play some music to make them feel at homeŁ«" ordered the vice housewarden.
You felt your cheeks heat up at the attention. This was so embarrassing...
"You really don't havā"
"Myah hah hah! When you get as famous as us, l guess people fall all over themselves to get in your good gracesŁ«" Grim boastedŁ« cutting you offŁ« again.
"Please, go on. Eat up while it's hotŁ«" Jamil urged GrimŁ« but placed a hand on your shoulder to keep you in place for some reason.
"Don't mind if I do! Awmph! Mmm, this's good stuff! It's got a rich flavor, with a powerful kick of heat...This veggie stir-fry with crunchy nuts is great. Oh, and so are these fried dough ball things!"
"We have meat dishes and soup as well. Please, help yourself; there's more where that came fromŁ«" Jamil added.
"Nom...Nom nom...Y'know, with a veritable buffet like this in front of us, this really IS paradise!"
"What is all this commotion?"
SuddenlyŁ« the air went still.
"H-Housewarden!"
"Ah. KalimŁ«" Jamil commented.
"What's going on, Jamil? Nobody told me to expect company!" Kalim huffed.
"Kalim, there's a good reason for this, I assure youŁ«" his vice reassured.
"Uh, this guy seems like bad news..." Grim mutteredŁ« having just scuttered back to your side.
You were mainly confused. Why was everyone so afraid of Kalim? They were talking about how he's been strict latelyŁ« but still. You were just so used to him acting all cheerful and bubbly.
"How many times must I tell you to always inform me ahead of time when inviting guests?! If you had...I would have arranged for an even finer banquet and a whole band!" Kalim whined.
"Huh?" Grim questioned.
"___!" The housewarden exclaimedŁ« throwing his arms around you in an embrace. "Welcome to our dorm. Sorry for not throwing you a welcoming parade! You should've told me you were coming! WaitŁ« are you staying over for the holidaysŁ« too? We could have one long sleepover together!"
It took until Jamil had to physically separate the two of you for Kalim to finally calm down. StillŁ« he looked to be noticeably buzzing with excitement that you were over at his dorm. He did eventually notice the food prepared now that he was forcibly detached.
"All the food looks incredible, as always. How did everything turn out, Jamil?"
"Splendidly as ever. There are no dangerous substances in any of these dishes, so eat whatever you like. They've also been poison-tested already."
"Wh-why is THAT relevant?!" Grim nearly shrieked.
"Kalim is the heir to a very wealthy family. The unfortunate dangers related to that mean that everything he eats must be vettedŁ«" Jamil clarified.
"You just love blowing these things out of proportion, Jamil. Really, who would do that? Nobody's tried poisoning me since that time four years ago when I went comatose for two weeks. It's a thing of the past nowŁ«" Kalim brushed off.
"Yes, because you've had someone to specifically prevent that from happening for the past four years. I ensure that anything hazardous is identified and disposed of before it crosses your plateŁ«" Jamil reminded.
Hold onŁ« what?! OhŁ« hell no! And didn't he just finish feeding that food to Grim? Absolutely not. As soon as you find an openingŁ« you both are getting out of here!
"Wait a minute. When you were feedin' me all those different dishes, was that to test 'em for poison?!"
Kalim laughedŁ« "Aha ha ha! There's no real danger for you, don't worry. All the food Jamil makes is safe. Jamil would never poison my food."
"Heh. Must you state the obvious?"
"Y'know, I'm startin' to think these guys were only pretendin' to be niceŁ«" Grim mutteredŁ« dazed from confusion.
"Ooh, Grim! Have you tried the goat's milk blue cheese yet? Nothing beats a smear of it on a cracker!"
"Huh? Why would I eat somethin' with mold all overāMmph!" Grim began to sputterŁ« "Don't go shovin' food in myāmmph!"
"Oh, good, you like it! By all means, have some more! Aha ha!"
"Mmmph! Awmmph!"
You could only watch out of fear that Kalim might start trying to feed you next.
"Bring out more food and drinks. And kick the music up a notch or three! Today, we party!" Kalim announcedŁ« cheerfully clinging onto your arm like he was trying not to lose you.
ā„
"I can't eat another bite...Urgh...My tummy's gonna burstŁ«" Grim groanedŁ« "Where does that Kalim guy get off, crammin' crackers with moldy cheese in my mouth? I make it a personal policy to eat any food I get, but that was just too much!"
Much to Grim's dismayŁ« Kalim was back without a moment to spare. He kneeled before where you and Grim sat on the ground like a lovesick puppy and leaned closer.
"Hey, ___! Grim! Care for dessert? We've got ice cream. Or would you prefer a selection of fruits? We've also got baked sweets with pistachios and almonds. I could have Jamil bring you some."
"Mrah! N-nope, I'm square! Can't eat another bite!" Grim yelped.
"Aww. They're all so good, I would've loved to share some with youŁ«" Kalim lamentedŁ« his head drooping like a kicked puppy before quickly perking back up. "Oh well. We'll be here over the whole winter break. You're welcome to drop by for a meal whenever you like. Right, Jamil?"
"Absolutely. Anytime."
Now that everyone seemed to be in high spiritsŁ« you thought now would be a good time to ask your question from earlier.
"Why aren't you going home?"
Kalim hummed in responseŁ« "Hm? Oh...Well, you know how we recently had that Spelldrive tournament, followed by our exams? Well, our dorm placed at the bottom in both."
You noticed Jamil silently mourning from the corner of your vision as Kalim drabbled on.
"So I decided to do something about it. Our whole dorm is doing voluntary special training."
"I woulda taken last place over what Ramshackle Dorm got in the Spelldrive tournament brackets: a fat lotta nothin'Ł«" Grim complained.
"Oh, right. Yes, that's a real shameŁ«" Kalim sympathetically offered.
"On our winter break, we'll be spending six hours a day on studies and practical magic trainingŁ«" Jamil detailed.
"Six hours a day? That ain't any different from regular school hours!" Grim gapedŁ« "'Holidays are for resting. Homework can wait until after break.' That's what Leona says."
"Yes, I'm sure he doesŁ«" Jamil remarkedŁ« getting a small snicker out of you.
"Hmmm. When you put it that way, you do have a pointŁ«" Kalim debatedŁ« "My dad DID always drill the whole 'work hard, play hard, and know when to do which' thing into my head. Maybe Leona's rightŁ« and we should focus more on striking the right balance between the two. All right! I've decided, Jamil. We should take our breaks when we can get them. I'll let our students go home tomorrow."
Jamil gawkedŁ« "What?!"
"I'll tell them over dinner tonightŁ«" Kalim decidedŁ« "Do me a favor and make sure everybody shows up, okay?"
"R-right. Of course."
What do you know? Another dorm's issues solved and you barely had to do anything this time.
"Say, ___, I should give you two the grand Scarabia tour. I'd love to show you a few things."
And Kalim was cuddled right back up to you again. Was this how it felt to have a parasite? Not even Ace and Deuce were this clingy...
"Kalim, please! You'll be setting a bad example if you task the students with studying and then goof off yourselfŁ«" Jamil chastised.
"But it's not every day we get guestsŁ« and special onesŁ« too. Surely one day of slacking can't hurtŁ«" the housewarden pleaded.
"...KalimŁ«" he warned.
"Erk...Okay, fine. Don't get mad. I'll do some defense magic training, then. A mock battle would make for a nice after-meal workout. Hey, could someone fight me?!"
"YesŁ« Housewarden!"
You watched as the dorm students started training with each other. The way each spell cast flew through the air was honestly quite fascinating. A little bit inŁ« Grim excitedly jumped up to join. The way he got visibly excited anytime he was successful was absolutely adorable to you.
"Okay, training done! Now let's be off!" Kalim announcedŁ« joyfully tugging at your hand like an impatient child.
"Wait, you've got other work toāŁ«" Jamil sighed.
ā„
"Maaan, this place is FAN-CY! Nothin' at all like Ramshackle DormŁ«" Grim praisedŁ« marveling at everything as you walked.
"Is it really that impressive to you?" Kalim wonderedŁ« his arm hooked around yours. "I know that back when I enrolled, Dad said he donated a bit to the school to give the place a fresh coat of paint, but..."
"Geez, how rich are you?! Are you some kinda prince like Leona?" The furball gawked.
"The Asims aren't royalty, and I'm not a prince. I've got some relatives in the royal family, thoughŁ«" he explained.
"Wait, Asim? I thought your name was Al-AsimŁ«" Grim mentioned.
"'Al' means 'son' in the ancient language of the Land of the Scalding SandsŁ«" Kalim broke downŁ« "So we name families after the founders that start them...And all the men of that line refer to themselves as the founder's son. In my case, Asim is our honored founder's name, and 'Al' means son...So Kalim Al-Asim means Kalim, Son of House Asim."
"Huh. I never thought much about where names come from. Fascinatin'Ł«" Grim noted.
"I hope that wasn't too in-depth for you?Anyway, feel free to just call me Kalim."
"This place really is a melting pot of students from all over. This all sounds fascinatingŁ«" you thought aloud to yourself.
"You should pay the Land of the Scalding Sands a visit sometime! I'd be happy to have you as a guestŁ«" Kalim exclaimedŁ« now excitedly holding onto with both of his at the prospect.
"I bet you live in some kinda fancy mansion that's halfway to bein' a castleŁ«" Grim fantasized.
"Oh, hardly. We only have around a hundred helpers."
"'Only'? In what world does that deserve 'only'?! I've only got one hench-human, myself..."
"Well, we're a big family. We need at least that many people to look after them all."
"Sorry you have THAT many siblings?!"
"Yeah, so many I quit counting. I do remember all of their names and faces, though. Aha ha!"
Absolutely not...You kept quiet during their back and forthŁ« unwilling to show any interest in joining such a lifestyle. That many kids over your dead body...
"You guys do everything on a whole other level..."
"Jamil's mom and dad are among our servants. So Jamil's always around and looked after me ever since he was a young boy. And he is seriously amazing, believe me. He's smart, thoughtful, and most of all, he's a great cook!"
"The proof of that last one's in the puddin', for sureŁ«" Grim commended.
"You see? You should stay over for dinner tonight! Come on!" Kalim beggedŁ« tugging on your arm and making puppy dog eyes at the both of you.
"Uh, sure..." Grim hesitantly answered before mutteringŁ« "Yeesh, talkin' with this guy throws me off."
You didn't get to reply to Grim's comment before getting dragged further along again by Kalim.
"Come on, this wayŁ«" he sangŁ« leading you both into some random room.
Upon enteringŁ« you were immediately taken aback. The room had nothing but piles of gold and what looked to be priceless treasures. And it was all just sitting here?! Ruggie would have a field day if he found this place...
"Sweet mother of loot! What IS this place?It's got piles of treasure taller than l am!" Grim shouted.
"This is all stuff Dad sent with me when I departed for schoolŁ«" Kalim casually answeredŁ« "I couldn't possibly fit it in my dorm room, so it's all kept here in the storeroom."
"This ain't a storeroom! This's a whole treasury!"
"Ooh, you know some big words, Grim. Very impressive!" Kalim praisedŁ« "My favorite out of all these treasures is, of course...Huh. Where'd it go? Sometimes it moves around on its own. Hey, where are you?"
"Wooow...Huge gemstones just scattered on the floor, shiny golden goblets..." Grim observedŁ« "With this much stuff, surely no one would notice if one little thing went missing...Myeh heh heh..."
You just turned around to stop Grim when you noticed something behind him poke his fluffy little shoulder.
"___Ł« I'm kinda busy!"
It poked him again.
"Yeesh, whaddaya want? I'm tryin' toāGYAAAH! Th-the carpet's movin' all on its own! It's been possessed by a ghost!"
"Ah, there you are! Go back over and curl up in your usual spot, would you?" Kalim calmly requestedŁ« and the carpet nodded. HoweverŁ« it moved towards you insteadŁ« seemingly inspecting you like a curious animal.
"What in the world is this?!" Grim yelled in bewilderment.
"This is a legendary treasure from Scalding Sands loreāa magic carpet!" The housewarden introducedŁ« causing what seemed to be an ego boost in the carpet. "The sultan that the Sorcerer of the Sands served used to love his flying carpet. This one's a replica of it. It's been in our family for generations."
The carpet seemed to nod in agreement.
"You mean that carpet flies around like a broom?" Grim wondered.
"More or less. That's probably the easiest way to put it. It's getting dark, so why don't we go out for an evening ride in style? Come along, all aboard!"
Kalim took hold of your hands and pulled you onto the carpet with him. Grim quickly followed to sit with you.
"Really? Are you sure I won't fall off that thing?
"It's totally safe! Trust meŁ«" Kalim reassured. He took a tight hold of you before declaringŁ« "And away we go!"
You quickly understood why Kalim had held on to you. As soon as the carpet took offŁ« it immediately began soaring at what felt like top speeds and didn't slow down until making it above the clouds. You think you felt your soul temporarily leave your body. You also lost majority of the feeling in your knuckles from holding on so tightly to Kalim.
"Aaaah! We're really flyin'! This is crazy high up!" Grim yelpedŁ« "Look how teeny the dorm looks from up here."
"How do you like the world above the clouds?" Kalim askedŁ« putting his hand over yours in attempt to calm you down.
You were feeling mainly better now that the carpet slowed down. Looking aroundŁ« you found yourself nearly at a loss for words. The sight was just so painstakingly beautiful.
"It's like a whole new world, or somethingŁ«" you muttered in awe.
Kalim laughedŁ« "Aha ha! That good, huh?"
"This totally rules!" Grim cheered.
"There's nothing quite like soaring through the sky. It shows you how little all your troubles really matter in the grand scheme of things. Of course, Jamil always says I don't worry enough about things as it is...It wouldn't hurt him to take life a little easier."
"Mrow! Check out that river over there! I ain't never seen a bird like that before!"
"Ooh, good eye. Let's go take a closer look!"
ā„
After a while longerŁ« the impromptu carpet ride came to a close. Not that it wasn't funŁ« it just felt like the carpet was trying to make you panic every so often. Every time it didŁ« you'd subconsciously tighten you grip on Kalim. If you were gonna go downŁ« you were taking someone with you.
"Man, that was a BLAST!" Grim joyfully sang.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. Goodness, thoughāit's already dinnertimeŁ«" Kalim noticedŁ« and was still holding onto you for some reason.
"Kalim! You're finally back. I'd like to review something before dinner. Could you join me for a moment?" Jamil interrupted.
Kalim looked at you longingly for a moment before agreeingŁ« "Sure thing. ___, you and Grim can just make yourselves comfortable in the lounge."
ā„
"I'm famished. What's for dinner tonight?" You heard one of the Scarabia students ask.
"Our special training today was rough, huh?" Another student commented.
"Ramshackle Dorm gets a cold breeze blowin' in through cracks in the walls. Compared to that, this place is paradise. And Kalim's a real pal. I oughta join Scarabia!" Grim commentedŁ« relaxing like he pays the bills.
SoonŁ« Kalim and Jamil finally arrived to meet with the rest of the dorm. For some reasonŁ« something felt off to youŁ« but you couldn't figure out why.
"Is everyone present? The housewarden has an announcement for you before we eatŁ«" Jamil stated.
"He does?" One guy wondered.
"Oh yeah, Kalim was talkin' about thatŁ«" Grim rememberedŁ« "He's callin' off the special training and lettin' Scarabia have their winter break. I bet the students will be overjoyed. Too bad I can't keep feasting here over the holidays, though!"
"...I decreed that the students of Scarabia would stay in the dorm over winter break for a voluntary six hours of daily studying, if you recall. But l've realized something. That's nowhere NEAR enough!"
"Huh?!"
"Kalim? I thought you were going to send the students homeŁ«" Jamil reminded.
"That's practically the complete opposite of what you said before!" Grim shouted.
"A mere six hours a day won't be anywhere near enough to close the gap between our dorm and the others. We must work twiceāno, FIVE times as hard as the others to drag ourselves out from dead last in grades! Starting tomorrow, I'm tasking all of you with five hours of study time and four hours of practical training each day."
"You're giving 'em NINE HOURS of training a day?!" Grim questioned.
"There will be a defense magic training drill after dinner. Eat up and ready yourselves!"
"Y-yes, sir!"
At this rateŁ« you were starting to believe you died from that carriage and this is hell.
"___, Grimāsince you two are visiting, your participation is mandatory! Is that clear?!"
"Whaaa?! Why do we hafta join in?" Grim yowled.
"NowŁ« how the hell do you expect me to do that?" You deadpanned. You had no magicŁ« so how the hell were you supposed to practice it."
Jamil walked over and placed a hand on Kalim's shoulder. "They do have a point. You should probably let ___ sit this one out."
Kalim thought for a few secondsŁ« his face even starting to scrunch upŁ« before finally relentingŁ« "OhŁ« alright."
ā„
"That will be all for today. Tomorrow morning, we march to the eastern oasis, where I will put you through your paces!"
A lankier Scarabia student was noticeably pantingŁ« "My arms and legs feel like noodles..."
"Water...Need water..." Another gasped.
"And we have another day of melting in the desert heat ahead of us tomorrow. UuughŁ«" a third groaned.
"What's come over the housewarden? He never used to be like thisŁ«" the first one wondered.
Grim waddled over to youŁ« panting as if he just ran a marathonŁ« "Finally, it's over. He was all smiles and sunshine before.
What's the deal with the sudden one-eighty?"
You picked the poor thing upŁ« subconsciously bouncing him like a fussy baby.
"I imagine when we placed last in the Spelldrive interdorms, and then Scarabia collectively scored at the bottom of exams...He must have felt personally responsibleŁ«" Jamil surmisedŁ« "He's had terrible mood swings ever since."
"That ain't a mood swingŁ«" Grim huffedŁ« "It's like he's a totally different person!"
"I've known him a long time, but that volatile temper has left me stumped as to how to approach him. He'll say one thing, then do something else the next minute. The way he goes on these power trips without warning is out of control. The whole dorm used to look up to our housewarden, but this odd behavior has us all scratching our heads. He's been making unreasonable demands, as you just saw...I fear it's only a matter of time before the students reach the end of their rope. I've done what I can to smooth things over, but this has gone beyond my ability to handle alone."
"Yeesh. Between you and Trey over in Heartslabyul, you vice housewardens have it roughŁ«" Grim remarked.
"Ah! Of course. You two are diamonds in the rough!"
"Excuse me...?"
"Huh? What're you talkin' about?"
What did he just say? Did he know something? Even if he didŁ« you are not doing shit! They can deal with their own problems!
"Heartslabyul, Savanaclaw, and even Octavinelle...Rumor has it that you two are outstanding students who have solved problems with multiple other dormsŁ«" Jamil reminisced.
Grim puffed out his little chest and chuckledŁ« "Heh heh, we sure have. Be grateful, peons, for the omnipotent sorcerer Grim walks among you!"
"I bow before you, sir. Please, I must ask: could you find it in your heart to help Scarabia as well?"
"Uhhh..."
OkayŁ« yeahŁ« he was definitely trying to butter you both up. What was his deal? And what the hell was going on here? Whatever it wasŁ« you wanted no part in it.
"Our chance encounter in the cafeteria must have been guided by the hand of fate. Surely you two can find us a solution using your sparkling intellect!"
"Yeaaah, I wouldn't hold my breath if I were youŁ«" Grim commentedŁ« "Sure I'm a big deal, but that ain't got nothin' to do with what we're talkin' about!"
AfterŁ« Grim leaned in closer and whispered in your earŁ« "Hey, ___. Let's pass on this and keep our noses outta other dorms' business. I've still got a headache from the LAST time we meddled."
You were just about to agree when Jamil interruptedŁ« placing a hand on your upper arm and looking deep into your eyes.
"You...will aid us, won't you?"
All of a suddenŁ« you felt compelled to agree with whatever he said. It felt as if his voice were leading you into a pleasant daze. SoonŁ« words left your mouth before you even realized you thought them.
"Of course I willŁ«" you smiled.
"MYAH! Are you serious?! You're agreein', just like that?!"
"You will? Oh, thank you, ___. With that matter settled, why don't you stay in Scarabia as our guests of honor?"
Jamil clappedŁ« summoning the other Scarabia members.
"You called, Vice Housewarden?"
"Show our guests to their quarters."
"Yes, sir!"
ā„
"Have a pleasant evening."
SLAM!
OhŁ« what the fuck...
"Maaaan, I TOLD you not to fall for Jamil's ploy!" Grim fussedŁ« "You know this is gonna be a whole debacle, ___. Why'd you have to sign us both up for it?! This is Scarabia's problem. They can take care of their own business.
"I meant to say no, actually..." you admittedŁ« "But I found myself agreeing before I could think better of it..."
"Sheesh. You can't say no to anything! You're a real sap sometimes, you know that? Is it some type 'a darling thing? Then again, when you bare your teeth it's no joke... Anyway, I've had enough of gettin' dragged into shenanigans. Let's give 'em the slip while we can and head back to Ramshackle Dorm!"
You let Grim take charge of your escape attemptŁ« following after him as you both crept into the hallway.
"Okay, first we gotta get to the mirror connected to the school..."
FWEEET!
"Wh-wha?! What's that noise?!"
SoonŁ« the pattering of footsteps filled the halls. You swear you fell the blood drain from your face.
"Hey! You think you can just leave the dorm?!"
"It's not even our dorm!" You shrieked in a panic.
"For the duration of winter break, nobody leaves the dorm for any reason unless they've got the housewarden's permission. Period."
"Seize them!"
"After them! Hold it right there!"
"Oh, for cryin' out loud!"
You and Grim just about howled as you desperately tried to make a run for it. HoweverŁ« the two of you were not nearly as well versed in the dorm's building structureŁ« so it didn't take long for both of you to get caught. Grim made an attempt to fight the boys off from the two of youŁ« but it went just about as well as anyone would expect. HonestlyŁ« you felt almost tempted to expose yourself as a darling just to call abuse and watch as they groveled at your feet for forgiveness. You were soon pulled out of that pleasant daydreamŁ« thoughŁ« when they started manhandling you and Grim.
FWEEET!
"Settle down and submit quietly, you grey little street rat!"
"Grey I'll give you, but I ain't no street rat! LEMME GO!" Grim arguedŁ« snapping at the boy like a feral cat.
"Argh, stop struggling! Back to your room with you!"
As they hauled the two of you back to the spare roomŁ« you were pretty sure you heard a couple of them whispering to each other about muzzling the two of you. You didn't know if it was to shut you both up or to control any more biting attemptsŁ« but there was no way you were letting that happen.
"Now stay inside and don't give us any more trouble!"
"Owww! You don't gotta swing me around by the scruff of my neck!"
"Give him to me!" You fussedŁ« ripping Grim from his grasp and cradling your poor baby to your chest.
"Looks like the dorm patrol neglected to lock their room door."
"Hmph. You'd better not forget to do it this time! the housewarden found out someone got away or evenŁ« Seven forbidŁ« got hurtŁ« can you imagine what he'd do to us?
"No kidding..."
"Remember, any more funny business and you won't get off so easily next time!"
You watched as they slammed the door shut and clicked the locked into place.
"'Remember, any more funny business and you won't get off so easily next time...'" you mocked before examining Grim for any injuries. "Are you okay?"
GrimŁ« thoughŁ« seemed to distracted to hear you concern over him. InsteadŁ« he jumped out of your arms and scrambled to the doorŁ« banging on it with all his might.
"HEY! Let me out!" Grim shoutedŁ« before eventually running out of energy and giving up. "The door ain't budgin'. We've been locked in."
"OhŁ« really?" You sarcastic quipped and sighedŁ« "From paradise to prison in record time...They're treating us like prisoners."
This did feel like a prisonŁ« but...was this how it felt to be a "claimed" darling? Would this be how your life would end up if one of those creeps were actually successful in taking you...?
You never asked for a free trial! What the hell?! Hell no! PlusŁ« this place honestly smells like BO! Zero stars!
"Is this how they treat their guests? We might as well be prisoners! I'm gonna have a word or three with Jamil in the morningŁ«" Grim complainedŁ« "Oh yeah. ___, you got that handy little gizmo from the headmage, right? Use that and fill him in on what Scarabia's doin'!"
OhŁ« yeah! Grim was right! You guess you just haven't had a phone in so long that you forgot it. You took your new phone out and quickly dialed CrowleyŁ« impatiently waiting as it rang.
"Hello, you've reached Crowley."
"Yo, Headmage! While you've been out, we've gotten into a whole heap of trouble!"
"This phone is presently off for the duration of my tropical vacaāAHEMāI mean, my vital investigation. Please leave a message at the tone. I'll respond if I feel so inclined. Aren't I just the kindest?"
"Oh, COME ON! You literally just started to say 'vacation.' You're not even tryin' to hide it! What's the point of givin' us this lousy thing if we can't reach you with it?! You really take the cake, Crowley, you know that?!"
The message ended with a beep. In your opinionŁ« Grim said exactly what you were thinkingŁ« but you wouldn't have put it as nicely.
"Just send a message to Ace and Deuce for now, I guessŁ«" Grim huffedŁ« "Not that they'll be much help anyway..."
It seemed your dreams wereŁ« once againŁ« switching stories. This timeŁ« instead of the oceanŁ« the background was a vast desert in the middle of the night. Worst of allŁ« it felt so terribly dry. A complete 180 compared to your last set of dreams.
Upon recollecting your thoughtsŁ« the silhouette of a man on horseback strode into the corner of your vision.
"You...are lateŁ«" the man remarkedŁ« the sneer made obvious in his voice.
Right afterŁ« a shorter man appeared before the previous one. This one was dressed in what looked to be basically rags.
"A thousand apologies, O patient one. But I got it!" The man pleaded.
"Trust me, my pungent friend You'll get what's coming to youŁ«" the former promised.
ThenŁ« a trail of light suddenly appearedŁ« grasping the the wealthier man's full attention. He orderedŁ« "Quickly! Follow the trail! Faster!"
The light eventually led to a place in the sand that began to rise from its former place.
"At last, after all my years of searching...The Cave of Wonders."
With his wordsŁ« a red parrot moved to perch on the man's shoulder and repeatedŁ« "Awk! Cave of Wonders!"
"Now, rememberbring me the lamp!" He ordered the street rat as he headed for the tiger-shaped cave.
ThenŁ« the cave began to speakŁ« "Who disturbs my slumber?"
FinallyŁ« everything went black.
ā„
In the morningŁ« you dragged yourself out of bed and to the bedroom doorŁ« exhaustion still heavily clinging to you. You stumbled into the hall while trying to rub the remains of sleep from your eyes.
"Hey, ___. Why so bleary-eyed?" One of Ramshackle's resident ghosts asked.
"You look like you've seen a ghost. Heh heh hehŁ«" another chuckled.
"Today's the last day of the fall semester. Look sharp and don't bungle the landingŁ«" a third reminded.
"Oh yeah, tomorrow's the first day of the winter holiday. Have you two decided what you'll be doing?" The first ghost wondered.
"Huh? What's a win-ter holly-day?" Grim sounded outŁ« dragging his littleŁ« tired body to your side.
"It's when school lets out for the season. Most students go home to celebrate the new year with their family. They have fancy dinners, tooŁ«" the ghost explained.
"Wait, there's FOOD?!" The direbeast exclaimed.
"And plenty of it. Roast turkey, pie, a ham as big as your head, you name it...Not that us ghosts can eat, of courseŁ«" the slimmer ghost added.
"Some ghosts head home to the netherworld to spend holidays with the family too, y knowŁ«" the previous ghost went on.
"Yeah, and some of 'em never come back! Heh heh heh!" The chubbier ghost laughed.
"Spendin' time with the family while gettin' your grub on sounds nice..." Grim thought aloud.
It did sound nice...You couldn't help but think back to previous holiday breaks with your family. What was your family doing right now? It's been months since you disappeared. Were they even still looking for you? Had they lost hope? You missed them deeply...
"I wonder if the headmage's actually looking into a way for me to go home..." you sighed to yourself.
"If I know Crowley, he's totally forgotten about it by nowŁ«" Grim commentedŁ« having overheard your wishful thinking.
His ears flattened after looking up to see your mournful expressionŁ« though. The little beast nudged your leg with his head until you picked him up. ThenŁ« he rubbed his furry face against your cheek in an attempt to cheer you up.
"Say, what's your family do, Grimmy?" One of the ghost questioned.
"My family? Hmm...I don't remember 'em. I remember wakin' up hungry and alone. It was real cold. I was waitin' out there for someone to come get me for ages. What happened after that again? It's all so foggy...But hey, I'm a forward-facin' kinda guy anyway! The future's way cooler than the past! Especially 'cause I'm gonna be a rich and powerful sorcerer! Gah ha ha!"
The ghost sniffledŁ« "Awww, poor little Grimmy had it rough!"
"How'd you like to spend the holidays sitting around the fireplace with us?" Another suggested.
"Myah ha ha! If there's good food to be had, consider me ready for some holiday cheer!" Grim cheered.
ā„
"Listen up, whelpsŁ«" Professor Crewel announcedŁ« "Your holiday vacation starts tomorrow. I'm sure all of you are foaming at the mouth to get back home. But every year, there's always some foolish pup who forgets about his homework and spends the whole break goofing off. Just remember that I have a severe punishment in store for any such slackers out there. Are we clear?" The crack of his whip reverberated around the room. "You have permission to use the Dark Mirror to return home for the holidays. Report to your dorm mirror once you've packed your things!"
"Yes, Professor!"
"Ugh, finally! A break from this cramped dorm life!" Ace celebrated.
"Good grief. Night Raven College doesn't kid around with holiday homework. Look at all thisŁ«" Deuce lamentedŁ« looking through the mountain of work in front of him.
"Speaking of going home, I guess you haven't found a way back yet, ___?" Ace pointed out as he began to flip through the worksheets himself. It almost seemed like he was trying to distract himself from his own question. Hopefully you were just thinking too much into it...
Before you could give an answerŁ« Deuce asked you another question. "Will you two be spending the holidays in your dorm? Y'knowŁ« you can stay with me and my mom for breakŁ«" Deuce offeredŁ« "I'm sure mom wouldn't mind. ActuallyŁ« I'm pretty sure she'd love to meet you...OāOnly if you want toŁ« of course!"
Once again leaving no room for your replyŁ« Ace quickly butted in. "You could also stay at my place for the holidays! I meanŁ« My folks definitely wouldn't mind a new face to babyŁ« especially now that my brother's moving out and all..."
"ThanksŁ« but we kinda already have plansŁ«" you mentioned.
Grim gleefully replied for youŁ« "Yup. We've made plans to have ourselves a feast with the ghosts!"
"Oh, right. There're plenty of ghosts on campus, so I guess it won't be just the two of youŁ«" the redhead noted.
"But when school lets out, don't the cafeteria and school store shut down too?" Deuce worried.
"Mrow! I didn't even think about that. Where'm I supposed to get the food for my feast?!"
"I'd really rather not go hungry over winter breakŁ«" you groaned.
"Sounds like you'd better check in with the headmage soonŁ«" the former commented.
"You need Crowley's permission to use the Dark Mirror, so my guess is he's probably there right now. Let's find outŁ«" Ace declared.
ā„
Walking into the Mirror ChamberŁ« you were immediately overcome with the sheer amount of murmuring from excited students chattering. Everywhere you looked was packed full of students. You hadn't seen this place so full since the entrance ceremony.
"Wow, it's already packed with students going homeŁ«" Deuce observed.
"Hah, they all look so antsyŁ«" Ace chuckled and started looking aroundŁ« "Now then, where's that headmage?"
"All right, everyone. Announce your destination to the Dark Mirror and keep a tight hold on your belongings. If you let go for any reason while in transit, your luggage will get spirited away elsewhere. If you have any possessions you absolutely cannot afford to risk losing, send them by post from the school store.
It didn't take long to find him. Crowley was beside the Dark MirrorŁ« instructing student traffic on what to do and what order to go through the mirror in. Hold onŁ« what the hell is he wearingā?!
"He's in total party mode!"
It's snowing outsideŁ« and the damn bird look like he's headed to some luau after this! SoŁ« his ass gets to go to some tropical island while you have to freeze in that rundownŁ« decrepitŁ« old dorm house he gave you? PlusŁ« shouldn't he being doing research to find a way to get you homeŁ« LIKE HE PROMISED YOU? Why does he look ready to relax by the shore while drinking damn piƱa coladas?!
"Wearing an aloha shirt in the middle of winter?! He's obviously ready to go on a tropical vacation!" Ace accused.
"He's not even trying to hide itŁ«" Deuce sighedŁ« shaking his head.
"Hey, Headmage! We gotta talk!" Grim demanded.
"Why, hello. What brings your merry little band here?" Crowley wondered.
"Are you actually trying to find a way home for me?" You questioned in a huff.
"Ah...Ahhh! Ahhh, yes! Of course! A way home for you! Ha ha ha! Why, I'm expending every effort!" He nervously answeredŁ« most definitely pulling this straight from his ass. "In fact, I'll be spending the winter break expanding my investigation area to a tropical land I've never visited before. That's how deeply my diligent streak runs."
"You don't look dressed for an investigation to meŁ«" Ace muttered in exasperation.
"What he said! You look ready to go soak up the sun!"
"How could you suggest that? I've only clad myself in appropriate attire for my venture. When in a foreign land, do as the locals do. Escaping winter's frigid bite to kick back in a hammock and sip coconut juice while gazing at the tranquil ocean waves...I have NO such refined and indulgent vacation plans whatsoever, I assure you.
"What an incredibly specific denial..."
"It ain't fair for you to have all the fun! I wanna go on a tropical vacation too. Take us with you!" Grim complained.
You could've swore you saw the man grin at Grim's request before reschooling his expression.
"WellŁ« I wouldn't mind all too terribly watching over to extra fledglings. WhyŁ« it could even be a good faāAhem!ā...I meanŁ« a good instructor/student bonding activity! SoŁ« how about itŁ« ___?"
Crowley placed a clawed hand on your hairŁ« but you pushed it away and shook your head.
"Thanks. ButŁ« noŁ« thanksŁ«" you replied. Aside from the fact that you felt being dragged around by Crowley would be a nightmareŁ« there was also a part of you that felt it was highly likely he might loose you like a negligent parent forgetting their kid at Walmart.
Crowley sighedŁ« "OhŁ« well...If you'd truly prefer to stay on campusŁ« then I have a critical job for you. It's so critical, the very survival of Night Raven College hinges upon it."
"The school's survival? Really?" You raised an eyebrowŁ« not convinced.
"If it's so critical then how come you were practically just begging them to go on your little vacation with youŁ«" Ace pointed out with a deadpanned expression. Crowley ignored him.
"Ahem. The fires in our campus cafeteria and fireplaces are all furnished via fire fairy magicŁ«" the Headmage explainedŁ« "They've lived in the cafeteria fireplace for many years...But if we don't supply them with dry firewood every day, they will fade away. Should the fire fairies disappear, our whole campus would be gripped with cold every winter. You can see how the school's survival would be at stake."
"You know, I've wondered how the school stays so warm without central airŁ«" Deuce commented.
"So it was magic. Kinda obvious in hindsightŁ«" Ace added.
"Normally, our kitchen ghost takes over fire duty during extended school breaks..." Crowley went onŁ« "But this year, his daughter had a baby, so he's visiting the netherworld to see his first grandchild. Thus, I would like you two to handle things in his absence. Should you take on this job, your holiday provisions will be provided in full. I'll even arrange for a holiday feast. Roast turkey, pie, a ham as big as your head...In fact, I'll throw in some piping hot spare ribs and mashed potatoes to sweeten-er, salt?āthe deal. What do you say?"
"Mrah! Sounds like a one-way ticket to a food coma!" Grim pointed out in shock before grinningŁ« "H-hmph. I guess I'll hear you out, at least."
"Dude, you are a born suckerŁ«" Ace groaned.
"Ghosts can have grandchildren?" You questioned.
"Look, it was a miracle of love, okay? Don't sweat the details."
"OhŁ« I'm sweating them..." You muttered below your breath.
Crowley continuedŁ« "More to the point, someone needs to handle fire duty if you want to stay warm over the holidays. Just by throwing firewood into the fireplace every day, you'll stay both warm AND well-fed. That is, as we say, two birds with one stone. Oh, what a generous deal!"
"Y'know, this does sound like kind of a gimme compared to the usual messes you dump in our lapsŁ«" Grim thought aloud.
"Doesn't it, though? You would be surprised at just how kind I can beŁ«" Crowley pridedŁ« "Oh yes, and since I'll be out for a while, I'd like to give this to you."
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a phoneŁ« handing it to you with a smile like he just solved your every problem.
"Ooh, a smartphone?" Ace wondered.
"You can use this to call me in the event of any emergencyŁ«" explained the HeadmageŁ« "It is to be used ONLY for emergencies, mind you. Do try not to burn through its data cap browsing Magicam or the like. Now then, if you'll excuse me, I have many students to transport home to their families. I'll leave the rest in your capable hands. Ah, I'd better make certain to peruse some tourist pamphlets before I set out. Goodness gracious, I'm so very busy..."
And with thatŁ« Crowley headed back to the Dark Mirror's sideŁ« lost in his own world.
Grim cackled in delightŁ« "Myah ha ha! Now I get to chow down on a fancy feast over the holidays!"
"I still get the feeling you just took a sucker's deal, but hey, whatever floats your boatŁ«" Ace hesitantly contributed.
"Hey, guys! You can stop standing in the middle of the hall and blocking traffic now! OhŁ« heyŁ« ___!" Ruggie stopped just short of the four of youŁ« dragging along a massive amount of luggage.
"Ruggie? Wait, what's with all that luggage?!" Deuce gawked with wide eyes. "A backpack, three duffel bags, and a giant cooler..."
"Oh, this? Shyeheehee. I took all the food that was about to hit its sell-by date at the cafeteria and the school store. Since we're about to go on break, they gave 'em to me basically for free."
"For real? There's no way you can eat all thatŁ«" Ace pointed out.
"You'd be surprised. The neighborhood kids devour this stuff like, well...a pack of hyenas. Besides, gotta make sure my grandma eats well over the holidays. Speakin' of which," the hyena turned to you before going onŁ« "you should come visit one day. I'm sure Gran and the kids would love to meet ya. WhelpŁ« this frozen food ain't stayin' frozen for long. Gotta run! Smell ya next year!"
AndŁ« he was gone. Not without playfully nudging his shoulder against yours while passing youŁ« though.
"There he goes...What was that about 'neighborhood kids,' though?" Deuce wondered.
Jack soon came over to you guys and started to answer his questionŁ« "Ruggie comes from a place where food is a bit scarce. So whenever school lets out for a long break, he stocks up on all the food he can get and shares it with the local kids."
OkayŁ« that was actually pretty sweet of him. AlsoŁ« quite unexpected from greedy hyena.
"What about you, Jack? What's with that planter you're hauling? You taking up gardening or something?" Ace asked.
The wolf repliedŁ« "It's a cactus I've been growin' in my free time. It'd wither up if I didn't keep it watered over break. A-anyway, enough about me!"
"Ruggie's sharin' his food with a bunch of kids who ain't even family, huh? Never knew he had it in himŁ«" Grim noted.
"Hyenas believe in sharing spoils equallyŁ«" Jack explainedŁ« "I'm sure that's how Ruggie was raised."
"Hmph. The mere thought of a feeding frenzy like that gives me the willies. I can barely stand the noise one kid makes as it isŁ«" Leona huffed as he walked up behind Jack.
"Does that mean you're skipping out on visiting your family, Leona?" Jack wondered.
"Man, I wish. Nah, they'd give me no end of grief if I did. I'm goin'. Ugh, talk about a holiday choreŁ«" the lion groaned. You had half a mind to say a smartass commentŁ« but you decided to hold your tongue.
"But you're not bringing anything?" The former observed.
"So? I got my wallet and smartphone. What else do I need? I've got clothes at home anyway."
"This's a whole different kind of extremeŁ«" Grim huffedŁ« crossing his little arms. StupidŁ« rich people...
Ace sighedŁ« "You're not even bringing your homework, are you?"
"Homework can wait until after break. Holidays are for restingŁ«" Leona statedŁ« then put a hand on your head. "Later, herbivores." With thatŁ« he was off as well.
"He's good enough to do anything when he applies himself, so why doesn't he?" Jack grumbled to himself before turning back to the rest of you. "Well, I know I'll be getting mine done. You guys had better do the same. Later."
"Whatever you say, tryhard. See you next year, huh?" Ace called out as Jack headed for the Dark Mirror.
"Leona's commitment to his principles is actually impressiveŁ«" you heard Deuce murmur.
"Okay, froshes! Don't let those bad boy upperclassmen give you any bad ideas, you hear?" You felt a pair of arms wrap around you from behind as the cheerful voice began to ring in your ear.
"In our dorm, if you don't turn in your homework, Riddle makes sure it's off with your headŁ«" another reminded.
"Hey, Trey. Hey, CaterŁ«" Ace greetedŁ« a slight tinge of irritation present as he tried to tug you away from Cater's holdŁ« but managed barely any success.
"Ugh. Going home is kind of a drag for me, tooŁ«" Cater sighedŁ« nuzzling his face in your hair like you were some sort of emotional support animal. "I just know my sisters are both coming home. They don't care if it's the holidaysāthey'll run me ragged anyway. You should totes come alongŁ« Cutie. I just know they'd love youŁ« and maybe leave me alone for a bit..."
"NoŁ« thanks. Me and Grim already have plans..." you declined.
"AwŁ« booŁ«" the redhead poutedŁ« "WellŁ« I wish I could stay over at your house instead,
Trey!"
"You'd be welcome to, but we'd be running you just as ragged. Winter is the patisserie's busiest time of the yearŁ«" Trey pointed out with slight amusement.
"Oh yeah, your family runs one of those, huh? So much for any escapeŁ«" Cater lamentedŁ« once again burying his face in your hair.
You noticed Deuce go still before letting out a yelpŁ« "Erk! Housewarden Rosehearts!
Sorry for blocking the way!"
"Hm? Oh, it's you boys. If you're going to stand around and congregate, at least stay near a wall. OhŁ« helloŁ« ___. CaterŁ« do you might not smothering them?"
"Oh, right. The housewarden's got an extreme case of helicopter parenting waiting for him at home. No wonder he's not enthused about heading backŁ«" Ace whispered in return.
"Riddle, I'm not allowed in your house, so I won't be able to bring by any cakes..." Trey beganŁ« "But you're always welcome to visit me at the store. I'm sure Chenya will drop by to hang out, too."
"Yes, you're right. I think...l'm going to try talking with Mother someŁ«" Riddle repliedŁ« "I don't know if she'll listen, but even so."
"...All right. Good luckŁ«" his vice wished.
"What'sa matter, Goldfishie? Don't wanna go home? Then here's an idea: don't. We're not. C'mon, you can join us in the stay-at-school club. Heh heh!"
And just like thatŁ« you felt your soul leave your body. You didn't even need to look at Riddle to know he felt the same.
"Where did you come from, Floyd? And would you kindly refrain from sticking your nose in business you know nothing about?
It's quite irksome."
"He's right, you know. It's never a good idea to blindly pry into others' family affairsŁ«" Jade agreedŁ« catching up to his twin.
"Aw, c'mon, Jade. It's boring spending every new year with the same old suspectsŁ«" Floyd whinedŁ« "Besides, Goldfishie's so teeny, I'm sure Azul would love to keep him as a pet!"
OkayŁ« you actually had to suppress a small chuckle at that one...
"I'm sorry? Would you like to say that again? You're awfully brazen to take that tone with the head of Heartslabyul. And speaking of heads, I'll have yours for this!"
"R-Riddle, no! This is NOT the place, my guy!" Cater panickedŁ« trying to calm Riddle downŁ« and subsequently letting you go.
"Settle down, Riddle. You're letting him goad you againŁ«" Trey soothed.
While they calmed Riddle downŁ« you felt yourself getting pulled in another direction.
"NowŁ« that's just not trueŁ« FloydŁ«" Jade correctedŁ« both of his hands grasping your upper armsŁ« "I feel we've found quite the interesting new suspect~."
"Sooo, Floyd and Jade! Your family's in the Coral Sea, right? Why aren't you visiting them?" Cater askedŁ« trying to redirect the conversation.
"We and Azul live in the far northern reaches of the Coral Sea. At this time of year, the whole surface is covered in ice floesŁ«" Jade explained.
"What he said! It's hard gettin' home with all the freezy-freeze, and it's boring there anywayŁ«" Floyd whinedŁ« "So the three of us prefer to go home on spring break instead, when the ice has melted."
"Wow. Living under the sea has all kinds of challenges, huh?" Trey thought aloud.
"Hmph! The last thing I need is to spend the new year with you Octavinelle boysŁ«" Riddle huffedŁ« protectively pulling you away from the TweelsŁ« "I'll be going now. I bid you all a pleasant holiday." He looked to just you. "And good luck staying away from them..."
"Good grief. Well, at least he's got his moxie backŁ«" Trey offered with a shrugŁ« "As for you guys, don't cut TOO loose over the holidays, okay? See you around."
"I should be getting home, too...Ah, but first, a commemorative photo!" Cater pulled you into the photo by the waistŁ« making a kissy face towards you for the picture. "Hashtag #FallSemesterLastDay #WithTheFroshes
"So, little Shrimpy. If you and the Seal stayin' on campusŁ« you should definitely drop by Octavinelle, y'know. We'd be happy to keep you companyŁ«" Floyd offered.
"A fine idea, brotherŁ«" Jade commendedŁ« "Ah, what a delightful holiday this is shaping up to be. You're welcome anytime. Now then, if you'll excuse us..."
You watched as the two left the Mirror Chamber while eerily chuckling together. You didn't like that at all...
"Erk...Just lookin' at their faces makes me think back to when they were workin' me like a dog in the Mostro LoungeŁ«" Grim whined.
"Yeah, that was brutal stuffŁ«" Deuce sighed in agreement.
Ace scoffedŁ« "Don't remind me."
"Well, the crowds are thinning out. We should probably head out, ourselvesŁ«" Deuce observed.
"Good call. Oh yeah, ___..." Ace rememberedŁ« "We should trade Magicam IDs now that you've got a smartphone. Y'know, in case something comes up."
"Oh, good idea. I'll share mine, tooŁ«" Deuce added.
"There we go. Registered. Feel free to hit me up if you get bored over winter break!" Ace mischievously grinned.
"I'll think about itŁ«" you mused.
"Feel free to reach out if you need anything at allŁ«" Deuce reassuredŁ« "My mom's probably waiting on me, so l'd better go.
___, Grim, happy holidays."
"Yeah, I'll do the same. ___, Grim, see you next year!"
You and Grim watched as the two hurried off.
"I've always thought of those guys as a couple of loudmouths, but now that they're gone..." Grim admittedŁ« "It's clear as crystal just HOW loud they've been! Buncha meddling so-and-sos..." SoŁ« the grumpyŁ« little thing continued to grumble the whole way back to Ramshackle.
ā„
The morning after everyone leftŁ« you and Grim walked out of Ramshackle. You both were about to make your way to the cafeteria to do the job Crowley assigned when you found a thick sheet of snow covering the ground.
"Ooh, check it out, ___! We got a whole blanket of snow out here!"
"No wonder it seemed chillyŁ«" you notedŁ« "We'd better check on the fireplace."
"Yeah, maybe the fire fairies are feelin' the chill, too. Better bring 'em some firewood. Ooh, and I can check out the kitchen an' see if they got any leftovers while I'm there! La-la-laaa!"
After only a few steps on the cold groundŁ« the baby made you pick him up to carry him the rest of the way. It was honestly the most peaceful you've felt walking around since arriving here. WellŁ« besides for Grim rustling around inside your coat for a comfortable position.
Once you both made it to the cafeteriaŁ« Grim climbed out onto a nearby table and shook himself to refluff his fur.
"Geez, it was cold out there! My paws feel like icicles!"
"How? You barely touched the ground for a second before demanding to be carried."
"That's besides the point! NowŁ« hurry up and get that firewood in the fireplace."
You let out an amused snort at his antics as you made your way over to the firewood. You tossed some into the fireplace before getting distracted by the sight of the small fire fairies coming out to use the woodŁ« causing it to crackle as they did so.
"Ahhh... You guys must be the fire fairies. I'm feelin' warm and fuzzy just being near youŁ«" Grim purred.
SoonŁ« another sound began to overpower the fire fairies' crackling. It sounded like it was coming from the kitchen.
"Hm? What's that I hear over the crackling fire? Chopping? And...sizzling meat?! And now my nose is tinglin' with the spicy aroma of foreign cuisine! It's coming from the kitchen. Let's see what's up, ___!"
NowŁ« how the hell was he able to discern that...You weren't given very long to think on it before having to chase after the gluttonous pit personified.
Peaking through the kitchen doorŁ« you noticed a bunch of left behind students cooking together. They must've all been from the same dorm since their outfits all followed the same design. In the center of the room was a student instructing them on each step of the preparation process.
You were pretty sure you remember the boy from the Spelldrive incident from a while back. JamilŁ« was it? Not only thatŁ« but he was often around Kalim or talked about by him. You knew that because since the Spelldrive incidentŁ« you often found Kalim around you. He seemed to have a habit of finding you whenever you finally managed to get alone time. Kalim was definitely sweeter than most boys hereŁ« but he was way too overbearing. So much soŁ« that at some pointŁ« you started hiding whenever you heard his voice.
"Once you're done cooking the vegetables, boil the thawed meat. Don't forget to add the nuts once the oil is heatedŁ«" Jamil reminded.
"Yes, sir!"
"Vice Housewarden, will one tablespoon of spices be enough?"
"The housewarden's palate veers spicy. Add another teaspoonŁ«" the vice advised.
"What's goin' on in here? It's winter break, but the kitchen's full of students!" Grim wonderedŁ« openly wandering in without an invitation.
"Hm? You're..." Jamil trailed off.
"Hello there. Nice to meet youŁ« againŁ«" you greetedŁ« scooping Grim up in you arms. Knowing himŁ« the little beast might try eating everything in sight if he got hungry enough.
"AhŁ« yes. You're Kalim's friend. Your names were ___ and Grim, yes?"
Grim puffed up in prideŁ« "Dang, you got a good memory, uhhh...What was your name again?"
"JamilŁ« right?" You askedŁ« hoping to have gotten it right.
The boy seemed a bit surprised that you rememberedŁ« a brief smile gracing his lips.
"Correct. Jamil Viper, vice housewarden of Scarabia Dorm. I make it a point to memorize people's names and faces. Not to mention, you two have made quite the names for yourselves since you first enrolled. You'd be hard-pressed to find anyone at this school who doesn't know who you are."
"At any rate...Why are you here on campus when it's winter break?"
"We ain't got anywhere to go home to for the holidaysŁ«" the direbeast repliedŁ« "Not to mention, the headmage personally gave us a super-special job. We're tendin' the fireplace. I'm as diligent and competent as they come! Only makes sense that the headmage would turn to me when he needs help!"
You didn't have the heart to break it to Grim that Crowley was only hyping the job up so that he'd want to do it.
"Oh, is that a fact? The headmage personally asked you, you say..." Jamil repeated before mutteringŁ« "This could be my chance..."
"Hm? Didn't catch thatŁ«" Grim deadpanned.
"I said that if the headmage is relying on you, you must be a tremendous talent indeedŁ«" he repeatedŁ« but you could tell that it was absolutely not the same thing. What was this guy planning...
"Sorry to interrupt, Vice Housewarden, but I'm done prepping the vegetables."
"Okay, I'll be right over."
"That soup you're makin' looks pretty good. I ain't ever smelled anything like it beforeŁ«" Grim praised.
"It's a traditional Scalding Sands recipe, you seeāWait. An idea occurs to me. I'm sure something brought us together. Would you care to join us for our meal?"
You've been betrayed by offers of food too many times. SadlyŁ« you could no longer trust it.
"I don't knoā"
"Really?! You mean it?"
"Absolutely. It won't take much longer to finish. Why don't you two lend a hand?"
You never agreed to this. HoweverŁ« nowŁ« you were somehow being forced to help cook. At least you could see what was going into the food this way...
"Man, these spices smell amazing!" Grim admiredŁ« his mouth practically watering.
"They're used in traditional Scalding Sands cuisine. It makes for a unique flavorŁ«" Jamil clarifiedŁ« "I'll teach you how to use them, so watch closely."
"You got it!"
"I thank you for your help."
He probably shouldn't thank the two of you just yet. Your assigned job was basically your usual activity: Watching to make sure Grim didn't cause chaos. It mainly consisted of any one person job becoming a two person job. For the most partŁ« you were babysitting the contents of one of the potsŁ« stirring it every so often.
"Is it okay if I put this brown powder in the pot now?" Grim impatiently asked.
"Not yet. You put in garam masala at the very end or it spoils the fragranceŁ«" Jamil skillfully answered.
"Wow! You sure know your way around a spice rackŁ«" your dormmate applauded.
"I cook on a daily basis, so it's only naturalŁ«" the second year casually repliedŁ« "We're almost done here. Let's put on the finishing touches."
And soon enoughŁ« the cooking was finally over. You watched Grim as he did a little celebration dance at his work.
"Woohoo! It's done! Mmm, yeah, those spices are seriously drool-inducing.
"Good work. I couldn't have done it without your help. Thank youŁ«" Jamil smiled as he and the others started packing up the food. "We'll eat in the dorm. Come with me."
"Mya ha! You bet we're comin'! I can't wait to dig in. I'm starvin'!" Your furry black hole cheered.
"That should do it. All right, boys, get this to the dorm!" The vice housewarden announced.
"Yes, sir!"
"So, why're you guys stayin' on campus over winter break?" Grim wondered.
"Well..." Jamil trailed off againŁ« while other Scarabia members remained silent. "It's a bit of a long story."
"In that case, forget we askedŁ«" you stated with a forced polite smile. You were not going through another dorm's issues and play therapist.
"It was the housewarden's orders. Everybody in Scarabia has to stay..." One student mumbled.
"We can't go home even if we want toŁ«" another followed.
"Shhh. Don't go into it. We brought this on ourselves as it isŁ«" Jamil reprimandedŁ« "Now, let's get this food back to the dorm before it gets cold. Scarabia's got the warmth of summer year-round.
I think you'll enjoy a taste of the tropics there."
"Woo-hoo! Now that's what I call paradise!C'mon, ___!" Grim exclaimed.
"Whoa, Grim, slow down!" You yelped.
MentallyŁ« you were screaming. You've long learned now that nothing on this campus comes without a catch. Why did the universe hate you? This was not your circusŁ« and definitely not your monkeys; soŁ« why do you keep getting thrown into situations that involve you?!
"I'm sure the housewarden will be delighted to have you as visitorsŁ«" Jamil reaffirmedŁ« "Would you care to come over?"
All of a suddenŁ« his voice felt incredibly soothing. NowŁ« for some strange reasonŁ« you were compelled to go along with his every word.
"I'd be happy to!" You gleefully grinned.
"What a pleasure it is to know you'll be coming to see us, ___," the boy praised. He placed a hand on the small of your back and began leading you forward. "Now then, Scarabia awaits."
ā„
After arriving at Scarabia's dorm realmŁ« it took you a good minute to just take everything in. From the decorations to the architectureŁ« it was all just so...so breathtaking!
"So this is Scarabia Dorm. It really is sweltering like it's summer over here!" Grim complained.
"I'm sure it's a welcome reprieve from the cold. Come, this wayŁ«" Jamil ledŁ« still leading you forward by the small of your back. It almost felt like he felt you'd change your mind any minute now and flee.
InsideŁ« the dorm building was even more gorgeous. You probably looked like a lost puppy as you tried admiring everything. ThenŁ« the sound of clapping ripped you from your daydreams.
"Boys, we have guests! Play some music to make them feel at homeŁ«" ordered the vice housewarden.
You felt your cheeks heat up at the attention. This was so embarrassing...
"You really don't havā"
"Myah hah hah! When you get as famous as us, l guess people fall all over themselves to get in your good gracesŁ«" Grim boastedŁ« cutting you offŁ« again.
"Please, go on. Eat up while it's hotŁ«" Jamil urged GrimŁ« but placed a hand on your shoulder to keep you in place for some reason.
"Don't mind if I do! Awmph! Mmm, this's good stuff! It's got a rich flavor, with a powerful kick of heat...This veggie stir-fry with crunchy nuts is great. Oh, and so are these fried dough ball things!"
"We have meat dishes and soup as well. Please, help yourself; there's more where that came fromŁ«" Jamil added.
"Nom...Nom nom...Y'know, with a veritable buffet like this in front of us, this really IS paradise!"
"What is all this commotion?"
SuddenlyŁ« the air went still.
"H-Housewarden!"
"Ah. KalimŁ«" Jamil commented.
"What's going on, Jamil? Nobody told me to expect company!" Kalim huffed.
"Kalim, there's a good reason for this, I assure youŁ«" his vice reassured.
"Uh, this guy seems like bad news..." Grim mutteredŁ« having just scuttered back to your side.
You were mainly confused. Why was everyone so afraid of Kalim? They were talking about how he's been strict latelyŁ« but still. You were just so used to him acting all cheerful and bubbly.
"How many times must I tell you to always inform me ahead of time when inviting guests?! If you had...I would have arranged for an even finer banquet and a whole band!" Kalim whined.
"Huh?" Grim questioned.
"___!" The housewarden exclaimedŁ« throwing his arms around you in an embrace. "Welcome to our dorm. Sorry for not throwing you a welcoming parade! You should've told me you were coming! WaitŁ« are you staying over for the holidaysŁ« too? We could have one long sleepover together!"
It took until Jamil had to physically separate the two of you for Kalim to finally calm down. StillŁ« he looked to be noticeably buzzing with excitement that you were over at his dorm. He did eventually notice the food prepared now that he was forcibly detached.
"All the food looks incredible, as always. How did everything turn out, Jamil?"
"Splendidly as ever. There are no dangerous substances in any of these dishes, so eat whatever you like. They've also been poison-tested already."
"Wh-why is THAT relevant?!" Grim nearly shrieked.
"Kalim is the heir to a very wealthy family. The unfortunate dangers related to that mean that everything he eats must be vettedŁ«" Jamil clarified.
"You just love blowing these things out of proportion, Jamil. Really, who would do that? Nobody's tried poisoning me since that time four years ago when I went comatose for two weeks. It's a thing of the past nowŁ«" Kalim brushed off.
"Yes, because you've had someone to specifically prevent that from happening for the past four years. I ensure that anything hazardous is identified and disposed of before it crosses your plateŁ«" Jamil reminded.
Hold onŁ« what?! OhŁ« hell no! And didn't he just finish feeding that food to Grim? Absolutely not. As soon as you find an openingŁ« you both are getting out of here!
"Wait a minute. When you were feedin' me all those different dishes, was that to test 'em for poison?!"
Kalim laughedŁ« "Aha ha ha! There's no real danger for you, don't worry. All the food Jamil makes is safe. Jamil would never poison my food."
"Heh. Must you state the obvious?"
"Y'know, I'm startin' to think these guys were only pretendin' to be niceŁ«" Grim mutteredŁ« dazed from confusion.
"Ooh, Grim! Have you tried the goat's milk blue cheese yet? Nothing beats a smear of it on a cracker!"
"Huh? Why would I eat somethin' with mold all overāMmph!" Grim began to sputterŁ« "Don't go shovin' food in myāmmph!"
"Oh, good, you like it! By all means, have some more! Aha ha!"
"Mmmph! Awmmph!"
You could only watch out of fear that Kalim might start trying to feed you next.
"Bring out more food and drinks. And kick the music up a notch or three! Today, we party!" Kalim announcedŁ« cheerfully clinging onto your arm like he was trying not to lose you.
ā„
"I can't eat another bite...Urgh...My tummy's gonna burstŁ«" Grim groanedŁ« "Where does that Kalim guy get off, crammin' crackers with moldy cheese in my mouth? I make it a personal policy to eat any food I get, but that was just too much!"
Much to Grim's dismayŁ« Kalim was back without a moment to spare. He kneeled before where you and Grim sat on the ground like a lovesick puppy and leaned closer.
"Hey, ___! Grim! Care for dessert? We've got ice cream. Or would you prefer a selection of fruits? We've also got baked sweets with pistachios and almonds. I could have Jamil bring you some."
"Mrah! N-nope, I'm square! Can't eat another bite!" Grim yelped.
"Aww. They're all so good, I would've loved to share some with youŁ«" Kalim lamentedŁ« his head drooping like a kicked puppy before quickly perking back up. "Oh well. We'll be here over the whole winter break. You're welcome to drop by for a meal whenever you like. Right, Jamil?"
"Absolutely. Anytime."
Now that everyone seemed to be in high spiritsŁ« you thought now would be a good time to ask your question from earlier.
"Why aren't you going home?"
Kalim hummed in responseŁ« "Hm? Oh...Well, you know how we recently had that Spelldrive tournament, followed by our exams? Well, our dorm placed at the bottom in both."
You noticed Jamil silently mourning from the corner of your vision as Kalim drabbled on.
"So I decided to do something about it. Our whole dorm is doing voluntary special training."
"I woulda taken last place over what Ramshackle Dorm got in the Spelldrive tournament brackets: a fat lotta nothin'Ł«" Grim complained.
"Oh, right. Yes, that's a real shameŁ«" Kalim sympathetically offered.
"On our winter break, we'll be spending six hours a day on studies and practical magic trainingŁ«" Jamil detailed.
"Six hours a day? That ain't any different from regular school hours!" Grim gapedŁ« "'Holidays are for resting. Homework can wait until after break.' That's what Leona says."
"Yes, I'm sure he doesŁ«" Jamil remarkedŁ« getting a small snicker out of you.
"Hmmm. When you put it that way, you do have a pointŁ«" Kalim debatedŁ« "My dad DID always drill the whole 'work hard, play hard, and know when to do which' thing into my head. Maybe Leona's rightŁ« and we should focus more on striking the right balance between the two. All right! I've decided, Jamil. We should take our breaks when we can get them. I'll let our students go home tomorrow."
Jamil gawkedŁ« "What?!"
"I'll tell them over dinner tonightŁ«" Kalim decidedŁ« "Do me a favor and make sure everybody shows up, okay?"
"R-right. Of course."
What do you know? Another dorm's issues solved and you barely had to do anything this time.
"Say, ___, I should give you two the grand Scarabia tour. I'd love to show you a few things."
And Kalim was cuddled right back up to you again. Was this how it felt to have a parasite? Not even Ace and Deuce were this clingy...
"Kalim, please! You'll be setting a bad example if you task the students with studying and then goof off yourselfŁ«" Jamil chastised.
"But it's not every day we get guestsŁ« and special onesŁ« too. Surely one day of slacking can't hurtŁ«" the housewarden pleaded.
"...KalimŁ«" he warned.
"Erk...Okay, fine. Don't get mad. I'll do some defense magic training, then. A mock battle would make for a nice after-meal workout. Hey, could someone fight me?!"
"YesŁ« Housewarden!"
You watched as the dorm students started training with each other. The way each spell cast flew through the air was honestly quite fascinating. A little bit inŁ« Grim excitedly jumped up to join. The way he got visibly excited anytime he was successful was absolutely adorable to you.
"Okay, training done! Now let's be off!" Kalim announcedŁ« joyfully tugging at your hand like an impatient child.
"Wait, you've got other work toāŁ«" Jamil sighed.
ā„
"Maaan, this place is FAN-CY! Nothin' at all like Ramshackle DormŁ«" Grim praisedŁ« marveling at everything as you walked.
"Is it really that impressive to you?" Kalim wonderedŁ« his arm hooked around yours. "I know that back when I enrolled, Dad said he donated a bit to the school to give the place a fresh coat of paint, but..."
"Geez, how rich are you?! Are you some kinda prince like Leona?" The furball gawked.
"The Asims aren't royalty, and I'm not a prince. I've got some relatives in the royal family, thoughŁ«" he explained.
"Wait, Asim? I thought your name was Al-AsimŁ«" Grim mentioned.
"'Al' means 'son' in the ancient language of the Land of the Scalding SandsŁ«" Kalim broke downŁ« "So we name families after the founders that start them...And all the men of that line refer to themselves as the founder's son. In my case, Asim is our honored founder's name, and 'Al' means son...So Kalim Al-Asim means Kalim, Son of House Asim."
"Huh. I never thought much about where names come from. Fascinatin'Ł«" Grim noted.
"I hope that wasn't too in-depth for you?Anyway, feel free to just call me Kalim."
"This place really is a melting pot of students from all over. This all sounds fascinatingŁ«" you thought aloud to yourself.
"You should pay the Land of the Scalding Sands a visit sometime! I'd be happy to have you as a guestŁ«" Kalim exclaimedŁ« now excitedly holding onto with both of his at the prospect.
"I bet you live in some kinda fancy mansion that's halfway to bein' a castleŁ«" Grim fantasized.
"Oh, hardly. We only have around a hundred helpers."
"'Only'? In what world does that deserve 'only'?! I've only got one hench-human, myself..."
"Well, we're a big family. We need at least that many people to look after them all."
"Sorry you have THAT many siblings?!"
"Yeah, so many I quit counting. I do remember all of their names and faces, though. Aha ha!"
Absolutely not...You kept quiet during their back and forthŁ« unwilling to show any interest in joining such a lifestyle. That many kids over your dead body...
"You guys do everything on a whole other level..."
"Jamil's mom and dad are among our servants. So Jamil's always around and looked after me ever since he was a young boy. And he is seriously amazing, believe me. He's smart, thoughtful, and most of all, he's a great cook!"
"The proof of that last one's in the puddin', for sureŁ«" Grim commended.
"You see? You should stay over for dinner tonight! Come on!" Kalim beggedŁ« tugging on your arm and making puppy dog eyes at the both of you.
"Uh, sure..." Grim hesitantly answered before mutteringŁ« "Yeesh, talkin' with this guy throws me off."
You didn't get to reply to Grim's comment before getting dragged further along again by Kalim.
"Come on, this wayŁ«" he sangŁ« leading you both into some random room.
Upon enteringŁ« you were immediately taken aback. The room had nothing but piles of gold and what looked to be priceless treasures. And it was all just sitting here?! Ruggie would have a field day if he found this place...
"Sweet mother of loot! What IS this place?It's got piles of treasure taller than l am!" Grim shouted.
"This is all stuff Dad sent with me when I departed for schoolŁ«" Kalim casually answeredŁ« "I couldn't possibly fit it in my dorm room, so it's all kept here in the storeroom."
"This ain't a storeroom! This's a whole treasury!"
"Ooh, you know some big words, Grim. Very impressive!" Kalim praisedŁ« "My favorite out of all these treasures is, of course...Huh. Where'd it go? Sometimes it moves around on its own. Hey, where are you?"
"Wooow...Huge gemstones just scattered on the floor, shiny golden goblets..." Grim observedŁ« "With this much stuff, surely no one would notice if one little thing went missing...Myeh heh heh..."
You just turned around to stop Grim when you noticed something behind him poke his fluffy little shoulder.
"___Ł« I'm kinda busy!"
It poked him again.
"Yeesh, whaddaya want? I'm tryin' toāGYAAAH! Th-the carpet's movin' all on its own! It's been possessed by a ghost!"
"Ah, there you are! Go back over and curl up in your usual spot, would you?" Kalim calmly requestedŁ« and the carpet nodded. HoweverŁ« it moved towards you insteadŁ« seemingly inspecting you like a curious animal.
"What in the world is this?!" Grim yelled in bewilderment.
"This is a legendary treasure from Scalding Sands loreāa magic carpet!" The housewarden introducedŁ« causing what seemed to be an ego boost in the carpet. "The sultan that the Sorcerer of the Sands served used to love his flying carpet. This one's a replica of it. It's been in our family for generations."
The carpet seemed to nod in agreement.
"You mean that carpet flies around like a broom?" Grim wondered.
"More or less. That's probably the easiest way to put it. It's getting dark, so why don't we go out for an evening ride in style? Come along, all aboard!"
Kalim took hold of your hands and pulled you onto the carpet with him. Grim quickly followed to sit with you.
"Really? Are you sure I won't fall off that thing?
"It's totally safe! Trust meŁ«" Kalim reassured. He took a tight hold of you before declaringŁ« "And away we go!"
You quickly understood why Kalim had held on to you. As soon as the carpet took offŁ« it immediately began soaring at what felt like top speeds and didn't slow down until making it above the clouds. You think you felt your soul temporarily leave your body. You also lost majority of the feeling in your knuckles from holding on so tightly to Kalim.
"Aaaah! We're really flyin'! This is crazy high up!" Grim yelpedŁ« "Look how teeny the dorm looks from up here."
"How do you like the world above the clouds?" Kalim askedŁ« putting his hand over yours in attempt to calm you down.
You were feeling mainly better now that the carpet slowed down. Looking aroundŁ« you found yourself nearly at a loss for words. The sight was just so painstakingly beautiful.
"It's like a whole new world, or somethingŁ«" you muttered in awe.
Kalim laughedŁ« "Aha ha! That good, huh?"
"This totally rules!" Grim cheered.
"There's nothing quite like soaring through the sky. It shows you how little all your troubles really matter in the grand scheme of things. Of course, Jamil always says I don't worry enough about things as it is...It wouldn't hurt him to take life a little easier."
"Mrow! Check out that river over there! I ain't never seen a bird like that before!"
"Ooh, good eye. Let's go take a closer look!"
ā„
After a while longerŁ« the impromptu carpet ride came to a close. Not that it wasn't funŁ« it just felt like the carpet was trying to make you panic every so often. Every time it didŁ« you'd subconsciously tighten you grip on Kalim. If you were gonna go downŁ« you were taking someone with you.
"Man, that was a BLAST!" Grim joyfully sang.
"I'm glad you enjoyed it. Goodness, thoughāit's already dinnertimeŁ«" Kalim noticedŁ« and was still holding onto you for some reason.
"Kalim! You're finally back. I'd like to review something before dinner. Could you join me for a moment?" Jamil interrupted.
Kalim looked at you longingly for a moment before agreeingŁ« "Sure thing. ___, you and Grim can just make yourselves comfortable in the lounge."
ā„
"I'm famished. What's for dinner tonight?" You heard one of the Scarabia students ask.
"Our special training today was rough, huh?" Another student commented.
"Ramshackle Dorm gets a cold breeze blowin' in through cracks in the walls. Compared to that, this place is paradise. And Kalim's a real pal. I oughta join Scarabia!" Grim commentedŁ« relaxing like he pays the bills.
SoonŁ« Kalim and Jamil finally arrived to meet with the rest of the dorm. For some reasonŁ« something felt off to youŁ« but you couldn't figure out why.
"Is everyone present? The housewarden has an announcement for you before we eatŁ«" Jamil stated.
"He does?" One guy wondered.
"Oh yeah, Kalim was talkin' about thatŁ«" Grim rememberedŁ« "He's callin' off the special training and lettin' Scarabia have their winter break. I bet the students will be overjoyed. Too bad I can't keep feasting here over the holidays, though!"
"...I decreed that the students of Scarabia would stay in the dorm over winter break for a voluntary six hours of daily studying, if you recall. But l've realized something. That's nowhere NEAR enough!"
"Huh?!"
"Kalim? I thought you were going to send the students homeŁ«" Jamil reminded.
"That's practically the complete opposite of what you said before!" Grim shouted.
"A mere six hours a day won't be anywhere near enough to close the gap between our dorm and the others. We must work twiceāno, FIVE times as hard as the others to drag ourselves out from dead last in grades! Starting tomorrow, I'm tasking all of you with five hours of study time and four hours of practical training each day."
"You're giving 'em NINE HOURS of training a day?!" Grim questioned.
"There will be a defense magic training drill after dinner. Eat up and ready yourselves!"
"Y-yes, sir!"
At this rateŁ« you were starting to believe you died from that carriage and this is hell.
"___, Grimāsince you two are visiting, your participation is mandatory! Is that clear?!"
"Whaaa?! Why do we hafta join in?" Grim yowled.
"NowŁ« how the hell do you expect me to do that?" You deadpanned. You had no magicŁ« so how the hell were you supposed to practice it."
Jamil walked over and placed a hand on Kalim's shoulder. "They do have a point. You should probably let ___ sit this one out."
Kalim thought for a few secondsŁ« his face even starting to scrunch upŁ« before finally relentingŁ« "OhŁ« alright."
ā„
"That will be all for today. Tomorrow morning, we march to the eastern oasis, where I will put you through your paces!"
A lankier Scarabia student was noticeably pantingŁ« "My arms and legs feel like noodles..."
"Water...Need water..." Another gasped.
"And we have another day of melting in the desert heat ahead of us tomorrow. UuughŁ«" a third groaned.
"What's come over the housewarden? He never used to be like thisŁ«" the first one wondered.
Grim waddled over to youŁ« panting as if he just ran a marathonŁ« "Finally, it's over. He was all smiles and sunshine before.
What's the deal with the sudden one-eighty?"
You picked the poor thing upŁ« subconsciously bouncing him like a fussy baby.
"I imagine when we placed last in the Spelldrive interdorms, and then Scarabia collectively scored at the bottom of exams...He must have felt personally responsibleŁ«" Jamil surmisedŁ« "He's had terrible mood swings ever since."
"That ain't a mood swingŁ«" Grim huffedŁ« "It's like he's a totally different person!"
"I've known him a long time, but that volatile temper has left me stumped as to how to approach him. He'll say one thing, then do something else the next minute. The way he goes on these power trips without warning is out of control. The whole dorm used to look up to our housewarden, but this odd behavior has us all scratching our heads. He's been making unreasonable demands, as you just saw...I fear it's only a matter of time before the students reach the end of their rope. I've done what I can to smooth things over, but this has gone beyond my ability to handle alone."
"Yeesh. Between you and Trey over in Heartslabyul, you vice housewardens have it roughŁ«" Grim remarked.
"Ah! Of course. You two are diamonds in the rough!"
"Excuse me...?"
"Huh? What're you talkin' about?"
What did he just say? Did he know something? Even if he didŁ« you are not doing shit! They can deal with their own problems!
"Heartslabyul, Savanaclaw, and even Octavinelle...Rumor has it that you two are outstanding students who have solved problems with multiple other dormsŁ«" Jamil reminisced.
Grim puffed out his little chest and chuckledŁ« "Heh heh, we sure have. Be grateful, peons, for the omnipotent sorcerer Grim walks among you!"
"I bow before you, sir. Please, I must ask: could you find it in your heart to help Scarabia as well?"
"Uhhh..."
OkayŁ« yeahŁ« he was definitely trying to butter you both up. What was his deal? And what the hell was going on here? Whatever it wasŁ« you wanted no part in it.
"Our chance encounter in the cafeteria must have been guided by the hand of fate. Surely you two can find us a solution using your sparkling intellect!"
"Yeaaah, I wouldn't hold my breath if I were youŁ«" Grim commentedŁ« "Sure I'm a big deal, but that ain't got nothin' to do with what we're talkin' about!"
AfterŁ« Grim leaned in closer and whispered in your earŁ« "Hey, ___. Let's pass on this and keep our noses outta other dorms' business. I've still got a headache from the LAST time we meddled."
You were just about to agree when Jamil interruptedŁ« placing a hand on your upper arm and looking deep into your eyes.
"You...will aid us, won't you?"
All of a suddenŁ« you felt compelled to agree with whatever he said. It felt as if his voice were leading you into a pleasant daze. SoonŁ« words left your mouth before you even realized you thought them.
"Of course I willŁ«" you smiled.
"MYAH! Are you serious?! You're agreein', just like that?!"
"You will? Oh, thank you, ___. With that matter settled, why don't you stay in Scarabia as our guests of honor?"
Jamil clappedŁ« summoning the other Scarabia members.
"You called, Vice Housewarden?"
"Show our guests to their quarters."
"Yes, sir!"
ā„
"Have a pleasant evening."
SLAM!
OhŁ« what the fuck...
"Maaaan, I TOLD you not to fall for Jamil's ploy!" Grim fussedŁ« "You know this is gonna be a whole debacle, ___. Why'd you have to sign us both up for it?! This is Scarabia's problem. They can take care of their own business.
"I meant to say no, actually..." you admittedŁ« "But I found myself agreeing before I could think better of it..."
"Sheesh. You can't say no to anything! You're a real sap sometimes, you know that? Is it some type 'a darling thing? Then again, when you bare your teeth it's no joke... Anyway, I've had enough of gettin' dragged into shenanigans. Let's give 'em the slip while we can and head back to Ramshackle Dorm!"
You let Grim take charge of your escape attemptŁ« following after him as you both crept into the hallway.
"Okay, first we gotta get to the mirror connected to the school..."
FWEEET!
"Wh-wha?! What's that noise?!"
SoonŁ« the pattering of footsteps filled the halls. You swear you fell the blood drain from your face.
"Hey! You think you can just leave the dorm?!"
"It's not even our dorm!" You shrieked in a panic.
"For the duration of winter break, nobody leaves the dorm for any reason unless they've got the housewarden's permission. Period."
"Seize them!"
"After them! Hold it right there!"
"Oh, for cryin' out loud!"
You and Grim just about howled as you desperately tried to make a run for it. HoweverŁ« the two of you were not nearly as well versed in the dorm's building structureŁ« so it didn't take long for both of you to get caught. Grim made an attempt to fight the boys off from the two of youŁ« but it went just about as well as anyone would expect. HonestlyŁ« you felt almost tempted to expose yourself as a darling just to call abuse and watch as they groveled at your feet for forgiveness. You were soon pulled out of that pleasant daydreamŁ« thoughŁ« when they started manhandling you and Grim.
FWEEET!
"Settle down and submit quietly, you grey little street rat!"
"Grey I'll give you, but I ain't no street rat! LEMME GO!" Grim arguedŁ« snapping at the boy like a feral cat.
"Argh, stop struggling! Back to your room with you!"
As they hauled the two of you back to the spare roomŁ« you were pretty sure you heard a couple of them whispering to each other about muzzling the two of you. You didn't know if it was to shut you both up or to control any more biting attemptsŁ« but there was no way you were letting that happen.
"Now stay inside and don't give us any more trouble!"
"Owww! You don't gotta swing me around by the scruff of my neck!"
"Give him to me!" You fussedŁ« ripping Grim from his grasp and cradling your poor baby to your chest.
"Looks like the dorm patrol neglected to lock their room door."
"Hmph. You'd better not forget to do it this time! the housewarden found out someone got away or evenŁ« Seven forbidŁ« got hurtŁ« can you imagine what he'd do to us?
"No kidding..."
"Remember, any more funny business and you won't get off so easily next time!"
You watched as they slammed the door shut and clicked the locked into place.
"'Remember, any more funny business and you won't get off so easily next time...'" you mocked before examining Grim for any injuries. "Are you okay?"
GrimŁ« thoughŁ« seemed to distracted to hear you concern over him. InsteadŁ« he jumped out of your arms and scrambled to the doorŁ« banging on it with all his might.
"HEY! Let me out!" Grim shoutedŁ« before eventually running out of energy and giving up. "The door ain't budgin'. We've been locked in."
"OhŁ« really?" You sarcastic quipped and sighedŁ« "From paradise to prison in record time...They're treating us like prisoners."
This did feel like a prisonŁ« but...was this how it felt to be a "claimed" darling? Would this be how your life would end up if one of those creeps were actually successful in taking you...?
You never asked for a free trial! What the hell?! Hell no! PlusŁ« this place honestly smells like BO! Zero stars!
"Is this how they treat their guests? We might as well be prisoners! I'm gonna have a word or three with Jamil in the morningŁ«" Grim complainedŁ« "Oh yeah. ___, you got that handy little gizmo from the headmage, right? Use that and fill him in on what Scarabia's doin'!"
OhŁ« yeah! Grim was right! You guess you just haven't had a phone in so long that you forgot it. You took your new phone out and quickly dialed CrowleyŁ« impatiently waiting as it rang.
"Hello, you've reached Crowley."
"Yo, Headmage! While you've been out, we've gotten into a whole heap of trouble!"
"This phone is presently off for the duration of my tropical vacaāAHEMāI mean, my vital investigation. Please leave a message at the tone. I'll respond if I feel so inclined. Aren't I just the kindest?"
"Oh, COME ON! You literally just started to say 'vacation.' You're not even tryin' to hide it! What's the point of givin' us this lousy thing if we can't reach you with it?! You really take the cake, Crowley, you know that?!"
The message ended with a beep. In your opinionŁ« Grim said exactly what you were thinkingŁ« but you wouldn't have put it as nicely.
"Just send a message to Ace and Deuce for now, I guessŁ«" Grim huffedŁ« "Not that they'll be much help anyway..."
Hi!! First of all, English isn't my first language, so sorry for any mistakes! And secondly, I'm a huge fan of your story and your writing! Anyway, I have a suggestion: maybe make a Part 3 of the Phantom Bride event, where the bride returns with the goal of finding a husband for the protagonist! It would be really funny to see the yanderes' reactions, especially if the groom ended up being an RSA student!
I actually have thought about it. Maybe possibly one day in the future. š¤
I'm thinking of writing on here and the only reason why I'm reaching out to you is because your work inspired me to write something on wattpad. But I would like to try write some oneshots since that's more of my pace anyway. I was wondering if you had any tips?
I don't really know what'd be good since the process is different for everyone. But one thing I do that might be a good tip is plan the whole thing out in your head and just add detail as you write.
No, but like it would be kinda funny in the part where Kalim is giving Grim the blue cheese on crackers, but then just me trying to shuffle away as quickly as possible without getting noticed since I'm super allergic to mold... Like if I touch it for too long I get hives... Contrary, and of the yanderes not knowing right out and giving me something made with some kind of mold in it (thats supposed to be there like with blue cheese) and then panicked when my throat closes and I start getting itchy...?
Kalim would realistically start balling his eyes out. After that experienceŁ« Grim might honestly start hissing or something anytime Kalim got near. š
I think the yan series is gender neutral isn't it? But in the prologue, Ace refers to the reader as she/she's. Is this intended, where the reader is a girl or on accident?
Does he? That's an oops on my part. I like to write reader as gender neutral so anyone can imagine themselves in the story.
Highkey, I think Rook and Ace could appreciate a sour attitude darling
Rook sees it like a hissy cat.. or a hissy tiger who could maul him, and loves it anyways, heās a freak in the streets. Heās abnormal and I love him <3
While Ace could appreciate and maybe delude himself into the āehehehe my darlingās such a tsundere.. they want me sooooo bad.ā And be all giggles when his darling sticks up for him <3 heās a little rat man and I loooove him too
Honorable mentions
Epel is just as rude, trust and believe.
Trey but ESPECIALLY if darling is shorter and he just sits there while being yelled at all like š„°š„°š¤¤š¤¤
For Ace I can only imagine it as that one scene in TAWOG where Gumball finally pisses off RobŁ« which would be DarlingŁ« of course. That'sŁ« likeŁ« all I'm picturing right now. Dunno if I'm just tired or what. But that's exactly where he wants to be.
I can't see one single yandere ok with dealing with:
My bad attitude
My bad humor
My voice, who is a high-pitched voice and really HIGH like a war horn on someone's ears, to have an idea, even my ears hurt when I scream
Its okayyy. I'm personally very aware of my attitude and that I'm an asshole. Anytime I go places with my family I'm told think before I speak and I always go below the belt. We accept all attitudes here. š
OhŁ« and I also sent my dad a video the other day saying "Bald is beautiful"Ł« and he word for word saidŁ« "Your an asshole, incase you didn't know"
The yans would be stressing for my health especially jamil and vil like legit I have so many allergies and could drop dead at any moment curse my horrible body.
Iām sure most of them have considered bubble rapping us so we donāt accidently die
Itās also canon ace and deuce spend more time at ramshackle taking care of us versus staying at their own dorm not matter how hard we insist that we can do it ourselves
I would take immense entertain in watching the sheer look of horror that would dawn upon them upon realizing how much medication I take in the morning and at night separately. Even more so at the list of my conditions.
Anyone else's parents ever tell them that if they were kidnapped that the kidnapper would bring them back? I feel in the yans' case they wouldn't actually bring me backŁ« but I'd at least manage to overwhelm a good portion of them with my chronic yapping to the point where they need to be away from me for a bit about once or twice a week.
Do you think all these teachers have daily meetings where they shitalk crowleys treatment towards us and bascailly praise and encourage each other to be better than Crowley itās the battle of the fathers and currently Crowley is loosing by a landslideā¦
Cue Ambrose joining those meetings to also shitalk Crowley
They definitely already had a group chat rating Crowley's stunts and bullshit. It grew way more active after Darling appeared and was delegated into Crowley's "care". CurrentlyŁ« they're designing Anti-Crowley t-shirts (or just the logo because no way is Crewel wearing some basic t-shirt) and darling is the first to get fitted for one.
Diasomnia fam all being platonic yandere for Sebek with him being fully oblivious to it and thinking that theyāre all platonic yandere for Silver instead due to him being human and āmore fragileā or something (not that heād be wrong, they would all absolutely be platonic yan for each other, but heād misjudge his place in the dynamic due to him having his own family separate from the diafam) (first years also trying to integrate sebek into their group and diafam is NOT having it)
Lilia wants Sebek to have more friends while Malleus is already trying to distance his romantic darling from that groupŁ« he doesn't want to have another to distance from those hooligans. Silver honestly couldn't care less about whichever happens. He only cares that Sebek is happy. HoweverŁ« his naps have been much more peaceful since Sebek being encouraged to try being more sociable.
