People at NRC were prideful, teachers, students, and ghosts alike. For example, one would rather die than admit that they are in a critical condition, but they would also rather die than be placed in that humiliating situation in the first place. Very contradicting I know, but then again this is a school full of a bunch of morally grey, bordering dark, teenage boys who were all somewhat traumatised as children and need therapy. Are we shocked?

Anyways, ignoring all that, people at NRC were prideful, that included one Ace Trappola. He was, however, also incredibly spoiled and he and shit to back up his pride.

Ace, as the youngest, had always been subjected to a fair amount of love and attention, whether that may be from his grandparents, parents, brother, or other family members, he was never limited on people who he could just turn to and flash a little smile to and be immediately rewarded with praise and candy.

As well as this Ace was a natural entertainer. He had a natural charm to him, and his charisma caused people to let him in or flock to him, depending on his mood. He was also smart. He knew when to lie, when to twist his words and when to tell the truth, whether it be the full truth or not. He knew how size up his enemies and what fights to pick or lose. He could pick things up easily, only needing a few tries to get it down and he knew how to work his way through the basics without tripping up.

However, that was back home. At NRC? Everything was different.

To start with everyone wore a mask, which made them all so much harder to read, to reel in, to attract.

Second thing was that everyone was strong. Whether it be through magical prowess, physical strength or intellectual ability, everyone had something that made them strong. Even one's that seemed like nothing but a speck of dust, or a coal in a diamond mind, they all had something in them had warned Ace that it wouldn.t be wise messing with them long term.

(When Ace looks back on it, he supposes that's when it all began)

Despite everything however, everyone at NRC still had emotions, feelings, and a need. And thankfully Ace found people who didn't look the need nor want of friendship.

However, Ace realised he needed something more. No, it hadn't been to surpass the other first years (okay so maybe he was a little salty that Deuce, Epel, and Jack all had their Unique Magics, and yes maybe he was a little jealous of the praise that they were receiving but still! He was over it! (He wasn't)) And no it wasn't to grow to be the tallest or the strongest (he enjoyed his height and size, thank you very much. It helped him feel nice and-). And no, he didn't want to be the top of the year for the exams (But mean, it would be nice to be finally sent a letter of acknowledgement or to be told that someone was proud of him. He hadn't heard it since he started at NRC from anyone really. And he absolutely did not want to be part of the spell drive team at all! (Following his brothers' footsteps by wanting to join Heartslabul had already been a mistake, he didn't need to make another one thank you very much.)

No, what was Ace realised he needed was praise.


He first noticed his need when Deuce had gone running to their upperclassmen to inform them about his acquisition of his unique magic.

"Well done, Deuce!" the rare praise coming out of their house wardens mouth made something in Ace's gut twist painfully, but he pushed it down and chalked it up to nerves from having to fight and overblotted Vil-senpai.

"My underclassman is so smart and talented!" cooed cater excitedly as he gave Deuce a side hug, smiling widely at the younger's achievement.

"Wow! Ace you're so cool! I wish I could do that!"

"That's my son! Always so bright!"

"I'll bake you a pie tomorrow." Trey assured Deuce, a proud look on his face as he clapped a hand on Deuce's shoulder, laughing slightly when the raven turned to him with stars in his eyes.

At that, Ace spun around on his heel and silently walked off.

There had been an insult buried in him, wanting to be unleashed, wanting to spit acid at Deuce, at his upperclassmen, at everyone. But he kept in, because he was smart, and he knew that yelling at Deuce won't make the strange feeling in his chest go away.

"I do have to congratulate both you and Ace, however, on the VDC." Continued Trey "Not many first years can attest to the bravery of being able to perform in front of everyone like that and you and Ace kept your heads up pretty well, even after you lost."

"Trey-kun is right!" Nodded Cater along. "You and Ace-chan deserve a round of applause!" Winked Cater at Deuce's embarrassed look.

"Eh- no need for that!" Deuce laughed nervously at his senpai. "After that performance I don't want to be publicly in front of anyone ever again." Pour soul, having no idea that he would probably have to do public speaking in the future as an honour's student.

"But they are both right in the sense that you and Ace deserve to be congratulated for bringing prestige to the Queen of Heart's name." Riddle cut in firmly, tone clear that no one will be arguing the matter. "So that means we will- "suddenly the house warden cut himself off. As if realising something was amiss, he craned his head and turned around, as if looking for something, or in this case someone. "Where is Ace?"

"Ehhh!?" yelped Cater, jumping around and true to Riddle's world, Ace was not around.

Immediately, something akin to panic entered Deuces eyes but it disappeared as soon as it arrived, leaving Trey to question if he was just seeing things.

"Now, now." He waved the two redheads down. "Ace is most likely tired from the VDC and turned in early. We can congratulate the two of them tomorrow, when they're both fully rested."

The two nodded, soothed by Trey's words for two completely different reasons.

"You're right, Trey." Nodded Riddle to his vice. "Deuce makes sure you get plenty of rest. Rule 118 of the Queen of hearts: One must always be alert when having breakfast."

One could truly never tell if these rules were real or not but nonetheless Deuce still nodded, smiling mindlessly as he bid hid upperclassmen goodnight.

"Night, Night Deuce-Chan! Make sure to kiss Ace-chan goodnight." Cater waved and laughed at the flush that spread his underclassmen's face.

Deuce shook his head at his upperclassmen's teasing and made his way to the first year's dorm room.

"Hey Ace?" Deuce called out when he walked into a dark room. He had to squint his eyes to be able to see and he only just managed to be able to work out his roommate laying down.

No one answered his call and Ace took several steps closer to the other boy and sure enough, there lay the ginger, fast asleep.

'Fair enough, especially after what happened today.' Deuce thought to himself as he went to wash up before bed.

It was too bad the other had only took in a surface look at Ace and hadn't released the rosier than normal complexion and the tear-stricken cheeks.

(They never did end up having that conversation and Ace wasn't told how proud his upperclassmen were of the both of them.)


The second instance of when Ace felt the need to be…praised had been when the basketball team and the Spelldrive team had had a little meeting to discuss the other team's strategies, which was honestly a fancy way of saying that they all sat around to talk shit about Royal Sword Academy and how badly they wanted they wanted to pummel them.

"Right little pricks! One upperclassman yelled, eyes blazing in anger and determination. "Let's twat them!" he yelled again.

"Cheers to that!" roared out Leona in approval, much to everyone's delight.

"It is so interesting seeing the effect of what long term steroids, anger and constant working out can do to you." Commented Ace dryly to his purple headed companion. Epel let out on an ungraceful snort and just as quickly attempted to cover it up.

However, he still smiled at the other so Ace counted his wins.

"Ahh~" Ace sighed up as he stood up and stretched his back. "I'll be back in a moment I just need to grab a drink." He answered the Shorter's questioning look. "Preferably one that isn't saddled with protein powder." he added, wincing slightly at how he remembered an upperclassman had shoved a bottle that was 70% powder and 30% water into his hands.

"Ahh!" Epel nodded in understanding, giving Ace a warm smile. "I'll save your seat." Epel reassured him.

Ace nodded thankfully before he made his way outside to grab a drink from the vending machine. However, he soon realised his error when he noticed he had forgotten to ask for some change or bring any. 'Shit. At least it's Epel and not the others.' Ace thought gratefully, sighing inwardly in relief. Had it been any of the other first years he would have been fighting tooth and nil to even get any scraps.

As Ace made his way back to the impromptu meeting place of the clubs, he suddenly heard voices near where he had left Epel earlier. There he noticed Leona, Ruggie, Floyd and Jamil all sat there talking animatedly with the other first year. Ignoring the sting in his heart he quickly made himself scarce from their viewing point and hid behind a few tables. He used the small amount of magic he knew he could get away with to allow himself to eavesdrop on their conversation.

"Ahhh~" He heard Ruggie sigh out in happiness as he clapped his hands down on Epel's shoulder. "It is so nice to know I have a reliable underclassman in my club! Truly blessed!" and he was! Compared to other club senpais he had well and truly hit the jack pot with finding Epel.

"Thank you, Senpai! You're too kind though." Epel replied modestly but secretly inside he was bursting with happiness.

Ace once again tampered down the uncomfortable emotion he was feeling as to focus his attention on the conversation.

"Ruggie's right though." Interjected Leona, and ruffled the promefiore hair, a rare display of affection from the second prince of the Savannah. Ace felt as if a knife was going through his heart as he tried to remember when he had last had his hair ruffled or was thoroughly praised like that by either Floyd or Jamil-senpai. "Anyways," Leona continues, sly smirk on his face as he jerked his head to the basketball duo. "Unlike some people we actually have un underclassmen we like and who can behave."

"What are you trying to say, Leona-senpai?" Jamil asked sweetly.

"Well, nothing really?" Leona replied, putting his hand up in defence but his smirk told a different story. "I'm just saying that Ace is well, not the greatest." Leona shrugged as if it was common knowledge, eyes mockingly pitying as he gazed at the two, unknowing of how Ace felt like he had been stabbed in the back a dozed time and punched in the gut one too many times, "I mean what does he do? Skip, mess around, be loud and more. So why do you keep him?"

For a moment, Ace held out hope that maybe his senpai will defend him, maybe they would disagree with Leona and call him out on his bullshit, anything really. However, that hope was crushed when both his senpai shrugged.

"Mehhh. Well, I mean sea-lion senpai isn't wrong." Floyd shrugged, rubbing the back off his head in indifference.

"Trye. He's disrespectful, a leech and more." Continues Jamil, senpai, shrugging in a 'what can you do?' manner.

"Ahhh, my baby brother is so cute!"

"You are so well-behaved!"

"You should all follow Ace's example."

Ace felt his heart shatter into a million pieces. Silently, he stood up, and walked away, not bothering to listen to the rest. He was just tired, so tired.

(He just wanted to be praised)

"…But I mean he has his moments when he's just too cute to get mad at." Smirked Jamil, folding his arms and leaning back, fondly remembering the sweet flush on Ace's face when the other upperclassmen had rushed to Ace to congratulate him on their teams' victory. The younger had looked more docile than usual and smiled more sweetly than Floyd and Jamil had ever remembered him doing.

"Plus, he is an incredible player and manages to get along with everyone, even when he's being a little shit." Continued Jamil, and almost proud look on his face.

"Plus, Kani-chan is too cute to stay mad at for long." Added Floyd, remembering how Ace had managed to weasel his way out of the Camp fiasco, not realising that the fetching flush on his face and begging had made the captain need a moment to 'compose himself.

Leona, Ruggie and Epel stared at the two for a moment before they all sighed and flopped backwards.

"Ahh~" Ruggie sighed dejectedly "And we were so close to getting him on our team." He shook his head in disappointment.

"Man, that little shit has got you wrapped around his little finger." Cursed Leona, annoyed that his plan of trying to recruit the other hadn't worked. When he had heard that the Heartslabul student had amazing spatial awareness and when he had seen it with his own eyes, he had immediately capitalised on him.

"Better luck next time." laughed Jamil but his eyes told a different story.

"Hey, where is Kani-chan anyway?" interrupted Floyd and Epel jumped, worry taking over his features.

"He had said earlier that he had gone to get a drink." He told them, turning around trying to spot the redhead but to no avail. "Maybe he went back in?"

"Probably. After what that thunderhead did." Leona shook his head as how he had remembered one of his club members had shoved the protein powder into Aces hand and wouldn't leave him alone until he took a sip of it. "Well, it'll be time to head in soon anyway."

"True, True." Ruggie stood up and stretched. "Time to get going."


The third time Ace felt that overwhelming need to just be praised it hadn't been a particular moment or situation that triggered. It had been a realisation.

The realisation that he had well and truly not been told anything /positive/ for however long he's been here. His talents had been brushed off, praise shallow and unfocused. He hadn't been asked about, he hadn't had any physical affection either, save for threats.

At that realisation Ace couldn't help but let out a wounded noise as he curled up on himself on his bed, grateful that his dormmates where all out.

"I just wanna be told that I'm good." He cried to himself. "Is that too much?"


"Hey, has anyone noticed Ace being a little weird?" asked Jack, whispering to the other first years.

"Oh, so it wasn't just me who noticed how silent the human was being." Murmured Sebek back, for once quiet and focusing on something that wasn't Malleus

"Yeah, House warden Riddle had been getting really concerned over it. He said that he had barely seen Ace and when he does, he's gone the next moment." Joined in Deuce to the conversation about the unusually quiet first year.

Ace had had his head down and had studiously been doing the history homework that Trein sensei had set for them. That day. The other first years had all shared looks of complete and utter surprise before all just unanimously shrugging and taking out their own textbooks, thinking that Ace would just get bored and distract them all from their studies. But no. In fact, the older first year hadn't looked up once from the task sheets set. They had all gaped at him as he continued writing, handwriting flawless.

"I'm getting worried." Epel told them all worriedly as Ace flipped next to the second page and in fact smiled when he saw the content!

"Yeah no, let's go consult a senpai or two, find out what this voodoo nonsense is." Huffed Epel as he stood up abruptly, managing to snap Ace out of his studying spell.

"Oh, hey you guys, I thought you left." His eyes wide in shock as he stared over his friends but there was still an indescribable blank look to him.

"Well, uh, yeah." Coughed Jack gruffly as he also stood up. "We were going to go anyway, since we got tired and stuff…" he trailed off, realising that they well and truly had no excuse for leaving right now.

"Oh cool." He said indifferently before returning back to his studies,

"So, we shall see you!" yelled out Sebek and that at least managed to get a wince out of the ginger. A sense of relief passed over them, grateful that Ace still felt normal human emotions.

Ace gave an absent nod, scribbling over something and rewriting something else.

They all looked at each other lost before they slowly started packing up, hoping that maybe Ace would change his mind and come with them, but it was a no go. Just as they had all finished packing up Ace suddenly jumped back from his paperwork and turned frantically to Deuce, and they all felt a flicker of hope before it died down when they heard Ace ask his question.

"Hey, can you tell the house warden I might be later than usual since I really just wanna get everything done."

Deuce stared at his best friend in something akin to horror before he nodded slowly. "Um, yeah, sure absolutely." He stumbled through his words, still in shock from the request.

"Great, thank you!" Ace smiled blankly before he turned back to his own work as if nothing happened.

The other first years all shared a look.

'What the hell happened to Ace?'


"Look, I'm just saying it makes sense- "

"And I'm saying you're wrong." Snapped back Vil, glaring at Cater. The two had been arguing for the past 20 minutes on gift ideas and the others around them had had just about enough.

"Okay!" interrupted Trey, holding his hands out like a signature of peace to calm the two third years when they turned around to face him. "Whilst I am sure that both of you have wonderful ideas for Ace's birthday." he emphasised. "Arguing will get us nowhere in planning.

Currently the third and second years had all grouped together to discuss the game plan for Ace's birthday. And it was going about as well as you'd think.

They had all decided to gather together to think for ideas as they had all slowly started noticing that the usually energetic and cheerful first year had been acting out of sorts lately. What with ignoring his usual basketball senpais, not speaking a word to his dorm senpais and being out of sight from the others, despite the numeral joint classes that had been happening recently.

Ace had avoided all of them like the plague and they were all stuck trying to find out what had happened to the first year.

"We've been here an hour and we haven't agreed on shit. Just throw him a bag of candy and tell him he's been doing a good job and move on."

"But Roi du Leon." Chided Rook and Leona didn't both hiding a groan of annoyance much to the grievance of Vil who shot him a glare. "Birthdays are a special thing! One must always treasure them!"

Leona stared at him for a moment and questioned what he had done in this world to be surrounded by oblivious morons.

"Rook is right!" Kalim said, stopping Leona from tearing into Rook. "Ace has been looking really gloomy recently and he always seems to have a look of longing." As oblivious as Kalim can get, he understood the look in Ace's eyes. Afterall, that was the same look in his eyes when he transferred into NRC.

"Well, what need could that be?" inquired Azul, taking on a caring persona but everyone could see through it from a mile away. "I would not mind being able to give Ace-san something he longs for, for I am after all oh so kind,"

Leona and Jamil's looks of joint disgust did nothing to put him off as he stared at Kalim expectedly.

"Azul is right! Ace-san was such a great worker when he was in the ostro lounge, being able to give back to him would make our hearts sore." Jade simpered with a smile with way too many teeth.

"Jade and Azul are right. Plus, then maybe Kani-chan can actually play with me again."

"Well according to the brain scans I took from Ace-san- "

"I'm sorry what did you do?" interrupted Ruggie, eyes bugging as he stared at the other in mild horror.

"Nee-san installed it in for me!" he replied as if that made anything better.

When they all turned to Idia, the other yelped and ducked down into his jacket. "What? You don't know when it would be useful!" he defended.

"He's not wrong.2 backed up Lilia, a thoughtful look on his face.

"Anyways, you were saying Ortho?" Jamil prompted gently.

"Well, I took a brain scan, and everything seemed to be working just fine." Ortho said, much to their relief. However, it was short as Ortho continued on. "However, I have noticed that he had been sadder than normal and that's because a part of his brain isn't being stimulated enough." Ortho told them, robotic voice carrying concern over the first year he looked up to the most.

"What isn't being stimulated?" asked Malleus, looking baffled as he stared at the android. Everyone sans Lilia and Silver jumped at the voice, slightly forgetting the other had been there. "Night Raven College provides an assortment of education and learning material. Would that not be enough?" Lilia held in the urge to coo and stretch the others cheek at the slightly childish answer.

"Well, a child's mind needs to be stimulated with more than just that." Trey answered him, remembering how his parents had constantly made him make sure that his younger siblings were always doing something, whether it would be drawing or playing with each other. "Considering Ace is the youngest in his family wouldn.t particularly know what his specific needs are right now." Trey told them apologetically.

At that everyone spun around to face the youngest children: Leona, cater and Ortho.

"What?" snapped Leona.

"Did you feel worried and/or anxious at all in your first year?"

"No." they all snapped except Ortho.

"I always had nee san with me, so I was fine!" Idia held in the urge to coo at his little brother.

"Meanwhile I was all too happy to leave my sisters." Laughed Cater, twiddling a hair strand.

"Except now I have to deal with Farena trying to dry out my data, so fun all around."

"Brother issues aside, this doesn't tell us about why Ace is so upset and what he wants." Interjected Jamil, already tired.

"Actually, I think the reason why Ace is so- "

However, Kalim's voice was drowned out when Azul cut in and turned to Jamil.

"Why dear Jamil-san, you seem too invested in this story? Do you not care for Ace-san?"

"Listen here you- "

And just like that, arguments started breaking out, left and right.

"Umm, hey guys, I think the reason- "

"You uncivilised brute. The potato would certainly not appreciate that- "

"He is a teenager!"

"I think- "
"Well shit needs to be in budget!"

"It's not my fault you're broke!"

"Rude!"

"Hello-!"
"He's, my underclassmen!"

"Shit job you've done with him!"

"Umm everyone-!" unfortunately something else cut Kalim off

"Senpai!" the senpai all heard a yell as a small heard of first hears ran to them sand for one red head.

"Heyy guys?" asked Cater, confused and mildly scared as he watched the younger year pant as if they had run a marathon. "What's wrong?"

"It's Ace!" Yelled Epel, looking close to tears much to the shock of the house warden and vices of promefiore and savanaclaw.

"Oh, for the love of-" Sighed Riddle annoyed, but inwardly he couldn't help but feel the slightest bit of joy at the fact that he would now be able to talk to the first year interrupted without him disappearing. "What's he done now?"

"That's it!" yelled Deuce throwing his hands up in the air. "He isn't doing anything!" he sounded so despaired that even some of the meaner senpai felt sorry for him.

"He's been so blank it's almost as if, almost as if..." Sebek looked around, looking for the word before his eyes came to a stop in front of his leader. "Almost as if he was waka-sama!"

Everyone stared at the green haired boy in shock at the fact that he would insult his precious senpai like that.

"Sebek!" scolded Silver, for once.

"He's right!" defended Jack, tail wagging anxiously.

"He's been acting like a blank possessed doll!"

"I am not-!"

"And he's been practically ghosting us all week!" cried out Epel.

The older boys shared a look of combined disbelief before taking a deep breath and tunning back to their underclassmen, ignoring Kalim's pouty look of disbelief.

"Well, that doesn't particularly mean anything- "Vil tried to calm them down but was interrupted by Deuce

"He's doing Trien's homework!" Deuce yelled, not caring whether the actual teacher heard him. When the others just stared at him, he elaborated. "It was set today!"

That caused a gasp to ripple through the older boys who all started muttering.

"See, I told you something was wrong!"

"No one said you weren't right."

"Oh, the beauty of youth is being ruined!"

"Calm the fuck down."

As everyone started to panic Kalim huffed and took a deep breath.

One moment everyone was standing there, dry as the Sahara, the next they were all sopping wet. They turned to the perpetrator who for once had a look of deep annoyance on his face.

"Listen to me! Ace is upset because he isn't being praised and he's used to it!"

Everyone stared at the ivory haired boy in shock before Ruggie broke it with a nervous laugh.

"What are you talking about Kalim? I'm sure Ace just wants- "

"I know what I'm talking about because I went through the same thing when I transferred. I just hid it better." Revealed Kalim much to the confoundment of Jamil. "Ace is the youngest and from what I've been hearing of others and from what I've seen so far, he's talented. He's probably used to being treated more nicely and with a whole lot more praise."

Everyone stared at the heir in shock before the pieces started coming to together and they all shared a collective 'Oooooh' moment

"Oh, so that's why- "

"So much more shit is making more sense."

"So, what do we do?" asked the first years, still slightly confused. There was a pause before their upperclassmen turned to them, smirks on their faces scary enough to make a child want to cry.

"Oh, you won't have to do anything. Leave it to us." It sounded more like an ominous threat than a reassurance to the third years.

'Sorry Ace.' They thought to themselves as they watched their senpai plot out their scheme.


When Ace woke up one day, he felt a shiver go down his spine and a heavy feeling sink to his stomach.

'Ignore it and it'll go away.' Ace firmly thought to himself.

Baby boy should have just stayed in bed.


Ace accepted his fate when he lost his footing and tripped on thin air and started falling down. What he hadn't expected was for someone to catch him like he was a princess.

"Hello, monsieur heart!" announced Rook senpai, smile bright as he stared down at the gaping red head in his arms.

"Se-senpai." Ace returned half-heartedly, awkwardly laughing as he attempted to weasel his way out of the others arms but to no avail. Surprisingly, the eccentric blonde had more muscle than one would give him credit for, and he kept an arm tightly around his waist as his fingers traced Aces cheek. "W-whoa- "

"Those eyes of yours shine like the brightest star in the galaxy, non, the universe. Your skin, as fair as day, tantalising as a blood red apple. Your hair, so soft and lovely, makes it hard for one's hand to restrain themselves. Comparing you to a single rose, neigh, a garden of them would only be insulting to your beauty as you out way all of them. Your mind, so great and so fresh, spinning with answers and information, oh how I wish I could dive deeper and- "

"Rook, that's enough." Came a sharp voice and Ace could have cried from gratitude. There stood Vil in front of them, as regal as ever with his hair straightened immaculately and his eyeliner sharp. He glared at his vice until the other let Ace go. Ace turned to thank the older boy, but Vil smirked and continued, eying Ace peculiarly. "You'll make him cry otherwise."

"I don't cry." Lied Ace through his teeth, and Vil just raised an incredulous eyebrow at him before smirking yet again and bringing a cold hand to Aces face. Using his fingers h grasped Aces chin and tipped it back so he couldn't look away as Vil towered over him.

"Oh, but I could make you." The blonde whispered into his ear, deep voice sending shivers down Aces spine. Ace couldn't tell if there was a double meaning to that or he was just being insanely paranoid after Rook's little show. Vil sighed and moved his hand so he could cup the gingers cheek and thumbed his cheek. "You truly would have been perfect at promefiore. Pretty, smart, and agile. You practically fit the whole bill."

Ace felt his cheeks flame at Vil's confession. Panicking, he swatted the hand away and turned to cover his face. "H-ha, h-how lame, senpai." He laughed nervously, refusing to meet the others eyes. Vil, unbeknown to him, stared in astonishment at the unusual shy response from the usually boisterous boy but chalked it up to maybe being overwhelmed by Rook's earlier compliments, Meanwhile, the French blonde stood there, eyes burning with the desire of wanting to ravish the younger with more, more- "

"Ah, Ace-san!" called out a slimy voice and Vil held back a sigh of annoyance. "How wonderful to see you." Azul told him and Ace stared at him blankly.

"What the- "

"Crabby!" called out Floyd, wrapping his arms around Ace and pulling him in close.

"F-Floyd!" Ace yelped as he wabbled slightly with the introduction of the new weight. "Don't jump on people like that!" despite the flippant scolding Ace prayed to every deity out there that Floyd was in a good mood or otherwise he was screwed. Well, it turns out Floyd wasn't in a bad mood. He was in a 'I'm going to go up to Ace and randomly bully him' mood

"Crabby looks cuter today for some reason." Floyd commented, pulling at Ace's cheeks but still refusing to let him go.

"Oh, truly Floyd?" came the voice of menace #2 and Ace could already see his smirk in his head. "Perhaps it is because I am not in constant presence of young Ace-san that I am not able to tell when he gets cuter." Jade laughed and Ace was… surprised at how tame the older boy sounded. He had expected something more… malicious to come out of the other's mouth. Maybe he had judged too quickly-. "However, I must admit that blush looks rather fetching on him. I must say I almost feel a need to keep that blush present at all times, but I fear that might lose it's shine soon."

Never mind, both the twins were spawns of Satan, and nothing was going to change that.

"Now, now. Jade, Floyd, you must not harass dear Ace-san!" scolded Azul but Ace could hear the laughter in his voice.

"I agree." Voiced Vil and Ace would have jumped if not for Floyd's arms.

"Ah but Vil, they are not wrong now!" defended Rook and Ace resisted the urge to point out that Rook of all people defending something wasn't all that great.

"Crabby, let's ditch everyone and go play basketball." Whined Floyd, barely even paying attention to the conversation, mainly just focusing his attention on trying to nuzzle into Ace's neck.

"Floyd, don't be so rude." Chided Azul firmly. "I was just about to offer Ace-san an invitation to the ostro lounge. After all I'm sure he has yet to eat." Smiled Azul at Ace in what was supposed to be a comforting matter, but Ace felt more like it was a shark bearing down on its prey before it killed them. "Free of charge as well!" he threw in as if to entice the deal, but it only made Ace feel more on edge about everything that was going on. He really should have stayed in bed.

"Did you even ask him before you made that decision up?" asked Vil disdainfully, glaring down at Azul, mildly miffed that his time with the ginger had been interrupted.

"Well for what reason would Ace-san have to refuse?" asked Jade, voice taking in on genuine surprise and confusion. By the sevens, and Vil thought he was an actor. "We're eve willing to do it free of charge!" he added in, acting scandalised as if that was the biggest travesty.

Ace stared at him for a moment before remembering his earlier comments about how 'cute' he was resurfaced, and he simply buried his head in Floyd's chest.

"Nehhhh~ Crabby's getting too overwhelmed!" pointed out Floyd, pulling Ace away from him to show everyone and Ace wanted to curse the overly tall senior.

"Ace-san are you okay?" asked Jade, voice gentle as he stared down at the boy in genuine worry and confusion along with the others. They hadn't expected the younger to react this badly to a bit of light teasing, but they couldn't deny that it was slightly enjoyable seeing Ace, usually smart-mouthed and bratty, look absolutely adorable and shy.

Ace stared silently before he opened his mouth and answered.

Now he could have answered with his usual bravado. Caused them all to role their eyes and go on with their day. Maybe even laugh along with them and sneak in an insult so at least he would get pummelled, and things can go back to normal. But no. Instead, what came out of his mouth would haunt him for the rest of his life, even after graduation.

"I-I'm not cute Jade-senpai!" he stammered out loudly before he managed to gather enough strength to push Floyd of him and make a run for it, not daring to look back at his senpai, even if he could still feel their stares aimed at him.

However, as he ran, he couldn't help but feel lighter, fuller, brighter. It was as if his body was finally being fed after weeks of being starved. It was like he was finally indulging in a sweet treat after eating nothing but rabbit food.

(He refuses to acknowledge what he had been hungry for)

Vil stared after Ace's running figure and let out a graceful chuckle behind his hand. The others followed suit, minus Floyd who let out a loud guffaw and Vil and Azul didn't bother scolding him.

"Well, I was certainly right when I said I would love to train him if he was in pomefiore." Vil smirked, remembering just how beautiful Ace had looked with his face painted red from blushing so much. "He looks absolutely stunning." Vil said, almost in awe.

"I agree!" Rook jumped in, smile wide and eyes almost maniacal. "What I would give to have the young one in promefiore." Rook sighed out, almost wounded at the idea of the younger not being with him. "We must talk with Riddle-san and see if we can convince- "

"Crabby is going to our dorm if he's gonna make any transitions." Snapped Floyd, glaring at Rook.

"And who said you're making that decision?" asked Vil, raising an eyebrow at the twin.

"Well Floyd would not be wrong now, would he?" Jumped Azul into the deal. "After all many people would benefit from this if he transferred into Octavanielle." Azul then smirked condescendingly and Vil stiffened. "After all, going into promefiore he would most likely come out with an eating disorder- "

"And going into your dorm would make him come out with a fear of all authority- "

"Messieurs, messieurs." Rook cut in between them brightly, so brightly one would think he was merely settling a dispute about a favourite colour. "This is no time for us to be fighting! Non!" Rook yelled out, causing everyone, sans Jade to wince at the volume. "We are currently joined in a mission to make young Ace feel better about himself! So, lets!"

"I agree with Rook-san." Jade smiled pleasantly, one hand on his chest as he stared down at everyone. "Today is all about Ace-san." He smiled and then tilted his head. "We can settle out our...ahem disputes later on, shall we?"

Azul and Vil stared at them before sighing and acquitting, however the glares they sent each other told the other to be ready.

"Hehe." Floyd laughed, interrupting their stare down. "I can't wait to make crabby blush."

They all couldn't help but share that sentiment.

Ace felt like he was going crazy.

After the morning incident he had chalked it up to just something random, weird and a one-time experience. He should learn to never write anything off in this school.


After the little incident that had happened, he had ended up getting cornered by Ruggie-senpai on his way to the cafeteria for breakfast. The hyena had thrown an arm over the redhead and leaned in real close to his personal space.

"How's my favourite freshman going." He snickered; eyes bright.

"I'm sure Jack would feel hurt that he isn't your favourite." Ace avoided the question and shrugged the arm of his shoulders, oblivious to the look of shock and mild annoyance in the blondes' eyes.

"Ehh, he'll manage." Ruggie shrugged and then smirked. "He has Leona." He snickered and Ace couldn't help but join in, remembering the small crush the other had on the older. "Besides." Ruggie continued, shooting Ace a playful look. "You're the funnest to be around."

At the compliment Ace felt a weird sensation happen in his stomach. Almost like what he had experienced with the other senpai, except way less overwhelming. More pleasant, more comfortable. More something he could handle.

He should have known better than to fall for such a trap.

"Awe thank you, senpai" Ace winked at the other, body untensing slightly as he got more comfortable around Ruggie. " not so bad yourself." He teased, expecting the other to look affronted or at least give him a playful shove but all the other did was smile and wink back at him

"Hey, I'm just being honest!" he put his hand ups. "You can tell funny jokes; you know how to figure shit out with a snap of a finger." He paused to look him up and down. "You're pretty cute with a nice figure" he added, winking at Ace's blushing face.

'Seriously what is up with everyone and calling me cute!' Ace thought to himself as he laughed nervously and rubbed the back of his head.

"Ha, so funny Ru- "he tried to play it off but got interrupted.

"Dude, I'm being serious." Ruggie stopped him firmly, for once eyes serious. "You're a great guy, Ace. Even if we don't say it enough, even though we should, you are incredible." Ruggie told him sincerely, face open and eyes shining with the honesty of it all.

Ace stared at Ruggie for what felt an eternity (it was probably only a few seconds) before he whipped his head away and flushed brighter than a tomato.

"Thanks." He got out, thankfully without stuttering. However, he still refused to meet eyes with the blonde, but he did not move when the hyena threw his arm around him.

"C'mon let's go grab breakfast."

As much as Ruggie wanted to laugh at how cute Ace looked he understood that Ace was currently too vulnerable for it to look like he was just making fun of him and resigned to just meet up with his year group to discuss how cute the first year was.


"Remind me again, why am I here?" Leona asked and Cater resisted the urge to bash him with a nearby chair. Instead, he took in a calming deep breath and turned to the other with a bright smile that caused Idia to let out a little eep and scooch away.

"Because." He replied pleasantly through gritted teeth. "This was a group plan, so this will be a group. Effort." He emphasised firmly and watched as the Lion rolled his eyes and huffed. Cater exhaled and started counting backwards from 100 to help calm himself.

'Ace-shi." Idia thought desperately as he prayed to every deity out there 'Please, please, please be grateful for this!"


After eating breakfast with Ruggie and plotting ways to 'borrow' some potion ingredients to sell them off to the students, Ace made his way to the library to finish off the assignment set by Trein. Unfortunately, he had been unable to finish it due to the fact that he had ended up with an unexpected chill that had gotten too severe to not be away in his dorm and then it had ended up getting too late for him to finish it.

'Oh well, never mind that. I only have a few more questions left to do anyways.'

Ace hummed as he made his way through the library, attempting to find some place to sit. Suddenly, he felt a hand clamp on his shoulder and him being pulled back.

"Ack." He chocked out and when he looked up it was to Cater's friendly smile, Leona's annoyed face and Idia's nervous gaze.

"Ace-chan!" Cater greeted cheerfully, fully ignoring the 'Shush' that was sent his way. "What are you doing here?"

"Umm, to study?" he answered awkwardly and tried not to feel offended at the looks of shock on their faces. "What are you three doing here?" he asked back. Might as well make some small talk considering he hasn't talked to his arguably favourite senpai in a while

"Really?" Cater asked, unable to fully hide the shock in his face and winced slightly at the blank look Ace sent him.

"Yes." He snapped but Cater could still detect the hurt in his voice.

"What are you studying?" Leona cut in, for once being useful.

"Trein-sensei set us to learn about the laws and the historic values from each of the seven." Ace replied tonelessly but eyes snapped forward when he heard Idia make a disgusted noise.

"Eck, that took me weeks to finish." The introvert grumbled, eyes speaking a tale of horror.

"It was torture and a half." Agreed Leona.

"Yeah, I was lucky I had Trey-kun who kinda knew what he was doing." laughed Cater nervously, twiddling a hair strand. "So, what did you need help with?" he asked Ace but the younger just shot him another blank look.

"I never said I needed help. I'm just here to finish it."

The three third years shared a look before bursting into laughter however they stopped when another loud 'shush' rang through the room. Idia hid his face in his coat whilst Cater just waved nervously at the pissed off faces.

"No offense, kid, but I find that hard to believe." Smirked Leona condescendingly at Ace.

Ace wanted to reply with 'Coming from the guy who got held back twice?' But instead, because he wanted to live, he instead just smiled and handed him the almost done assignment. Ace wasn't going to lie. Seeing the pure shock on their faces made him feel both smug and hurt.

However, those shocked faces turned to ones of slight respect and if he could see that right…pride?

"Damn kid." Leona let out, flicking through the ginger's homework, shocked at some of the answered that the younger had written.

"Ehh, how did you write that much?" asked Idia in shock as he looked over Leona's shoulder. He knew the younger was good, but this was unbelievable.

"Ehh, it wasn't that hard." Ace answered and when they looked over at him, he looks completely bored. "Trein was talking about it in class and my nig brother used to complain about the assignment. So, I ended up getting curious and doing my own research on them." Ace told them as this was a perfectly normal thing.

It was silent for a moment before Ace let out another yelp as Cater threw his arms around him.

"My first year is so smart." The older cooed as he placed multiple kisses to Aces face, not letting go even Ace actively began to wrestle him away.

"Ca-cater-senpai!" the younger blushed as he tried to push off the other, but it was to no avail. The other was stronger than he looked, and he held on even tighter to the freshman. "It's nothing, really." Ace tried to play it off in an attempt to get Cater off him but that caused Cater to hold on tighter and impressed noises to come out of the other two.

"Holy shit." Muttered Leona, nodding at Ace.

"Ahhh, Ace-shi has it all." Shrugged Idia in a what can you do vibe.

"What are you talking about?" Ace asked, finally managing to throw Cater off him, ignoring the others pouty look.

"Well, I mean you have the brains, the charisma, the charm, the confidence, the look- "Idia listed off but was quietened by the hand that Ace had placed on his mouth.

When he turned to stare at the younger boy in offence, he was shocked silent by the brilliant blush on the others cheek and how he almost seemed shy at the attention.

"Sheesh what's up with everyone and saying embarrassing shit." He heard the younger mutter under his breath and Idia smirked internally. Oh, so the plan was working? In a much louder voice the younger chided him "Jeez Idia-senpai, a bit too many compliments for a guy to handle in one go." Ace tried to play it off but whipped his head around when he heard Leona laughing. The younger glared at the brunette but that did nothing to stop the cocky smirk on his face.

"Damn kid, who would have thought that you of all people would get so worked up over a few compliments?" Leona teased and Ace wondered how much his life would be at stake if he threw a textbook at the others smug face.

"Shut it." He snapped and Leona allowed the disrespect to happen.

"Don't tease him." Scolded Cater but Ace could hear the amusement in his tone. He felt strong arms wrap around his waist and bring him into a solid chest. Cater gently placed his chin on his shoulder and took a deep breath. "You're incredible." Cater murmured as he took in a deep whiff of Ace's scent.

"Y-you're not so bad yourself." Ace mumbled under his breath. Cater shared a smirk with the other two but didn't push Ace to speak louder, understanding that the younger will need a few moments to calm down or else he would explode.

'Add tsundere and cat-like to the list of Ace-shi's cute qualities' Idia thought to himself as he resisted the urge to coo at the younger who was avoiding eye contact with all of them.


Ace was confused. All day long he had been praised and spoilt by his upperclassmen. Even normally meaner senpais are like Leona and Vil had contributed to giving him a compliment.

One hand it made him feel…gooey. Like all the hard work he had been putting in had been shining brightly and had been appreciated. However, he also feels a little…funny. Like an itch that's been bothering has been finally scratched but since he no longer feels it feels like a part of him, is missing. So far, all day long most of his upperclassmen have been praising him And it's been feeling nice! However-

"Why hello there."

"ACK!" screamed Ace as he jumped half a foot in the air. Above him dangled Lilia, smiling at the younger as if he hadn't given him a heart attack. On the ground, were Malleus and Silver who had mildly apologetic faces on.

"Ace." Silver nodded at him with "Sorry about…" he gestured towards Lilia's general direction.

Ace nodded as he attempted to calm his beating heart whilst Malleus smirked down at the younger.

"Well, Trappola, I did not think that you would be scared that easily. What with your normal bravery one would think you could shake this off as normal."

Ace stared at the horned fae before he stood straight. "First, I can't tell if that was a compliment. Second, where in hell did you believe I shook things off. And third no one likes it when Lilia sneaks up on them."

It was silent for a moment as the three stared at Ace in confusion before Lilia hopped down and turned with a bright smile in Ace's direction.

"I always thought one would appreciate a cute little thing like me appearing to them. Like a surprise birthday present."

"Delusions are going stronger." Ace countered, smirking down at the shorter.

"You're acting like you would be cuter." Lilia pouted, crossing his arms, ignoring the cheeky other two who were shaking their head at him.

'Well with how many people that have been calling me cute today I say I could.' Thought Ace but didn't voice it. Instead, he smirked down at Lilia before he pulled the oldest trick in the book. He pouted ever so slightly, made his eyes go all wide and vulnerable and asked in a mildly whiny voice. "Lilia-senpai doesn't think I look cute?" he asked, making his eyes go teary.

The three stared at him, with Lilia gaping at him like a goldfish before Malleus starting chuckling, ensuing in Silver having to cover his mouth to hide laughter whilst Lilia started pouting even harder.

"I must say Lilia, Trappola does look far cuter than you." Malleus told the older, not afraid of the ass kicking he will be receiving later from him.

I agree." Silver managed to finally stop his laughing fit. He reached over and ruffled the ginger's hair with a smile. "Keep the good work Ace."

"Thanks, Senpai!" Ace said before staring down smugly at Lilia. "So…"

Lilia stared at his defiantly for a moment longer before sighing and shrugging. "Okay so maybe you are cute." He acquiescence, but before Ace could start his victory dance, Lilia wagged his finger threateningly "However, do not think that you do not have more to learn. There are greater things than you Ace Trappola and- "

"Yeah, yeah grandpa- "
"GRANDPA!?"


As it started getting darker, Ace attempted to make his way back to the dorm but ended up bumping into Kalim and Jamil-senpai. Literally.

"Ack." Ace groaned as he rubbed his back. "Sorry senpai." He apologised as he stared down at his also fallen senpai.

"It's okay." Reassured Kalim, smiling brightly at the first year. "Hey Ace, how's your day been?" the shorter asked, enthusiasm as always present as he lent a hand out for the first year to use to get up.

"It's been…pretty great actually." Smiled Ace at Kalim before he felt a hand ruffle his hair. "Ack, senpai." He whined at Jamil who only smirked at the other.

"What?" the other replied innocently. "Isn't this your style?" he smirked but was elbowed sharply but Kalim. Ace stared in shock at the pacifist senpai before he broke out into laughter.

"Oh, this is the best day ever." He yelled, after he managed to wipe a tear away, smirking as the other glared at him.

"I'm glad." Kalim told him honestly and he felt warm in his chest. He sent the other a toothy smile and was replied in kind.

Jamil squinted his eyes slightly at the amount of sunshine energy he was receiving before sighing and throwing an arm around Ace's waist and pinching his cheek. "You're lucky you're so cute or else I would have sold you off to a different club." He muttered, as if he was the one who should be annoyed at the situation. However, the look in Jamil's eyes made Ace stop from pointing out his views. The look the other had stopped a breath in his chest and made him feel like his heart was on fire.

"Next week." He said suddenly and Ace and Kalim threw him a confused look. "Let's go out to the diner that opened. I'll pay." He offered and there was no way in hell Ace was going to pass that opportunity up

"Of course, senpai!" he replied excitedly, eyes shining with excitement.

Jamil smiled at him, relief in his eyes as he nodded slightly. "Great." 'Take that bitches.' He thought viciously.

"So, tell us about your day." Kalim told him as he started guiding Ace to his dorm. "I'm sure it must have been eventful.

"…and I still do not understand the emphasis on me being cute, like what is up with that!?" Ace ranted to the other two.

As Ace began telling them what had happened, Kalim kept having to resist the urge to face palm and Jamil could barely restrain himself from smirking at the realisation that he had been the only one to think about asking the ither out. One point to him, zero to everyone else.

"Wow." Kalim sighed out jealously. "I wish my day was half as cool as yours Ace. I had to spend it doing work all day long." Kalim stuck his tongue out at the thought.

Ace nodded in sympathy towards the other and Jamil shook his head fondly at the two.

"Well, we're here." He pointed out as they stood in front of the mirrors.

"Ahhh~ I didn't even notice." Commented Ace before turning to him and gesturing to the arm still wrapped around his waist. "You gonna let me go senpai? I mean I know I'm irresistible, but I do need to get to my dorm or else my dorm head will murder me." He joked but was shocked when the older merely tucked his hair behind his ear and smirked at him instead.

"Well, I would just love to keep you." The older whispered before he pulled away and dragged Kalim to their dorm. "make sure you're not late to practice." He called back before turning back with one last smirk "we need our cute little junior."

"Bye Ace! I hope things go great with Trey and Riddle!" Kalim called over his shoulder before the two disappeared into their dorm.

Ace stood there stupefied before he shook his head firmly, ignoring the blush in his cheek. Muttering about 'weird senpai' He made his way into his dorm.


"Well at least everyone's managed to be nice to him." Commented Kalim enthusiastically, hopeful smile on his face.

"now it rests on Trey and Riddle." Jamil reminded him.

"I'm sure Trey will manage."

"and Riddle?"

"Well, he better. Or else I'm telling Trein sensei it was intact hedgehog dung he found on his desk papers."


As Ace entered into his dorm building, he was greeted by Riddle and Trey, seemingly in serious discussion.

"Shoot. There goes my happy day." Ace whispered to himself as he looked around to find an escape route out of the situation. Unfortunately, he was still caught.

"Ace!" Trey called out to him, standing up from his place on the couch. "Just who we were looking for." He gave the younger a friendly smile, but Ace was more focused on his house warden who seemed like he was personally struggling with seeing his face.

"Trey-senpai." Ace said nervously, smiling at him awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck.

"How have you been? It's been a while." Either the older didn't notice the way Ace's face clearly said 'leave me alone' or we just blissfully ignoring it.

"Erm, it's been good." Ace told him as he attempted to scoot back to his room. So, I'm just gonna- "his attempt at escape was prevented when Trey clamped a firm hand on his shoulder.

With a smile that looked like it belonged to a hardened criminal Trey spoke. "How about you and Riddle wait and talk here. I just need to bring you something." he told Ace politely but the way he dragged him to the centre of the room where Riddle was stood there awkwardly was anything but.

Trey gave him one last smile before tuning around and walking to the kitchen. However, before he walked out funny be crouched down slightly and whispered something into Riddle's ear. When the other nodded back, face determined, Trey gave one last final nod before straightening up and walking out.

When Trey left Ace realised just how awkward the air between him and Riddle had gotten.

"So- "

"I'M SORRY!" yelled Riddle, staring up at the other redhead with a determined look.

"Huh?" Ace made a questioning sound but yelped when Riddle charged at him and wrapped his arms around his waist.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm so, so, so sorry!" Riddle repeated over and over again, shaking ever so slightly. "I'm sorry I pick on you, I'm sorry I don't understand your side more, I'm sorry I don't praise you more, I'm sorry that you've been feeling terribly lately, I'm sorry I'm a horrible house warden, im- "

"House warden, you're hyperventilating!" Ace yelled at him, grasping his face tightly and staring at him seriously. "Breathe and calm down," he ordered.

It took a bit, but the older slowly stopped shaking and simply buried his face in Ace's chest again.

"So, now start from the beginning. What are you sorry for?" asked Ace.

"I'm sorry I didn't notice that you were still struggling here and I'm sorry that I wasn't providing the support necessary to help you." Riddle told him honestly, looking up from his chest to stare deeply into his eyes.

Ace searched for even a hint of dishonesty or lies but he found none. Ace stared at Riddle for a moment longer before he sighed and smiled at the older.

"I forgive you, senpai. Just don't do it again."

"Call me out on it anytime you want." Riddle told him earnestly, shoving his face back in Ace's chest.

Before Ace could ask about the others obsession a third party joined them.

"Well, it's nice to see you two getting alone." Trey joked good naturedly, bringing in a small box. "Here's a little gift from everyone." Trey explained to him as he handed Ace the box.

Ace stared at the box in confusion before shrugging and opening it up anyway and he couldn't contain his excitement when he saw a cherry pie sitting there beautifully.

"Thank you, Trey-senpai." Ace gushed, as he took a pre-made slice our from the box.

"Anytime, kid. Just continue being you." Trey told him honestly, smirking at the confused look on the other. "Cute, smart and funny." And Trey and Riddle couldn't lie, the blush the other had was delightful.


"So, their plan was just to praise him?"

"We can do that 10x times."

"Wanna prove them?"

"Hell fucking yeah!"