~~~~~~~
Strike a Deal
~~~~~~~
Jack and I relocate to discuss the situation in Ramshackle's lounge room now perfectly in livable condition.
The former began, "Those guys with the anemone on their heads, in order to get a good test score they were tricked into forming a contract with Azul... I don't think I got anything wrong."
Jack leans back on the sofa. "The condition was that they had to get into the top 50 grades but because there were so many students who made contracts most of them couldn't make the cut. That's what Azul was aiming for from the start."
From across him, I was sitting on the rocking chair when I mumbled, "I thought it was weird for Grim and the boys to score so well." They couldn't have achieved that score on their own, as sad it was to admit.
"There's no meaning in using someone else's power to get good grades. Wasting the chance to show off their true power to everyone is what really makes them stupid." Jack huffed.
"Everyone at this school is self-obsessed like Howl, it's so troublesome... If they took things seriously we could avoid hardship for everyone, including myself."
"I know, I wanted to say it's unbelievable but..." I was about to ramble when we noticed the new presence a little late.
Jack jolted at the man casually lounging on the space beside him. "Headmaster! You scared me!" When did he get here?!
Crowley sighed. "I couldn't put a stop to Ashengrotto's 'business' again this year."
I stared. "Would you care to elaborate?"
"Azul Ashengrotto. He is a second year that works as the dorm head for Octavinelle. He is an extremely extraordinary student to be the dorm head as a second year like Rosehearts but... There are a few, no, a great number of problems."
"Problem, like the scam incident? If that's the case then as the headmaster can't you just order him to stop?" Jack suggested.
"The thing is... Precisely because I am a teacher, I can't prohibit his activities."
"What do you mean?"
"The test notebook that Ashengrotto distributed throughout the school... Wasn't something he made by stealing test answers, cheating or anything like that. He thoroughly read through the last 100 years of test answers from Night Raven College and refined a 'test key' with his own abilities." Crowley explained.
"That's actually amazing?!" I exclaimed in astonishment with wide eyes. He's a genius!
"Using his own power to make something like that, he's pretty good." Jack mumbled before quirking a brow. "Wait. So you're saying that because it's not cheating that's what makes it troublesome...right?"
"Howl, that's a very good conclusion." Crowley praised. "From the position of a teacher, we can't prevent one student from creating a test notebook like that from their legitimate efforts. And the fact that he 'kindly' helped others with their studies."
"If you did you'd pretty much be telling everyone, don't study' or 'don't work with your friends'." A guttural growl rumbled from the wolf's throat. "That is troublesome."
The man nodded. "That is correct."
"Headmaster, you said something about not being able to 'stop his business again this year', right? What's that about? Did he do that the year before?" I inquired.
"Yes. Last year, his notebook didn't gain as much fame and notoriety as it did now so it didn't become a huge incident like this year but... This year it seems the rumor 'if you want to get good grades on your exams then come to Mostro Lounge' was spread all around campus." Crowley answered.
"But no one had warned them about what would happen if they violate the contract?" Jack said.
"It seems that way. As a result, Ashengrotto was able to continue making deals with students this year. And in the end... The average test score for all grades in all subjects is over 90." A strangled noise laced with Crowley's words in the end. "It's better than the average for all subjects being failure! However..."
"That means almost all of the students ended up cheating..." I muttered. The system is rigged in that aspect.
"So, does that mean that the guys who lost to him last year still don't have their magic today?" Jack asked.
"Well... In order for the students from last year to get their abilities back he gave the condition that I allow him to open Mostro Lounge for business on campus."
"What?!"
I thought Mostro Lounge was something established with the dorm since its foundation. Not some recently new business owned and managed by a teenager!
Crowley states, " 'Night Raven College is a prestigious school known for turning out exceptional wizards in great numbers. It must cause you great pain, Headmaster, to see it become a place for students that can only use meager magic. For that I have an idea. It's not something disadvantageous for you.' ...Is how he put it."
"Wh-What a guy..." Jack breathed. "To go and threaten the headmaster into a deal like that. I think I see why Leona doesn't wanna go near him."
I have to give Azul some respect for threatening Crowley and actually winning. I wish I had that level of cunningness, but I'm forever prone to being guilt-tripped and carrying out bird man's demands. Damn it.
"He went as far as calling it a 'win-win' since the school gets 10% of the money made..." Crowley weakly crooned, though he didn't look too devastated.
"Tch, you've got yourself a pretty good deal." Exclaimed the wolf boy.
"Aaah, just what will he demand this year. For those stupi... No, those pitiful students I will have to meet his demands once again. For I am gracious. Ashengrotto is taking his studies seriously and 'only' benevolently helping his fellow students... As a teacher I can't strongly advise that he stop. Why is it that only students with a few problems enter this school?!" Crowley sobs his woes dramatically with fake tears. He then looks at me.
Ah crap here we go again.
"So that's why, Miss Noctowl. Could you somehow persuade Ashengrotto to cease these activities?"
"He's definitely not the type that can be persuaded." I said as-a-matter of fact. I crossed my arms and narrowed my blue eyes, unwilling to bend my back to his unreasonable request.
Having expected this, he sighed theatrically. "Ah~ The food expenses for Ramshackle Dorm have really been building up lately... My pocketbook hurts... And I'm busy researching a way to get a certain someone home so it's hard to find the time to search for a solution..."
I flinched under my uniform.
"Ah, you don't have to worry. For I am gracious." Crowley smiles, but his threat still lingers in his tongue.
My brow and fingers twitched uncontrollably. Great Seven help me from lunging my claws onto this soul...
"I'm not surprised we get students like that with a teacher like this, y'know..." Jack mumbled, sparing pity for me. And Crowley wonders why he gets the students he complains so much from.
I clutched my sleeves and speak through gritted teeth, "I'll do what I can."
"Oh really, you'll take care of this for me! That's to be expected of the prefect I can always count on!" Crowley had jovially exclaimed before stating curtly, "Then I am very busy so I bid you adieu. I'm counting on you to solve this!"
He stood up and left the lounge.
"Headmaster really is an elusive guy..." Jack had stared where the masked man was last seen before resting his gaze on me. "So, what do you plan to do now? Like you said, he doesn't seem like the kind of person you can just persuade to stop and they'll actually stop."
I internally sigh at Crowley's character. Putting aside my frustrations for later, I said, "Let's gather information first."
"Yeah. The basics of hunting are to know your enemy. You know your stuff." Jack smiled. "And it might be good for Ace and them to suffer a bit and learn their lesson."
A mirthful smile twitched my lips. "Heh, that sounds like the only good thing that came out of this."
...
We began our observation the next day. With Jack's sharp nose, we tracked Azul down the hallway before first period of class begins.
"Okay, we came all this way to monitor Azul but..." Jack trails off, whispering from beside me.
"I didn't think you'd come and skip class with me." I said and glanced to the Savanaclaw student.
"This was a direct order from the headmaster. I'm sure he'll see cutting class as part of it." He shrugged. "That and I'm tired of this losing streak. If you're gonna find the secret to Azul's strength, I wanna know, too."
We peek into the lecture hall where music class is held. Azul's singing reverberates the room.
"That guy's got a pretty good singing voice." Jack remarks, astonished. To be honest I wasn't surprised, since he's like Ursula from a movie about musically talented mermaids.
We tail after Azul to second period: animal language arts.
I didn't think I'd desperately try so hard from bursting out laughing when I heard Azul communicate to Lucius with nasally meowing and the furball responding back. It was just so ridiculous for me that I had to physically move from the door to recover from my fit, much to Jack's concern. Apparently Azul can understand animal language and speak them himself.
Third period is alchemy. With some ingredients and extract from 120 kinds of medicinal herbs blended together, he managed to make a potion that could change a part of your body into another animal. According to Crewel, the level of concoction is something seen at the end of the third year. So he could also put together difficult potions perfectly...
After that was lunchtime. I overhear Azul ordering squid ink pasta with some vegetables and notes that eating only carbs will make an unbalanced diet as well as gain weight.
"Azul really seems like a flawless honor student." Is what Jack concludes after our observation.
"In the end we learned nothing aside from the fact that he's practically perfect. Just what is his IQ?" I sighed, eating a spoonful of mashed potatoes while occasionally keeping an eye on Azul dining from afar.
Meanwhile in front of Jack and I...
"Fgnaa~ I'm dead tired from being pushed around by Azul..." Grim laid limp on the table, purple anemone drooping.
"He's been making me run around cleaning Octavinelle, waiting tables at the lounge, and buying supplies." Ace said, rolling his arms back from the soreness.
"He made me come to work at 6 this morning." Deuce rubbed his eyes.
"I have to help at Mostro Lounge again today." Ace groaned dully.
"Dorm Head Rosehearts said, 'Entering a contract with Azul? It should be off with your head!'" Deuce had feigned Riddle's voice while looking at at the ceiling before wilting. "He got angry and made me write a written apology..."
"And we look dumb since we can't take the anemone off..." Grim topped it off before the trio sighed collectively, anemones wilting along with them. They're becoming emotive all of a sudden...
"Hmph. You reap what you sow." Jack turned his nose away, disregarding the depressing mood they made for themselves and continued eating his meal.
My brows furrowed at the sight of anemones scattered around the cafeteria. "We have to do something for them quickly..."
"Oh my, what ever is the matter? You're making a gloomy face."
"Ahaha. Look at all the anemones growing around here."
Grim flinched to life. "There they are, the identical twins!"
Jade possessed his perpetual polite smile as his heterochromatic eyes looked over the table of first years. "You appear to be exceedingly troubled about something..."
"Yeah, there is a certain someone working us to the bone." Ace spat.
"Aha, the contract breaking anemones are saying something." Floyd's carefree smile dissipates. His voice grows a few octaves lower as his mirrored mismatched eyes bored into them duly. "You don't have the right to complain. Shut up." That's the face of a sociopath right there.
Grim whimpers and hides behind Deuce, cowering like a leaf. "I'm gonna get squeezed again."
"The one I'm talking to is not any of these anemones, but, rather, you. The prefect of Ramshackle Dorm, Strix Noctowl." Jade's gaze rested on me. It may have been the trick of light, but I could have been imagining the bright yellow in both twins' eyes glowing menacingly.
I couldn't suppress a visible jolt from the eye contact. For a moment I thought they could see through my secrets and lies like a book. They could be breathing down on me and I'd immediately identify them.
I can't afford to let my guard down with these types of people. My eyes narrow at them guardedly, but my pupils waver from their intimidation oozing behind their smiles. I balled my hands on the table into fists and say evenly, "What do you want with me?"
Either I was getting easy to read, or Floyd may be keener than I give him credit for. "Why're you jumping back like a shrimp. Shrimp... Hmm~ You're little so I guess that makes you Little Shrimp." He chirped.
What? Is that supposed to be an insult? I've been called meaner things in my home world, but being called a shrimp is new to the list. I'm not sure if that's a welcoming change...
"I think any student is gonna look small next to you guys..." Deuce mumbled under his breath.
"These two being this big is just too powerful..." Ace's voice quivered the slightest, comparing me between two lanky eel men. They're definitely a head taller than me.
"You were playing spy together with Riddle just the other day so you're probably already aware of who we are but... Allow us to reintroduce ourselves." Jade began and placed his left hand over his chest. "I am Jade Leech. This is my twin, Floyd."
"Hello, I'm Floyd. Nice to meet you, Little Shrimp." He smiles with droopy, lax eyes in comparison to Jade's sharper pair and leans to meet my face.
I could only stare back at him warily, unsure if greeting him back would mean acknowledging the peculiar sea creature nickname I was suddenly given on the fly.
Jade takes the initiative and said, "Back to the matter at hand. Is your concern perhaps about...the situation these stupid anemones are in?"
" 'Perhaps' my ass. Look at his smug grin." Jack squints at the Leech twin who retained his mild-mannered demeanor with a silver tongue.
"Who's this guy? He's spiny like a sea urchin." Floyd comments casually.
"Wha... I'm no sea urchin! I'm a wolf!"
I sweatdropped from beside Jack. This guy likes comparing people to sea creatures, doesn't he? At least "sea urchin" sound tougher than "little shrimp".
"If the source of your concern is about these anemones... I think it would be best if you approached Azul directly to discuss it with him." Jade suggested.
I look to him with surprise stirring in my eyes. "What?"
Jade's smile has widened when he assured me of this, having noticed my attention was reeled in. "Azul is a deeply benevolent person just like the Sea Witch of the Great Seven. I'm sure he will hear you out."
"That's right. Azul can clear up any of your worries. For example..." Floyd glanced to the trio, "Even if you wish to free those anemones over there."
The anemone troupe audibly gasped. Hope sparks within.
"Of course, 'for free'...is out of the question." Jade added.
"Tch, so that's your aim. You want Strix to enter in a contract with him, too." Jack bored his amber eyes at the twins.
"Please don't bare your fangs. Land creatures are quick to violence, it seems." Said an unfazed Jade.
"We just told you out of the kindness of our hearts. Right, Jade." Floyd tilts his head to his brother.
"Yes, Floyd. We are the kind of people who just can't leave poor, unfortunate souls alone."
They eerily laugh together.
"If what we talked about is of any interest to you then please come by Mostro Lounge after 9PM. We will be waiting with delicious tea ready for you." Jade smiled.
Floyd casts a look my way and cooed, "I'm waiting for you, Little Shrimp."
Two pairs of footsteps click away from our table. The weight of their proposition still hung in my head.
"So, that means..."
"If you sign a contract with Azul and beat him..."
"Depending on how it goes, we could be freed?!"
"We're counting on you, Prefect!! Beat Azul!!"
My brow twitched at the empty braincell trio who went up in my face.
"You guys didn't waste any time." Jack flatly commented on my behalf.
"Guys that don't have an anemone coming on their head wouldn't understand our pain!" Grim retorted.
"It's your fault for wanting to take it easy during test time." Jack rebuked coolly.
"And we've learned our lesson, promise." Ace said.
"Yeah. I won't do it again. Even if I fail, I'll accept my fate...!" Deuce closed his eyes and clenched his fist.
"You should say you're going to work so you don't fail again." Jack corrected. "So, what do you wanna do, Strix. Do you wanna go along with their whims?"
I had been contemplating the choice until now when I made my decision. "This might be our chance of confronting him face to face. It wouldn't hurt to hear him out."
Grim gasped, "This is the first time I've really thought of you as a prefect!" much to my chagrin.
"...Tch, can't be helped. You'd be in danger by yourself. I'll go with you." The tanned male gruffly said.
I look to him with wide eyes. "Jack...!"
"Whoo~ Jack, you're so nice~" Ace grinned.
"Don't get the wrong idea! I just don't like what Azul's doing. I'm pissed about losing to a bunch of guys who used someone else's power to get good grades." Jack scowled.
Suddenly the anemones twitched to having minds of their own and pulled at their hosts.
"Now it's back to being pulled along by the anemones!" Deuce bites through the pain tugging at his scalp as the three were forced to get off their seats.
"Owowow! Does he plan to make us work through lunch?!" Ace cried.
"We're counting on you, Strix!" Grim said.
The scene of them being dragged away by magical anemones from yesterday replayed itself again, screams drowning as they left the cafeteria.
Jack looked at the exit where they were last seen. "Wow... Those guys never change. Anyway, are we going to Mostro Lounge tonight?"
I nod. "Yeah, let's meet up at the Hall of Mirrors by then."
...
We arrived at Mostro Lounge before 9PM would strike. It's always best to come to your scheduled appointment several minutes before it starts.
I examine the place now that it was not as crowded with 200 something students cluttered together. "It's got a mature feel to it," I remarked. Maybe because the atmosphere reminds me of late night host clubs...
"Now we're really deep in enemy territory. Don't let your guard down." Jack muttered from beside me.
Floyd greets us at the entrance. "Ah, Little Shrimp. Welcome~ Urchin came, too."
"I told you I'm not a sea urchin!" Jack bristled. I hope I don't have to put a leash on him if this gets worse...
Jade comes to join beside his twin. "Oh my... What's this now? Thank you for coming so soon. Welcome to Mostro Lounge. This is your first time visiting us, correct?"
"I thought about it this afternoon but... Do you enjoy asking questions you already know the answer to?" Jack lowly asked, narrowing his eyes.
Jade chuckled. "Fufu, it's just to be sure. Well then, this may sound presumptuous of me but please allow me to explain a few pointers for this establishment. Mostro Lounge is a social meeting place for gentlemen, and for ladies as well."
He tipped his chin to me in acknowledgment before continuing, "Disputes between dormitories are strictly forbidden. Here you shall follow the rules of Octavinelle, no matter which dorm you come from. Please follow our rules and enjoy your time in the lounge."
"Then... dear guests, what is your business today?" Jade then asked, a knowing twinkle in his mismatched eyes.
I stepped forward. "I'd like to speak with your boss."
"Fufufu... As you wish. Currently, our boss is attending to another customer. Can I ask you to wait for a short while?"
I nodded slowly. "Sure..."
"Oh, that's right. We require you to order at least one drink. So please make sure to do that. Mr. Anemone. Please take their order." Jade ordered as the A-Deuce pair were about to pass by.
"Sorry but I've got to deliver these drinks first." Deuce replied as he pushed the cart along.
"We're busy so how about you take their order at least! Seeing you laze about while we work our asses off pisses me off." Ace scowled.
"You're pretty sassy for a bunch of anemones." Jade grabs their anemones and squeezes them with his whole fists.
"Owowowow!"
"Stop pulling on the anemone!" Deuce protested.
"Azul has told me to give instructions to you new hires. So I have to properly discipline any back talk." Jade calmly said. He squeezes the plants firmly.
"Ouch owowow! I got it, I got it okay!"
I couldn't bear to watch this harassment any longer, not when it's right in front of me. "Stop that right now!"
Jade casts his gaze over his shoulder to look at me, smile still curling his lips, if not a little wider at my interjection. He releases them and turns to face me with his gentlemanly countenance. "Oh my... This is troubling, dear customer. I believe I just told you that while in the lounge you have to follow our rules."
"Anybody who doesn't listen to what we say is free game for squeezing~" Floyd nonchalantly threatens as though talking about the weather.
Jack clicked his tongue distastefully. "Tch... We're saying that seeing you pick on the newbies leaves a bad taste in our mouths."
"Then are you going to help us out in their place?" Floyd proposed, looking at us with a daring glint.
Ace perked up by the sound of that. "Oh, that's a good idea. Let's do that! Jack and Strix should help us as temps."
Jack swerved to the boy, "Hey you don't go deciding things on your own!"
"I didn't come here to work for you guys!" I added indignantly.
"I don't mind who does it as long as they take the work seriously..." Jade shrugged.
"It'd be bad if you got thrown out, right?" Deuce whispered to Jack and I.
"This is crazy hard. Grim is covered in bubbles and is being used to wash stuff in the back. Please." Ace pleaded.
Jack was silent until he sucked his teeth. He runs a hand through his hair, "Tch... Fine. I want to get this over fast so I can go home and sleep."
We eyed the wolf peculiarly. Ace spoke, "Sleep? It's still only 9. What time do you usually go to bed?"
"I'm always in bed at 10." What.
"You're just some good boy!" The orange-haired boy exclaimed breathlessly.
"So this means Urchin and Shrimpy are helping in the lounge, right? Then first, take this drink to table three." Floyd pulled a tray of a variety of drinks from Deuce's cart and hands it to Jack.
"You mustn't make the customers wait too long. Jack, please be extra courteous when serving customers." Jade said to him in particular.
"Pfft. Jack does have a scary face." Ace remarked with a snicker.
Jack tilted his head. "Huh? It's normal?"
"No slacking for the four of you. I'm watching~" Floyd sang.
I scanned the lounge and noted how busy it really is. It must be rush hour around this time. Fortunately, the night owl in me is up and looking alive. If this took place during the afternoon, I wouldn't have nearly as much energy to put into labor.
Grumbling under my breath begrudgingly, I untied my ribbons and pulled my hair into a high ponytail. I folded my sleeves, snatched a tray from the cart, and began working as Mostro Lounge's temporary employee for the night.
Taking orders, serving, and making sure the customers are satisfied... Those are only the tip of the iceberg of basic waiter skills. You have to keep an eye on your surroundings and fulfill a customer's request while not mixing up orders and misremembering things. I've never worked as a waitress until now, so to be plunged into this business was naturally overwhelming. Thankfully I managed to stay on my toes while instructing Jack with whatever help he needs.
"It's so much easier with Jack helping." Ace commented. "I thought he'd be bumbling about but he's got this."
"It's no problem once you understand the flow. This is only natural. I've got Strix's directions, too." Jack said confidently.
A pleased chuckle leaves Jade. "Please keep going at this pace."
Our streak was eventually going to reach its peak soon.
"Oi, what's keeping my order so long!
"This line is taking forever..."
"Hurry up already."
A few Octavinelle employees were frantically trying to appease the now disgruntled customers. However, their complaints bounced off the walls and have reached our ears. Before I knew it, there was a huge number of tables empty with seated students tapping their fingers and feet with upset frowns.
Apparently a few newbies had screwed up with the orders out of laziness to remember and have been serving the latest customer orders that include the same menu items as the customers who came earlier. Now those said customers are impatiently pounding the table and tiled floor and causing a ruckus. You can't really blame their justified anger after knowing the reason.
The impatient moods are going to affect the other customers and Mostro Lounge's reputation will suffer. Then maybe Jade and Floyd will try to direct the loss on us newbies for not keeping up and guilt trip us. I can't risk that.
I analyze the overall mood of the customers. Some look bored while others are itching to kill time for something while they were waiting. There's barely any entertainment apart from jazz music playing in the gramophone to keep them company.
My eyes twinkle. I have an idea, but how can I attract the customers' attention? I first need them to calm down before making an announcement, but I'm just a waitress with not much credibility to gloat with only fifteen or so minutes of experience.
"Little Shrimp~ Over here~"
I look to Floyd who stood by the side of the room. He was holding a microphone while waving me to come over expectantly.
My steps grow heavy with questions as I approach him and arched my brow.
Floyd tapped on the mic, causing feedback to resound through the lounge. Everyone fell quiet and turned to the source.
However, by then I was the one holding the microphone, courtesy of Floyd. I inwardly flinched at the attention zeroed on me. This is different from a class presentation. The pressure is that of a professional business.
I shot a tentative glance at the twin. He kept on smiling, probably a cue for me to do my thing. I steady my voice before speaking into the mic. "We apologize for keeping you waiting. We promise we will get to everyone soon. In the meantime, please enjoy entertainment you can't find anywhere else, featuring my familiars."
I gesture to the aquarium window. All eyes follow.
Three Dream Eaters swim into view. A seal pup, a skeleton fish, and a spiky fish waved and wiggled in greeting.
I make eye contact with them. They nod back.
Juggle Pup disappears to reappear inside the Mostro Lounge and lands atop my arm held up for its arrival. It summons a yellow striped ball and balances it with its nose and swayed side to side. The ball then swings from one flipper to the other before it was tossed into the air.
I launched the seal lion with my arm. Juggle Pup somersaults in midair before summoning a ring of rainbow balloons surrounding it, shining like bubbles. The balloons then move around with minds of their own before colliding into each other that pop into colorful sparks raining down on the awed customers and employees alike. Juggle Pup lands on the floor with the ball beneath its balancing flippers.
"Whoa, that's so cool!"
"Is that a sea lion? How cute!"
"Hey, look at the window! The fish are doing something!"
Meanwhile Fishboné and Fin Fatale perform loops before shooting lasers at each other, much to everyone's surprise. After all, who ordered fish with lasers? Me, that's who.
They swim acrobatically and spin while moving in circles like revolvers. Fishboné has the ability to disassemble itself and launch lasers from afar, enabling more laser choreography from each of its parts. Upon contact the lasers sparked into fireworks under the sea.
While the customers are drawn in by the colorful performance, the workers recover from their starstruck daze and resume their tasks while I was stalling time.
"Strix really does work best at night..." Jack mumbled under his breath. This could be the most active he's seen me up to now.
"Sometimes I think she does double the work to make up for her morning persona," Deuce voices aloud for his fellow track club member to hear before making his way to the kitchen to retrieve more drinks to his cart.
"Nice one, Strix!" Ace cheered when he was nearby serving the customers.
I grinned. Now to get back to those drinks...
A few waiters were too distracted by the fantastical creatures that they weren't watching where they were going. I had predicted as such, as I am partially to blame for the rather flashy spectacle (I didn't really expect them to go all out with the lasers and balloons).
Before a mess would break out, Fin Fatale dives out of frame to reappear from the floor of the lounge and leaped into the air. Just before the drinks and food would slip off the trays ceremoniously, the spirit casts zero gravity magic selectively on said items.
I was quick to swiftly retrieve the contents from spilling a single drop and fluidly transition to serving the orders on the customer's table as though there was never a slip up accident in the first place.
I gave my best customer service of a smile. "Here's your melon soda and blueberry cheesecake. Please enjoy."
A look of awe hung their visage. "Th-Thank you..."
Juggle Pup would indulge in the customers affectionate head rubs and cooing while the pair of fish spirits occasionally swap places to alternate assisting with carrying the food and drinks with their levitation magic and entertaining them underwater.
Meanwhile I did my best to ignore two pairs of eyes lingering on me. My spine would shiver when I was certain one of them was watching me like a hawk.
While I was working, I was intent on not acknowledging the twins that I didn't notice what was happening behind my back.
...
A student had his phone up filming a video on the colorful Dream Eaters to later be posted on Magicam, coincidentally capturing the girl within view.
He zoomed into her profile curiously to watch her work her magic despite not having the ability. The roundness shaping his eyes conveyed his intentions were innocent; he was simply fascinated by the prefect's presence sticking out like a sore thumb in the lounge for men. How she works admirably with cool elegance suddenly made him realize how beautiful she is.
Suddenly a hand plucked the device from his possession.
A placid smile oozes from Jade's lips, despite not meeting his eyes all the way. "Our new policy forbids photography and film when Strix Noctowl is present. For the sake of Night Raven College's reputation, as well as her privacy, we strongly urge you, aspiring student, to not spread any content of her online."
The student nervously nodded with vigor until his neck snapped, squeaking out an apology. Jade returns his smartphone. There was no need for the unspoken threat to manifest aloud underneath the vice dorm leader's polite demeanor.
...
"We delivered all the backlogged orders." Jack said.
"Though it was pretty tough..." Deuce said, slumping his shoulders from exhaustion.
"Eeh~ You're pretty good. Little Shrimp, can y'all keep going?" Floyd asked.
I was flexing my fingers from the soreness when I replied albeit suspiciously, "Sure...?"
"Then please take care of washing dishes and serving food. After that can I ask you to make the drinks?" Jade smiled.
We flinched at the load of tasks and sweated nervously. This is becoming like spartan training...
"D-Don't get cocky!" Jack barked.
Time flies by when you're working all over the place that you could be gliding at some point. The number of customers soon dwindled. The lounge is less bustling now that we don't have to worry about bumping into each other. My Dream Eaters had been dismissed along with the rush, much to some of their disappointment. Fortunately they didn't make a fuss about it and have been cooperative now.
Jack heaved a relieved sigh. "The rush is finally calming down."
Floyd hummed. "You handled that pretty well. Thanks for all your help you two."
I pant under my breath. "Why tonight of all nights did it have to be rush hour..." The world is so merciless!
A round of applause from a single young man approached. "You are wonderful help for being able to handle that big of a rush."
We stood straighter upon the presence. Jack snarled his teeth at the owner of Mostro Lounge. "Azul!"
"I'm terribly sorry for the wait. The VIP room is ready for you so please come this way." Azul leads after ordering, "Jade, Floyd. Please get tea ready for our guests."
"As you wish."
I had fixed my usual hairstyle as we tread down the beeline to the VIP room and entered inside. A whole library of archives and books took up majority of the walls decorated with seashell motifs and illuminating aquarium tanks below the shelves. What stood out is the not-so discreet vault behind the office desk.
"What is this place... Are we still in school? There's a big vault in the back... Looks like a bank." Jack and I stared. Did Azul not even bother trying to hide it behind a secret door that would open by the push or pull of a book? He must be so confident to let the giant vault screaming "Please hack me!" be out in the open.
"Don't just stand there by the door. Please take a seat." Azul gestured politely to the black leather sofas facing each other, a low glass counter table between them.
When we sat on the opposing side of the sofa across him, he crossed his legs and arms. After placing a cup of steaming warm brewed tea in front of us, the twins had taken their places behind the sofa and stood on either side like two intimidating bodyguards. If I went here alone, I'd be cowering in my seat. Thank goodness I have Jack's reassuring presence beside me.
Azul looks to us. "And? What did you want to discuss with me?"
I meet his gaze. I know he knows what we're here for. "I want you to set the students free and remove the anemones from everyone."
An amused chuckle escapes Azul's lips. "This is yet another...rather tyrannical request all of the sudden. You want me to release all 225 students I've already made contracts with."
Our eyes widen. Jack exclaimed, "225 people?! So you've made that many."
"This year Jade and Floyd were extremely thorough with their work... Thanks to that I was able to make deals with so many clients." Azul smiles.
He then addressed me, "Well then, Strix, you say that you want me to free all of those students, but I'm not making them do any work that goes against labor standards. They agreed to my terms before signing the contract. Contracts aren't something easily nullified because someone else thinks they're 'pathetic'. In other words..."
Sky blue eyes outlined with purple eyeliner bored into my luminous ones. "You're already too late."
I had prepared for this kind of response. Between lunchtime and our meetup in Mostro Lounge, I had been planning several methods to get Azul to listen to my request. This is the most appropriate plan I have that is safe and fair for both sides.
"Then I'll make a deal."
Jack's ears stood erect at what he heard. He swerved to me. "Hey, what're you thinking?!"
However, I retained my gaze on Azul and await his response.
A glimmer flashed in his eyes. His smile widens. "Ohh, you want to make a deal? That is an interesting idea."
"Aha. Little Shrimp, you've got guts." Floyd comments from behind Azul's seat in amusement.
The silver-haired male hummed thoughtfully. "I understand that you want to make a deal with me but... However, there is a problem. You do not possess any magic. You are but a simple human... A simple human, if it weren't for your potential to command a wide array of familiars you call 'Dream Eaters' at your beck and call. If you wish to make large demands, you'll have to come up with a suitable collateral..."
I stared passively still. "You're saying you'll take ownership of my Dream Eaters in exchange for my wish? If that's the case..."
"I refuse."
The dorm leader reciprocates my stare with a silent one beneath the shade of his fedora.
I took his silence as my cue to continue, "Azul... You cannot steal my power as a beast tamer from my familiars. They'll always be loyal to whoever's soul created them. If I swapped bodies, they'll still follow me. They're bound to me until I lose my soul."
"And even if you propose you'll order me to have them indirectly carry out your commands, I won't let myself be controlled by you. Because..."
I raised my hand and clenched it into a trembling fist.
"I certainly don't owe my ungrateful idiots that much to live the next four years of my high school career in servitude." A pissed tick mark throbbed on my forehead behind my passively aggressive face. Just remembering the cause of this involvement has me boiling with fury. Now I suddenly want to punch something.
The Octavinelle trio stared blankly.
Jade holds a gloved fist to his lips and laughs, revealing the slightest of his sharp teeth. "Fufufu... You surprisingly have your expressive sides... how unexpected."
"Haha, you're funny, Shrimpy." Floyd giggled childishly.
To be honest I didn't know what to expect from their reactions because I said what I felt from the heart, but I guess I got on their good side? Despite them being my enemies? Oh whatever...
"I had assumed you would make a noble speech about not submitting to the whims of your peers, or about your circumstances as a woman. Though your feelings on the matter are not...unwelcoming, for a lack of words." Azul lifted his glasses from the bridge of his nose, seemingly entertained by the route I took.
He sighed softly. "A shame. You have tremendous potential with the Dream Eaters yet you scarcely use them."
My eyes narrowed slightly, yet I kept my mouth quiet.
Upon my lack of outward response, Azul shrugged. "No matter. I've anticipated your stubbornness regarding your familiars. How about...the rights to use the Ramshackle Dorm you look after."
Jack clenched his jaw. "That's what you've been after from the start..." Aside from using my Spirits as collateral, the second closest thing I have is the dorm.
I was silent. The dorm that I've finally finished renovating with the help of my classmates and seniors... I have a feeling I don't have any other alternatives...
Suddenly the door swung open. A small mass of bubbles flew in along with the familiar voice belonging to a certain raccoon.
"I'm on board with that!"
I look over the sofa. "Grim, how long have you been there?!" Ace wasn't kidding when he said Grim was covered in bubbles.
"I'm do-done living like this! My fur is not made for dishwashing!" Grim protested, shivering.
"Grim. I'm not very impressed with employees skipping work in order to eavesdrop on people's conversations." Jade crossed his arms with a stern frown. "Floyd, do the honors and throw him out."
"Alright~"
Floyd lifts Grim by the collar. Before he would haul the beast out of the room, Azul interjected, "Now now, hold on a moment, you two."
He turns to me. "Strix, your one and only resident is fine with this. What will you do? Will you offer up the Ramshackle Dorm as collateral to enter a contract with me?"
Grim whimpers in Floyd's hold. "Ughh, Strix... Save me..."
"Hey, Strix. Stop now! No matter what, this contract puts you at a disadvantage." Jack tells me.
I couldn't meet his eyes. "What are the conditions."
"Hey!"
"The conditions to fulfill this contract are... Go to the Atlantica Memorial Museum and retrieve a certain photo within the next three days!"
Jack stared in shock. "You want us to steal a museum exhibit?!"
From behind Azul, Jade's eyes widen a fraction.
"No, it's not an art exhibit." Azul clarified. "What I want you to steal is... A photo taken ten years ago commemorating Prince Rielle's visit to the museum."
Rielle? That sounds like Ariel... Is there a handsome male version of Ariel in this world, too?!
Jack quirked his brow. "A prince's commemoration photo?"
"It is a plain photo panel lacking any historical value displayed near the entrance. Simply borrowing it won't cause a big fuss." Azul said.
"Why do you want us to get something like that?" Grim asked.
"This wouldn't be a battle of wits without some sort of challenge, right? If it's too simple then it's unprofitable for me." Azul's eyes narrowed into slits. "We are not a charity."
I suppressed a shiver. I feel like I'm confronting a mafia boss than a high school student.
"...The Atlantica Memorial Museum holds many national treasures of the Coral Sea like the 'silver dinglehopper'... The cultural heritage from The Mermaid Princess' Cornucopia and her 20 thingmabobs are collected there so it's a famous sightseeing spot." Jade explained. "It won't be like trying to find a piece of gold dust at the bottom of the ocean."
Silver dinglehopper... Thingmabobs... The Little Mermaid references... Rest assured, I'm internally screaming behind my poker face.
"Oh yeah, didn't we go there once in elementary school?" Floyd remarked offhandedly.
"Hold on." Jack spoke up, "The Coral Sea is a country located at the bottom of the ocean. For those of us without gills or fins just going there is difficult. Isn't this condition too extreme?"
"Yeah yeah. I can't breathe under water, y'know!" Grim said.
"Figure out a way to overcome that challenge... Is what I'd like to say but please relax. I shall provide you with a potion that will allow you to breathe under water." Azul produces a potion shaped in a seashell containing acidic green liquid. It looks more like poison to me...
"Because it's said that the Sea Witch even provided the unfortunate mermaid princess with legs to meet her human love. It's important to be benevolent... You see. Fufufu."
"What will you do? Will you accept this deal and sign the contract? I am a very busy man so please hurry up and make your decision. Well... Well?" Azul insists.
My eyes solidify in determination. I came here ready to take on whatever deal he's going to make, after all. I can't chicken out now. I'll override his 225 contracts with my own and end this anemone nonsense. "I'll sign."
"Wonderful! Then sign the contract." With the snap of his fingers, a sparkling golden contract and quill pen appeared hovering in front of me. It's just like the one from the movie.
I took the pen and paper with my dainty hands and scribbled my signature to seal the deal.
Azul takes the contract and checks it, like a greedy man savoring the smell and texture of money. "Fufufu... I have received your signature. This concludes our entering into a contract."
"If you come back to me with the photo from the Atlantica Memorial Museum by the time the sun sets down three days from now, I promise to release all 225 of my anemone servants. But, if you are unable to retrieve it... Ramshackle Dorm will be mine. And you will join the ranks of my servants!"
I frowned. No way am I going to have a dumb, goofy anemone on my head until I leave this school. "We'll see about that."
I abruptly downed the cup of tea left untouched until now (lukewarm due to negligence) before setting it down on the coaster. "Thank you for the tea. It was good." I added tersely before rising to my full height.
"Jade, Floyd. See our guests off. I'm looking forward to three days from now." Azul smiles in anticipation.
...
"Ohh, so this is Ramshackle Dorm. This is my first time inside but it has a certain charm to it. It is also very close to school, it will be perfect as the second location of Mostro Lounge."
"Ghosts live here, right? It seems like so much fun."
Grim and I stared. It was then the former spoke up, "Why exactly did you guys come with us all the way here..."
"Well you did put this up as collateral in your contract with Azul." Floyd began.
"Unlike the other clients, you did not hand over an ability when you made the contract. Therefore, we will be confiscating this dorm." Jade finished.
Grim and I gap at the twins. "What?! I wasn't informed of this!"
"Until you have held up your end of the agreement, this form will temporarily be Azul's. In accordance with that, we cannot allow the two of you to stay here during this time." Jade explained.
"We'll at least give you time to get your stuff." Floyd said.
"Once this place formally becomes Azul's, we will be disposing all of your personal belongings. So please get ready with that in mind." Jade smiled. They're already talking as though I've failed upholding the deal.
Floyd giggled. "Don't worry. As long as you bring that photo by the time the sun sets three days from now you'll get everything back."
The twins chuckle eerily. I have so many mixed messages. I've never been so intimidated by twin moray eels in my life up to now.
"Fgnaa~! I gotta get all my cans of tuna!" Grim scrambles to retrieve his belongings. Though I wished they were more helpful, Grim is a monster. What else would he really need besides food?
"This has really gotten out of control..." I grumbled to myself before entering my bedroom.
I gathered my clothes and necessities in the deep purple backpack I had salvaged when going through the other untouched bedrooms prior to the renovation. I also put inside my glass jar of the rainbow dream fragments that appear after the Overblots. We can't forget my vintage Disney Polaroid camera aka "ghost camera", either.
I glanced at my reflection on the mirror above the fireplace. My frustration was slipping through my mask. I just couldn't believe I'm being robbed homeless, especially after the fact I finally fixed the worn-down building to livable condition. I feel like Azul had schemed this whole thing once I had done that to spare the expenses.
My bright gold heart locket glistened in the reflection. I look down and finger the shape in my hand before grasping it inside for a reassuring squeeze. Time to go.
Grim and I arrive at the foyer where the Leech brothers were waiting.
"Are you both ready?"
"See ya, Little Shrimp and Seally. Safe travels."
"Ahh, please let us know if you're in need of a place to stay. You can reserve a guest room in Octavinelle for ten thousand madol a night." Jade offered.
A scowl almost registers in my otherwise frowning visage. "If you know how penniless I am then don't even bother recommending it, even as a joke." I said coldly.
Without waiting for a response, I walk through the space between them who moved to make way for me and my luggage. The door creaks before clicking shut behind me.
As we climbed down the stone steps, Grim suddenly spoke up, "Wait a sec! A seal? Does he mean I'm a seal?!"
"A little late reaction, Grim..." I closed the gate behind me. A chilly wind mercilessly hits us as it flew by. We shuddered. November is really coming to an end with winter around the corner.
"...Uugh, are we gonna have to sleep out in the cold from now on... This sucks." Grim gripes.
I gripped the strap of my backpack. Think positive, Strix. Don't constantly blame the cause of your problems walking behind you no matter how rightfully so. It won't get you anywhere in Twisted Wonderland.
"Let's go find something for shelter." I breathed out. Maybe we could sleep on the bench by Sam's shop. He wouldn't mind since it's not inside the shop itself.
Three figures run up to the fenced entrance.
"Heey, Strix, Grim!" It was Deuce, with Jack and Ace in tow.
"Ffna! Did you guys come to help us out?!" Grim asked.
"Hmm. Grim aside, if Strix doesn't have a place to stay, well y'know, we're kinda the reason? I wouldn't be able to sleep well if she caught a cold or something from staying outside." Ace said, rubbing the back of his neck.
"You really aren't straightforward." Grim flatly looks at the orange-haired boy not meeting my eyes. At least the thought warms my heart. Just a little bit. Doesn't excuse him or any of the three for the trouble they pulled me into.
"We already spoke with Dorm Head Rosehearts. If you're cool with staying in a four-person first year room we can at least offer you a place to sleep." Deuce offered.
Jack looks at him questionably. "You plan to shove the two of them into a four person room? A woman, with four men? Are there any vacant rooms in Heartslabyul?"
"There aren't any people getting held back or dropping out in our dorm so it's completely full." Deuce regrettably explained.
"...Then do you wanna come to Savanaclaw?"
We look at Jack with slackened jaws, gasps stolen from our breaths.
"Even though I said I'd have your back dealing with Azul, I ended up not being able to do anything." My eyes creased at this. "And they still owe you for the Magift tournament stuff so I don't think Leona-senpai will refuse."
Deuce smirked and stared at the wolf with a glint in his eyes.
"Eeehh. Jack is actually a pretty nice guy." Ace said, sharing a knowing look with his fellow dorm resident.
"Even though you don't look it, y'know." Grim perched on Deuce's shoulder to join them in bullying Jack.
"D-don't get the wrong idea!! It would just be a pain if Strix doesn't beat Azul when the next test period comes around!" Jack retorted, flustered.
"All right all right, let's leave it at that." Ace smiled mirthfully and crossed his arms behind his head.
I had virtually stood behind them, rigid smile not reaching my closed eyes. "Unlike a certain trio of idiots who went ahead and sprouted anemones like freaking pansies, Jack here is a good boy. I've had no problems with him around. Not. A. Single. One."
The trio cower uncontrollably and sweat a waterfall. The demon is breathing down on their necks, and they're here to reap their souls.
With an iron grip, I grabbed the side of Ace and Deuce's head to collide them with Grim sandwiched between their shoulders. Then, here's my favorite part: I twist and drill my knuckles into their temples until they fall off.
Their howls of suffering pierce the night that I'm sure Jade and Floyd could hear us from deep inside the dorm. But I'm sure they'll be music to the ears, so no one will object to this torment.
The braincell trio collapse to the ground. I was not done, however. As long as the moon is high above the sky, my rage is no longer contained under my mask.
"How could you guys sign a contract with clearly suspicious people who look like mafia?! What made you sell your soul to the anemone devil?!"
"We're sorry!" A-Deuce plus Grim prostrated themselves before me.
I was glowering at them with an intimidating aura before my voice softens. "Did it never occur to you...that you could just ask me for help? You've seen my 90's streak! We could have been a study group together and I wouldn't have minded."
They look up to me with wide eyes. "Strix..."
"If you guys had little hope of passing, then at least go down together with pride and unity so you guys can make fun of each other after and laugh it off!" I tell them.
"You're supposed to say something more encouraging than that, Strix..." Jack sweatdropped.
I continued, "And now you're crying back to me to try to bail you guys out anemone-free? I'm not your free 'out of jail' card. Where's your pride?! Take a page from Jack! No, take the whole damn book or so help me!"
They could only bow again and again as they repeatedly said, "We're sorry! We're sorry!"
I pant heavily for air, silence settling in the atmosphere. At least blowing off steam helped counter the cold for a bit.
"...Damn, not even Dorm Head Riddle was this extreme. Riddle 2.0 much?" Ace murmured. He got silenced by the jab of the rib, courtesy of Deuce.
"This is the loudest I've heard Strix." Grim spoke under his breath.
"Let's not ever get on her bad side at night..." Deuce said, cowering slightly. The cold ground wasn't helping in this case.
I released a sigh. My eyes soften once I faced Jack. "About what you said before... You did a lot when I went to talk with Azul. It may not look like it, but dealing with the twins on my own intimidated me a whole lot. Just having you around makes me feel safe."
"I'm sorry for dragging you into this and not listening to you. Thank you for being there with me." I smiled gratefully at the boy.
Golden eyes widen. Jack shyly glanced elsewhere. Under the dim darkness I see a faint blush on his tanned cheek as he stiffly uttered, "...No prob," attempting to act tough.
I detected the whip of his tail from behind. I refrained from shedding anime tears. Jack is the boy we need but don't deserve.
"This is blatant discrimination..." Ace muttered offhandedly again, a little miffed by how happy Jack looks.
"The difference in treatment hurts..." Grim chokes out in acknowledgement.
The three stand up. "Well... You'll probably get better rest if you go with Jack's idea." Deuce said to me.
"In our dorm you'd either be sleeping on the floor or sharing a bed with Deuce and I." Upon seeing my wide-eyed reaction, a smug grin curled Ace's lips. "...Ah, maybe you'd prefer that?"
"I'll take you up on your offer to stay in Savanaclaw." I said to Jack in a heartbeat.
Ace bursted into laughter. "Haha, it's just a joke." That's a joke that won't be healthy for a girl's heart...
"Then let's get back to the dorm. It's almost midnight..." Jack released a yawn.
"See ya tomorrow."
"Good night."
As I waved the Heartslabyul duo farewell, I have this sinking feeling Leona wouldn't be on board with letting me lodge in for three days. This might be wishful thinking considering I'm in a villains school, but why wouldn't anyone in this school ever help me out without expecting a favor?
...
"...All right."
Jack stared. I blinked. "Eh?"
Bright green eyes flitted at me from his lounging position on the beach chair by the pool of Savanaclaw's lounge. "What's with the look, herbivore? Got a problem?"
"N-No, I was just surprised." I admitted. Meanwhile Grim was cheering.
"However," He began, cutting Grim's excitement short, "we don't allow pets in this dorm. Cause they'll shed everywhere."
"Bullshit! You've got way more hair than me!" Grim screeched, bristling.
"That is that, and this is this." Ruggie shrugged.
"Pretty much. Plus, we haven't cleaned the empty rooms in months and they've just become junk collectors for the residents. Where do you plan to put the two of them." Leona looks to Jack who has yet to find the answer to that.
"I can just sleep right here in the lounge on those chairs..." I trailed uncertainly upon the man's eyes resting on me.
"You're going to lie and expose your belly for the pack to tear to shreds?" Leona scoffed. "Can't guarantee you'll live."
"...Ah, I've got it. We can put them in Leona's room." Ruggie suddenly suggested, much to our visible bewilderment.
"Huh?!"
"Choose your words carefully, Ruggie. You want your mouth sewn shut?" Leona sat up to glower at the hyena standing beside his lounge chair.
"But Leona, you should be used to having servants in your room? If you make them take care of you it'll work as their payment then it's a win-win." Ruggie said.
Leona growled. "Ruggie, why you..."
Ruggie nurses his wounds, "Oh no~ My injury from the Magift tournament is still bugging me quite a bit~ I worked so hard that I had to drink a potion in order to restore my magic. I even went as far as putting my life on the line for you."
A sly grin. "My condition will get better much faster if these guys were to help take care of you."
"...Tch, you're a shrewd one."
The hyena feigns a hurt expression, though the grin quickly crawled back to his lips. "So rude, I'm not lying. Shishishi!"
"I'd rather not clean a room to stay in for a short while..." I mumbled, not particularly protesting the idea. "We've actually been through worse the first day at Ramshackle. So I guess Leona's room it is."
Grim blew a sigh a relief. "Phew, at least we avoided sleeping outside."
"Jack, take some spare futons up to Leona's room." Ruggie ordered.
"Roger."
The hyena snickers and said quietly to himself, "Lucky~ This makes my life easier for the next three days."
Leona scowled as Ruggie retired for the night. "That ass... I can hear you. Be prepared."
He looks to us. "...Hey, herbivores. Follow me. No loitering."
"Right..." I shifted my backpack strap comfortably and follow behind him with Grim.
We cross wooden bridges suspended by ropes and spiral up the stairs until we arrived at his bedroom. Tapestry of tribal designs hung on the wall and covered the floor. It's a large room, presumably because he's the dorm leader that he gets the privilege. Though, his clothes are littered on the carpet, the chairs, and his wardrobe isn't even closed. It's messy, unsurprisingly for a lazy lion as Leona.
Grim looks around in awe. "Wooow. This feels like a wild man's room. Y'know?"
"Yeah, in a lot of ways..." I half-heartedly replied, though it may sound like sarcasm.
"Stop scampering about. I'm going to sleep... Don't disturb me or I'll eat you."
I watched the brunet walk around his bed... and lay on the futon beside it.
"Eh? Wait, Leona, that's not your bed, you know that, right? Or are you half-asleep?" I step up to peer down at the lion. He's not half-asleep like I had assumed.
Despite having threatened me, he bothered to reply, "You'll be taking the bed for the next three days."
"No, I can't take it. It's only for three days, so go back to your bed." I ushered, but he didn't budge.
"It's because it's only for three days that you're gonna sleep there." Leona plopped his head on the pillow with a flop as though a cue the discussion is final.
"But I..."
"Strix, c'mon, let's sleep." Grim said, already settling on a space by the pillows and getting comfortable.
I remained standing awkwardly before Leona and bit my lower lip. This doesn't settle in my stomach well. I was intruding on Leona because of my tendency to get roped into others' problems unceremoniously dumped on my shoulders.
I don't want to cause him more bother than I already did. I'd think he already did me a favor by letting Grim and I stay here. Plus, I feel like I'm being coddled and I didn't enjoy taking advantage of that. My pride as a magic-less human girl loathed the thought.
I look around the room. My eyes spotted something black and white propped atop the desk beside the bed.
"...Hey, Leona, how about one game of chess?"
His ear perked up. One eye peeled open to stare into my serious visage.
"If I win, I sleep on the futon. If I lose, I'll comply and take the bed. Deal?"
Leona was silent. He slowly sits up.
"...Bring it over and set it up."
I was eager to set the chessboard on the table and assemble the pieces. When Leona saunters over, I asked, "Black or white?"
"Black. White always goes first." He said and sat down.
I glanced up to peer into his eyes momentarily as my hands instinctively align the pieces to their respective squares. They didn't reveal much, though that may be because it was getting late. I wonder if that was his indirect way of saying "Ladies first".
But no matter. I've always played first as the white side anyway.
I reach for a pawn. "Here goes..."
...
"...Checkmate."
I stare at the black queen cornering the white king at the corner. Somehow before I knew it, I was stripped of any escape routes. I haven't even made Leona move his king yet. I doubt I made him play serious either even at this dark hour.
My eyes lower in defeat. I sheepishly smile. "...Okay, you win. Sorry for taking up your night."
Leona huffed before plopping back on the futon. He used his arm as his head support and relaxes. "You're not half bad, herbivore."
I shot a fleeting glance to Grim who had already been sleeping since we started our game while I collect the pieces. "I've played with my grandfather a lot and managed to beat him a few times. I guess I got a little rusty."
When was the last time I played against him? How could I have forgotten? Perhaps my transition into high school prior to coming to this magical world left me little time to spare a friendly chess game. That was the only reason I could find.
I fiddled with a white pawn piece. Initially Sidney would be the white chess pieces and I black. Until partway through my childhood he suddenly switched sides. I think I had once asked him why but he never gave a clear answer. It wasn't a big deal since this was just a board game, so I didn't bother persisting.
A reminiscent smile lifts my lips. I never did get to play against other people in chess, so I've only known Sidney's tactics my whole life until now. Though, I was the one who shunned away from people. A new opponent around my age like Leona is refreshing.
"You were a fun chess opponent, though. "
Silence.
I look up from the pawn piece in confusion. "Leona?"
He hummed to acknowledge he heard that. A drawled yawn rivaling an actual lion's leaves him as he buried the side of his face into the cotton material of the futon. "I'm tired. Go sleep already like a good herbivore."
My ears sharpen to hear him snoring the night away within three seconds. I mutter a ghost of a breath, "I'm a nocturnal owl though..."
I changed into a T-shirt and shorts in Leona's personal bathroom and carefully tread around the man. I crawled on his bed and inevitably breathed in the earthy, citrus scent that belongs to Leona.
My blue moon eyes bored into the ceiling. This is actually the first time I've been in a boy's room. Huh. I should be concerned, but this is Leona we're talking about. He wouldn't do anything sleazy, he's not like Ace who I know so far as the closest to pulling a scandalous act. (Of course I'm giving him a little more credit, but when he teased me about sharing a bed with him, I have my doubts.)
Jokes aside, I'm sure I'll be fine. Despite having an attractive sweet scent I didn't ask for, Leona seems to have practiced his self-restraint well enough. Otherwise I'll sick my Dream Eaters on him in a heartbeat and no one will blame me for it. Heh, the look on his smug-ass face will be wiped off when Meow Wow gives him sloppy kisses. And I'll have my ghost camera ready for action.
I didn't know how much time has passed since I stared at the ceiling that I slowly lose consciousness, basking in the new scent that vaguely reminded me of...
~~~~~~~
The warm lap of someone dearly beloved to me. The scent of the sun. The gentle big hand of a big brother figure I never had but always wanted. He was the one that inspired hope to live within me.
Caelum sat on the couch with a content smile and eyes closed. A book rested by his side, presumably a fairytale story he would always read aloud to me. Through this I had learned of minor tales like the Gingerbread Man, the Princess and the Pea, Goldilocks, and so on and so forth I haven't seen Disney adapt a movie of at the time.
I imagine myself I am today knelt on the carpet and laying my side against the couch, resting my head on his thigh. I would relish in the calming presence only he and my great grandfather could ever provide in this horrible, cold world.
It was only these two individuals whom I would bare all my insecurities and selfishness onto. My mask would be removed to reveal the true me: a childish, needy girl who clings to the affectionate touches of a loved one and only demanded unconditional love, nothing more nothing less.
Outside the comfort of my home, I was an aloof, stoic girl who was independent and less cutesy or lacking feminine charm most girls my age would have. I never touched makeup, never particularly romantic, nor did I have any interest in engaging in things girls would do for an outing.
To majority of boys, they think I was without any substance. It sounds cruel, but I've been numb to those things since my father was estranged. And I've only grown numb and numb until I was almost immune to the exposure of malicious white noise spat left and right.
Soon, I was detached from many aspects of the world. I wasn't intent on trying to assimilate myself. There was no point aside from lying to myself of my identity. Why would I do that for people who will shun my darkness in the blink of an eye, in favor for those who shine brilliantly?
The world comprised of only Sidney, Caelum, and I. Everyone else becomes an anonymous black blur.
And that's fine, I would convince myself as Caelum's hand rested on my head. I lean into his touch and sigh one of content. If only this moment could last forever. My heart yearns, my body submits, but my mind resists.
What if I could never return home? What if I come back only to learn that time passed and everyone and everything completely changed? Whose arms would I go to to seek solace in? I can't imagine finding anyone with the same warm and gentle arms Sidney and Caelum have.
I suppress the swelling desire of longing from stirring in my chest. From the far distance, I hear terms of negotiations echo coldly into my ear.
I tell myself to be strong. Yet simultaneously, I acknowledge the fact that I'm reminded of how hopeless and scared I can be without the support of my family, waiting for me in another universe separate from this one.
And then I find myself drowning in the cold sea of nothingness...