Yuu despised desert dreams, even though they were just dreams. The scorching, arid air clung to their skin, and the irritating sand seemed to find its way into their food and mouth no matter what they did. It didn't help that they had to contend with someone like their papa. Yuu shook their head and let out a weary sigh as they stared at their reflection in the mirror while their mama patiently combed their hair. Meanwhile, the rest of their parents huddled over a desk piled high with endless stacks of paper.
"All these dreams seem to be telling me that I'll have to deal with someone like one of you," Yuu grumbled, frustration evident in their voice. "This time, it's a desert. Ugh, I hate sand."
"It also means it'll be relatively easy!" Hade's voice boomed as he leaned over Yuu's desk, studying the elaborate plan laid out before them. Jafar, on the other hand, carefully arranged chess pieces on a board nearby.
"Tsk, how rude," Jafar muttered, his eyes scanning the plan for any potential mistakes. "Perhaps you should assist me with this plan, Yuu. One wrong move, and your life is on the line."
"Papa, please," Yuu replied, a hint of exasperation in their tone. They set down their eyeliner before continuing, "I'll survive, and if I don't, at least I'll go out looking hot."
"Yuu," the Evil Queen chimed in, her elegant fingers deftly working on braiding Yuu's hair. Yuu chuckled.
"Mother, please, have a sense of humor."
"It's so nice of Azul to give us some of these sea moon jewelries," Ursula remarked as she perused the contents of the jewelry chest. "Should we go with blue or pink?"
"Pink doesn't really match any of you guys, unless you count mother's dress," Yuu quipped, examining their reflection in the vanity mirror.
"Blue it is," Ursula decided, selecting the benitoite necklace and placing it delicately around Yuu's neck. She stepped back to admire the result. "And with this, you look perfect."
"I got it from you guys," Yuu replied with a laugh before bidding their parents goodbye.
As Yuu opened the bedroom door and stepped into the hallway, they bumped into the mischievous ghosts, and Grim was in the midst of a game of hide and seek.
"Hey, Yuu. Catch!" Casper, the shorter of the ghosts, exclaimed, dropping Grim into Yuu's waiting arms. "Henchman, you took so long!" Grim grumbled before promptly falling asleep.
"You look like you've seen a ghost. Heh heh heh." Gooey-Louie, the plump ghost, teased as he dragged along the tall ghost, Viss.
"Today's the last day of the fall semester. Look sharp and don't bungle the landing," Viss advised. "Oh yeah, tomorrow's the first day of the winter holiday. Have you two decided what you'll be doing?" Casper chimed in, playfully swiping Viss's top hat.
"Huh? What's a win-ter holly-day?" Grim asked, perplexed, as he observed Viss and Casper's playful antics while Ramshackle used a rug to restrain the mischievous ghosts.
"It's when school lets out for the season. Most students go home to celebrate the new year with their families. They have fancy dinners, too," Casper explained, tossing Viss's top hat to Gooey-Louie, who promptly placed it atop Yuu's head.
"Wait, there's FOOD?!" Grim exclaimed excitedly, leaping out of Yuu's arms. "And plenty of it. Roast turkey, pie, a ham as big as your head—you name it... Not that us ghosts can eat, of course," Viss explained before turning to Yuu. "My hat, please."
"Here you go, Viss. We should head to the mirror, but I am wondering where you ghosts are heading for the holidays?" Yuu inquired as they carefully dusted off Viss's hat and returned it to the ghost.
"Hehehe. Some ghosts head home to the netherworld to spend holidays with the family too, y'know," Gooey-Louie mentioned with a mischievous grin, pointing at Casper. "And that one tends to get lost on the way down."
"Some of 'em never come back, unlike me. I will be back! Heh heh heh!" Casper declared with a playful tone before flying right through Yuu, much to their chagrin.
'So do we. Brrr. Never date a ghost, kid. Never date a ghost,' Hades chimed in within Yuu's head. Yuu responded with a knowing nod.
"Spendin' time with the family while gettin' your grub on sounds nice..." Grim mused, holding onto Yuu's hand.
"Grim, what is your family like?" Yuu inquired gently. Grim's expression grew somber as he spoke. "My family? Hmm... I don't remember 'em." He glanced around with a hint of sadness in his eyes. "You are more like my family. And I like your parents' head pet. And I love how you hug me..." Grim confessed, tears streaming down his face.
"Aww, come here, Grim," Yuu said softly, picking Grim up. "You are my family too."
"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!" Grim declared with newfound determination, burying himself into Yuu's neck before murmuring, "Do not leave me, henchman."
"Don't worry, Grim. I will take you with me everywhere I go," Yuu reassured, their bond with the young ghost growing stronger with each passing day.
"Awww, poor little Grimmy had it rough!" Casper exclaimed dramatically, pretending to sob as he accepted a tissue from Viss. "How'd you like to spend the holidays sitting around the fireplace with us?" Viss offered while extending another tissue.
"Myah ha ha! If there's good food to be had, consider me ready for some holiday cheer!" Grim declared with enthusiasm, giving Yuu's chest a playful nudge. "Come on, human, I want tuna before we head off to class."
Yuu sighed as Grim practically dragged them to the kitchen. 'You know, even as annoying as the cat-weasel is, I've grown to love him. He reminds me of you,' the soft voice of Jafer whispered into Yuu's mind. Curious, Yuu asked, 'How so?' as they descended the stairs with Grim.
'You... Hmm. Let's not bring up bad memories,' Jafer replied, leaving Yuu with a sense of intrigue and curiosity. Ah, best they shake that off; it would not do them any good.
Yuu sat next to Ace and Deuce in anticipation of the class ending, with Grim comfortably napping in their lap. The students were eagerly waiting for the holiday vacation to begin.
"Listen up, Whelps. 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? 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!" Professor Crewel sternly reminded the class.
"Yes, Professor!" The rest of the class chorused, though many eyes in the room turned toward Yuu. Tsk, indeed.
"Ugh, finally! A break from this cramped dorm life!" Ace exclaimed as he neatly packed his belongings into a handheld bag.
"Good grief. Night Raven College doesn't kid around with holiday homework. Look at all this," Deuce grumbled, echoing the sentiment as he organized his and Yuu's belongings. Grim woke up from his nap, stretching lazily in Yuu's lap as they all prepared for the holiday break ahead.
"Will you two be spending the holidays in your dorm?" Deuce inquired as he handed Yuu their bag.
"We will be spending the time here. Worry not; if we need something, I could just sing for it," Yuu reassured Deuce, taking the bag and lifting Grim onto their shoulder.
"Let's head to the Mirror Chamber," Yuu suggested as they made their way toward the door, Ace and Deuce following closely behind. The promise of the holidays and some much-needed relaxation awaited them, and they were ready to make the most of it.
The Mirror Chamber was bustling with students, with a lively mix of excitement and anticipation in the air. Yuu spent the next couple of hours bidding farewell to everyone: Ruggie, Jack, Leona, Cater, Riddle, Trey, Ace, and Deuce. They exchanged warm wishes and made promises to meet up during the holiday break before moving on to the next person.
As the crowd slowly dispersed, the only ones remaining in the Mirror Chamber were Yuu, Azul, Grim, and the twins. It seemed like the decision was made: Yuu, Azul, Grim, and the twins would be staying at Night Raven College during the holiday break.
"I don't understand why you must do this instead of taking a break," Yuu's mama commented, gently petting Grim. "Yes, you would think a famous school would have all this automated, but it seems like it's not living up to its name," Maleficent added, holding her teacup out for one of the fairies to refill.
"You know, Mama, I can't have the fairies dying on me, even if I'd love to shove it at Crowley. I won't have my hands stained with fairy blood," Yuu explained as they tossed a log into the fireplace. "How about I make this faster for you guys with a song?" Yuu suggested, extending their hand for a fire fairy to hold.
"Hmm, why not? It's been a while since we've listened to you sing," the Evil Queen said, looking up from her knitting. "As you wish, mother," Yuu replied before beginning to hum the tune of "Almost There." The room filled with melodic sound, creating a soothing atmosphere as they worked together to speed up the holiday preparations.
~ Mama, I don't have time for dancin'
That's just gonna have to wait a while
Ain't got time for messin' around
And it's not my style
This old town can slow you down
People taking the easy way ~
Yuu's voice filled the air, carrying with it the bittersweet memories of Tina, their beloved friend, and her delicious cooking. As they sang and danced with the fairy, the surroundings shifted and bent, transforming the room into an empty warehouse, a place once filled with laughter and the delightful aroma of Tina's culinary creations.
The scent of her signature dishes wafted through the air, triggering a wave of nostalgia. The echo of shared stories, laughter, and the clinking of glasses lingered in the room. It was as if Tina's spirit had temporarily joined them, bringing a touch of her warmth and spirit to the moment.
Yuu's eyes glistened with tears as they continued to sing, a tribute to their dear friend who had left an indelible mark on their heart. The fairy joined in, adding its own ethereal harmony to the song as if acknowledging the significance of the moment.
In that shared memory and song, Tina's presence felt so real, as if she were right there with them, sharing one more meal, one more laugh, and one more dance. Yuu let out a sigh before falling back to the rhythm of the music as their voice echoed in the cafeteria.
~ But I know exactly where I'm going
Getting closer and closer every day
And I'm almost there
I'm almost there
People down here think I'm crazy
But I don't care
Trials and tribulations,
I've had my share
There ain't nothing gonna stop me now
'cause I'm almost there ~
As Yuu continued to sing, their voice intertwined with Tina's memory, a warm smile on their face, and a sudden and familiar touch interrupted their melody. Tina, as vivid and lifelike as ever, playfully shoved a beignet into Yuu's mouth.
"Here, honey, let me take it from here," Tina said with a wink. The warehouse transformed seamlessly into Tina's bustling kitchen, where pots and pans clanged and the savory and sweet aromas of her creations filled the air.
Yuu, now sitting back, watched in awe as Tina danced around the kitchen with grace and flair, taking command of the culinary symphony. She effortlessly flipped pancakes, stirred pots of gumbo, and sprinkled powdered sugar onto beignets. Each movement was a choreographed masterpiece, and the ingredients themselves seemed to dance to her tune.
Tina's voice joined the song, a rich and soulful addition that resonated with the essence of her cooking. It was a celebration of her culinary artistry and a reminder of the joy she had brought to their lives.
The room was filled with warmth and laughter as the memory of Tina's kitchen came alive, and the delicious dishes she prepared materialized before their eyes. It was a moment of pure magic, a tribute to a dear friend whose spirit and love for cooking would always live on in their hearts.
~ I remember Daddy told me
"Fairy tales can come true"
You gotta make 'em happen
It all depends on you
So I work real hard each and every day
Now things for sure are going my way
Just doing what I do
Look out, boys, I'm coming through
And I'm almost there
I'm almost there
People gonna come here from everywhere
And I'm almost there
I'm almost there ~
Tina's song continued to fill the room, and as she sang, hundreds of mouthwatering dishes appeared around her in a stunning display of culinary magic. The warehouse transformed into a magnificent banquet hall, with tables overflowing with every kind of food imaginable.
Grim wasted no time and took a hearty bite of the gumbo, savoring the flavors. "Henchman, I like this," he declared with a satisfied grin.
Tina beamed with delight, her warmth shining through. "Aww, thank you, honey. I wouldn't mind cooking for you anytime, cutie," she replied, handing Yuu a plate piled high with fresh beignets.
With the plate in hand, Yuu listened intently as Tina resumed her song, her voice filled with passion and love. It was a melody that celebrated not only the joy of cooking but also the bond they shared. The room was alive with magic and the delicious aroma of Tina's creations, a testament to the enduring friendship and love they all cherished.
~There's been trials and tribulations
You know I've had my share
But I've climbed the mountain, I've crossed the river
And I'm almost there
I'm almost there
I'm almost there ~
Tina concluded her song, and the magical banquet around them slowly faded, leaving behind the memory of the feast and the heartfelt moment they had shared. She turned her attention to Willa, sensing the turmoil in her friend's heart.
"Now, Willa, listen," Tina began, lifting Yuu's chin gently to meet her gaze. "Even if we are nothing but folktales and stories, it doesn't mean you have failed us. Stop being so hard on yourself. Understand?"
Yuu tried to protest, but Tina cut them off gently. "Willa, I'm not stupid. You'll say that you're over it when you're not. It's written all over your face," she said as she sat down beside Yuu. "Does it make me sad to be known only as a story and not a real person? Yes. But then I remember that it's either being remembered as a story while your friends fall into endless darkness so that you all don't die and are forever forgotten, or being remembered for a few moments as HE devours us like a snack. In that choice, I'd make the same one I made those moons ago. Please let me make that choice without you blaming yourself. Please let me choose to be remembered as a story. Understand?"
Yuu nodded, tears in their eyes, and spoke softly, "I understand. Please, don't go yet."
"I am here with you always," Tina reassured, wrapping Yuu in a warm hug. "Remember to smile."
"Okay," Yuu said quietly as Tina disappeared from their embrace, leaving behind the lingering weight of their emotions. It was a stark reminder that they were still alive, while their dear friends and loved ones were stuck on the other side.
As Yuu contemplated their situation, Hades spoke up, "Well, kid, give us a hug."
"Fine, fine," Yuu replied with a small smile before giving Hades a warm hug, feeling a sense of comfort in their presence.
However, their moment was interrupted by Scar's whisper. "Hey, Yuu. Someone is looking at you from the kitchen door window. It's that Jamil kid."
"Alright, thanks, Dad," Yuu said gratefully, breaking the hug with Hades. Scar and the rest of the Great Seven faded away, leaving Yuu to deal with the next wave of their responsibilities and challenges.
With determination, Yuu turned to address the new situation, ready to face whatever lay ahead, with the memories of their friends and the support of their unusual but caring companions to guide them.
The mysterious figure watched Yuu from the shadows, their eyes narrowing as they observed the presence of the Great Seven surrounding them. Rumors of their existence had circulated, but to witness it firsthand sent shivers down their spine. The question of what secrets lay hidden within this enigmatic group gnawed at them, but for now, their priority was to gain their favor.
Turning away from the scene, the figure addressed their dorm members, their voice low and determined. "Well, what are you guys standing around for? You need to cook the vegetables and boil the thawed meat. Don't forget to add the nuts once the oil is heated."
As the group of dorm members hurried to carry out their orders, the figure couldn't shake the feeling that they were on the verge of uncovering a profound mystery.
Yuu/mc/reader x your boy of choice. He asks Yuu out, on the day of the date, He goes to pick them up at Ramshackle. Only for Grim to answer the door. Fine, whatever. He goes in the living room to wait for Yuu to finish getting ready. The ghost appear, and all four of them are staring this boy down. He wasn’t expecting to have the “What are your intentions? If you hurt them we will kill you” talk with a bunch of ghost and a monster cat, but that’s how this Saturday is going. When Yuu finally comes down, all the ghost and Grim act as if they weren’t threatening their date.
I made a BIG mistake with Grim but let’s pretend he’s floating XD Seriously I had a mini mental breakdown when I saw the error ;-; I’m weak yeah ;-; The final result is kinda ugly :/ I’m dead TwT
so here’s my MC/Yuu (with a dorm outfit designed by Crewel) !
