#azul x reader

[glimmerfics]

You have a fascination for things on the surface. Turns out three other people do too -- but what happens when you're given an opportunity to go there in this Choose Your Own Adventure?

Azul Ashengrotto, Jade Leech, Floyd Leech x Reader Choose Your Own Adventure

🔗 READ/PLAY HERE 🎮interactive fanfic "A Poor Unfourtunte Soul" by Dimondtears 📖 Episode 1 of ?

[rea-grimm]

Azul in Tub

Characters: Azul x Reader

Vibe: fantasy AU, merfolk AU, octopus merman, secret true form, mutual trust, soft romance, first kiss, cozy atmosphere, slow burn, acceptance 🐙🛁🌊🫧🤍✨

— ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — 

The warm glow of the lamps in Azul’s room reflected off the dark wood and glass as you quietly closed the door. Your heart was beating a little faster than usual. 

Azul had invited you with an uncharacteristic gravity, and there had been something… fragile in his voice. The bathroom was shrouded in steam and smelled of the sea.

When you stepped inside, you saw him in a spacious tub that seemed much larger on the inside than it appeared from the out. Steam curled lazily through the air, and the water shimmered faintly, as if light were trapped within it.

Azul sat leaning back, his shoulders relaxed and his expression calm, yet you noticed a flicker of tension in his eyes. Beneath the surface, his movements were slow, almost deliberate, creating barely perceptible ripples.

“Ah, you’re here,” he murmured softly, the corners of his lips curling into a slight smile. “Come closer. I want to show you something.”

You obeyed, taking a few steps toward him. The warmth of the room enveloped you, and the steam began to mist your lashes. You sat on the edge of the tub, hands folded in your lap.

“You sound… nervous,” you noted gently. It wasn't an accusation, but rather an invitation to share. Azul gave a short, soft laugh.

“That doesn’t usually happen to me, does it?” he remarked. “But today… this is important to me.” He paused for a moment, his gaze fixed on the water’s surface. “I want to show you my true form. My merform.”

Your breathing steadied. You knew that as an octopus merfolk, he had a form he guarded with fierce privacy. The fact that he wanted to show it to you was more than just trust, it was a gift.

“Thank you,” you said quietly. “There’s no need to rush.”

Azul nodded. He took a deep breath, and his fingers sank into the water. The steam parted as he sat up straighter. The water swirled gently, and you felt a cool touch of magic, as if the room had briefly slipped beneath the ocean waves.

The surface shimmered, and you watched as his human legs gradually shifted. His skin took on a smooth, pearlescent luster, darkening to a deep, near-black, and tentacles adorned with delicate suckers appeared beneath the water.

“Is it… alright?” he asked softly, without looking up. Nervousness crept into his voice despite his efforts to appear composed.

“It is,” you replied sincerely. “And you’re still you.” You smiled gently and reached out your hand over the surface, without touching the water.

Only then did he look at you. A sense of relief washed over his eyes a look you rarely saw him wear.

“I was afraid,” he admitted. “Not because you might reject me. But because… this is a part of me I’ve hidden for a long time. To show it is to be vulnerable.” You leaned in closer, your voice steady.

“Vulnerability isn't weakness. It’s trust.” You hesitated for a moment, then asked: “May I…?”

Azul understood. He nodded, and with one fluid movement, he brought one of his tentacles toward the edge of the tub. Water ran off it in small droplets.

You touched him with your fingertips, he was cooler than you expected. You felt nothing threatening. Azul took a breath, this time free of tension.

“Thank you,” he said. “For looking. For asking. For… staying.”

“Always,” you answered simply, smiling at him.

You sat there with him for a long while. The steam slowly thinned, and Azul told you about the sea. About the depths, and the currents that carry you exactly where you need to be. You listened, laughing occasionally, or simply existing with him in the silence.

Before the water could fully settle or the steam completely vanish, you felt a gentle tug at your wrist. It wasn't forceful, it was hesitant, as if Azul wasn't sure if he was allowed. You looked at him in surprise, but there was no calculation or games in his eyes. Just a silent question.

“Will you stay a little longer?” he asked quietly.

Before you could even answer, he carefully pulled you closer. You lost your balance and, with a soft gasp, found yourself in the tub with him. 

The warm water rushed around you, soaking your skirt and sleeves, but you didn't care. Before you could move, his tentacles wrapped around you, softly, almost protectively.

“I’m sorry… if this is-” Azul cut himself off.

“It’s okay,” you interrupted softly, placing your hands on his shoulders.

You felt him relax. The tentacles shifted slightly, one brushed your waist, another braced against the rim of the tub as if shielding you from the world outside.

You were closer than you had ever been. The water lapped quietly against the sides, and the steam cocooned you in a world of your own. Azul leaned toward you, moving slowly to give you space to retreat. You didn't.

When your lips finally met, the kiss was soft and incredibly tender. There was no rush, no ulterior motive only warmth and relief. One of his fingers lightly traced your cheek, and his tentacles drew you a fraction closer, as if he wanted to commit every detail of you to memory.

“I’m glad,” he whispered, leaning his forehead against yours as he pulled back. “That I have you.”

You smiled, your heart calm and full. In his arms, surrounded by the warmth of the water and the quiet hum of magic, you knew you would carry this moment, this embrace, this kiss, with you like a treasure from the deep. Whether above the surface or below, you belonged together.

— ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — 

Azul Masterlist

[sasahuaa]

Kinda need more of that octopus....I love when he gets flustered and fumble

Azul is in need of service!

It is no exaggeration to say that the NRC students suffer from volatile temperaments, the issue being emphasized by the constant overblots from the omegas. How might Crowley help his pupils? Ah! He knows how! Assign them to a service alpha!

support/service alpha: an alpha designated to look after an omega who is in high risk of emotional misalignment, carrying the duty to soothe them.

gn!reader; alpha!reader; sfw

When Azul received the news that Crowley wished to talk with him privately, he had many theories of what could be the reason. Perhaps he would finally give more leeway to Mostro Lounge, beg Azul to get rid of the blackmail he has of him, or concerns about the school. 

He wasn't expecting for Crowley to figuratively throw him on the lap of an alpha. Worst of all, you also looked horrified at the suggestion of attending Azul until further notice. 

And how could you not be? Not only you've barely escaped from his overblot, but no further contact was established between both of you after the incident, diverging paths and both walking in their own directions. 

For Azul, the mere idea that he needed a service alpha was beyond him. Crowley must be out of his mind for suggesting an alpha that possibly has bad blood with him, but also almost no interaction whatsoever. 

“It's a match made by the sevens!” The Headmage exclaimed, “Oh, I'm so generous to give Azul such a gentle alpha to look after him! And you, dear prefect, will always be accompanied by one of the brightest students of Night Raven College, take this as an opportunity to learn a thing or two.” You looked at him with a vacant expression, so Crowley made sure to add, “... and earn extra points.” 

“Headmage,” Azul called for his attention, fixing his glasses gracefully, perfectly concealing the tremble on his hands, “I believe this is a quite sudden… request. You must acknowledge that both me and the prefect have other priorities instead of looking after each other.”

“Are you implying my judgement of character is failing? I assure you, Ashengrotto, I only have my students’ well being in mind.” Crowley failed to mention how authorities were turning their eyes to NRC, wondering why so many overblots were happening in a short period of time. 

No back and forth would be able to sway Crowley's decisions, Azul was familiarized with his antics, how he pushed students into a corner, forcing them to move according to his whims unless they wished for greater consequences. If Crowley had decided that you'd be tasked to the role of Azul's support alpha, then there's no escape from it.

𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝  𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼

“Are you aware of what being a service alpha entails, prefect?” Azul asked once he'd dragged you to Mostro Lounge, in the privacy of the VIP room. He rummaged around his desk, looking for paper and his pen, drafting a contract he would not permit to go unsigned. 

“Like a service dog,” you murmured, shaking your head at his haste. 

“Good enough.” At this point, he would accept any answer, “Decades ago a service alpha would never be heard of, though in recent years it has become quite normalized.” 

Support alphas didn't exist, if an omega was in need of someone whose scent and personality was meant to soothe them, then they'd be deemed as “crazy” and “improper for mating”. What did exist was support omegas, forced into arranged marriages made to tie barbaric alphas with doting omegas. 

To be compared to those kinds of creatures was an offense.

“The headmage is certainly out of his mind- I mean, overconcerned about my psyche. However, I'm certain he'll find a way to keep his eyes on us.” 

With graceful dexterity, he extended the contract to you. It recognized that both you and Azul would strive for a peaceful acquaintanceship, he would perform at his finest to guarantee your school performance is not affected by him, and you would make sure to act in ways to avoid stressing him out. 

“I don't need you to perform the duties of a support alpha, but I shudder at the thought of the headmage summoning us to another meeting. Whenever you're free, come to Mostro Lounge and sit pretty, that's all you need to do.” 

“Hm, as long as this arrangement lasts.”

𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝  𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼

A routine was established, though Azul was unsure on how to feel about it.

You'd wait for him in the hall of mirrors, walk him to class, and leave him be for the rest of the morning, exchanging quick greetings when your paths crossed. When classes came to an end, you'd wait for him and head to his club, then leave for whatever duty you had for the day. When club time was over, you once again met him and made the path to stay at Mostro Lounge for the rest of the day. 

Azul could see how exhausted you looked from adding responsibilities to your schedule, though you tried to hide it behind a calm façade and words of reassurance. Quietly, he asked for Jade to make whatever drink you liked, placing it on the coffee table close to the couch you always rest on. 

Not many words were exchanged at first, including each other in their daily routines, but analysing the other from a set up emotional distance. 

Truth be told, Azul didn't know how to act when he was alone with you. It was one thing if only the tweels had seen him break down, but not only you're also one of the witnesses to the incident, but also regarded him pitiful enough to offer him words of consolation in the museum. 

Alone with you, he felt nervous. 

He couldn't help but clean his throat and fix his gloves incessantly to alleviate the tension in his body. Heart thundering in his chest when he noticed your attention on him for far too long. 

Worst of all, he learned you apparently didn't know how to deal with him too. 

When the room became too awkwardly silenced for your taste, you'd talk about how your day went, the antics you got with your friends, what content the professors were teaching, or any fun fact your mind could conjure. Azul, maybe because of his commitment to his businessmen persona - or because he was genuinely entertained with what you brought to his attention -, answered politely, indulging your subject of the day.

When you felt he was slightly off, no reassurance of his would be able to sway you, doing your best to help him in his daily tasks and even distracting the twins when they became too fussy, making chaos arise in the restaurant. They aren't lenient with their jobs, but discourteous customers ignite their troublesome behavior in the working environment. 

Even if Azul disagreed about his need for this kind of therapy, he couldn't deny he felt a weight has been lifted from his shoulders since you stormed into his life. 

𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝  𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼

Azul never knows what you're thinking.

“I hope you enjoy it.” You said before leaving him in his classroom, handing him a bento seconds before. 

Azul is extremely strict with his diet, hardly ever permitting himself to eat unhealthy, every calorie, carb and protein was heavily considered in his meals. He wasn't sure you'd be careful about his diet. 

But as lunch time approached and he sat with Jade and Floyd to eat, he also took the bento you prepared for him. As he opened the box, he was met with a post-it and carefully wrapped food. 

The post-it wasn't a love note like he has seen couples in NRC gifting each other, not the “love you lots”, “hope you have a great day", “you're amazing". There’re no words saying you cared for him written, merely a list of ingredients used in the meal, how many grams of each and the calcs for calorie, carbs, fat and protein, perfectly balanced for his taste. A single phrase at the end said “don't skip your meals".

The post-it had more words written than every other love note, yet no caring messages of a loving couple were penned. And despite this, Azul has never felt more seen, you had no business going out of your way to learn about his diet, you noticed when he pushed himself too hard and was uncareful, you cared enough to insert yourself in it. 

Azul thought to himself, if this isn't a sign of care, then what is it?

Truly, he doesn't know what to do with you. 

𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝  𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼

You left him out of his mind. 

After his overblot and the disgraceful scene he displayed before you, where his utmost fears of his childhood were on a show for everyone to see, Azul promised himself he would once again bottle it all up, no eyes being able to reach the ugly parts of himself. 

Yet, you're too perceptive for your own good. 

“You don't need to talk if you don't want to.” 

Azul believed you had an alarm going off in your head anytime he felt sad, lonely, or frustrated.

Your scent steadily became softer, warmer, a gentle pull to Azul's instincts looking to soothe him. His inner omega immediately relaxed, nose twitching to get more of the scent. A rumbling sound came out of your chest, intended in consoling the omega. 

Over time, your hands sought home on his back, slowly drawing circles at its expanse. And Azul progressively became comfortable enough to fall into your arms, rambling about his troubles when it turned too much to bottle up. 

You always asked him for what he needed before he vented, emotional support or a way to fix it. 

Azul has certain difficulty in connecting with others and admitting he holds affection for them, his illogical, scared self fears that anyone who interacts with him has an angle, a plan to turn him into their laughing stock. Yet, he could never sense evil intentions coming from you, genuine worry and care seeping through your scent even when you tried to suppress it.

If this is the case, and you're too kind for your own good to never use his vulnerabilities against him, what can he do other than attach himself to you?

𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝  𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼

Azul is a greedy man. Though he would vehemently deny it in the face of others, everyone, including himself, is able to see through this lie. 

“Do you need something?” You asked once he halted in front of your usual seat a bit too long. 

“I have everything under control,” Azul would reassure, before starting his theatrics, “granted, I could use a bit of your help…”  

In reality, Azul had taken a liking to giving you tasks around Mostro Lounge, preferably working with him. No matter how meaningless, effortless it seemed, just so he could spend more time with you. 

Though you had a tendency to talk with him when bored, or because you felt like it, it wasn't guaranteed you would give him any attention if you're busy with your own assignments. However, while handling the restaurant's matters, you felt obliged to ask for his input before making a decision. 

Azul's fault for not giving you many directions, for this purpose only. 

It was also simpler for him to initiate conversations related to his work, nervousness being masked by professionalism, “If you had anything to wish from the Sea Witch, what would it be?” 

“Why would you like to know, another contract?” You laugh it off, teasing, Azul took notice of how serene you looked, not even thinking he was going to lock you in a dead end deal. 

“You wound me, you know very well contracts are mutual decisions,” he shook his head, voice a pitch higher than usual, decisively playing into your foolery.

His question came from a desire in his heart of trying to get to know more about you. Your wishes, what inspires you, who do you look up to, are all questions that he feels strangely possessive over for your responses. Like owning those answers would mean an opportunity to make your relationship official. 

And isn't it a strange thought? Azul, who didn't wish a support alpha, ended up trying to find ways to woo you, and make silly plans just so you’d talk to him. The words from Crowley when he coerced this idea on both of you surfaced in his mind too many times in the last weeks, “a match made by the sevens”.

He refused to ever thank Crowley for it though. 

“So…” you dropped the task at your hands, invading Azul's personal space as you leaned closer to his face, a playful smile threatening to take place, “if I told you all my secrets, would you make my dreams come true?” 

The whisper brushed his lips, travelling down in his body and forcing a shiver out of him. Azul's eyes locked with your impish ones, completely rendering his breathless, his heart felt like escaping from his chest and he needed to regain his space before doing something stupid. 

He placed a hand on his desk to get up and run away, but as soon as he began to get up, his shaky hands failed him and he slipped. 

The scene played in slow motion in his mind. Your face contorting in panic, hands trying to reach for him. The back of his leg hitting his chair, pushing it back and making him lose any slight balance he may have had before. 

When his back hit the floor and you shuddered a single “Azul, are you okay?” he felt like disappearing. 

He needs his octopot, he'll never look you in the eye again.

𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝  𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼

Like many times before, Azul tried to find a loophole in the contract, anything that could secure what you both have at this moment. 

The adherent accepts to avoid actions that would distress the grantor, consenting to amiable socialization. 

A vague line, though Azul hadn't meant to use it to his advantage when he drafted the deal. His intentions back then was merely to be able to share a room without petty disputes, not bringing up the past or stirring new disagreements. 

“Here, for you,” you said as you gave him a plate with peeled oranges, but before you could go back to the couch and peel more for yourself, Azul held your sleeve, carefully standing up - he refuses to let clumsiness get the best of him in front of you once again.

“Prefect, if you excuse me, I was reading our contract once more.” With his mention, you looked down to his table, the deal shining brightly within the other documents, “I fear you aren't complying to every requisite as of now.” 

“I'm not-?”

But as you looked up, instead of finding a cunning Azul ready for his strike, you found a flustered mess of omega, blushing face and unconcentrated eyes, quivering hands moving up to rest on your shoulders. 

He gave you a shake of his head that was supposed to be suave, but it came off as desperate, nervous by the scheme he had in mind. 

Azul tried to look you deeply in the eyes, but once again failed. With a deep intake of breath, he closed his eyes, leaning into you. Your vision was full of a rose-hued Azul, pouted lips and a tight grip on your shoulders, worthy of the octopus. 

“Is it within my services to provide kisses?” your words were like a bucket of cold water, taking Azul out of the trance that this was not the perfect plan.

“It's within your services to not stress me!” like not rejecting him, and what a great source of stress you've become now. 

You looked at him with pure contemplation, and Azul felt as if he was naked under your studying gaze. He tried to backtrack immediately, hands moving away from you like you're hot iron. Retreat and save face.  

“Ah- forget this happened, this was a mis-”

“A contract is a contract.” you interrupted him before he could run away to his room, before he could decide to never step in the same room as you again. Hands grabbing his waist and bringing him flush to your body, your lips descended onto his. 

Azul, for the first time in his life, understood what “taste of victory” meant, it was hidden between the crevices of two lips, sweet and waiting, pliant to his will. 

You're careful when guiding him, incentivizing him to follow your pace, humming in praise when he catches up with you. It was dreamlike, Azul could feel his heart pumping in his eardrums, he feared you could also hear his erratic heartbeat. 

When you stopped the kiss, Azul had to be reminded to breathe, dazedly staring at you. “Does this mean I'm officially acting as your service alpha now?” you teased, and Azul could only rapidly nod, unable to find his voice even as he clutched your arms to remind himself that this is real.

He'd still never thank Crowley for this.

[rotten-despair]

Azul x a hardworking Yuu who is just genuinly a kind person. Like a real collaborative spirit.

But they aren’t stupid and will hand his ass to him if he tries to skim them out for being goodhearted

Him with a "doesn't put up with his shit but is still a sweetheart"!Yuu

Featuring: Azul Ashengrotto

A/N: Ivebeenhaving trouble naming things lately UHM oh well.

azul is convinced he's figured you out within the first week of knowing you. you're kind, hardworking, dependable, and somehow willing to help complete strangers with absolutely no expectation of reward. from his perspective, the conclusion is obvious. you're the type of person people take advantage of. the type of person who gives too much and asks for too little. it's a pattern he's seen countless times before. unfortunately for him, that assumption lasts exactly until the first time he attempts to hand you a contract.

the document is perfectly respectable. mostly. there are one or two clauses hidden among the fine print that heavily favor him, but that's simply good business. at least, it is until the contract finds its way back onto his desk covered in annotations. every loophole has been highlighted. every questionable clause has been circled. several sections contain neatly written notes explaining exactly why they're unfair. azul spends a concerning amount of time staring at the pages before slowly looking up at you. you blink back at him completely innocently. when he asks if you actually read the entire thing, you look genuinely confused by the question. of course you did. why wouldn't you? the resulting silence is one of the most humbling experiences of his life.

from that point onward, azul finds himself increasingly fascinated by you. the more he observes, the less sense you make. you spend your free time helping people with assignments. you volunteer whenever someone needs assistance. you offer support without being asked and rarely accept anything in return. it should irritate him. from a purely practical standpoint, it's terribly inefficient. yet every time he waits for you to reveal some hidden motive, he's disappointed. there isn't one. you're simply kind. genuinely, frustratingly kind. the concept bothers him far more than he'd ever admit. azul has spent most of his life viewing relationships through the lens of exchange. everything has a price. everything has value. every interaction is a transaction in one way or another. yet you continue helping people even when there's nothing to gain from it. the more he thinks about it, the more impossible it seems.

what truly throws him off balance, however, is how you treat him. not azul ashengrotto, housewarden of octavinelle. not azul ashengrotto, successful businessman. just azul. when he says something clever, you acknowledge it. when he works hard, you praise him for it. when he's being dramatic, you tell him he's being dramatic. most importantly, when he's being ridiculous, you refuse to indulge him. the first time you catch him trying to work through exhaustion, you're completely unimpressed by his excuses. he insists that he has responsibilities. you point out that he hasn't taken a proper break in hours. he argues that his workload is important. you respond by taking the paperwork out of his hands. the look of betrayal on his face is almost impressive. the fact that he actually listens when you tell him to rest is even more shocking.

the thing azul never expects is how easy it becomes to be around you. most people either fear him, admire him, or want something from him. sometimes all three. you don't seem interested in any of that. you aren't intimidated by his reputation. you aren't dazzled by his accomplishments. you certainly aren't impressed by his attempts to manipulate a conversation in his favor. if anything, you seem to enjoy catching him in the act. more than once he's tried steering a discussion toward a deal that clearly benefits him, only for you to immediately call him out on it. the first few times are embarrassing. after a while, they become strangely comforting. there's something reassuring about knowing you see through him and stay anyway.

over time, azul begins noticing things about you as well. the way you throw yourself into helping others without hesitation. the way you somehow manage to remember everyone's problems while ignoring your own. the way you're always willing to lend a hand, even when you're clearly exhausted. he starts recognizing a familiar pattern. for all your intelligence, you're terrible at taking care of yourself. whenever someone needs help, you're there. whenever you're the one struggling, suddenly it's not important. azul finds the hypocrisy deeply irritating. the first time he catches you skipping meals because you're busy helping someone else, he lectures you for nearly twenty minutes. you retaliate by reminding him of the time he worked himself nearly sick trying to manage the lounge. the argument ends in a draw.

somewhere along the way, admiration becomes affection. azul isn't entirely sure when it happens. perhaps it's during one of your countless debates. perhaps it's when you casually stand up for him during a conversation and act as though it's the most natural thing in the world. perhaps it's the realization that you've never once looked at him with disappointment when he stumbles. whatever the reason, he eventually finds himself staring at you more often than necessary. thinking about you more often than necessary. worrying about you far more than necessary.

the funniest part is that if you ever end up dating the amount of things that change are surprisingly little. you're still one of the only people capable of completely shutting down his nonsense. every so often, he'll attempt to sneak some absurdly one-sided proposal past you, only for you to immediately narrow your eyes and ask whether he's trying to scam you. azul inevitably denies the accusation. you continue staring. he attempts a more elaborate defense. you continue staring. eventually he folds and admits that perhaps the proposal was slightly biased in his favor. slightly. the fact that you always catch him should be humiliating. instead, he finds himself smiling. because beneath the exasperation and the teasing, there's a certainty he's never had before. you aren't kind to him because he's useful. you aren't patient with him because of what he can offer you. you care about him because he's azul. just azul. and for someone who spent years believing affection had to be earned through achievement, that realization means more than he'll ever be able to put into words.

[rea-grimm]

Special Deal Azul

Characters: Azul Ashengrotto x Reader

Vibe: proposal fic, engagement, romance, fluff, established relationship, emotional vulnerability, soft Azul, heartfelt confession, wholesome, happy ending

— ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ —

When you stepped into the Mostro Lounge, the first thing that hit you was the silence. No bustle of staff, no whispers of customers, not even the familiar clink of glassware. For the first time since you’d known it, the entire building was utterly empty. Only the dim glow of lamps and the cerulean reflection of the aquarium lined the path as you walked.

You knew Azul had invited you for something important, but you hadn’t dreamed it would be this. You had been dating for some time now, and yet… Azul was a man of secrets. 

He was always planning something, always keeping a trick or two up his sleeve. But tonight, the air around you felt different, heavier, thick with anticipation.

In the center of the lounge stood a single set table. A solitary candle burned upon it, its flame dancing in the cold silver of the cutlery. And beside them lay a parchment. A rolled contract. One you recognized instantly.

Azul was seated at the table, his hands folded, though his fingers were trembling slightly. The moment he caught sight of you, he stood up and donned his trademark smile, polished and confident. But around his eyes lingered a nervousness that didn't belong to him at all.

“Thank you for coming,” he said softly, gesturing to the seat opposite him.

“Azul… what’s going on?” You sat down, your gaze instinctively drifting toward the contract. He cleared his throat.

“Ah, that- that is actually what I wanted to… ahem… discuss.” The candle cast a warm glow across his face, and you noticed he was a fraction paler than usual.

“You can tell me anything, you know that.” Before he could continue, you placed your hand over his. You felt him flinch ever so slightly.

“I do. And that is exactly why… why I wanted it to be tonight.” His fingers finally relaxed, closing around your hand.

Azul took a breath, and for the first time, you saw that he was truly shaken. Azul Ashengrotto, the man who never buckled under the pressure of hundreds of customers or catastrophic orders. He looked, in this moment, like a boy standing on the edge of a deep ocean, unsure whether to jump. Slowly, he unfurled the scroll between you.

The handwriting was elegant and formal, but the contents blurred for a moment because you simply couldn’t believe you were reading it correctly. Azul let out a deep exhale.

“Some time ago, I began… reflecting on what you mean to me. How much you have done for me. And how much I have changed… because of you.” His voice wavered, and you realized this wasn't a performance. This wasn't the master of the Mostro Lounge, this was Azul, your Azul. He leaned in closer.

“I wanted to draft a contract. Something binding, something that would… tie us together. But then I realized that with you, I want no conditions. No clauses. No ‘ifs’ or ‘whens.’ I want…” He swallowed his words, and you could hear his heart beating faster than usual. “I want you to choose for yourself, without any magic. Without any pressure.”

From beneath his coat, he pulled a small box. Black, inlaid with mother-of-pearl. Your heart stopped.

Azul opened it. Inside sat a ring adorned with tiny pearls in the shape of a delicate seashell. It was simple, yet exquisite. And strikingly personal.

“I want to ask you… if you will marry me,” he breathed, finally looking you straight in the eye, stripped of masks and practiced smiles.

The world around you grew even quieter. You felt as though even the water in the tanks held its breath.

“Azul…” you whispered, feeling tears prick at your eyes. “Did… did you really think I’d say no?”

“You are under no obligation to say yes,” he blurted out, far too quickly. “I know I am not without my faults. I have made many mistakes. But I swear that-”

You didn't let him finish. You lunged toward him, throwing your arms around him. You felt his body stiffen for a second before he pulled you back against him, holding you tight. The warmth of his embrace was familiar and safe, yet entirely different from any time before.

“Yes,” you breathed into his shoulder. “Yes, of course I will.”

It took a moment for his brain to process what you’d said. Then, you felt his hands begin to shake. He pulled back just enough to look into your eyes.

“Truly?” he asked quietly. No arrogance, no hiding. It was almost painfully sincere.

“Truly.” You smiled and nodded.

A smile spread across his face, soft and radiant. He took the ring tenderly, as if it were made of sea foam and might shatter at the slightest touch. As he slipped it onto your finger, his hands were unexpectedly unsteady.

“I’m sorry,” he murmured.

“That’s the best part,” you teased gently. “Knowing I’m the one who makes you lose your cool.”

Azul flushed, or rather, he turned that specific shade of blue he always did when he was genuinely flustered. “Please… do not make fun of me at such a momentous occasion.”

“I’m not teasing. I love it,” you smiled softly.

The ring fit your finger perfectly. Azul stared at it for a long while, as if unable to believe it was real. Then he kissed your hand, a soft, silent gesture, his lips barely grazing your skin.

“I promise you, I will never let you down,” he said.

You smiled and leaned in to kiss him. The kiss was soft, tender, and full of an emotion that neither of you could hide. When you pulled away, you rested your head on his shoulder.

“Did you clear the whole place out just for the two of us?” you asked, your eyes wandering over the empty lounge.

“Naturally,” he replied quietly, his fingers stroking your hand. “I wanted it to be perfect. So I would know nothing would interfere… so you would be certain that I meant it.”

“I didn't need an empty lounge to know that,” you whispered.

“But I did.” Azul chuckled.

And you realized then that while Azul Ashengrotto was a master of contracts, schemes, and clever magic, in this moment, he was just a man who loved you with all his heart. And you were the one he had chosen.

— ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ — ✧ —

[thehiddenmenu]

“ my , such an endearing customer ! “

>> pairing :: azul ashengrotto x gn!reader >> tw :: none (shush i forgot to add this in) >> tags :: @purezneon || @lotusview pathetic Azul for the soul >> notice :: for the weirdest reason it literally will not let me post this on my main. So please ignore it being on my side blog while I try and fix this (¬_¬") this has just become a secret one for the side blog

🐚 :: I’m not pathetic !

Azul Ashengrotto is the most pathetic man you know. Whether it be him begging to spend time with you, sending the Tweels to do his bidding to get your attention, or just about anything. He was enamored beyond words, and his heart was bound to yours forever.

The issue with his love? He can’t ever muster the words near you. Sure he’ll give you free food (which in merchant language, means “I want to marry you”), but it means nothing if he can’t actual tell you how he feels!

So, to pity his poor unfortunate soul. You sit around. Right in the exact point that no matter what Azul is doing in his office, he can see you enjoying yourself. Basking in the presence of all the no life’s who deserve nothing to be by you.

Sure, Azul could sweep them all out and entice you in a gorgeous deal which involved you giving your hand to him forever, but he couldn’t exactly pursue that idea when the few words he can give to you is “hi” or “welcome, [name].”

It’s lead down the rabbit hole as Azul keeps desperately trying to catch your attention only to be a stuttering mess by the time he reaches your table. No it’s not his fault you’re just the cutest person he’s ever seen on land and sea! He can’t help himself, what does he deserve to be in your view?

“Jade… Jade!” Azul half sobbed from under his desk.

“Azul? What are you doing?” The Moray hummed as he walked to the other side of Azul’s desk and crouched down to his small form bundled into twists and turns as he tried to make himself smaller.

“I’m hiding! They said they wished to talk to me! Can you believe that!? They hate me! They truly and utterly, with all the sincerity the world has to offer, despise me!” He choked out as his face fell back into his palms.

Jade tried really hard to not laugh, covering his mouth with the back of his hand as he looked away. He took in a deep breath before putting his free hand out to Azul.

“Up you go, Ashengrotto. No business man should be hiding from his customers now.” As Jade pulled Azul up from under the desk he dusted him off and put his glasses back on for him. “Perhaps, they wish to talk to you because they enjoy your presence. Think of the pros, not the cons of a deal such as this, Azul.”

Azul blankly stared at him before wiping the last tear off his face as he straightened up his back. Slowly turning to the door.

“You believe they don’t want me as their next dinner?”

“Hah! Azul, you say that in the wrong way. They’d eat you like a limited time menu item. Their gaze is all over you.” And with that, Jade hummed as he yanked the ever so patient (not very) Floyd out of the office with him. Floyd’s whines and “but I wanna see shrimpy and Azullllllll” drowned out with the two.

Somehow, a new surge of confidence overtook the merchant as he sucked up his earlier breakdown and sat down at his desk. He pushed his glasses up, straighten his papers, leaned back… realized he needed to straighten the papers some more… fiddled with the pen rotting around with no ink left to spare… then deflated again.

“This is absolutely useless…” he mumbled under his breath as his eyes shot up when the door opened. There, in all your loving glory that Azul could never get enough of, was you. As perfect as the day he met you and yesterday when he last saw you.

“Azul Ashengrotto. You’ll listen to me you hear?”

His face went bright red as the pen flung against the wall behind him. He straightened up and clasped his hands together as he scooted in.

“Yes of course- wha-what can I do for you?”

“You’re taking too long for me. Go out with me.” You huff out as you point an accusatory finger to him. His jaw dropped slightly with his glasses slipping down his nose by a hair.

“T-taking too long? Going out!? Like a date!? No no! I was meant to ask you that- unruly of you to steal my task I tell you what! I decline. My new offer, I take you out on a lovely date!”

“New offer!? Azul you just rephrased what I told you and made it seem like you asked first!”

“Exactly the point, my Pearl! It’s my duty as someone who wishes to pursue you to have the opportunity to be the first!”

Floyd and Jade hummed from outside as they eavesdropped your ongoing argument (that Azul was tremendously losing mind you).

“What a pity, seems our dear Azul is quite overprotective of his wishes to be the first to ask dear [name].”

“Boringggg!! If it had been me I woulda just squeezed them already… oh well!!! Azul’s shrimpy for another day!!!”

————————————————————————

“ another day , another joyful outing of HATING floyd leech . This is why I made everything Scarabia in my guest room , because ANYTHING is better than that punk . “ >> NOT PROOF READ >> POORLY WRITTEN (I’m still sick sorry pearls)

[sasahuaa]

You broke up with your boyfriend, and now that you're single, Azul finally has a chance

listening to: Desmitificar - Marina Sena

This song was actually hard to translate and keep the original meaning; a little bit of Por Supuesto by the same singer; gn!reader; Azul is very intense; no cheating involved in this

"If it's about transcending, stripping away the mystery, getting intoxicated, intensifying it all, I can do it"

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟

I've been wanting you, I've been craving you

“I broke up with him,” you mentioned once you met him at his VIP room, your shoulders slumped with exhaustion. Azul wondered if it was because your previous significant other made things difficult for you after the break up, or if the reason itself of the break up was weightening on you.

Still, Azul couldn't contain his excitement when the news reached him. You, the person he was hopelessly yearning after, finally broke up with the dull boy who was an obstacle on Azul's path, preventing him from attaining your love. 

He would forever dread that he was too late to perceive you sooner, otherwise, you would never choose him over Azul. How those past months have been appalling, longing for someone whose heart already had a name embedded on, but now this would matter not. 

Because now, Azul would do anything to truly entice you to his arms. Every bit of effort will be worth it.

Everybody sees that I'm feeling mischievous 

During the time you were with that other boy, Azul made sure to make his presence known by you. Maybe it was obvious for everyone else but you, how he would insert himself in your conversations, clearly trying to shun down the other. 

He wanted to make sure you knew he was clearly the best option. That the other's magic would never compare to his, that he would never be as charismatic, as compelling. If he was subtly sabotaging your relationship, then it would never be fruitful as far as he was concerned.

Azul knew that, if it was him in that boy's place, he would never give anyone the chance to get in between him and you.

Too bad your previous boyfriend was too stupid to prevent his meddling. 

Come see me, come with appetite

Now that you're single, you can spend longer durations of time with him, Azul wouldn't have to worry about you cutting your meetings - dates, in Azul's head - short because your boyfriend sent you a message, or you had a guilty conscience because you could be bonding with the other.

None of it is of significance, Azul hopes that once your visage is clear, you will desire him as much as he hungers for you.

As long as you're with him, leisuring in his lounge, then Azul would prove to you he can be everything you need. 

Everybody knows I want more than friendship

No longer would Jade and Floyd snickers whenever he was feeling down, “Aww, you must be missing the prefect so much", Floyd would say, poking at his patience and threads of his sanity, “Fufu, they must be with their boyfriend, a position our dear Azul can't seem to achieve…” Jade would follow by, and Azul would have to clutch his pen tightly to not show his upsetness. 

Azul would no longer have to deal with Ace and Deuce's glares behind his back, when he distracted you from your boyfriend. No longer would Grim give him a deadpan look, then extend his paws for a tuna can to buy his silence. 

“Prefect, I can't imagine the pain you're feeling at this moment, here, I'll lend you my time and you may share your woes,” Azul said when you eventually opened up about the ending of your relationship. Although he would love to focus on your words and the melodious voice he came to love, a single change in your appearance stole his focus away. The lack of a ring on your finger, because he no longer matters.

Back there in the courtyard, we used to spend the whole day together. You with that boy, he was kinda pretty, but he looked way too innocent, not the type of people I like

The charming persona Azul acted as was sufficient to be welcomed by your ex boyfriend, maybe he even thought they're friends. Of course, Azul's intentions in getting closer to him were far from prettier.  

After all, his partner was the most precious treasure Azul ever laid his eyes upon. 

Though admittedly, Azul lost himself in your eyes and the euphoria encompassing his body. He quite missed why you broke up, perhaps the future that boy wanted was not for your taste, perhaps you didn't like his family or friend group, perhaps you got tired of his bland personality.

Truly, the reason why you accepted to date that boy is beyond Azul's understanding. He is bland, never seemed to want to break the routine and do something exciting with you, never seemed to express his own opinions. If it was Azul in his place, he would never allow you to be bothered a single day of your life.

Yet, he was able to woo you before Azul, how absurd.

Now that you're single, I'll show you all the flavor, all this temptation. You'll travel around the world with my magic. I'll refine your taste, you'll only want mine

You sigh quietly, and Azul covers your hand with his as if comforting you. Reassuring you is his main objective, as a partner is required to provide emotional support to their intended, but Azul couldn't help but take off his gloves to feel your skin directly under his.

He wants to push all your troublesome thoughts away, show you things you've never seen before and make you feel mystified. Make you feel part of his world, he can do it. There are not many things Azul is confident about, often hiding his insecurities behind his heavy work, but he is certain about his magical prowess and his work etiquette. If anything of him is lacking, then he will cover it with his strengths.

Azul's current goal is to make you associate magic and myths with him.

“Ah, I really need to take my mind out of this,” you mentioned, looking at Azul as if he could make your despondency disappear from reality. Azul, always the friend who can achieve anything in a blink of an eye, quickly took this hook.

He smiled contentedly, placing his fingers on the space between yours over the table, “What do you wish for? If it's about transcending, stripping away the mystery, getting intoxicated, intensifying it all, I can do it.” Azul would take any opportunity for you to understand you can have anything with him.

“Perhaps a walk around the island would be good.” 

Great, even.

“Want to step into the sea? I'll guide you”

Azul's happiest dream is to fall into the sea with you. The land may be like your world, reminiscing of your past and the life you left behind. Azul's scariest nightmare is if you truly wish to go back there, he has so many plans with you.

If revealing the unknown is a step to make you feel at home in this world, he would gladly present to you the wonders of under the sea and his homeland. Letting go of illusions have always been his forte, as well as making anything feel as if enchanted. 

I'll bring a carnival to your life that's been so bland

I spent all my coins of longing just to earn a kiss from you, did you know that? Azul wished to say, but you being single was only one step closer to a relationship with you, he still has to secure your heart.

And though his only craves for you and the what-if's of your future, Azul knows he can't be hasty, lest he scares you from his arms. Peeling back the layers of your love and making it his are still in undergoing work.

To turn your life around from one who was so dull, Azul plans to take you to any place your heart desires or you don't know yet. Even if he becomes disheveled or gets carried away, all that matters is your smile. If in the end of it all, he earns the honor to wake up everyday to you, and you lovingly fix his morning hair, then all his effort is worth it.

Azul never thought that he would be this infatuated, and once he learned about this feeling, he couldn't imagine ever letting it go.

“I've already taken refuge in your smile, you just don't know it yet.”

𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟

Azul has a harsh judgement about the ex boyfriend out of jealousy and can be an unreliable narrator about the relationship, since none of the prefects own thoughts about the past were expressed, it's up to interpretation

[lotusview]

ABSOLUTELY NOT!

───⋆⋅☆⋅⋆───

˙⋆✮ Azul x Tsundere!Reader

˙⋆✮ Azul's sure you hate him. Or well, he thinks he does. So then why do you keep coming into the longue day after day just to talk to him?

˙⋆✮ Gender neutral reader, pining, floyd (and jade) being a little shit, Octavinelle shenanigans, Chronic Yearner Azul, Actually Beta Read (no way?!), flirting, awkward crushes

˙⋆✮ 1.4k words

˙⋆✮ This request was submitted as propaganda for the 2026 TWST Popularity Poll Contest! If you enjoy it, make sure to VOTE SEBEK! And if you vote for any other Diafam member, send proof to my inbox for a oneshot of your own! 

˙⋆✮ And since this is about Azul, I must add... VOTE AZUL! 

PS. Some aspects of this fic were inspired by @vixtastic and @darkparablesfan ‘s oneshots of similar concepts, so if you want more Chronic Yearner Azul you should check them both out (they’re my lovely mooties). I just love how they write Azul lol 

This fic was also beta read by @cy-more-like-cry and @boyblogdog so check him out too <3 

───⋆⋅☆⋅⋆───

There had to be something he was doing wrong. What that slight could possibly be, however, Azul had no clue. He tried just about everything—Offering beneficial contracts, flowers... Hades, he’d even tried music! But every attempt to earn your affection had gotten him nowhere. 

You sneered at every offer. Handed the flowers off to Grim. Put earbuds in over the music.  

Azul was at his wit’s end here. And he hated it. Being in love was painful enough. To be losing at the game was even worse. 

All he wanted was to move on. You were a hopeless cause, so he should just cut his losses and pretend he never felt this way about you to begin with. But every time you sauntered into the lounge, laughing, teasing, cheerfully sipping on your favorite drink while doing your classwork, he was painfully reminded why he adored you so. 

Your voice was gentle. Even at your loudest, he wanted to listen to you speak for hours. He normally loathed being the subject of jokes, but he could accept your taunts. They were playful challenges, each demanding him to answer, and the longer he could talk to you, the better. He had your orders memorized, even going so far as to prepare your drink in advance, as you usually came to the lounge at the same time each day. 

“I just don’t understand,” Azul sighed, leaning back in his chair and spinning a pen between his fingers. 

“Understand what?” Jade asked, leaning against Azul’s desk. He looked up at him, giving a sly smirk that Azul had long sense come to dread. “This wouldn’t happen to be about our dear Prefect, would it?” 

An image of you flashed through is mind, and Azul’s fidgeting stilled for a brief moment before he recovered. “What? No, of course not. My apologies, I’m simply... Thinking out loud.” 

“Thinking about Shrimpy~?” Floyd teased, looming over Azul’s right shoulder before slinking to the other side of his desk, mirroring his brother.  

“No!” Azul huffed, shooing them both away from his desk and pulling out a folder of unfinished papers. “Besides, they’ve made very clear they want nothing to do with me.” 

Floyd snorted in response. “Yeah, and that sure does bother you, doesn’t it?”  

Before Azul could begin to defend himself, Jade chimed in, adding, “Perhaps that’s all just an act. Surely you, of all people, should see through such a flimsy scheme, yes?” He suggested it so matter of fact, leaving no room to argue.  

But argue Azul would, nevertheless. “Exactly, I’d know. I’m no fool.” 

The twins both looked up at each other, sneering.  

This was going to be a long day, wasn’t it? 

“For a self-proclaimed expert in these matters, you sure seem to miss all the signs,” Jade chided, getting closer to Azul’s face. He refused to move backwards, but he desperately wanted to retreat into the quiet darkness of underneath his desk. 

“What in Seven’s name are you talking about?!” He exclaimed.  

Floyd shook his head. “Man, you’re so boring... Just talk to Shrimpy, won’t ’cha?” 

“Or better yet, let us talk to them,” Jade rested his chin in his hand, which was perched against all of Azul’s nicely organized paperwork. “We’ll handle--” 

“Absolutely not! And move your arm!” Azul pulled his folders away. He’d just work on them later.  

“Awww, you’re no fun,” Floyd whined, standing up and slinking to the door. “But really though, Shrimpy’s out in the lobby. And they were looking for you~!” 

Azul’s posture stiffened. You? Waiting for him? At this hour? He checked his watch to ensure he wasn’t running behind or something of the like. No, you had come to the lounge early. “You should have said that in the first place,” he huffed, standing up. “Instead of fooling about.” 

Floyd rolled his eyes, pushing the VIP room door open with his foot. “Yeah, but where’s the fun in that?”  

Jade picked up Azul’s folders. “I can work on these, while you’re busy.” 

“No, I’ll finish them myself. Thank you very much,” Azul chided, following Floyd out the door. “Just get back to work.” 

Jade trailed behind, clearly just wanting to enjoy whatever show was about to occur.  

As Floyd said, you sat in a booth nestled against the glass walls of the lounge, ignoring your surroundings to study a fish swimming in circles about a single patch of corals. It was pitiful, watching the poor thing wander aimlessly, and Azul couldn’t help but wonder if you saw him the same way. Just a pathetic creature with no purpose but circling the same object.  

He stepped forward, clearing his throat. “Can I get you something?” He asked.  

You didn’t look at him right away. He shifted his weight awkwardly. He hated this suffocating feeling. When you finally looked up at him, your eyes narrowed, a look of pure distaste on your face. Azul looked away. He felt small, and embarrassed, and all he really wanted to do was curl up somewhere dark far away from your scrutiny.  

“Nah, I’m just getting some work done,” you replied, pulling out a notebook and pencil. You knew well the lounge rules—That an order had to be placed to stay on the property—But wanted to test the waters. 

Azul nodded. “... That’s good,” he said. 

“Seriously? You’re just gonna let me?” You laughed, propping your elbows up on the table. “You’ve gone all soft, Azul! What happened to the guy who had me put to work for the crime of waiting too long to meet with you?”  

He fixed his glasses, looking for something to do with his hands while staying as “calm and collected” as possible. What was he supposed to do here? What was the move? Did you want him to lash out? Or let it go? 

It felt like everyone was playing a game he never got the rules for, and he was left just trying to play it right.  

Before he could even decide on a response, Floyd slid up to the table. Azul flinched—He hadn’t even noticed Floyd approaching. 

“Here ya go, Shrimpy! Your usual,” he chirped, holding out a tray with your favorite order... And a second glass, which he handed to Azul. “And for you, that nasty zero-sugar stuff you always drink for some reason.” 

Azul didn’t grab the glass. “Floyd, what are you doing?” 

You hesitantly reached out and lifted the Dr. Pepper off the tray, setting it down on the table without drinking it. “Y-Yeah, Floyd, I didn’t even order.” 

Floyd rolled his eyes, pushing Azul’s drink against his chest and forcing him to grab it. “Yeah, but you’re always here all the time, so I assumed you wanted something,” his eyes narrowed as he grinned, head tilted to the side as he looked down at you. “Unless you have a reason to be here besides orderin’.”  

“Floyd-” Azul tried to interrupt, but you cut him off. 

“A-Absolutely not!” You stumbled, cheeks turning a coral pink. “Or I mean... I’m studying! That’s all! Don’t need anything else!”  

Wait, were you blushing? Azul stared in disbelief as you sheepishly looked up at him before staring at the fizzy drink in front of you.  

“Oh yeaaaah?” Floyd pushed Azul into the chair across from yours without a second thought, making Azul spill a few drops from his glass onto his uniform.  

He’d be upset, if he wasn’t so distracted.  

You kept looking at him, and looking away, and... Well, now, you almost looked angry.  

And, embarrassingly, Azul found he adored that expression on you. The way your eyebrows crinkled together, and your lips turned into an annoyed pout was adorable, whether he liked it or not.  

“Because Shrimpy, I’m starting to think maaaybe you’re here for something else,” Floyd teased. “Like seeing a certain Azul over here--” 

“Oh Floyd, just go away!” You snapped, covering your face with your textbook. “No one asked. I’m trying to study!”  

Floyd huffed in annoyance before giving Azul a snide grin before sauntering off.  

A minute of awkward silence passed. 

“... My apologies,” Azul finally said, reaching out to lower the book before pulling his hand away and folding it in his lap. “For interrupting your work.” 

You ignored him for another moment before setting the textbook down and slowly taking a sip of the drink. For once, you didn’t look at him with contempt, at least for a little bit. 

“Yeah, yeah, whatever. Can you leave me alone now?” You mumbled, voice lacking the usual sting.  

Azul smiled. He was maybe starting to get the hang of this. 

“Of course, dear.”