Author's Note: Cha ching, hey everybody, Legitamate Toaster here. Before we begin, it seems as though many great people have left many great comments.
"Finally after all this time. I knew there would be mistletoe involved."
I know right. It's been almost two years, and finally we've got some top notch ships.
"I knew it! I just knew these two would be together! I'm so happy I can't put it into words!"
It's good to see that some loyal viewers do enjoy this, and aren't lynching me for my crimes against Diakko.
"Please tell me I wasn't the only one who noticed joe gatto's cameo"
You are the only one who's told me, so I'd say you are the only one.
"Do you know da wae?"
I don't know the way, but I do go all the way. All the way, all the way, all the way to the Friendship Games.
"After realizing that you wouldn't post as often I was forced into a corner"
Well, let's hope that the corner just got a little bigger.
Okay boys, this arc that we're currently in is inspired by a movie. As time goes on, it'll become more obvious, Whoever gets it right first shall receive a shoutout from your's truly.
Also, I added a bonus scene for the last chapter, at the ending. I hope you boys enjoy, just as you'll enjoy this chapter!
A singular ceiling fan slowly spins in the grey office room.
Overall, the whole room seems to share a similar tone to that of the fan.
The wooden table, covered with more dust than a sarcophagus, is overrun by all sorts of clutter. Books, maps, papers, pencils, and even a few empty pizza boxes.
The only item that would seem of any use would be the radio, playing some tune with the characteristic static, implying that the machine is many years old and in need of replacement.
As soon as their current situation was made clear to the faculty of Luna Nova, many ideas began to formulate of how to overcome such odds. However, the only one that was feasible was this. It was a risky idea, one that could backfire before it even began, and was riddled with potential dangers along the way, but it was an idea that could pay off well.
Normally, they would be off for the holidays, enjoying Christmas with their families, and possibly escaping some portion of the hectic life that a magical academy would bring, not in some dank room awaiting for some lone island survivor.
It had been only yesterday since they arranged this meeting, and for half an hour they had waited, sitting in this dingy room, on worn out chairs.
Ms. Finnalin inhales deeply as she remembers her slogan.
'A filthy room houses a filthy soul.'
Sensing her colleague's growing impatience, Principal Holbrooke lets out a light smile, saying
"Now Ms. Finnalin, let's not have our nerves get the better of us. This single meeting alone may be our only chance…" Her smile drops as she grimaces, reminded of their current situation.
The middle aged teacher lets out a sigh, saying
"Yes I understand, I just hope that this man arrives soon-"
Her flow of speech is cut off, as the man that they've been waiting for enters the room.
He is a large man, not one of fat, but one of muscle. He has oily black hair slid to the side, almost complementing his narrow brown eyes, and well chiseled chin.
He looks to be a man in young adulthood, not matching the ages of the two faculty members present.
Upon seeing his clients already in his office, he walks over offering a handshake to each of the witches.
"Hi, I'm Bob, you're friendly local neighborhood tour guide, and you must be the ones who called me." He welcomes them with a toothy smile.
"Hello there, my name is Ms. Holbrooke." The principal warmly greets him with the same kind of tone as a grandmother meeting her grandchildren, accepting his handshake.
"And I'm Finnalin." The other witch responds, slightly agitated by their wait, but also accepting.
The man takes a seat at his office desk, waiting for the reason of his calling.
Holbrooke is the first to speak.
"Let me just say that we've admired your story for years."
"Your struggles are truly inspiring." Finnalin adds with fake sincerity.
The two witches exchange glances at each other, knowing full well that this is where the friendliness ends, and the lies begin.
"I'm the principal of a private school near Wales, and we adore our students. We have an annual event where we send our top three valedictorians on a vacation, as a reward for all their hard work. I think we've sent them on just about every tour they can come up with. The Nile, Galapagos, K2."
"We even have three seats reserved on the first commercial venture to the bottom of the Marianas Trench." Finnalin adds, hoping to give their story more credibility through detail.
Holbrooke nods at this, confirming this false story, before continuing.
"And for the school's hundredth year since its founding, we wanted to do something really special for them."
"Something once in a lifetime." Finnalin adds.
"So, I've chartered an airplane to fly our students over Filicudi, and we'd like you to be their guide."
Bob Jones physically cringes upon hearing those words.
It had been many years since The Filicudi Incident, but the memories still had a habit of haunting him from time to time.
He scratches his chin uncomfortably, thinking of anyway out of this proposal.
"That's uh...thats a very kind offer, Ms. Holbrooke, but I'm a very, very busy man. I can recommend a couple of guys who are really highly qualified…"
His voice trails off as he notices her shaking her head at his words.
"No, no. You're the best. You've seen these monsters in the flesh. There's no one who comes close to you."
This was true. It happened too long ago to where Bob couldn't remember if he was the lone survivor of the incident, and was too scared to look into it for himself.
To Finnalin and Holbrooke, this mattered little. They had a local from Filicudi right there in front of them. It would be very difficult to find another one, and none of them were tour guides such as Bob.
Still hesitant, Bob says
"We wouldn't be able to fly low enough to see anything of any real interest."
It was also true. Since the incident, the island was deemed too dangerous for tourists and locals alike. It had been declared a no go zone, and was illegal to intrude upon, and left abandoned. But the two witches knew the risk, and that had confidence in their magical abilities, or should they say, the magical capabilities of their students. Besides, they are desperate.
"Well, you see, that's the interesting part, because we have permission to fly low." Finnalin lies.
"How low?" The man asks, now interested.
"Well, I'm no aviation expert, but a lot lower than anybody else." Holbrooke claims, a smile on her face to add to the persuasion.
"That's hard to believe." Bob scoffs, chuckling a bit at the idea.
Sensing his disbelief, the principal leans in a bit, folding her hands together.
"You see, my school is home to many students from all sorts of backgrounds, countries, and nationalities…" Holbrooke explains, this being one of the few truthful things she's said in the room. "And due to this, i've made a lot of friends in high places. In this case, the Italian government."
Again, another lie in hopes of coaxing this man to their side.
This whole operation alone is based on lies and deceit, but if the school is at stake, it's a necessary sin that the two will have to carry.
"Mr. Jones, you have no idea how important it is that you come along." The other witch claims. "It would make all the difference."
"Ms. Finnalin, l-"
Bob's cut off as Holbrooke pulls out a checkbook from her purse, accompanied by a pen.
Money had always been something that spoke to Bob, especially nowadays.
The demand for a tour guide has significantly decreased over the years due to the rise in technology and the increase in information access. Bob Jones, the tour guide, belongs to a different breed.
Money had been tight for him for many years, shown by the state of his office. Ms. Holbrooke knew of this, and was one of the reasons why Bob was chosen out of all the other tour guides. She knew that he was in a financial situation, much like the two witches.
There is a great amount of treasure on Filicudi, enough to pay off whatever money that Bob desired. It would be a simple investment.
"l could write all kinds of numbers on this check, Mr. Jones." Holbrooke claims, clicking the button on her pen, firing out the ink needle.
She could see Bob's eyes light up at the check, as a smile began to form on his face.
They got him.
Smirking at this, Holbrooke puts the pen to the paper, asking
"So tell me, what's it going to take?"
It's a little strange.
Diana and I had only left the ancient magical school of Luna Nova for only a few days, a week at most. We had traveled across the continent, from one landmass to another, leaving a culture and a language prematurely for another. The time that we had forsaken this place had been short.
Yet, I can't help but feel an air of nostalgia, as if I'm some kind of alumni visiting for a reunion.
Maybe it's jet lag, or just myself becoming accustomed to the Italian air.
Either way, I can't help but feel similar to myself when I first arrived here.
It's true, the tower bearing The Sorcerer's Stone is still enormous to me, and the crystal itself still resonates the very bright green light as it always has. It seems as though not much has changed.
I say not much because rather than an acceptance letter in my hand, it's another hand, more specifically, Diana's hand.
Whether it's in Italy or in England, Diana still looks very gorgeous.
Not only that, but her beauty is only matched by her brains and heart.
It's almost a crime that she's one of a kind. The world could use more of her.
I'm truly lucky that out of all the women in the world, God chose myself to encounter her.
Diana catches my gaze, and gives me a light but bright smile in return.
It would be hard to distinguish the time when I started to have deep feelings for this woman, but it's clear that they are apparent now. I was only lucky that she beared the same admiration for me.
The vacation in Italy may have been short, but it definitely left a lasting effect, something that might not have happened otherwise.
And now, thanks to the romance of the holidays and of the country setting, those mutual feelings have now blossomed into something grander.
Even if that's all it added up to, I'd happily give away five or more Christmas Vacations for this.
When I first entered this school, I was alone, not knowing anyone, and more or less blind to the studies of magic, my only credible material being a piece of paper and a dream of family restoration.
And now it's just Diana and I, hand and hand, walking to our destination together.
As we enter the building, I can't help but notice that with the student body and staff gone for Christmas Break, the whole school feels like a ghost town, the only sound being our footsteps. The noticeable coldness of winter also doesn't help with my deduction.
As Diana and I walk through the empty halls together, it all starts to feel familiar again.
I can just picture all the students running around, getting to their classes, and experiencing everything that this school can offer.
It's a slight shame that Diana and I aren't here for the magical education, but instead have to deal with whatever Principal Holbrooke has in mind. It was something about Luna Nova's Witch Parade, but besides that I have no idea.
Maybe they want us to discuss our encounter with The Titan, or maybe even try and learn our methods for the next generation of parades.
Both seem unlikely, but I can't think of any other reason.
Diana suddenly stops, releasing her grip from my hand, as she turns to face me, a dull expression on her face.
"What is it, Diana?" I ask her.
She briefly draws silent, analyzing my face.
"How do you feel about the letter?" She asks me.
"I'm a bit upset that we had to leave Italy and our vacation." I admit. "But whatever it is, it must be an important matter that requires whatever assistance Principal Holbrooke desires from us."
I pause for a moment, asking
"How do you feel?"
"I'm just worried." Diana sighs out. "The contents of the letter is truly disturbing and vague at that, not to mention your now involved with Akko and the rest of the problem students. I'd hate for anything to happen to you."
I smile at her, saying
"Don't worry, Diana. Whatever it is, I'm sure I can handle it. I'm not scared of anything."
Diana rolls her eyes at this, an amused smile on her face.
Then, as if the cold from the outside was not the weather, but death approaching, a chilling voice creeps along the back of my neck.
"Hello."
"Oh my god!" I scream out of terror, jumping in fear, as I twist around to face my tormentor.
Fortunately, I am not greeted with the very embodiment of death, but someone not so far off.
A grinning Sucy is all I see, clearly amused by my reaction.
"Hey." She casually greets me, a smirk on her face.
Only now do I realize that Akko and Lotte are behind her.
"Come on, Sucy." Lotte scolds her. "You haven't seen him in weeks, and this is how you greet him?"
Sucy nonchalantly shrugs at this.
"I thought it was pretty funny!" Akko claims, giggling at its memory." I mean, did you see how far he jumped?!"
"Yeah, even when you're flying on a broom, Ted can get more air then you." Sucy says to Akko.
"Take that back!" Akko snaps at her dormmate.
"Yeah, sorry, I shouldn't use the word 'flying'. More like 'flailing angrily'."
I bite my lip, forcing my smile down.
These two haven't changed a bit.
While the two continue to bicker, Lotte walks up to me.
I remember, the last time I saw her was during the parade.
She left for her family earlier than most. She wasn't even there when The Cupid Bee stung me.
But even with this long time no see basis, it's still nice to see her again.
As if Lotte herself feels these same emotions, she smiles at me, asking
"Hello Theodore, how was break?"
I return her smile. I might even have hugged her if Diana wasn't standing so close to me.
"It was good to be back home, and see my family again. How was your trip?"
She smiles at the memory.
"It was nice to see my mom again. She was practically on the verge of tears when she read the letter."
I could see that.
I don't know Lotte's mom, but I am very familiar with her dad.
After what happened, I can see why she would be clinging to those family members around her. And just who knows how similar Lotte's mom is to her, friendliness, sensitivity and the like.
I wonder if Lotte told her mom about her reconciliation with her dad.
I'm sure it was very tempting, but I doubt it. Lotte knows about Mendacius and his powers. I've made sure she's well informed.
"Have you seen Amanda, or her roommates?" I ask Lotte.
She shakes her head.
"No, but I doubt they'd ignore this message, not even Amanda. If she didn't like magic school, then why did she sign up?"
I nod at this, agreeing with her logic.
Lotte notices Diana at my side.
"Oh…" She gasps, a bit surprised to see her here. "Hello Diana. How was your vacation?"
"I spent it with Theodore's family." Diana informs her. "I came here due to that reason."
Out of all the friends I've made at the school, I think Diana approves of Lotte the most.
She doesn't actively try to get into trouble, and is often dragged into those scenarios created by Akko or Sucy, sometimes both.
Occasionally, I think that if Lotte were to separate herself from their antics, her grades could match that of Diana. She is certainly smart, and has the potential to excel in several of her classes.
I suppose she chose great friendships over great grades.
To each their own.
Diana notices that Akko is still giving Sucy an earful, even if the latter isn't listening.
"The Principal asked for you as soon as you arrived here, or risk expulsion." Diana reminds the two. "You should cease this petty arguing, and arrive there soon."
Akko goes to open her mouth in protest, but hesitates.
Diana's right, even if Akko would never agree to this verbally.
Akko mutters a few words of slander to the blonde, getting whatever rage she was just experiencing out of her system.
With Diana's statement still hanging in the air, the five of us continue to move through the halls, on the way to the principal's office.
While Akko, Lotte and Sucy chat in the back, Diana and I take up the front.
Diana and I have ceased the hand holding from before.
I'm not sure if that was a conscious decision on Diana's part, but it's probably for the best.
It's not that I'm afraid of exposing the relationship between Diana and I to Sucy and Lotte, it's Akko that I'm worried about.
Akko is not one to normally abuse the power of self control, and if she found out that I was dating her rival, I think she'd pop and repeat the same events that transpired during the school's orientation.
Of course, that may be unlikely.
I'm sure the risk of expulsion has done more than enough to keep Akko in check.
If she really want to be like Shiny Chariot, it would be rather hard when she doesn't have a magic school to show her the path, even if that path is looked down upon by most.
And as for me, the threat of expulsion has sure kept me in school.
What's worse is we don't even know what has caused our calling back to school. It could be something simple, or something horrendous, probably the second one.
I just can't seem to get a break with this school, even when I'm supposed to be on break.
In a quick motion, Akko breaks away from her roommates, quickly making her way to my side.
I'm a bit surprised to see this, as the only thing between Diana and Akko is me, the two girls are on either side of me.
I'd of thought that Akko would want to keep as much distance between her and the blonde as possible.
Maybe she wants to say a few quick spats at Diana before we arrive.
"So, how was your vacation?" Akko gleefully asks me.
Or maybe she just wants to catch up for lost time.
"It went well. I visited a friend I hadn't seen in a while, and it was good to see my family again." I reply, purposely leaving out what I consider the best part of the vacation. "How was it for you?"
Akko beams at the memories.
"I had a great time in Japan! My family and I visited Usa, Roanapur, and Aokigahara!"
I raise an eyebrow at the last location, its name known throughout the world for a grim tradition.
Akko pouts at this.
"There's more stuff to do there, you know?"
"Japan?" Sucy asks, now joining our conversation. "That country with harakiri, kamikaze, and cherry blossoms, right?"
"What century are you even talking about?" Akko questions, laughing at her friend's summarization of the country.
A few seconds later, we finally reach our destination, the principal's office is now in sight.
I think the last time I was here was my first day arriving, when I had to convince Ms. Holbrooke to allow me to attend. I'm not sure what caused her change of heart, whether it was my spoken reasons, or something else entirely.
Even still, she didn't have to do that.
I could've been turned away at the door, and never would've come to know the wonders of this school, or meet all my new friends, never have these new experiences, some good while some are bad.
But they've still become an integral part of my something, something that I'll never forget about.
I don't think I ever could.
Originally, I was a bit annoyed on the airplane ride, not to mention the long taxi ride back here.
But now, reflecting on the principal, the teachers, this school, the students, I'm no longer objecting.
I am in their debt for taking me in, and will do whatever they have brought us here to do.
They do not need to threaten me with expulsion.
With Diana at my side, and the rest of the girls behind me, I push open the door, ready to face whatever task they require of us.
Inside, I see Principal Holbrooke sitting at her desk, with Professor Finnalin standing at her side.
Besides us, they are the only two in the room.
Upon seeing us enter, Holbrooke turns her attention to the blonde beauty next to me.
"Diana?" The principal asks, surprised. "I don't remember calling for your return."
"I was spending the winter break with Theodore." She explains. "I was forced to follow him as a result."
Upon hearing this, the principal gives a light smirk directed at the two of us.
"Hmmm…" She murmurs to herself, that smile never leaving her face.
She stares at us analytically, as if already knowing of our recently created relationship just by looking at us.
If she knows, then she doesn't bring it up, as she says
"Well, it's good nonetheless that you're here. The news we have should also pass into your ears as well."
The principal slumps in her seat, herself being so short that only her head is exposed, the rest of her body being underneath her desk.
As she begins to work herself up into saying whatever she was going to say, the door opens.
"Yo, what up?" Amanda asks as she casually enters the room, Constanze and Jasminka in tow.
"Are we late?" Jasminka asks us, a remorseful expression on her face.
I see Constanze close the door in her normal silent state.
"You three made it!" Akko beams at the three.
"Yeah, school might not be my thing, but expulsion really isn't either." Amanda declares.
"So, how was your vacation?" Akko asks her, running the short distance to engage in proper conversation.
"Me and my folks-"
"Quiet!" Finnalin demands, silencing the two into mutual obedience.
Ms. Finnalin can surely be scary when she wants to be, even against the self proclaimed rebellious Amanda.
The Professor wordlessly nods her head towards Holbrooke.
Now, all eyes lie in the Principal, awaiting for the reason of our calling to finally be explained.
She folds her hands together, sighing to herself, before mournfully saying
"We're in debt."
"What?!" Akko cries out in shock, breaking the low volume that the Principal's voice had just established.
Diana raises an eyebrow, joining Akko in confusion.
"But Principal Holbrooke, Luna Nova has been in economic trouble for a while. Surely you don't mean…"
Her voice trails off as the short woman sitting begins to sadily shake her head.
"While it is no secret that Luna Nova has had financial problems in the past, I fear that they may be a bit more than we can handle now."
"Are you kidding me?!" Akko demands angrily. "How could you let this happen?!"
"It was your doing." Finnalin declares, a scowl on her face.
"What?!" Akko cries out for a second time, now more angry than confused.
"Your actions, the actions of those involved in Luna Nova's Witch Parade, have caused this." Finnalin elaborates, casting a glare at Akko.
"Ms. Finnalin, I don't understand." I politely inform her."What happened?"
Now engaging in discourse with me, Ms. Finnalin loses some of her anger.
She grabs what looks like a piece of paper from the Principal's desk next to her, reading it aloud to us.
"Thirty kilograms of festival food: seven hundred pounds, supplies to build the float: one thousand pounds, magical fireworks: two thousand four hundred pounds."
She tosses the list onto the desk, a slightly annoyed expression ruining her normally light hearted face.
"Shall I continue?"
I take a nervous gulp at this, beginning to realize what this means.
"And, what was that?" Amanda asks.
"A receipt." Holbrooke answers.
"You're outrageous overspending for the parade have bled our already withered vaults dry." Finnalin reminds us.
Amanda snaps her head at Akko.
"Akko, what the hell?!" She demands.
"What?!" Akko defensively whines. "They gave me a credit card and told me to spend it for the parade!"
"Anything within the budget!" Finnalin shouts at her.
I remember now.
After the incident at the market, the few of us that were still on board for the parade dropped out, and left Akko alone with it.
Sure, she did manage to build a wonderful float and provide us with beautiful fireworks and the like, but all of that costs money, something that Akko seemed to forget.
"Normally, for this apathetic spending and defunding of our school, we would force you to repay the damages in full, as well as an expulsion from this school." Ms. Holbrooke informs her. "But, we are aware that you're family is indeed incapable of repaying such costs."
"And indeed, even if the costs were to be paid in full, that would still leave us on the precipice of another financial crisis." Finnalin adds.
"Yes." Holbrooke nods at her colleague. "That is why we've had to be creative."
"Creative?" I ask her.
"Are any of you familiar with The Filicudi Incident?" Holbrooke asks us all.
Almost everyone gives a collective mutter of 'no', and some shake their hand in a similar answers.
"I heard about it in a newspaper years ago." I inform them. "But I'm not knowledgeable on the details."
Principal Holbrooke nods at this, before continuing on with her explanation.
"Filicudi is a small island in the Mediterranean sea, apart of the Aeolian Archipelago. It was once a quiet little community, housing no more than a few seaside towns, a small little tourist center it was. But about ten years ago, without any warning, swarms of monsters began to appear on the island, killing and harassing the local inhabitants. A mass evacuation took place, leaving the island desolite of human life. But to this day, the monsters still remain. From then on, they used the island as a sort of command center, raiding nearby coasts for their treasures, and then taking it back to Filicudi for safe keeping."
Ah yes, that's right.
I do remember reading something like that in a newspaper article years ago, but just dismissed it as tabloids, and perhaps a coverup to another reason of the island's evacuation.
"What treasures have the creatures taken?" I hear Diana ask.
"Current Money, ancient relics, old paintings, anything worth any value."
"It's just a treasure trove ready for plundering." Ms. Finnalin adds. "It's been sanctioned off by the Italian government
"So let me get this straight." Amanda requests. "We're all going to go to some treasure island to fight monsters?"
Holbrooke nods at this.
"Sounds cool!" The red head sounds off.
"Not quite." The principal says, now shaking her head. "There's just one problem, even with credit, we were only able to pay for four, so only three of you shall go."
"Three?" Diana asks. "If I heard you right, I thought you just said four."
Once again, she shakes her head.
"I did, but, you see, even if the island is full of treasure, it would be no use sending you in when you have no knowledge of the geography. We aren't happy about asking for your help, especially during Christmas Vacation, we want you to be in and out as soon as you can, especially considering the habitation of hostile creatures on the island."
"So, who will be going with us?" Diana asks.
"Bob Jones, a local inhabitant of Filicudi at the time of its fall, now works as a tour guide. We've already convinced him to join you."
The Principal now directs her attention to all of us.
"So, we have chosen carefully on who will be joining this expedition."
"Akko has no choice since she put us into this crisis to begin with." Finnalin adds in a matter of fact way.
"Hey?! What did you just say-"
Finnalin shoots Akko another one of her death glares, her eyes piercing through the souls of everyone who can bear witness.
"Hehehe...right, I'll go…" Akko sheepishly says, rubbing the back of her head.
"It sounds dangerous, an island full of violent monsters guarding their stolen treasure." I hear Lotte contemplate.
"Oh no…" Holbrooke strongly argues. "Just think of it as an expanded version of our labyrinth assignment you had at the start of the school year. Go in, possibly fight a few creatures, take a fair sum of treasure, and get out. It shouldn't take longer than a day or two."
"With a bit of luck, you'll all be back within the week, and return to your respective families to finish your vacation with a few stories to tell." Finnalin adds.
"We at least hope that'll you'll be back within the week." Holbrooke sighs to herself. "It's best that you're in and out without drawing attention."
"What do you mean?" I ask.
"When the island was evacuated, the island was deemed uninhabitable and dangerous, and was thus sanctioned off by the Italian government. Normally we would forgo committing such acts of dissidence, but we see no other choice."
"What?! Are you crazy?!" Akko demands with pure sympathy in their situation. "I'm sure if we ask, someone would donate money to us. I mean, who wouldn't want to preserve the wonderful world of magic?!"
Holbrooke sighs at this, as if to a child who doesn't know any better.
"It should be no surprise to any of you, but the popularity in magic has been in decline for a long time, and is but a shadow of its former self. Many believe that magic is an outdated thing that has no place in the modern world, and thus we are forced to find a way on our own."
"And we wouldn't want a certain investor angry." Finnalin murmurs to the principal.
"Yes, that's true." Holbrooke agrees, nodding at the teacher.
"How scary can these debt collectors be?" I hear Amanda scoff. "We're witches. I'm sure we can handle a few strong armed beef heads."
"Let me ask you a question, Ms. O'Neil." The principal requests, folding her hands together in a very matter of fact way. "What is a witch to a dragon?"
Amanda raises an eyebrow at this.
"What? A dragon? What does that have to do with anything?"
"Our 'strong armed beef head', as Amanda calls him, is a dragon named Fafnir." Finnalin informs us.
"Who?" The redhead asks, an eyebrow raised in confusion.
"He's an old grumpy dragon who's loaned a great deal of money into our school. If we are unable to pay him back, with interest, I fear the actions he may take." Holbrooke grimily informs us.
"I heard that dragons used to skin witches alive and feast on them." I hear Sucy say, a vague hint of a smirk on her face.
I feel my mouth open and agape in disbelief, and I'm sure many of the other witches are feeling the same.
Only now do I understand the significance of this time in Luna Nova history.
Due to overwhelming financial troubles, the parade spending being a tipping point, the thin reserves of Luna Nova's treasury have run dry.
And now, faced with certain and final foreclosure, Holbrooke and Finnalin are willing to break several laws such as entering the restricted and dangerous area of Filicudi, and putting three of their students at risk, nevermind how small.
It was at first a wonder to me on why they would do this. Normally, the school's primary concern in about preserving and teaching the traditions of magic. Sending students to a monster infested island is not entailed.
But now with the involvement of this possibly angry dragon investor, I can see that the risks that are going to be taken in the near future are risks that are worth taking.
The future of the school is in question, and this could create a domino effect that could spell disaster for all other magical schools, and possibly the future of the craft as a whole.
I can see why they require our assistance.
As if sharing my same thoughts, I hear Amanda step forward, saying firmly
"You can count me in. I don't want to be a draft dodger."
The principal shakes her head, at this stopping Amanda in her tracks.
"While I appreciate the offer, I will have to decline."
Visibly hurt by this rejection, the redhead asks
"What? Why?"
"We already have a list made up of the top two among you, in terms of your destruction magic capabilities." Holbrooke answers.
"Akko already takes up one seat." Finnalin reminds us. "But the other two have already been decided."
"But, I have a pretty good grade in that class!" Amanda argues, not wanting to miss this opportunity for adventure. "It's one of the few classes I actually like, broom riding class being the other."
"It was originally going to be yourself and Theodore…" Holbrooke says to Amanda, all the while turning her gaze to the blonde next to me. "But we did not expect Diana to be here."
"I was thinking the same thing." Finnalin informs her boss.
"Diana…" The principal begins, now focusing on the blonde. "You are the best student in Luna Nova's entire history. In every class your grade's the best, and that includes Destruction Magic. If you were to join this expedition, I could see no room for failure, even if Akko were to be involved."
"We realize that you were not involved in the parade's construction, and thus you are not being forced. You are being asked." Finnalin adds. "You may deny involvement in this affair."
All eyes fall onto Diana, herself staring at the principal with a look of stoic anticipation, her eyes burning.
I've known Diana long enough to be able to guess her answer accurately. I think it's obvious.
Diana is a lifelong magic practitioner, not a new mage like Akko and I. She is very proud of the magical capabilities of both her and her family.
To see Luna Nova, the most prestigious magic school in all of Europe, fall after a long history simply due to financial issues, and not even lifting a hand in protest, would disgrace Diana in her own eyes, as well as leave an empty guilt sitting heavy in her stomach.
To Diana, it is not only a desire, but an obligation.
Without blinking, or a second thought, Diana affirmatively answers.
"Of course, I'll always assist the school in times of hardship."
The principal nods at this, her face softening from the relief of Diana's acceptance.
"And what happens to us?" Amanda asks for the remaining witches.
"Don't worry, you'll play your part." Holbrooke comforts her. "While Theodore, Diana, and Akko train and prepare themselves for the expedition, the rest of you shall help them in your own ways."
"We'll inform you of your jobs tomorrow, after you've had time to rest from your journey." Finnalin explains.
It seems strange that I'm involved in this affair, myself not officially being apart of the parade project, only slipping in occasionally to help out during construction and showtime. I guess they were somehow informed of my assistance, and just considered myself as guilty as Akko and the rest of them.
Either that, or they're using whatever excuse they can to have me join the expedition.
My knowledge in destruction magic is far above standard, I dare say.
I'd like to show some sign of refusal, but I can't.
I'm still bounded by my thoughts earlier, the idea that I'm in debt to the school for letting me in.
Besides, maybe I can pocket a few of the lesser items, and return them to my home in Rome.
I'm sure Roma would be quite pleased if I sent him a few priceless artifacts.
"And the thing about Bob Jones…" Holbrooke continues, interrupting my line of thought. "Is that he is ill informed about the expedition. He believes that I am simply sending a select few of my students for a simple tour over the island via airplane. He is unaware of our plan to land and to treasure hunt. It is imperative that you keep this a secret until it is too late for him to back out."
"Isn't it mean?" Lotte asks, a bit nervous upon hearing this. "What'll happen once he realizes he's been deceived?"
I'll admit, even to me, it doesn't sound like the best move to make.
However, when the future of the school is at risk, it's easy to see why the principal is willing to resort to such actions.
"While Mr. Jones may be angry upon this revelation, we're sure that with the promise of great wealth in exchange for his compliance, he may be more willing to help us then we can imagine." Holbrooke hypothesizes.
"He's in financial troubles, the same as us." Finnalin informs us. "If he can achieve a simple solution to a serious problem, I'm sure he'll be eager to assist."
"Then why not just tell him the truth?" I ask. "If money is all that will sway him, why not tell him about the wealth we're going to have?"
"He doesn't need to know the details." Ms. Finnalin says coldy. "This way, we are assured that Mr. Jones will join us. We're getting him out of debt. We're helping him."
A moment of silence passes, letting what Finnalin said hang in the air.
It seems that anywhere you go, no matter if it's school, home, or in the presence of the god of deception and lies, falsehoods will always be synthesized. No matter the purpose or the reason, good or bad, to save the school or conquer the world, lies shall always make an appearance. They are an everyday part of life, made by the best and worst of us. They are inescapable.
Holbrooke breaks the silence, saying
"To sum up our happenings, our school is locked in financial trouble due to poor money management during the parade. Diana, Akko, and Theodore shall spend the next few days preparing for the travel to Filicudi, an island overrun by monsters and treasure, that has been restricted by the Italian government. Bob Jones, a native, will accompany you and assist with pathfinding. Hopefully, by the time you land, Mr. Jones would've been coaxed by the prospect of financial security to not put up any resistance. In a few days, once a satisfying amount of treasure has been accumulated, you will return here. Then you may return back to your families for the remainder of Christmas Break."
"If there are no questions, you may be dismissed to your dormitories." Holbrooke declares.
A collective silence proves that there are, indeed, no questions.
With this, Diana turns to face me, wrapping her soft hands around mine.
I hear Akko gasp in startlement.
Ignoring her, and undoubtedly the hushed whispers of the others, Diana looks at me longingly, saying
"I'm going to put my bags away in my room."
I stand there frozen, taking her hands in, partially by the warmth we share, and by the whole unexpectedness of the whole situation.
I feel all eyes on us, some burning with rage more than others.
Diana affectionately squeezes my hand, sending me back into reality.
"I'll see you later?" She asks me.
Nodding with a smile, I reply
"Definitely."
Visibly happy by my answer, Diana leans into me, giving me a quick kiss before letting go, exiting the room.
"Wha-" Akko begins to scream again in response, only to have an annoyed Sucy silence her with a hand to the mouth.
That doesn't stop the others from reacting.
"Whoa-ho-ho!" Amanda sounds off.
I think Holbrooke and Finnalin are also throwing whispered words to each other.
As if in pain by this, I grab my suitcase, leaving the room, as the others follow in pursuit.
"Guess I was wrong about the Theodotte." Sucy shrugs. "It's more like Dianadore, or Theodiana."
"That was so adorable."Jasminka claims. "It was like a romance novel, or a fanfiction."
I hear Constanze grunt in agreement.
"So, how did this happen?" I hear Amanda ask.
I ignore her, too embarrassed to face them.
"Did you confess during Christmas Break? Come on, I want to hear all the juicy details!" The red head persists.
"It's not like we predicted this, or anything." Sucy sarcastically claims.
I stop, turning to face everyone, and freeze.
They're all bearing bated breath, eagerly awaiting for the information to begin flowing their way. Even Akko, who is expressing sheer displeasure at this, has a spark of curiosity in her eyes.
I glance at Lotte, her eyes wide underneath her glasses, also wanting to know as well.
Well, if Lotte wants to know, then who am I to deny her?
Signing at this new situation, I almost want to take the kiss back.
But only almost.
Author's Note: And there you go boys, your lovable characters have found themselves in a whole new world.
Little Witch Academia: The Chamber of Time is going to come to the west on February 20th. I myself am counting down the days.
Also, Wayward Bot, also known as ThouthineaThoth on Deviantart, has created some more Little Wizard Academia fanart! Make sure to check that out!
Also, it seems as though the time is drawing near. The second anniversary of this fanfics founding is coming next month. The last one had a story based off of a movie, but this one shall be different. It will be a collection of several scenes from the fanfic, with a twist. They will be written and played out as if Theodore Sempronia was a self insert, Mary Sue, Gary Sue type of guy. Have a scene in mind? Don't hesitate to tell me!
Also, as some of you know, I'm taking a creative writing class. We had been assigned to make a film haiku, that is, a haiku that sums up a movie of our choosing. Myself being the weeaboo that I am, chose Little Witch Academia. Enjoy!
'The clumsy witch falls
Magic is not her strong point
But her heart believes'
Yes, cry at its beauty.
While your doing that, don't forget to follow and fav, as well as comment!
We're only two away from me writing a diakko, with my own nice little twist.