Once in a Blue Moon (RevisionEdit in progress)

by HeroProject39

"Don't chase the dreams. They'll lead you to nowhere, just an abyss you'll never be able to wake up from." She delves deeper into the mysteries of Twisted Wonderland and its inhabitants...until she may never wake up from a world that blindfolds her gently from the reality waiting beyond the road. (OC) REVISING. Main story ON HOLD.

5. Paint the Roses (REVISED)

I found myself standing in a labyrinth. Everything is in black and white, though the edges are hazy to make out the full picture.

"Hurry and paint the roses red. Hurry before the flowers wither." The card soldiers say as they crudely paint white roses red with a bucket of the same color in hand. Red comes to life in the otherwise monochromatic world.

A dream...?

"Hurry, hurry! We have to paint them all red!" The Ace of Clovers said.

My hands start moving on their own. I held my breath. Since when did I have a brush and bucket?

I could only helplessly watch as my hand dips the brush with paint and dye a white rose in red. My mind is still intact yet my body won't listen. Maybe this is because it's a dream...

As I tried to wrestle the strings pulling me along, a petite little girl adorned with a bow atop her head wearing a dress and pinafore arrives. It's the iconic Alice Liddell from Alice in Wonderland.

"Why do you have to paint the white roses red?" Alice asked inquisitively like the child she was.

"Why you ask? The truth is, we made a mistake and grew a white one." The Two of Clovers admitted.

"The queen loves red. If she sees white she'll have our heads!" The Ace of Clovers exclaimed.

Alice walks over to a tall bush of roses, some coated red. "Really?"

"That's right. Therefore we're painting the roses." The Three of Clovers told the ever curious child.

What is going on? Why am I forced to paint? Why am I seeing this dream?

From the corner of my eye, I detect something bright and colorful bounce into view. A rabbit? It's not the White Rabbit, though...

I watch as it skipped with a brush and bucket in its long ears akin to another set of hands. The cute yellow and green critter joins the painting fest from a rose bush across me.

A familiar giggling sound resounding like a wind chime echoes in my ears.

Could that be...?!

Before I could make the conclusion, the dream sequence fades to black, and so does my consciousness.

~~~~~~~

Paint the Roses

~~~~~~~

I blearily open my eyes to find myself hunched over the desk.

I sit up and rubbed my sore neck and back. In front of me is a simple ruled leather black journal and fountain pen with working ink. I dug both of them out while cleaning this bedroom and figured I should make use of it by recording my time in Twisted Wonderland. I must've taken a nap while I did.

What was that? Did I just just dream about Disney's Alice in Wonderland? And that rainbow bunny looked like one of Meow Wow's kind. It had the pink heart drop symbol on its belly.

I glanced down and noticed a blanket pooled behind the legs of the chair. Someone put a blanket on me? It couldn't be Grim. Was it the ghosts? How considerate of them.

As I collected the blanket in my arms, I hear pounding from down the hall. Someone is at the dorm's entrance at this time...?

Grim groggily opens his eyes. "...Hey. Sounds like we have a late night visitor."

Knocking again.

"What? Is it those ghosts again? They don't know when to quit." Grim grumbled, stretching his back in an arch.

"I'm not so sure." I mumbled, draping the blanket on the chair. "C'mon, let's greet them. Gotta show them Ramshackle Dorm's hospitality." I somewhat joked, yawning as I make my way to the foyer. Grim had swiped a paw over his eyes and hitched a ride on my shoulder.

We stood before the door. "Hello, who is it?" I groggily asked, hoping my voice is coherent enough for the person to hear.

"...It's me, Ace. Let me in."

Grim's flaming ears twitched. He squinted as I opened the door. "Ace? What're you doing this late..."

Upon seeing him, he made a choked noise. "You have a collar!"

There the boy was, except now he's sporting a black and red heart collar that looks oddly familiar. We didn't register everything until Ace declared, "I'm never going back to Heartslabyul. Starting today I'm joining your dorm!"

"Come again?!"

I stared blankly. It took a bit for me to process until I spoke, "For starters, let's talk in the lounge..." I lead the boy to our lounge with a slight saunter in my walk.

We settled down on the battered chairs and couch.

"That's the same collar that red-haired upperclassman put on me during the entrance ceremony. Why do you have something like that on?" Grim asked.

Ace crossed his arms. "I ate a tart."

We waited for him to elaborate but he simply stared back with a still visage.

"...Just that?" I finally said.

"Yup, just that! I was hungry when I got back to the dorm so I checked the fridge and there were tarts chilling inside. Three whole tarts! So..."

He retold the story that happened literally the night we returned from the Dwarfs' Mine, which was only a few hours ago since curfew. Apparently Ace got caught red-handed by Heartslabyul's dorm leader and got collared as a result of stealing his tart.

By the end we gave him unimpressed flat deadpans and didn't say anything for a solid ten seconds. There was so many things questionable behind either sides' motives that it was hard to feel compelled to defend one or the other.

Grim and I side-eyed each other before reverting our gaze to Ace. "You're both in the wrong." Grim stated, with me nodding along affirmatively.

"Isn't sealing my magic for stealing a bit of tart going too far?! For a wizard it's like having your arms and legs chained up. And there were three whole tarts! There's no way he can eat them by himself! There's got to be a limit to how narrow minded you can be!" Ace rants with exaggerated arm gestures.

I bobbed my head lazily and leaned comfortably on my rocking chair. "Mm. Sure."

"What's with that lukewarm reaction!"

"...I was thinking how you think with your stomach rather than your brain. The dorm leader wasn't impressed, was he?" I wittingly said in response. Ace pouted, much to my amusement for the night.

"Could it be... Three whole tarts could've been for some sort of party. Someone's birthday, or something. I'm too good at deduction!" Grim said haughtily.

I nodded in agreement again. "You may not be far off the mark, Grim."

Ace raised a brow. "Birthday?"

"That would certainly explain his anger." I added.

"...I thought you'd say he was being tyrannical, Strix." Ace did come all the way to this run-down dorm to vent, but he was at fault to blame as well.

Despite that, I did acknowledge what Heartslabyul's dorm leader did was rather...childishly severe. Though if I actually admit that to him, I'm sure he wouldn't take that kindly. "You're right, he was being a tyrant but..."

"You're at fault for stealing his tart in the first place." Grim finished, placing his paws on his hips.

"Go apologize tomorrow." I told the red-haired male. "Grudges over food are the worst. Surely you'd feel the same if someone stole your food without consent?"

Ace couldn't argue that. You'd have to have the tolerance of a saint to let food snatchers fly by. I for sure wouldn't excuse them. "Fine. Whatever. I just have to apologize, right?"

He then makes unyielding eye contact with me. "...This is your idea, Strix, so you have to come with me."

When he gives me the pouty face, I can't help but think...

A smirk had crept on my lips and creased my eyes with mirth. "How cute. You're like a collared cat wearing a sign that says you're guilty of snatching a tart. I think it suits you perfectly. Why not just deal with wearing it for a while?"

Grim snickered beside me.

Cherry red eyes widen. "You're just making fun of me! C'moooon, help me out."

"I see no reason why I should."

"What?! Why not? I thought we had something back at the Dwarfs' Mine! We even shared high fives!"

"That was then. This is now."

"Then..." Ace furrowed his brows and crossed his arms with a contemplative expression.

Eventually a grin bloomed on his lips. He raised his index finger. "How about one date with me?"

"Denied."

"Ouch. Didn't skip a beat. You'd decline a date with a face like this?" Ace wiggled his brows while gesturing to himself.

"A very punch-able face with a collar around his neck... When you put it that way, it sounds tempting." I smirked. "If you let me hit you, I'll play along and help you with Riddle."

Ace's shoulders tensed. He hesitates from the turn of events played against him until he lowered his chin defeatedly. "...Fine. I guess I had it coming sooner or later. Bring it on!"

I blinked. "Huh. That was easy. All I had to do was ask, apparently. Are you that desperate to get that collar off?"

Grim stared at me bewildered. "You're actually gonna do it?"

I get off the rocking chair and sat on the space beside Ace on the sofa. He squared his shoulders, hands gripping his knees and facing me head on.

I cracked my knuckles, the sound rippling in our ears.

My expression darkened. "Clench your teeth..."

"You're seriously gonna aim for my face?!"

Without a second to delay, I pull my arm back.

Ace shuts his eyes and braces for the impact.

Just as my knuckles drew closer to breaking his nose...

I flicked his forehead with all I have through the tip of my middle finger.

Ace flinched and nursed the spot. He meets my eyes incredulously.

I smirked at his reaction. "I never said I was going to punch you, did I? It's too cruel of me to do that to a collared kitty cat, so I'll let you off with this for now."

Ace stared agape wordlessly. He furrowed his brows at me, lowering his hands and thinning his pursed lips together into a pout. He glanced away, mumbling under his breath, "Softie..."

Grim had drooped in disappointment. "Whaaat? Bummer."

I laughed by the nose, leaning on the armrest with my elbow propped on top.

"So, where should I sleep for tonight?" Ace asked.

"You're seriously staying the night? All the rooms but ours are still a mess. Clean a room for yourself." Grim told him off.

"By all means, you can keep the room as long as you clean it yourself. I'm a free loader, not a maid." I told Ace languidly.

"Bleh, I am not cleaning. Strix~ Let me stay in your room. I'm slim so I won't take a lot of space. 'Kay." Ace winked at me. After his terrible but lasting first impression, I know the smile is clearly fake. I will give him credit for his acting skills, though. If I didn't have a keen eye to detect bullshit, I'd have fallen for that.

Of course with that said, if he thinks he can take advantage of me, that's not going to happen.

"Allow me to introduce you to the lounge sofa." I blandly gestured to the said furniture. That Ace is sitting on since I had led him in the room. He dug his own grave, really.

Ace clicked his tongue, amiable facade vanishing. "Stingy. That's fine, I guess. I'll go sleep all by my lonesome on the lounge sofa."

I rolled my eyes from his exaggerations.

His true colors were revealed just like that, colors that are far vivid compared to his facade.

Vivid... Red... Like the red painted roses in that monochrome dream I just had...

"Heeeyyy~ Wonderland to Strix?"

I snapped out of my daze and realized Ace is wearing an impish smirk.

I squinted at him suspiciously. "What?"

"You were staring super hard at me. What's up? Did you perhaps change your mind about me?"

I was staring at him? I must have been distracted by all the red that suits Ace like a glove. The color had me recalling the weird dream. Or is it a vision?

My eyelids fell flat at him. "I learned in life that it's safer and easier to say no to everything. So... No. You're still going to sleep on this sofa by the way."

"Damn it." Cursed Ace under his breath.

I deadpanned blankly. He must have tried to take advantage of my distracted self to twist my words with vague questions and make me slip up. He's definitely a tricky guy with tricks in his sleeves.

"Striiix, I wanna go back to sleep... Carry me." Grim drawled with a yawn.

"Oh, right. It's getting late. You should also get to sleep, Ace. You'll need it." I stand up.

"You say that like you don't need it. You're not gonna sleep?" Ace asked me.

I scooped up the sleepy Grim in my arms like a baby. "Didn't I tell you I'm a night owl? Good night."

"Good night!" He laid down with arms crossed behind his head.

I stopped just before the door to spared a glance past my shoulder. It must be tough having to sleep with a bulky collar.

After carefully placing the snoring Grim on the bed, I snatched the blanket I had used and return to the lounge. Ace had heard my footsteps and tilted his chin up curiously to look at me.

"Here, this is the cleanest blanket I found so far." I dropped the blanket on top of him unceremoniously.

"Thanks... I guess." Muttered Ace before speaking up, "Hey, Strix?"

"Yes?"

Realizing I have my undivided attention on him now, Ace pursed his lips before speaking, "Back in the Dwarfs' Mine, after you saved me from that monster's attack... You were writhing on the ground in pain. What's up with that?"

My hand rested on my left shoulder. The ache in my joints isn't as numbing as it was earlier in the day, but the damage it did to my heart remains a thorn in my side.

"I just landed on a rock when that happened. That's all."

It was a lie. I knew someone like Ace would detect that right away, yet I still did it. It wasn't an agonizing decision for me to make that excuse right to his face. In fact it was deliberate.

Ace's eyes narrowed. He understood the hidden implication behind my response. "Oh, I get it. None of my business, huh?"

"It really isn't." I insisted calmly.

His expression lessened into one of confusion than annoyance. "You still mad at me for what happened last morning?"

My solemn visage has yet to shift. "Not necessarily mad, just very upset. In case you can't tell, I hold grudges."

"You say you're not mad, but you are, then." Ace said in a matter-of-fact tone.

"I'm telling you I'm not mad. The only people I'll ever be mad at are..."

I fell quiet. I was about to start spilling names to someone I barely know, much less tolerate at the bare minimum. Even then, I don't want to talk about them. They're all memories that don't bring any bit of positive emotions to recall.

["I will never remain a memory."]

"Anyways, there's no need for your concern. I'm fine. Good night." I tersely ended the conversation, ignoring Ace's lingering gaze as I left. I knew staying with him longer would not end pretty in any scenario.

The memory and pain of the rough shoulder bump left by an NRC student made my insecurities resurface. All the fears and concerns I have about my presence in this academy... I couldn't easily dismiss them with a smile like the more optimistic people. I'm not strong enough to be able to view the world with clarity, despite my unusual bright eyes.

Knowing how unlikeable that trait of me is, I don't want anyone to see that pathetic, weak side of me. Ace Trappola is no exception, undoubtedly.

Upon returning, Grim was snoozing away on the side of the bed, fortunately saving space for me to lay on.

The need for sleep is not my priority now. Instead, I look over to the easel, canvas hidden behind a sheet of purple cloth. It has been untouched since I had arrived to this debilitated, pitiful state of a dorm.

The wooden floorboards creek slightly from the weight of my feet drawing closer to it.

I remove the cloth, baring a plain white canvas unsullied from pencil marks or stains. It is purely empty, devoid of meaning.

Azure blue eyes glowed softly as the moonlight within the darkness.

If I were to paint the white canvas just as the trump card soldiers painted the white roses red, what would the final result look like? It would be a waste to not let it go to use. Maybe I was dreaming of Alice in Wonderland because of meeting Ace and Deuce, and subconsciously connected the desire to release artistic creativity with the canvas in the room as a result.

That's what I tell myself of the strange dream, at least.

I drape the cloth back on top of the canvas. I had concluded this room once belonged to an artsy student, what with the art supplies I found while cleaning this room my first day here. There were ink bottles, palettes, acrylic paint and paintbrushes, and oil pastels. Of course, it's been decades since this dorm has seen any visitors, so the supplies are dried out and crusty, rendering the quality poor and unusable.

To be honest, I do dabble in sketching. The art world is not a complete stranger to me in that sense. My main muses tend to be animals and nature, and not people and civilization. I don't make sketching outdoors a thing because I prefer to be private about it.

It's more of a hobby, though. My great grandfather Sidney is the only one who was allowed to look at my sketches, and is the only one to know of them. He often praises my use of colors to make the composition dream-like or akin to fairytales... Whatever that means.

I don't think I'll have the privilege to spend my time with sketching often, however. Going back home is obviously my top priority.

I sighed softly under my breath and turned my back to the easel, approaching the desk. Time to record what just happened in my journal now.

...

Loud pounds resounded throughout the Ramshackle Dorm. The sun was above the horizon.

I had slowly sat up from my bed, disgruntled from the noise. Why is it that even the smallest rattle could cause the dorm to collapse? Even dust comes falling from the roof. I have to clean that too...

A small trail of dust from the ceiling between cracks fell on the sleeping Grim. The cat shot up from the bed and wiped the dirt off his fur and ears. "Again? Who pounded at the door?"

I yawn. "So much visitors today..."

The three ghosts appear. Laverne, the small ghost, informs us, "Looks like another student dropped by to pick up his friend~"

"They're waiting for you two to come down." Hugo the chubby ghost reported.

Someone who came to pick up Ace... Could it be Deuce? I hope it's not Heartslabyul's dorm leader, at the very least. I'd rather not deal with that first thing in the morning.

"Better get ready! Today you two officially start as students~" Victor the lanky ghost floats around us.

Grim perked up by that. "That's right! Today's the big day! C'mon, Strix! We can't be late for our first day!"

"Yes, yes... I hear you..." I rubbed my eyes before remembering something.

"Hey, did Crowley happen to drop by? Or did someone leave anything for me?" I asked the ghost trio.

"Oh, yes! There's a box waiting by the door. Surely it has to be that!" Laverne said.

"Okay, thanks you three."

"No problem!" They then disappeared.

Once I was awake enough to comprehend what just happened, I stilled. Grim was curious of this and asked what was the matter.

"I just had a civilized interaction with the ghosts..." I uttered. Day three of our stay here and I'm already sharing some kind of respectable relation with astral beings. They even bothered to give me updates and notices. To think they wanted to make me one of their own just two nights ago...

I went to refresh my face and brush my hair for the morning before climbing downstairs to the lounge. Just as I had assumed, Deuce was here as well. Sitting on the space by his foot was a packaged box where the receiver name has my name written on it. He must have carried it in here.

Deuce nodded to me as I entered. "Good morning, Strix."

"Good morning. Thanks for bringing it here." I drawled with my groggy voice.

I then notice Ace yawning from the couch, scratching his stomach and resting his leg on the coffee table. To think I had to see his face first thing in the morning irritates me, especially when he acts like he owns the place now.

Ignoring him for the moment, I bend to pick up the box, only for my arms to give out. Of course I'm not capable of carrying shit in the ass crack of dawn. Not with these sticks for arms, especially.

"I'll carry it to your room," Deuce offered without skipping a beat.

"Appreciated."

After Deuce placed the box in my bedroom, I asked him to wait downstairs with Grim and Ace. I only realized that would mean he would have to be stuck in the same room as them right when he left and I closed the door. Oh well.

Once I cut through the duct tape with a scissor and opened the flaps, I took out a neatly folded school uniform inside clear plastic wrapping. It was the uniform Crowley promised, just as I had predicted.

Time to start the morning in my new school uniform.

When I finished changing, I make the most out of the mirror sitting atop of the fireplace reflecting everything from up the torso.

Due to my nonexistent knowledge on tying neckties, I had instead wrapped my black and white striped tie into an armband mimicking the red one that Ace and Deuce have. I tapped my black loafer shoes and pulled a bit at my black polyester turtleneck underneath my loose white dress shirt with one button open at the collar. The turtleneck's sleeves were long enough to hug my knuckles, which the assigned leather black gloves covered on top of it. It is arguably loose to the dress code.

But what mattered is that the size is perfect. My feminine lines and (nonexistent) muscle definition are hidden. It'd be hard for anyone to suspect my being as a girl from first glance on this uniform.

I sighed. No matter how I appear, I still attract attention. That was no different from my home world, actually.

I tucked my gold heart lock inside my breast pocket. Though I may not be able to wear it, I can still keep it close to me. As for my blue wristwatch, I decided to leave it inside the desk here at Ramshackle Dorm since it would be prone to have its glass face shattered and break the watch. I fear anything can happen to it in this world, after all.

I picked up my ID card from the package. The photo featured a blank neutral face with my male disguise wearing a dress shirt underneath a gray sweatshirt.

A small smile formed on my lips. To see my current alias "Strix Noctowl" printed in the card makes me happy. My real name is not something I want to be remembered by in this world.

While skimming my class schedule, I suddenly remembered the strange incident from last night in the Dwarfs' Mine.

I went to the closet where my ceremony robe is hung. I dig my hand inside the robe's pocket until I produced a colorful fragment. It was a piece left by Meow Wow, the vibrant monster from last night.

I thought about its existence. Why did it come to help me? Am I the one that really "summoned" it? It doesn't seem like they're common in Twisted Wonderland.

I stare at it briefly before pocketing it back in the robe again. I'm unable to do anything about it, unfortunately. I hope I can see them again soon though, like that rabbit in my dream.

I descend the stairs. I could hear the three bicker about something, unsurprisingly.

I open the door to the lounge, drawing attention to myself and cutting whatever discussion they had short. I nonchalantly raised my gloved hand in greeting. "Yo."

The three stared at me in wonder.

"Huh. You don't look half bad." Was what Ace commented.

"So you're the type to wear the uniform comfortably... Somehow I'm not surprised." Deuce noted from an objective standpoint.

"A uniform is just a uniform. Not like I'm violating the rules anyway." I yawned. I don't have a grudge against them since I also had to wear a uniform when I just started high school in my world. I was not as proper with the dress code here because this is the way I thought would accentuate the masculine traits I could pull off while diminishing any feminine ones. At least, any distinctive feminine traits.

Ace shuddered. "Just hearing the word 'rules' sends me flashbacks of the dorm leader. Let's get going. The dust falling off the ceiling makes me want to sneeze."

During the long walk from Ramshackle Dorm to the main campus building, Grim pranced about in front of us. "Hey hey. Outta my way~ The great Grim is making his way as a student of Night Raven College!"

He spun around and walks backwards as he gestured to his ribbon. "Look at my collar. Unlike the lame thing around your neck, mine is very stylish. On top of that, you can't use magic, correct? You'd make a really good janitor today. Nyaha! I feel good!"

I laughed by the nose. "He won't let the stuff from yesterday go."

Ace grits his teeth, raising a trembling fist at the cat. "I'll remember this for when I get my magic back!"

"The headmaster just told us yesterday to not make another scene..." Deuce chided before continuing, "Nevertheless, you're going to have problems in class with your magic sealed. Have you thought about apologizing to Dorm Leader Rosehearts and having him remove it?"

"Crap. This won't go at all!" Ace pales, dreading having to participating in the classes today. Speaking of, I was curious about some classes this school offers from what I've skimmed on my class schedule. Like alchemy. Don't tell me I need to rely on Grim's magic to pass...

"We've still got time before class and I'm curious about the other dorms. Let's go observe Ace's apology." Grim suggested with a smirk.

"This isn't a show! Screw this!"

And so, we derailed from Night Raven College to the Hall of Mirrors. Through Heartslabyul's mirror of card soldiers formed as the makeshift border, a flash of light swallows us in just like the Dark Mirror.

When I open my eyes, I didn't expect any less from the dorm. Red roses growing from potted trees trimmed in heart shapes, a heart shaped fountain and entrance... Behind us there was the maze of roses. I like the aesthetic.

Grim was in awe. "This is gorgeous! It couldn't be more different from ours!"

"The comparison is making me depressed, stop it." I told him almost tearfully. I'm sure any of the seven dorms look way better than our shabby one.

From the rose maze, we could hear someone running about frantically. "Crap, crap. I've gotta get these roses painted."

We curiously enter to find the source.

Grim spots a student. "Oh, somebody is here."

"Oh, watch out. Any paint splatters and my head is gone." A young man of wavy ginger hair whose front locks are clipped back acknowledges us with green eyes. A small red diamond mark is painted on his right cheek.

The ginger male quirked a brow at our stares. "...Hm? Do you all need something?"

"What are you doing with that?" Ace asked, pointing to the brush dipped in red.

"This? As you can see I'm painting the roses red." He replied as though it was normal.

"Eh? Why would you?" Deuce asked incredulously. He and Ace were surprised how nonchalant the student was. I was surprised for a different reason.

No way... They actually do the same thing from Alice in Wonderland in this world too?!

He smiled. "Hmm, your fresh reaction is so cute! Now that I take a good look at you, you're the freshmen that busted the 10 million madol chandelier yesterday."

We cringed and hung our heads, a depressing air above us.

Ace shook his head. "We're gonna hear about the chandelier until the day we graduate..." No kidding.

"You're also the one who added on more punishment by stealing the dorm leader's tart last night!" He pointed to Ace with his paintbrush, smiling as though this was a fun game of guessing who did what heinous crime.

"I feel so lucky getting to meet the notorious newcomers first thing in the morning. Hey, hey, hey let's take a selfie! Yaaay!" The ginger head suddenly slides over in front of us and whipped out a smartphone before taking a snap. We were caught off guard by the flash and blinked.

"Can I put this on Magicam? Tell me your names so I can put you in the tags." This guy's the trendy type, huh.

"Deuce Spade."

"Ace."

"Grim and my henchman, Strix."

"Upload finished! Ah, I'm your senior, third year Cater Diamond. Call me Cater. Cay-kun is fine, too." He did a peace sign before continuing with a wink, "Nice to meetcha~"

"This guy is really carefree..." I mumbled to myself. And also superficial, I mentally noted. I can tell his peppy energy is not quite sincere, though I believe the reason behind that is not out of hostile intent. I should be wary of that, right?

Hearing me speak, Cater looks over. "Ah, you must also be the supervisor from the Ramshackle Dorm I heard about. Good on you, living in a place like that! It's super dark and you can't get a good Magicam in there. You have my sympathy." He lowered his chin.

"This guy is really running his mouth." Grim whispered to me. He's all over the place, I had to roll with his pace.

"Ah, I don't have any time for small talk! The party is in two days. I don't wanna lose my head for being late. Hey, you guys, will you help with painting the roses?" Cater asked us.

"But why are you doing something so weird?" Ace asked in return.

"Red roses at a party are the most photogenic! I guess? I've also got to change the flamingos' colors for the croquet match, so I'm busy with all this work." Cater explained, twirling a strand of his hair.

What.

"You're changing flamingos' colors?! Your chores are weird." Grim said. Not weird for Wonderland, though.

"So the tart that Ace ate was going to be used for the dorm leader's birthday party. That's why he was so mad..." Deuce said.

"Nope? That's not it." Cater said.

"It's not?! Then whose birthday is it?" Ace inquired.

"It's not anyone's birthday. The day after tomorrow is our dorm's traditional 'Unbirthday Party'. The dorm leader chooses a random day that isn't anyone's birthday and we have a tea party." Cater elaborated.

This is literally Alice in Wonderland, no doubt about it. Am I really able to live out the weirdness of painting roses, Unbirthday parties, and playing croquet using animals? What would Lewis Carroll think of this being a thing?

"The heck is that?!" Retorted Ace.

"Later, worry about the reason later! All you have to do now is make the roses red! Deuce-chan, Gri-chan, you two can do it with magic. Ace-chan, Stri-chan, since you can't use magic here's some paint." Cater held out buckets of paint for us to take, to which we begrudgingly accept for a mixture of reasons.

"I feel lame standing next to you like this." Was what I muttered, voice laced with disappointment. To think Ace is temporarily at the same footing as me... I'd be ashamed of myself if I can't prove to do decent work without the help of magic.

"I'm standing right next to you!" Ace squawked at me indignantly.

Deuce's eyes were wide in bewilderment, staring at his magical pen in hand. "We can change the color with magic..."

"I've never done anything like that." Grim flatly admitted.

Cater assures, "Okay, it's fine, just relax! We'll figure it out! We better hurry if we don't wanna lose our heads to the dorm leader~"

I was skeptical. This is playing out similarly to the dream this morning. Could it have been foretelling this event?

I feel remorse over the idea of painting pure white flowers with acrylic red. Flowers have lives, you know! Paint is definitely tainting it. Who's the idiot that planted white roses in the first place?!

Cater teaches Deuce and Grim how to use magic to paint the roses like an expert (as expected of a third year) while Ace complains how he wants to do magic too.

"Welcome to my world," I had told Ace before resuming my task and ignoring his withering glance. Weren't we supposed to meet Riddle, the dorm head, to get the collar removed? Yet we're here getting distracted with this nonsense.

Meanwhile my mind wandered to the rainbow rabbit. How did it appear in my dreams? There must be a bunch of different species of those creatures. What is their connection with me, though? Was it trying to telling me something? The fact that I'm reliving this experience like in the dream sequence is enough to raise warning bells. This isn't particularly dangerous, though...

"Red, red... There!" Deuce conjures his spell with a chant to manifest his image into reality. However, he screamed the next moment, "It turned blue!"

I was tentatively painting a rose when I noticed Grim about to cast magic. I've only seen his fire magic up to now. Surely he'd know spells other than his specialty, right?

"Change color... Take that!" The moment blue embers formed from his mouth, I quickly snatched him away and held him above my head from burning the innocent roses black.

"Idiot! Don't roast roses black!" I scold the cat.

I turned to the Spade. "Also, Deuce. Have you never seen a red rose in your whole life? Why are the roses blue?"

Deuce flinched from the shift in my tone becoming a few octaves lower, though he may not be aware that was actually from the slur of my drowsiness rather than anger. It didn't help that my eyes are narrowed in a way that appears irate. "I'm sorry!"

Cater watched us before sighing. "You guys are really more terrible at this than I could've imagined."

"Aren't the roses fine being white? They're pretty." Ace remarked.

"This is our tradition." Cater states, "Roses are red for the Unbirthday party. And we use flamingos in seven different colors for croquet with hedgehogs as the balls. But, y'know, the spring garden concert of the flowers uses white roses. That's an important point, too."

I stilled. Then these white roses were intentionally planted? Just to keep this cruel tradition going? Tradition or not, I feel like a monster for tarnishing sweet delicate flowers with acid!

"Those are all strange rules!" Grim said.

"They say these rules were all decided by the Queen of Hearts from the Great Seven. Riddle-kun is particularly passionate about following the rules even compared to other strict dorm leaders. I won't deny he goes too far sometimes, though..." Cater admitted and scratched his cheek.

Speaking of Riddle, Ace remembered why we were here in the first place. "That's right. I don't have time for this. I want to speak with the dorm leader, is he inside?"

"Hm? I think there's still time before he leaves... By the way, Ace-chan the tart thief, did you bring a tart of apology?" Cater asked.

"Ah? No, I came first thing so I'm empty-handed..." Ace trailed off.

Cater's expression pulled regrettably, sucking in breath through his teeth. "Aaah noo. That so?"

"Since you're going against Laws of the Queen of Hearts, Number 53: 'One must always return what they stole', I can't let you in the dorm." The third year stated.

"Haa? The hell is that?!"

I nod in understanding. "'An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth'... In this case a tart for a tart... Makes sense." I do wonder how many rules are there, anyway.

"Pretty much. I'll lose my head if I knowingly let you in while you're not obeying the rules. I feel bad but you need to leave before Riddle-kun notices." Cater's smile was no longer friendly. He really means it.

Ace stepped back before scrambling behind us. By this point we've abandoned our painting duties. "Whoa, his face got serious! Guys, help me out!"

"Why me?!" Shot back Deuce.

"Please! I can't use magic right now... Ah, here he comes!" Ace yelped.

"Hey, put that pen away." I told Cater, standing in front before anyone would try to attack. I was calm as I said, "We'll leave right now. Right, guys?"

Ace, Deuce, and Grim nodded fervently from behind me.

"Of course you'd choose that option, Prefect of Ramshackle Dorm. Wise choice. That'd be for the best." Fortunately Cater was merciful and backed down, tucking his magical pen on his breast pocket. I thought I detected a bit of mockery but I chose to ignore the possible implication behind his word choice for the sake of getting out of an icky situation.

"Now, go get a tart and then try again! Bye-bye!" Cater waves farewell as he watched us exit the rose maze dejectedly.

"What's his problem!" Ace cried once we're out of earshot, kicking the ground once.

"On top of that, we get turned away at the gate without a tart? We didn't have anything to begin with. He just wanted us to paint the damn roses!" Ace grits his teeth, infuriated.

"He's a shrewd one." Grim told the red-haired male.

"Then we just have to bring a tart and try again. We can go after... Ah!! Crap!" Deuce's bright peacock green eyes shot wide open.

"What's wrong?" I asked in confusion.

"This is bad, it's way past call time! We're gonna be late!" Deuce hollered. He's right! We had spent our spare time painting flowers! That kind of excuse wouldn't fly by the professors.

"Uwah! My shining school life is going to be tarnished on day one! Let's get a move on!" Grim ushered.

"Speaking of, what's your class? You're a first year, right?" Ace inquired to Grim and I.

"We're in Class 1-A." I replied. The note that came with the uniform informed me that along with the schedule.

"Oh, then we're in the same class. First period is magic alchemy." Deuce informed.

"Woohoo! Sounds like fun!" Grim hopped a little in excitement.

"I can't use magic, so I wonder how this'll go..." Ace spoke, coming to dread first period.

"Me too..." I was dreading how the whole day will go. I sincerely hope the professors would understand my circumstances and excuse me for some things...

Turns out my reputation as a student in general would not be the brightest flowerbed in the garden.

[First Period: Magic Alchemy]

As per lab protocol, we were required to wear lab coats with black rubber gloves and goggles for this class. Some like Ace leave their lab coats open while I had my lab coat buttoned up so I don't risk getting my dress shirt dirty. I have a limited wardrobe thanks to my circumstances, after all.

"So you all are the fresh faces in my homeroom." A young professor in a black and white striped fur coat examines the class with gray eyes. He had one-fourths of his slicked hair black while the rest is white and swept to the left side.

It was the man who helped tailor my school uniforms last night!

~Flashback~

Upon returning to Ramshackle Dorm, Grim and I noticed someone whose black and white fur coat and hair stood out like a sore thumb.

"There's some weird guy hanging out in front of the dorm," Grim remarked sleepily, tempted to sleep on my shoulder right now.

My eyes widen. A man that somehow bears similarities to the villain Cruella De Vil from 101 Dalmatians is in front of the door. The red and monochrome color scheme on top of the fur coat is what sold the idea.

Silver blue eyes acknowledged us. "Good evening, little pups. I'm Divus Crewel, a professor from the science department. You must've heard about my arrival from the headmaster, no?"

He even addresses us as pets, I thought to myself. Is that even allowed for a teacher?

I had flinched underneath my baggy clothes, slightly intimidated by the man, though I refused to admit it due to my pride. I calmly answered, "Yes, I'm told you were going to help me with my uniform..."

"Indeed. I'll be taking your measurements, and while I'm at it, take a photo for your student ID before leaving. I'll be using magic to measure so don't worry if you were really uncomfortable."

We entered inside the rundown building and into the lounge where I flicked the light switch on to let him do his thing. He was really quick with his work that I suspect he is no stranger to fashion and fashion designing process. Somehow I'm not surprised.

After the measurements were taken, I submitted my biological info for the ID. Alhough I had fabricated my name as Strix Noctowl, and although I hesitated to put my true birthday due to personal reasons, I went and wrote my fake alias and real birthday. There was some truths and lies mixed in that I knew I couldn't completely create an entirely different identity from, but for now I'll have to accept this.

"Strix Noctowl, date of birth: the third of March... Are you a minor or of legal age?" Crewel asked me.

"A minor. I'm sixteen." I answered.

He thanked me and noted this down. "This may be out of the blue, but considering your...unique circumstances, I have a proposal."

"What is it?" I implored, allowing him to continue.

"I've been sketching some outfits for a young lady in your demographic and noticed you have potential to be my model."

That was unexpected.

"Model? I don't have the body of a model, though..." I fell quiet.

"It's only for a personal project of mine, nothing made to the public.You're not actually taking the job of a model." Crewel assured.

"Oh... That's not bad..." I muttered, still hesitant.

"Here are some samples of the designs."

He summoned several sheets of paper for me to take, surprising me with the wonders of magic yet again. I skimmed through them. Many of these clothes are actually aligned with my style of preference. How did Crewel...?

"Being the sole female in a school of mutts, you will be pampered by yours truly with a new wardrobe. All I ask in return is that you wear my clothes with pride and be part of my muse." Said the man. "That's what you will be paid in: clothes."

"I... I don't mind, but why me specifically?" I asked, insecurities constantly lingering within me.

"I was initially intrigued by your hair color. It appears royal blue at first glance, but it also has a violet tint at the ends. It's beautiful, especially when illuminated for that vibrant hue..."

He lost me when he mentioned "hair color".

"I'm sorry?"

Rather than answering my confusion, he continued on, "You dress yourself in such loose manner to appear masculine for the environment, yes?"

I nodded. "Yes. You're very perceptive."

"Of course. Knowing this, I wouldn't let a young lady walk around with no spare sets of clothes in daily life. To live in a shoddy house as well, surely there are other residential areas far suitable for your needs..." Crewel mumbled.

"Here are also a set of pajamas: Night Raven College edition." He summoned a black pouch with the gold insignia of NRC printed on it. Inside contained black pajamas with gold trimming and intricate designs like the ceremonial robes.

"Wow, thank you."

A mysterious smile formed on Crewel's lips. "I will see you eventually at the school campus. Good night, Noctowl."

After seeing him off from the Ramshackle foyer, I once again returned to my bedroom and compared the size of the new pajamas. I noticed it was a little larger, but better oversized than smaller.

I wasn't going to sleep yet, so I tucked clothes back inside the pouch and sat on the sofa chair to contemplate my new lifestyle.

I am Strix Noctowl, a 16-year old magic-less girl stranded in an all-male school of mages. Starting tomorrow, my life as an NRC student should hopefully be an honest year.

Though when I have a fire-breathing egotistic cat for a companion, what was so honest about that?

~Flashback End~

The man hummed. "Hmm, there are some rare hair colors in the bunch. Not bad. Make sure to take proper care of it daily."

"My name is Divus Crewel. You may feel free to call me Master Crewel." I'm good with Professor, thank you very much. "Come, take your seats. Class will begin..."

Once we sat down, Crewel spoke, "First off, a few disclaimers. I shall have your tiny little brains remember hundreds of names of medicinal herbs and poisonous plants. And mushrooms are a whole different topic. I'll have you remember them so that you don't accidentally poison yourself if you eat some when you go for a walk. Dogs love to eat anything they see, after all."

Behind my gray goggles, I was sweating nervously. This guy is definitely Cruella de Vil! This whole world really is based off Disney!

"I don't want to see anyone getting a failing mark during the exam, so I shall be as strict as I can." Crewel continued as he tapped his striped pointer stick on his palm. The thing even has a collar at the end.

"I see... By the way, what are 'shrooms'?" Deuce asked in our group.

"Blegh. I'm no good at memorization." Ace groaned.

"If it's grass, we just have to figure out if it's delicious or not, yanno?" Grim said.

"Don't eat anything, Grim." I firmly warned him. I'm decent in science. If we're just mostly memorizing than doing labs, I can handle that. I just hope I don't spill any potions while half-asleep. Mornings always feel slow for me.

For the first day, we examined several types of common herbs and record them to memory. Grim came this close to "taste-testing" one of them but I slapped his paw sharply before he could, eliciting a wince from him.

After I shot a sharp glare, he complied reluctantly and volunteered sniffing each one for me to make note of in their characteristics. Though I suspected it was just an opportunity to smell anything appetizing.

I discreetly sneak a glance at Crewel walking around to check on each group. The more I stare, the more tempted I wanted to feel his fur coat. It looks so soft and fluffy, and so big too. I bet I could wrap myself in a ball of fluff and use it as a blanket. My weakness for such things are driving me crazy first thing in the morning.

I felt my head bobbing. I think Grim was telling me something... Can't he speak a little coherently...?

The next thing I knew, my head shot up at the sharp sound of something smacking beside me. Did I just hunch over and fall asleep?

I first acknowledged the black and white vest under a massive fur coat, then slowly trailed my sights upwards to silver blue eyes. Everyone had fallen silent at the lash of his stick and I am now the center of attention.

I could sense Ace trying desperately to suppress his laughter and hiding his face beside a concerned Deuce.

I couldn't pry my eyes away from the professor directly standing before my desk. I meekly lift my rubber black gloves in surrender. I barely utter above a whisper, "I... I can explain..."

"Noctowl," He began, and I flinched under his penetrating glare narrowing at my cowering form. He pointed his stick to the door.

"Out."

And now here I was standing in the empty hallway contemplating my actions. Grim stood beside me, since he too had to share the blame as half a student.

"Seriously?" Never would I have expected to been given an unamused look from a sentient raccoon. That was usually my job.

I tearfully lowered my chin. I couldn't look at Grim after getting caught sleeping on the first day of class. "It's only been three days and two nights since I came here, give me a break..."

If only I could tell Crewel the whole story... Not that he would take "I dozed off because your coat looks so cozy" as an excuse. This is first period, too!

[Second Period: Magic History]

"I am Trein, the professor in charge of Magic History. And this is my familiar, Lucius." A middle-aged man in a vintage red mantle was cradling a fat black cat with white tips in his arms.

I gripped my pen (a normal fountain pen, unfortunately).

Lady Tremaine and Lucifer aka Satan?! I recognize that evil cat any day! That "familiar" radiates demon lord energy.

"You will learn about the history of magic that has brought prosperity to the world." Trein began.

Lucius meowed. Just hearing its obnoxious dead meow already sets warning bells for trouble.

After the mew, Trein continued, "Participation in class will affect your grade, not just reports. I will not tolerate sleeping in class."

I slightly flinched. Craaaap. This guy is the super strict teacher. Damn, that means auto-pilot mode won't easily slide by...

"Open your textbooks to page 15. We will start with the discovery of magic crystals in the Dwarfs' Mine..."

As we did so, Lucius meowed again.

"Magical energy spread throughout the world during the century after this discovery. We call it the 'Beginning of Magic'."

The cat meowed for the third time. Can someone translate?

From behind where Grim and I sat, Ace yawns. In comparison, Deuce listens to the plethora of knowledge. Practically every line is new information to him, though that doesn't sound assuring for some reason...

"Ugh... I want a class to use magic like BANG!" Grim complained.

I hushed the raccoon. "I'm actually interested about the lore."

If only his dumb cat wasn't filling the silence every second. Trein was so polite enough to wait for the meowing to end before speaking, which takes unnecessarily long to proceed.

Lucius suddenly perked up and cast a perpetually half-lidded gaze to our direction. He meowed something that must have been a signal for Trein to stop and follow his olive green gaze to our seat.

"Noctowl, cease the idle chatter with your familiar." Grim is not my familiar (at least not by any legal means), I wanted to protest. Why did he call me out?! Grim was the one who started it!

Despite these complaints, I held my tongue for the nth time since I've been in this world. "Sorry..."

As Trein slipped back into his lecture, I made eye contact with the black cat.

A dark shadow crossed Lucius' gold eyes. That furball is smirking deviously!

If Ace and Deuce noticed sparks flying across the room, they made no remark.

I almost wanted to snap my pen in half with my bare hand. If Disney has taught me anything, it's these stupid demonic felines...

[Third Period: Physical Education]

We were standing in the middle of a vast green sports field outside of the school. For this class, we had to change into what is our PE uniforms.

I had tucked my heart lock in my breast pocket of the school designated black jumpsuits. I wore a long sleeved gray shirt under the shorter sleeves of my jumpsuit zipped close unlike some who can wear them around their waist. My long pant legs reached down to my neon purple and white sneakers graciously provided by Crowley's funds and selected by Crewel. The neon purple makes a bold statement that complements my blue eyes and hair. I didn't mind as long as I get sneakers.

Of course, students have their designated dorm logo and colors, but for me I'm the only gray of the bunch. I didn't have a logo based on the dorm I belong to, unlike everyone else. Printed on the white tag of my uniform top above my breast pocket read NRC 1-A18, which represented my class and seat number. Well, even with the tag you can tell the uniform belongs to me with the black and gray stripes.

I do think it's comfy. This outfit also hides my feminine lines, so I don't have to feel self-conscious of wandering eyes. Not that I have the curves to attract that attention in the first place. When I consider that in my situation, I think I'm fortunate to have that be the least of my concerns.

While being surrounded by males does put me a little on edge, that thought was overwhelmed by the PE teacher.

"I'm Vargas. I'm in charge of athletics for you bean sprouts." A buff brunet man with one hell of pork chops wore a red and gold tracksuit that couldn't even hide his muscle definition underneath. The bulge of his pectorals cannot be contained.

Of course. I should've predicted Gaston would be teaching PE. No one teaches PE better than "Gaston". And now hope I don't have to bare witness to his chest hair if that's the case.

"Becoming a great wizard starts with your muscles! Look at all the muscle I've built eating raw eggs everyday!" Vargas flexed his massive biceps.

Deuce notices me paling a few shades and tilted his head. "Strix?"

"I got the reference..." I uttered a ghost of a breath, much to the navy-haired boy's confusion.

Vargas continued, "You baby wizards have no stamina. Start with 20 laps around the track! And then, 100 pushups!"

Can I please find a hole to crawl in and die? There's no way I can live!

"Eeeh... I don't dislike exercise but I can't handle teachers like him." Ace groaned.

Deuce was doing warm-ups, crossing one arm over his chest and alternating. A smirk was plastered on his face. "I've got confidence in my stamina."

"I don't..." Meanwhile I paled in comparison. If only I had Deuce's exuding confidence of a (somewhat) former yankee...

"What's so fun about running in circles?! I'm not a freaking hamster!" Grim griped. The one physical class we get and he doesn't get to unleash his fire spells.

"It's to keep your body strong, Grim." I tell him.

Vargas approaches Grim and I. "Noctowl."

I stood straighter. His tall and burly stature overwhelms me easily. "Yes?"

"Since you're the only female and aren't a wizard, I'll cut down the regimen. It was designed for men with magical capacity, after all."

I perked up.

"Ten laps and 20 push-ups. Can you do that?"

I didn't think he could be so lenient on me! He's already toned it as far as he could, I can't press for less even if I wanted to.

"Yes sir! Thank you!" I bowed gratefully.

Grim gaped in shock. "More than a whopping half cut out?!"

Vargas' sapphire blue eyes glance to the beast. "Not for you. Now warm up and build those noodle arms into fine muscles!" He blew his whistle.

[Break Time]

We were making a beeline down the interior hallway to the cafeteria. I feel exhausted, and it's not because of PE class.

Deuce was recalling his schedule as he mumbled, "Our next class is..."

"For a magic school, it doesn't really feel that much different from a normal school, huh." Ace remarked. "It's a lot more...ordinary than I thought... Guess I don't have to worry much even without magic."

"Sounds like a perfect school for a non-magician like me." I chirped. I was relieved we didn't dive into magic right away. Maybe it's because we're first years going through basics...

"Yeah, even though you got called out by the teachers..."

"Shut up." I shot back at the smirking Ace. I don't want to be labeled as a problem child and I'm certainly not, mind you. I was much attentive in my original world. I think Twisted Wonderland is getting to me more than I'd like it...

"How about you, Grim?" I look to where he usually would be standing by our feet, but he wasn't with us. We look around. "Grim?"

Deuce gasped. "Look out the window! That fluffball running in the courtyard...!"

There he was, running away from our circle. I was almost absorbed in my duties as a student that I forgot Grim actually counts as half a student with me. He wasn't my familiar following me around; he's a student!

My brow twitched. "He's outright skipping classes on the first day!" I clenched my fist tightly that a vein almost popped. "The nerve of that rat..."

"Running away on the first day... That guy just doesn't learn, huh." Deuce shook his head in disappointment.

Ace smirked. "Pff, your first day as supervisor and you already have to report you lost track of him. So, do you want help catching Grim?"

I meet the snarky glimmer in Ace's eyes. Even with determination alone, it's not likely I can catch Grim by myself. But the look he's giving me tells me there's always a payment fee.

I scoffed. "Not a convincing deal when you have a collar on your neck. I don't even need your help, with or without magic!"

"Oh yeah? I'd like to see you try!" Ace provoked.

I grabbed his heart collar and pulled him close to my eye level, azure blue hues bright and unwavering.

"Then watch me."

I released him not-so gently and sprint for Grim, leaving him in the dust.

Ace nursed his neck while Deuce was watching from the sidelines shaking his head. "Your mean spirit will bite you in the neck if you keep this up with Strix."

"For a self-proclaimed 'honors student', you're not doing anything to help." Ace snapped at him.

"W-Well, Strix looked really confident just now, so I didn't think I had to..." Deuce glanced elsewhere, avoiding Ace's squinting eyes.

While I ran into the courtyard, a pair of students were walking along the same path. They have yet to notice the chaos behind them.

A boy with tousled bleach blond hair whose roots are dark carried a red net over his shoulder. He drawled a yawn. "Ugh, I should've slept early a week before school began..."

The other boy with short gray hair and tanned skin nudged him gently, holding a blue beverage can in the other hand. He had just finished consuming the drink when he spoke, "C'mon, cheer up. The dorm leader will let you go after a few days when he calms down."

"I don't know about that... He seemed really pissed last night." The blond dejectedly said.

A little gray beast zooms past them.

They stop in place at the odd creature roaming in the school courtyard. Upon hearing my rushing footsteps, they look behind.

In one motion, I snatched the red net and empty blue can from their hands while chasing Grim, much to their shock. I called out before I was out of earshot, "I'll bring the net back, thanks!"

I have my sights set on Grim's fleeing tail. If he thinks he can truly escape, he'll regret not thinking twice about causing trouble for me.

I roll the can towards Grim using the end of the handle to knock it flying at his legs, almost as if I was playing golf with it.

Caught off guard, Grim's legs become a flurry rolling atop the can until he trips from his tangled limbs and tumbles down like a bowling ball.

Upon falling flat on his stomach, Grim became a disoriented mess.

I catch him with the net. "Got you!"

After watching everything from afar, Ace and Deuce had caught up to Grim and I.

"Damn, that actually worked. I'd have thought it was a planned stunt for a scene..." Ace remarked in surprise.

Deuce had wide eyes dazzled in awe. "Strix is amazing to pull that off and stop Grim alone without magic!"

I released a huff. "Damn right."

We stood in the courtyard before a disgruntled raccoon, who is currently trapped underneath the net thanks to me.

"No way, no way! No way I'm going back to those boring classes!" Grim flailed stubbornly, claws getting tangled in the latticework.

"Then you won't become a great wizard." My words reached Grim's ears like a knife slicing through his dense walls of egotism. He visibly crestfallen with his body, droopy ears and limp tail.

I removed the net and tucked him under my arm while picking up the empty can to recycle along the way. "Now come on, lunch is calling."

"Dammit! You're being extra strict today!" Grim's cries fell on deaf ears as I was about to walk away.

Before that, a blond student approached me. The ruby gem and red armband identifies him as part of Heartslabyul. Not to mention the red heart mark branding his left eye. And I only just realized that he too is wearing the heart collar that Ace has.

Half-lidded reddish brown eyes weighed with drowsiness makes eye contact with me. He doesn't seem disgruntled by what I had done before, or maybe he just doesn't have the energy to care about that. "Was my net helpful?"

"Yeah, sorry for that. Here," I return the red net to him.

"No problem. Nets are meant to catch something, after all. Be it apples, stag beetles, or strange raccoons." The unnamed student then languidly glanced to the boys behind me. "You two are..."

"You guys must be the freshmen that wrecked the cafeteria chandelier, right?" Another student, a tanned boy with short spiky gray hair, chimed into the conversation. He was the one I snatched the soda can from. Now that I get a better look, he has a spade mark on his right pale blue eye like Deuce.

Without skipping a beat, I dismissed it with a wave of my hand through a straight face. "Don't know 'em."

The gray-haired boy bursted into laughter. "Freshmen are so funny. I'm Sice Vanga (1), a second year. I didn't think I'd have an empty can taken from me for that interesting plan of yours."

"It was a spur of the moment." I then looked at the brand curiously. The name printed in a handwritten font on a tag frame read Drink Me(2). It's a beverage similar to a blue Hawaiian punch.

I inwardly squinted at it. The sky blue color scheme and waves splashing inside a glass bottle... It looks like the bottle Alice drank from that made her shrink.

Sice continued, "And this guy is my buddy, Cinque Corda (3), also a second year. What are your names?"

"Strix Noctowl. This is Grim." I hold Grim up.

"The Great Grim." Emphasized the beast. "I'm not a raccoon, by the way!"

"Nice to meet you. I'm Deuce Spade." Deuce introduced himself formally with a bow of his head.

"Ace Trappola." Was Ace's curt intro, crossing his arms. He eyed pointedly at the identical collar on Cinque's neck. "So Cinque-senpai, you got in trouble with Dorm Head Riddle, too?"

"Yeah. I got collared for not painting all of the roses red and for running late this morning. I forgot to paint my assigned roses from behind the trees and thought no one would even walk behind them to see the roses anyway. I was careless." Cinque heaved his shoulders low.

"You woke up late because you got a severe case of jet lag right before the school year started. Even if you explained that to Dorm Leader Riddle, he'll just blame you for not managing your time well or something like that." Sice sighed into his breath, shaking his head.

"My family likes taking airplane trips all around Twisted Wonderland like it's a marathon or whatever. My sense of time often gets distorted because of that..." Cinque mumbled defensively.

"What? That's not fair! You still had to do that even with jet lag?" Ace asked incredulously.

Cinque rolled his neck before speaking, "Let me tell you two something as fellow Heartslabyul residents. We are the Queen's Card Soldiers. If we scatter aimlessly, the dorm leader will do his duty to keep us intact, even if it means his hands will be marred with cuts. In return, we are expected to fulfill our tasks as faithful students of the Heartslabyul dorm."

"But that's..."

Cinque slowly shook his head once. "I can tell from first glance you're a free spirit, so I know that's not something you'd like to hear. For me personally, I want to stay loyal to the dorm I was assigned to by the Dark Mirror. I like Heartslabyul."

"But you guys need to know the rule in Night Raven College: the weak obeys the strong. Riddle Rosehearts is a dorm leader for a reason." Warned Cinque.

Grim and the boys grew solemn.

I remained silent and expressionless.

Realizing the heavy mood, Sice nudged the heart card soldier's arm. "Hey, let's not keep the freshmen occupied during their break. Sorry about that. When we eventually bump into each other again, let's hang out. See ya."

The two second years excused themselves out of the courtyard, leaving us with some things to contemplate.

The dog-eat-dog world... I know that I'm no exception to it. For the student body to function with a system like that, it seems I have to work twice as much to earn the respect of my peers.

A mysterious smirk curled the corners of my lips. I wonder how everyone's faces will look if I prove even a human not born with innate magic prowess can achieve wonders without the help of magic. I just got more motivated after hearing it.

We finally arrived in the cafeteria. The aroma wafting from a wide pantry of different cuisines is a pleasant sight for famished stomachs. I notice there are even ghosts working as cooks in this school. I guess not all ghosts are malicious...

"It's finally lunch time!" Standing on my shoulders and pressing his paws on top of my head from behind (I'm a human step stool for him at this point), Grim looks over the variety of dishes to choose from. "Uwah! Everything always looks so good here!"

I was thoroughly impressed. "Pretty amazing that they have a buffet every day. I might get used to this."

Grim had sparkles in his eyes. He better not drool on my head. "Fluffy omelets! Grilled chicken and bacon egg tarts!!"

We winced from Grim's volume.

"You're too loud! You're only this excited during lunch..." Ace spoke. I get the excitement, but damn.

Grim hops to the floor and runs over to the pantry, "Hey, hey, I want some grilled chicken! It's the last one! And omelets, too! Bread with jelly, too! Just take a bunch of everything!" He snatched the grilled chicken and makes his over to the rest of the food.

Before I could warn him to not run around in a crowded area, Grim bumps into a student. I facepalmed. Oh dear.

The student screamed in despair. "Hey, you bastard! My pasta's soft-boiled egg is on the floor 'cause you bumped into me!"

"Oh, man~ The soft-boiled egg's the best part of the carbonara." The student's friend beside him peers down at the unfortunate sight of the yolk oozing on the tiled floor. RIP egg.

"How do you plan to pay for this?!" He suddenly screeched, making Grim flinch, and to an extent, me.

By now everyone fell quiet at the commotion and was looking on at the scene. Some look excited at the prospect of a fight while others stay by the sidelines as the silent spectators.

I rush to step in. I bowed apologetically. "I'm sorry, he got too excited and wasn't paying attention. It's our first day here. Please forgive him."

"Teach your familiar some manners, why don't ya?!"

Murmurs break out within the crowd.

Deuce was about to step in for support when his shoulder was held back by Ace. He shot his fellow dorm mate a look. Ace watches us with a glint of anticipation.

My lips form a thin line. "We're very sorry."

"Sorry ain't gonna cut it. Hand that grilled chicken as compensation and we'll call it even." The student pointed to Grim's chicken.

The cat pulls the chicken to his side. I held a hand to him and he stopped, looking up at me in confusion.

"Crying over spilled milk won't get you a new egg. Just go ask for another one if you like it so much," I told him as though I was dealing with a child. "Creating a fuss all for this is just sad."

"That's not the issue anymore. Letting you and your raccoon get away with it without fair trade? Don't make me laugh!"

I internally groaned in exasperation. We're walking on eggshells at this point.

"I see you have more dick in your personality than in your pants." I sneered in response.

The crowd let out ooh's.

A snort. Ace was holding in his snickers as best as he could from beside Deuce. Soon the laughter was contagious and had inflicted nearby students in the cafeteria. Soon the room was muffled with chuckles and giggling.

The student bit his lower lip, fuming in embarrassment and rage.

"That's it!" His arm lunged for me.

My eyes darkened.

I twist my body to evade his grab and appeared on his left side, the vulnerable side that is not his dominant hand.

Ace and Deuce's eyes widened. It was a reaction unexpected from me, the languid Strix Noctowl who cursed the sun every morning.

Without faltering, I gripped his shoulders.

"That's my line!"

Using my pent up frustration to muster my strength, I slammed my forehead into his own.

He collapsed to the floor.

The cafeteria erupts into roaring cheers, hollering at the demonstration of violence interfering in their mundane school lives.

"W-W-We'll let you off this time... C'mon." His friend comes to pull the dazed boy up to his feet.

Once they disappeared from the room, I remained standing silently still. A mixture of fear and awe among the students shed new light on my reputation.

"Who knew that freshman had guts?"

"That guy got knocked out like a light! Hilarious!"

"And that headbutt! Crazy! Mad respect for that!"

I suppressed a twitch. I went overboard. If this incident made its way to Crowley's ears, I'll definitely get in trouble for harming a student. I'd be lying though to say I regretted kicking his ass to assert dominance.

Ace grinned with newfound respect, however much that may be. "Good going, supervisor."

"I could hear skulls clashing from here. My minion's got a harder head than they look!" Grim praised.

"Are you okay, Strix?" Deuce, the ever more considerate of the three, asked me.

My eye twitched, the tingling still ringing vaguely in my ears. When I turn to face them halfway, I spoke evenly through my victorious smirk, "Never better."

Ace laughed. "What's with that funny face?"

"Anyone would think twice before underestimating you after this, Strix." Deuce smiled.

Meanwhile Grim cheered, "All right, I get to keep my grilled chicken!"

Everyone's eyes were no longer fixated on us, to which I was relieved. I wouldn't know what to do to pretend everything is back to normal.

"Yeah... I have a feeling my reputation will spread, for the better or worse." I mumbled to myself before speaking up to the boys, "Come on, let's go get food."

We lined up to grab our meals. Unlike the first time, I stood with more confidence than ever. It wasn't just the male uniform, but also having less enemies pinning me with withering gazes.

Although the attention is still bothersome in a different aspect, it was bearable compared to being regarded as a disease.

When we found a table vacant enough for the four of us, I settled on the space beside Grim, who had to sit on the table and eat since he's the size of a cat.

"All right, let's get back to business! Let's eat!" Grim digs in his meal. "This is so good! The omelet is so fluffy, and the center of filled with gooey cheese!"

In comparison to his boisterous feasting, I ate my melon bread and drink from a bottled water quietly. Who knew eating at the dining table could be so noisy with more than two people?

"By the by, we saw you guys' dorm this morning, but what are the other dorms like?" Grim asked as he ate, to which I had scolded him to not speak with his mouth full.

"You've seen the statues of the Great Seven by Main Street, right? There's seven of them so there are seven dorms." A new yet familiar voice chirped.

We suddenly direct our attention to the new source joining the table. It was Cater, and he's accompanied by a guy with a black clover on his left cheek.

Ace swallowed a piece of his chocolate croissant he was chewing before speaking, "You're the guy from this morning!"

"You tricked us into painting those roses for you!" Grim points at him.

"Saying I tricked you is so mean. I wasn't doing it because I wanted to. It's just how things are done in our dorm." Cater said.

"You looked so happy about it though..." Deuce called out.

"Now now, Deuce-chan. The rules don't matter outside the dorms, so Cay-kun here is just your very gentle senpai." The ginger man waves him dismissively.

Deuce was startled. "P-Please stop calling me that, senpai!"

"Haha. That's just how Cater shows affection." The glasses guy spoke, amused by the first-year's reaction.

Ace quirked a brow. "Who's that guy next to you?"

"Oh, my bad. I'm Trey. Trey Clover. I'm a third year in Heartslabyul like Cater." With a fix of his glasses, he looks over and acknowledges me.

"And you're from Ramshackle," He cleared his throat, "the new student who's currently residing in the unused dorm, correct?"

I nod expressionless. "I'm Strix Noctowl." Meanwhile I wondered if these people had no choice but to be in Heartslabyul with the solitaire aesthetic and names. I'm sensing a pattern...

Trey's golden yellow eyes behind his thick black frames creased. "I heard from Cater. Sorry for the trouble our dorm mates caused you yesterday." He smiled apologetically and slides to settle beside Ace in the same motion.

"Wha... He's just casually sitting next to me..." Ace muttered, squinting at the amiable upperclassman.

"Come on. We're in the same dorm after all. Let's exchange numbers~!" Cater plops down beside me, already having whipped his smartphone out.

"Sorry, I don't have a phone." I tell him, regrettably. Nor do I have the money. Honestly, I need to have a talk with Crowley. I have to find a part-time job soon...

Cater's green eyes widen. "You don't have a phone?! That's crazy! You're like an endangered species."

He may not be off the mark. I'm practically an alien to this world; of course, no one but Grim and the headmaster knows that, and maybe a few sentient paintings. I didn't dare to remark on that, however.

Cater continued, "I know a place to get the newest models for cheap~ How about we go on a date to choose one?"

I crossed my legs and sit in a lax manner, casting a cool glance to the ginger. "Depends. Will you pay for it?"

"That's..."

"Then there you have it."

Cater crestfallen. "Bummer..."

Trey chuckled. "Cater, hold back a bit on the freshman."

"Ahaha, sorry sorry! We were talking about the dorms?" He gives me space before continuing, "Sounds good, a fresh convo! We'll tell you anything you wanna know."

"First I want you to tell us about our own dorm." Ace began, "The hell is up with those crazy 'Laws of the Queen of Hearts'?"

"You know all about the legend of the Queen of Hearts, right? In order to establish absolute law and order, she made severe rules in order to oppress the eccentric citizens of Wonderland." Trey stated.

"Out of respect for the Queen of Hearts, those of us in Heartslabyul traditionally wear red and black arm bands, just like her dress and uphold the laws that she made." Cater finished.

"Sounds like a stiff place!" Grim said. No kidding. I don't think I could survive if the rules were ridiculous if we follow the nonsensical route of how the Queen is portrayed.

"How strict we follow the rules depends on the dorm leader. Last year's was pretty chill about it all." Cater leaned back idly.

"Riddle is the serious among the serious of all dorm leaders. So he follows the rules to the max." Trey said.

Ace groaned. "Ugh... What a pain..."

"Hey, what are the other dorms like?" Grim asked.

Trey gave a rundown of the Great Seven who embody each of the dorms. I remember their names from Ace when Grim and I were first handymen. Grim on the other hand can't memorize such long titles.

Cater laughed. "Just get the rough idea. You'll remember them eventually."

"Which dorm you enter is based on the judgement of the Dark Mirror when it looks at your soul during the entrance ceremony... So each dorm has their own quirks about them." Trey said.

"You're right about that. I totally see it." Cater nodded in agreement.

"What...quirks?" Deuce inquired.

"For example... Look, over there." Trey glanced over the tables and points to a student with wild white hair and...

I remark, "A guy with dog ears?"

I've seen some students with animal ears and tails in the crowd before. That guy in particular looks rather intimidating, though. I can tell from his broad body that he's muscular underneath his uniform. He'd likely bite my hand before I could lift a finger.

Trey chuckled. "That rugged look definitely means Savanaclaw."

"Totally! That dorm has a lot of people good at sports and martial arts. They're pretty brawny? Or I guess you could say, they're all pretty buff? Either way, Savanaclaw's colors are yellow and black." Cater said.

"Then what about that guy with the gray and uh...light purple arm band on his arm?" Grim points to a student. He had silver white wavy hair swept to the side and glasses. He also has a mole below his left lip. He somehow looks familiar, but I can't see too much from here.

"He's from Octavinelle. At the table in front of us, the guys with the dark red and yellow are from Scarabia." Trey said.

One animated student with a white and gold turban arguably wore the uniform loosely (more so than me) and wears a beige cardigan. The boy in front of him wears a red hoodie and a long dark low ponytail, sitting passively as the other rambled endlessly.

"They say both of them are really smart. When it comes to written tests, nothing can beat those two. Though, Scarabia's dorm leader isn't that great at studying." Cater shrugged.

"All right, I see a red flag there." Ace intervenes.

Trey broke into a laugh as he spoke, "You sure adapt quick. Back to what we were saying, those bright and sparkling ones over there are from Pomefiore. They have a purple and red armband."

A student in a brown musketeer hat was sitting with a small feminine student in a frilly shirt.

"Whoa! There's a super cute girl over there!" Grim remarked.

"Wha?! At a boys school?!" Deuce exclaimed.

"Idiot, this is an all boys school. There shouldn't be another girl here." Ace told them.

I said nothing and pretended I have no part in that conversation. I need some fuel in my system but everyone's so chatty.

Deuce and Grim gaped at the feminine and dainty-looking student who is actually a boy. "Ehhh..."

I scold them for staring so much. They were being rude. I think the boy noticed someone staring in our direction but was unaware of who or why. Fortunately we dodged a bullet there.

"If you wanna see girls, the portrait in the west building, Miss Rosalia is pretty high level. I can introduce you if you're interested. Should I set up a blind date?" Cater offered.

"I'm good! No matter how cute Rosalia is, she's just a painting." Ace declined.

I drink my water. I feel so out of place, both physically and mentally. Even if this played out the same way in a conversation between girls, I'd still feel uncomfortable all the same. I just don't get it.

"Well, in any case, Pomefiore's full of pretty faces who take their beauty routines very seriously. Their dorm leader is a Magicagrammer with over five million followers." Cater said.

Damn. He must be one hell of a beauty then.

"Hey now. Don't focus entirely on their looks." Trey chided playfully before elaborating, "Pomefiore has many members skilled at alchemy and charms."

Ohh, I get it. The Evil Queen created a poisonous apple to put Snow White to a sleep-like death. Aside from that, there's also cosmetic products and all that jazz I'm not familiar with. I'm not a makeup person. I never touch that stuff and I don't know how to apply them in the first place.

Cater laughed. "Ahaha, that's right. Next would be Ignihyde but... I don't see any of them around, they've got blue and black arm bands. Everyone in that dorm has their guard up at all times. Not even I have any friends there. I guess you could call them the complete opposites of Heartslabyul?"

"You mean, they're pretty gloomy?" Grim asked

"Hey, now! Word choice!" Trey scolds the raccoon lightheartedly. "Though they do have a very quiet image. Many of them are good at building equipment that uses magic energy or digital things."

That dorm must be pretty sci-fi. Sounds cool, even though I'm not tech savvy.

"Then there's...Diasomething dorm." Deuce muttered.

"You can't fool me with that straight face. It's Diasomnia." Ace corrected, seeing through his facade.

"I bit my tongue, okay!" Is what Deuce retorted.

Cater looks around. "Diasomnia is...there. The guys who are sitting by the cafeteria's exclusive tables. Their colors are light-green and black. They're kinda... How do I put it? Super popular? They've all got this aura that makes it hard for us regulars to approach them. The dorm leader has max 'don't come near me' vibes..."

A group of three Diasomnia students sat together. Among one of them appears to be a young boy with a peculiar, if not eccentric hairstyle.

"Huh? There's a kid with them." Ace remarked.

Trey spoke, "Grade-skipping is allowed here, so that's possible. But he's not a child, he's a third year like us..."

"Lilia is my name. Lilia Vanrouge."

We yelped.

"Th-This guy teleported here!" Grim gawked.

I stared wide-eyed. He's floating upside down like a vampire! It doesn't help that he has the goth aesthetic of one.

The student named Lilia gracefully returns to the floor, no longer in midair. Unlike most students, his blazer was draped over his shoulders. Behind his cropped black hair and magenta pink highlights, I could see pointy ears.

Wine red eyes glimmer in amusement. "Are you all curious about my age? Kufufu. I have this spritely visage but like that man in glasses has said, I'm not at an age one would call me a child."

As he speaks, I noticed something protruding from the parting of his lips. Are those fangs...?

"Spritely..." I heard Trey mutter incredulously. Who says that in this current generation? Especially when referring to themselves?

"There's no need to look from afar, just come up and speak with us. Are we all not students of the same academy? We at Diasomnia will always welcome you with open arms."

Despite Lilia's polite invitation, the two boys—a silver haired young man and a taller boy with mint green hair slicked back—were watching us silently, disinterested from interaction.

"Those guys over there don't look like they'd be very welcoming." Deuce remarked.

Lilia glanced behind before reverting to us. "Kufufu. Apologies for dropping in on your meal. Until we meet again."

He makes eye contact with my bright blue ones.

I suppressed a shiver as we watched the seemingly young-but-not male return to his fellow dorm mates. Something about them told me he's expecting interesting things to come now that I'm here.

Challenge accepted, I silently swore. As the only non-magic user in the entire school, there should be some things I can do to blow people's minds away.

Ace whispers to Trey, "Our table is easily over 20 meters away from them but you're telling me that he heard us talking? Freaky!"

Trey readjusted his lens. "Well... Let's just say that Diasomnia has many peculiar members. Many of their members excel at magic in general. Their dorm leader, Malleus Draconia, is counted among the top five wizards in the world."

Malleus? That sounds familiar. Malleus... Malleus.. Mal... Maleficent? That might've just been a coincidence in naming, though.

"Sounds like the honors dorm." I nonchalantly remarked. Diasomnia is just better at magic than the rest of the dorms.

Trey sheepishly smiled. "When you boil down to it, I suppose so."

"But if someone like him is so strong, why is he studying here?" I questioned.

Cater hummed. "We're not sure behind the reason but honestly, Malleus is like super super super crazy. Our dorm leader is his own brand of crazy, though."

"So true! All I did was eat a single piece of tart and he collared me. His narrow-mindedness is super crazy." Ace jumped into the topic rather eagerly for the opportunity to rant.

That opportunity he took is the worst timing that it's comedic.

"Hmmm? I'm super crazy?"

Everyone except Ace looks on with shock. Unsuspecting of our mortified expressions, the red-haired male continued, "Yeah. He blew right past 'strict' and is just a tyrant."

"Ace! Behind you!" Deuce whispered harshly.

Said boy turns around. "Geh! Dorm leader?!"

I silently sighed. That mouth of his will always get him in boiling water...

...

(1) - Sice (pronounced "syce") is Old French for the number six in dice and cards. Vanga is Italian for "spade". I used a mob student design for him as a side character and made an OC out of it. For funsies.

(2) - The Drink Me is not an official thing in the game, but something I made up. I HC there's a company/brand that actually names themselves Drink Me or Eat Me in reference to the Alice in Wonderland movie.

(3) - Cinque (pronounced like "sink") is Old French for the number five in dice and cards. Corda is Latin for "hearts". Same with Sice, the base design belongs to a mob student I used to make an OC out of. The eyes are, of course, unique.

If future twst updates reveal official characters named Cinque and Sice I'll be sad but also happy at the same time for predicting the pattern of twst characters. That will be very awkward to fix if it does happen. *crosses fingers it won't screw my writing up*