Author's Note: Hello there, my friends! It's been a bit of time since my last update here, and honestly, I just really felt the need to get back to it. But before we do that, let us respond to a few comments made by some very lovely people.
"Well well well. What have we here. Someone who could not live with their own failure. And where did that bring you? Back to us. S'good to have you back, Cap'n."
Thank you, my good man. I do enjoy being back in this world, even if it is a crazy one.
"Continue."
No.
"You weren't missed. Nobody but your 2 toxic friends wanted you to return to disgrace this fandom with your dreaded male self insert harem. Shouldn't the low, next to no reviews you get for every cursed new update sink that very fact into your apparently dense noggin? Once again, a terrible chapter in my humble opinion. Consider making the next time you make a dramatic tear-filled exit, you actually make it stick."
You know, it's a bit funny. I know exactly which two boyz he's referring to, Nightcore Miku and Wayward Bot. After showing them this comment, they reacted exactly how I did, hysterical laughter at such a legendary comment. So thank you, for making me and my friends laugh 3
"Damn it's been a while. I randomly remembered this story and decided to re read it again and saw a new chapter was posted. Really hope you continue this story again."
So, we meet again at last. You're all grown up, but I could still recognize you in a glance. Honestly though, oh my god, I'm so happy that you've found your way back here! Dude, you really need to make an account or something so we can stay connected! I was worried I lost my future president!
"And that is why visualization is the key to actualizing and projecting your magic." Ms. Europa states, ending her long lecture.
My eyes scan the clock on the wall, noting that the class will be over in just a dozen minutes.
It still holds true that Ms. Europa's Magic History class is one of my favorites.
Not only do we discuss the actual events itself, but the reasons behind them, as well as the situations of the time that affect said event.
We really dive deep and go off on many creative and interesting tangents.
Boring and long to some, but very fun for me, especially when we talk about the Romans.
"Now, are there any questions?" The teacher asks.
A student raises her hand, before asking
"Why does visualizing hold so much power? And does it actually increase the chances of success?"
As the teacher is about to open her mouth, Diana stands up from her seat, an arm raised.
"Professor." Diana politely says. "If I may answer…"
Having been through this routine many times with Diana, Ms. Europa nods.
"You may, Ms. Cavendish."
Diana's attention is then turns to the student.
"To answer your question, visualization is important due to its connection with willpower. When you wish to carry out a task, and visualize yourself carrying it out, it acts as a vision, and goals are much easier to attain when you can visualize it."
I have to admit, that was a pretty good summary on her part.
"Very good, Diana." The teacher praises her. "It's no wonder why everyone calls you the best student in the school's entire history."
Honestly, it seems to be just a normal day at school.
"Yeah, great job, Diana!" Barbara claps at her friend's answer.
"You're the pride of Luna Nova!" Hannah adds with similar emotions.
Yup, just like any normal day at school.
I lean back into my chair, taking a breath through my nose.
It would be a normal day at school if it weren't for the tension in the air, so thick you could cut it with a knife.
While school seems to transpire as normal, myself and my friends can tell that things could end at any time.
The school's financial issues have yet to be addressed. We tried to, but it just ended in failure, complete and utter failure.
Really, all we can do is wait and find out, nothing we can do about it. And that's what I can't stand.
As I contemplate these thoughts, a small faerie comes into the room, handing Ms. Europa a letter before wordlessly leaving.
The teacher takes the letter, reading it over, before addressing the class once again.
"Principal Holbrooke has called Akko, Lotte, Sucy, Theodore, and Diana to her office at once."
"Oh my…" Diana turns towards Akko and her two friends. "What have you three done now that involves Theodore and myself?"
I honestly don't think those three could cause havoc in the short amount of time we've been back at the school, even if they wanted to.
"Hey, don't look at us!" Akko defensively shouts back. "We haven't done anything yet! We've only been back for a few days!"
Diana sighs at Akko's statement.
"I suppose you have a point." She says, before glancing at Lotte. "Afterall, Lotte seems to be the most sensible one of you three, and as long as she's with you, it'll at least postpone any of your ridiculous plans."
Honestly, I do agree with Diana on that point.
Between Akko, Lotte, and Sucy, Lotte is definitely the most trustworthy and sensible one. Now, that isn't to say that the likes of Sucy and especially Akko aren't trustworthy. They're far from it, the experiences on the island taught me just how dependable and brave Akko can be.
It truly is something different than what Luna Nova regards her as.
Don't get me wrong, I appreciate Akko and Sucy greatly, but Lotte definitely stands out amongst the three. She's the odd witch out, and for good reasons.
With that, the five of us leave the classroom, entering the hallway, as the teacher continues on with her lecture.
"So, why do you think the principal called us to her office?" Akko asks the rest of us as we continue our walk to the office.
"I hope we're not in trouble..." I hear Lotte whisper, a bit of anxiety in her voice.
"I don't think that we are." I tell Lotte, trying to quell her fears. "It might relate to that island expedition."
It would make sense. Afterall, it wasn't even a week ago.
"And how you three didn't find any treasure…" Sucy sardonically reminds us.
We simply brush off Sucy's jest.
"Well, if it is, then I wonder why I am needed as well." Diana adds, taking a fleeting glance at Akko. "Afterall, due to an external circumstance, I was unable to attend the expedition."
Akko's face immediately goes flush upon that memory.
"Yeah, hehehe…." She scratches her head very sheepishly. "I'm sorry about that…."
Diana lets out a heavy sigh at Akko's words.
"I'll forgive you for that…" Diana says with slight annoyance. "I know it was simply a fluke on your part. After all, I know that you could never hope to strike me purposely."
This little poke seems to be more of a stab for Akko.
"Hey!" Akko spins around, fists balled up. "I can do some damage if I want to! I'm strong!"
"Akko!" Lotte cries back at her friend's outburst, grabbing Akko's arm as to keep her restrained.
"Please, take better control of your friend." Diana tells Lotte, not at all phased by Akko. "I did mean it when I stated that you're the most responsible one of the group, and I hope to keep this opinion of you."
'Want me to give her one of my potions?" Sucy asks Lotte.
I'm not sure just what kind of potion she would have in mind, but I can tell it can't be a safe one.
"No!" They both shout back, Sucy simply shrugging at their answer.
As the three continue to bicker and argue, I turn my attention back to Diana.
"Akko can lose her head at times." I tell her. "But she means well."
Diana rolls her eyes at this, before turning back to me with a smile.
"Well, I certainly hope so, Theodore." She informs me. "Sometimes I wonder why and how you put up with her attitude."
I let out a light laugh at this ponder.
"It certainly took time to get used to it." I recall. "She did get on my nerves, and still does, but she's a friend of mine. It's an acquired taste."
"It seems as though time on the island sorted out your issues with her." Diana notes, a little surprised by my defense of her. "I remember you acted so horribly towards her, even if it was for my sake."
Those memories only provide me with pain.
"Yeah, I did…"
I'll admit, when I saw Diana struck down by Akko, even if it were a freak accident, it filled me with so much rage, that for a moment I wished I could do the same to Akko.
But now, I regret those thoughts, and hold nothing but good wishes for Akko. She's a valued friend, and I'm so glad that we've been able to work out our struggles and come together even stronger than before.
With our destination now in sight, the five of us enter the Principal's Office, just as asked.
I see Principal Holbrooke sitting at her desk, with Ms. Finnalin at her side.
The Principal glances over each of us, before saying with a smile
"It's good to see you all in good health."
Luckly, we managed to get off the island with only minor cuts and bruises, really nothing to write home about.
The wounds that I sustained from that fight with the monster were remedied on the spot by Lotte.
The only thing that persisted was the odd sore, but that was nothing a few days of rest couldn't fix.
Honestly, while our memories of the event will stay with us forever, at least our physical wounds are taken care of completely.
"It seems as though the island situation has worked in our favor…" "But not in the way which we intended."
This statement causes me to raise my eyebrows, perhaps three or four if I possessed them.
Up until this point, I had believed the island situation had not worked in our favor at all. In fact, I considered it to be a total disaster.
Since Christmas Vacation ended, and school started up again, I've been expecting the school to shut down at any time now, all of us were.
But now, it seems as though something else is afoot.
"What do you mean?" I ask, with the girls nodding at my question.
The Principal pauses, her brow furrowed, as if trying to think of how to word this properly.
After a moment of silence, her mouth moves.
"Well, our intentions were for you three students to manage an expedition to the island, to search the land for any treasures that may be there. However, we had overestimated the treasure which the island possessed." I can hear her groan slightly, herself rubbing her hands together in comfort. "There proved to be very little, if any at all."
That's right, I never did tell the staff about my find.
I still have the ring that I found on that island, the one piece of treasure I was able to find.
Too small to save a school from foreclosure, but definitely a perfect gift for my perfect girlfriend. I just haven't found the right time or place to give it to her yet. I want it to be as special as she is.
It may be worth a fortune, or nothing at all, but I don't care. If I have something which I think Diana will appreciate, she shall own it.
"The trip itself bore no fruit, but Ms. Finnalin and I both believe that now we are reaping the rewards of our hard work."
I raise a brow at this.
"What do you mean?"
It honestly seems as though nothing has changed due to the trip to the island.
"As you know, we tried to keep this operation a secret…" Ms. Finnalin explains. "Afterall, the island was sanctioned off by the government, and thus illegal to intrude upon."
"However, considering the horrors which you three went through, and those two who didn't return…" Holbrooke's voice trails off into sudden depression.
The room takes a collective moment of silence upon their mention.
Brad and Tom, the two pilots. They were both great people, really, and it's a tragedy that they went down seemingly for nothing.
The Principal breaks the silence.
"It seems as though the secret was leaked as soon as you four were rescued."
Yes, the four of us.
Akko, Lotte, myself, and Bob Jones.
After our minor injuries were healed, and we returned to Luna Nova, word did spread about our adventure amongst the student body, but not the details.
They were told only the bare minimum. Our intrusion onto the island was in fact, illegal, so it's only natural.
However, the economic crisis was something which the school could no longer keep a secret.
Now, a gloom has set foot in Luna Nova, the wait and anxiety of not knowing when or if the school will close.
Every student knows that the school is in dire needs right now, and it definitely has disrupted daily life.
And Bob Jones?
Last I heard, thanks to the miracles of modern medicine, in conjunction with the many 'Get Well Potions' we've sent him, his recovery was swift and clean.
I haven't heard of him much after, but I believe Holbrooke informed me that he's still acting as a tour guide for various expeditions, hopefully without monsters this time.
I do hope that life treats him well, wherever he goes. I misjudged him initially, especially after we lied to him about not landing on the island, forcing him to return to a place where he barely escaped with his life.
"Word has spread like wildfire of the event, as well as our school and our worsening economic troubles." She continues, her hard face now taking a lighter tone. "Investors, donors, private entrepreneurs, all types have flooded money into our school, some for altruistic purposes, others for publicity. Whatever their motives were, a great deal of wealth has been given to us over these last few days. It really is astonishing."
A silence prevails over the room, as we all take in Principal Holbrooke's words.
Is she serious?
Have all of our problems left just like that? I mean, this is great news, astonishing, really. But it just seems hard to believe. A simple solution to a serious problem.
"Does that mean what I think it means?" Akko asks, her fists balled up as excitement spreads across her face.
The Principal responds with a light smile.
"Yes, Akko." She nods. "The school is no longer in debt. Luna Nova shall endure."
This conformation alone gives us great relief.
"Yes!" Akko cries out in triumph, pumping a fist into the air as she jumps up and down. "My dreams of being just like Shiny Chariot will survive!"
This cry of victory sends a chatter amongst us, thrilled by our mutual relief and happiness of the school's continued existence.
I too am elated to hear such news.
Honestly, ever since the island, I've been hoping and praying that each day at Luna Nova wouldn't be my last at this school. It seems as though my prayers have finally been answered!
Not only do I wish to continue to study witchcraft and wizardry, to accomplish my original goal of restoring my family to their past greatness, but something new has arisen.
I never expected to become so attached to those around me. I expected acquaintances, but nothing more, to live out my Luna Nova days in isolation, to dig deep into myself and discover what I can truly do.
However, these friends at my side now have shown me a new path, especially that of Akko, Sucy, and of course Lotte.
And then of course there is Diana...
Oh Diana. I had always expected to find love at home, in Rome, but not in Luna Nova.
I guess what they say is true. When you fall in love with a witch, magic happens.
"Yes, this is good news, Akko." The Principal nods in agreement. "A great burden and stress has been lifted off our shoulders. Many people of all across the globe, some rich and some just wanting to lend aid, have sent money."
Ms. Finnalin lets out a scoff at this.
"I consider such a handout disgraceful to the name of Luna Nova." Ms. Finnalin harshly mumbles, before her face softens. "However, age has shown me that realities do change. We had no choice. It was either have Luna Nova propped up by handouts, or not at all."
For once, I can agree with Ms. Finnalin entirely. The Sempronia family has never accepted handouts or bailouts, and yet we have survived. Albeit, at a mere fraction of our previous power. Still though, Luna Nova is better than no Luna Nova, I can say that for sure.
"It surely was an unusual thing to do." Holbrooke agrees with her friend. "However, it was our only option for the children."
She then turns back to address us.
"With this much wealth that has been stimulated into Luna Nova, we believe that a school celebration is in order, to give thanks to the donors and Luna Nova's continued existence."
Akko's eyes lit up like nighttime stars, her mouth open in astonishment.
"Oooh! A celebration?!" She excitedly questions. "With lots of games, dancing-"
"And lots of food?!" Jasmkina joins in for her four word quota
"Well, those last two things will be involved." Holbrooke smiles at those two's spirits. "But as for games, I'm sad to say that it's not that kind of celebration."
"This is not similar to the Witch Parade, but more akin to a formal dinner party." Ms. Finnalin explains in a matter of fact way. "There will be music performed by a live band, yes. And some dancing will be involved, but it is nothing like the rowdy parties of today's youth."
Akko lets out an obnoxiously loud gasp.
"Will Family Force Five be performing?!" She beams, her eyes glowing wide and face red in anticipation.
That band again?
Honestly, it's either them or Shining Chariot that I hear from her, on and on like a broken record.
If it wasn't so endearing to hear such energy and excitement from my friend, it would almost be annoying.
It seems as though the Principal is as lost as I was upon first hearing them, herself raising a brow.
"I'm afraid I've never heard of them."
This doesn't stop Akko from explaining with furry and gusto.
"It's best described as a sweaty electric dance party for your ears!" Akko passionately explains, fists balled in enthusiasm. "Headed by the one and only Soul Glow Activatur!"
Akko throws her hands in the air in a grand fashion, as if that very name should strike us with awe and excitement.
However, I am, and I'm fairly certain everyone else is too, completely unknown to that name, Soul Glow Activatur. If it weren't for Akko right now, I'm fairly certain that I could've gone the rest of my life without hearing that name at all.
"Well, I can say for certain that that band won't be performing at our event." Ms. Finnalin declares, folding her arms together. "They sound too loud and obnoxious for such a gathering."
"Our music will be simple background music." Holbrooke puts it sweetly. "Piano, violin, classical music for our formal party."
Akko shrugs a bit, folding her hands together as she mutters
"Well, that's boring…"
"We shall inform the student body once final plans are underway." The Principal brushes off her comment. "We estimate that the party will commence within three days time, at night, with all regular school functions cancelled."
"So, all of you should get ready for this gathering." Ms. Finnalin informs us. "Formal clothing, manners, and behavior must be the highest priority."
I have to admit, when I woke up today, I did not expect to hear such news, and especially of a celebration taking place in just a few days.
Honestly, it seems as though my week long nightmare has come to an end, and now I have finally found myself in a dream.
And a party?
Granted, it's not a party that the likes of Akko or Amanda would have in mind, but it's still a party nonetheless.
And who better to spend time at the party with then my girlfriend?
It would surely get us even closer than we already are, and I very much like that.
Afterall, Diana and I have known each other for awhile, and have been dating ever since we confided in each other during Christmas Vacation, a few weeks ago.
Honestly, we've never done any normal couple stuff. Sure, we've kissed, hugged, whispered and told each other our feelings for each other, but nothing like a night on the town or a dinner date.
Trying out clothes with Diana, approving and disapproving her outfits in a hilarious montage, that sounds pretty good to me.
If anything, at least that something that a normal couple would do.
I turn to Diana, a smile on my face.
"So, at what time do you want to go clothes shopping?" I ask her.
Hopefully soon.
After the whole trek on the island, some quality time with my girlfriend is much desired.
Although a full blown date would be prefered, anything is acceptable with Diana at the moment.
Surprisingly, Diana does not return my smile in kind, but instead places a hand on her hip.
"Actually, I'm going to confide in Hannah and Barbara for my preparations." She states, my smile immediately falling. "Those two are quite knowledgeable on fashion and the like. A few tips and tricks from them shouldn't hurt."
A sudden thought visibly strikes her.
Her smile falters for just a moment, but reignites into comfort as she states.
"In fact, I wish for us not to see each other until the celebration."
Even if her smile was present, I am still disheartened by this news.
After just getting back from a multi day horror fest, the last thing I want is to be disunited with the one I care most about.
I air my discontent out.
"What? But why?" I ask, trying to hide my sadness. "I just got back a few days, and you already want to leave me?"
I know that isn't her intention in the slightest, but it still hurts a bit.
Even under my accusation, Diana still stands tall, and her smile only grows.
"Not at all." She states, placing her comforting hands on my shoulders. "I missed you so much when you left, and rejoiced upon your return. You remember that."
I grow a bit blush, us having this moment in front of the others.
"I do." I recall that even.
After the helicopters took us back to the mainland, and our injuries were checked on, we soon took a plane back to England, and a taxi to Luna Nova.
The moment I stepped foot outside of the taxi, I was greeted with a warm, powerful, and loving hug and kiss combination from Diana. She even left red marks on my body.
But in truth, I did too, so I didn't mind.
But all that did was remind me of what I missed, and now that I have that again, I never want to lose it again.
What's worse is that it's Diana's request, and not something that was out of either of our powers to control.
"I want to leave it a surprise for you." She says, smiling to me. "I already have an outfit in mind, and I would strongly prefer you to see it in its full glory, but only after it's ready. I only want the best for you, Theodore."
I guess that's fair enough, even if I'm all too reluctant to agree with one hundred percent authority.
Taking a painful breath, I let out a heavy sigh.
"I suppose you're right." I tell her. "If that's what you wish, Diana, then I will do the same."
I let out a forced smile, trying to remain strong as to not sadden her.
"When we see each other, it'll be at the dance, and things will be perfect."
Diana's smile spreads into a much larger length, making my efforts entirely worth it.
Her hands move down from my shoulders, herself wrapping them around mine.
Admittedly, this feels very nice.
"Have a nice day all of you." Diana states to everyone, before giving my hands an affection squeeze as she addresses me. "And especially you, Theodore."
These emotions and affections take my back to Rome, Italy, the one time we've had so far where we could fully embrace our newly found relationship between us.
Funny, that time seems so long ago, considering it was only about a week ago.
Either way, nothing gives me greater joy to go back to that one week together.
"Y-you too, Diana…" I mumble, the warmth of Diana's hand and the heat of my blushing face almost too much to bear.
I love her, but public displays of affection in front of everyone is hard at times, especially in front of people such as Akko.
And with that, Diana exchanges with me another smile before leaving the room.
My smile drops as soon as she leaves, the door closing behind her.
Not even a kiss goodbye-
My thoughts are cut short as I feel Amanda grab hold of me from behind, a smile on her face, as she forcibly leads me towards the door as well.
Whatever responses Holbrooke and Finnalin have to her behavior are unheard, as I cry out
"What are you-"
She sends another shove onto me, pushing me out of the Principal's office and into the hallway.
Thankfully, Diana's already gone, she can't bear witness to this.
"You heard the lady!" Amanda declares to me, referring to Diana. "She's making herself look nice for you, and you know what that means!"
I really don't.
"What?" I groan, as Amanda continues to push me away to an unknown location, the others following.
In a triumphant declaration, she shouts
"You'll need a makeover too!"
We find ourselves in one of the few dance rooms which Luna Nova holds, a place where Amanda would spend a large portion of her time.
However, now all the attention is on me, whether it's wanted or not.
"I'm sure even Amanda can make someone like you look presentable." Sucy snides at me.
"Not to be mean, but why are you here?" I groan at her words, rolling my eyes a bit.
Sucy puts on an obvious fake face of hurt at my words.
"What?" She holds her hands out in innocence. "You don't want to see me?"
That's not at all the case. In fact, after what I faced on the island, having Sucy around seems like a blessing. But at the same time, that doesn't mean I want her to insult me.
"I do, but I didn't think you were into dresses, tuxedos, and dancing."
Honestly, fashion just doesn't seem like something Sucy would be into in general.
Her face turns into a smirk, as she says
"You're right, I guess I just missed you." Her smirk boldens into a wide grin. "You never wrote to me...you never called...not even a skype or a facetime…"
"Yeah, we were a little preoccupied." I answer, scratching my head sheepishly.
I'm not sure if she's serious or not. But knowing Sucy, the answer is probably whatever makes me the most uncomfortable.
"So I figured now was the time to catch up." Her eyes sparkle with malicious intent, as she states. "And I can help you look...pretty…"
I scoff at this remark.
"No thank you." I tell my friend. "The last time I let you decide my clothing, you had me in high heels, proposing to Hannah."
My mind flashes to that day.
Stung by The Cupid Bee, my eyes falling on Hannah, I was powerless to stop myself from falling in love with her, even if I was attached to Diana at the time.
Sucy lets out a chuckle upon that memory, her sharp teeth gleaming.
"Yeah, but it helped you get close to Diana, didn't it?"
I suppose it did.
That unexpected sting from the bee, it funnelled all my feelings for Diana not onto her, but onto Hannah.
I'll admit, Hannah is a decently good looking person, but honestly, that's about all she has going for her.
She's not nearly as beautiful, kind, smart, caring and considerate as Diana. In fact, I can say she's the opposite of those things in comparison.
"Speaking of dresses, tuxedos, and dancing…" Amanda jumps back into the conversation. "We should get back to it."
Amanda thinks a bit, before turning towards me.
"So, Ted, I've never asked you this before, but how good are you at dancing?"
My history with dancing is small and rough at best.
I've only danced once in my life before, upon the constant pleads of my friend, Anchovy.
It was a birthday party of her's, her twelfth I believe, and let's just say, because of my attempt, her cake ended up splattered on the floor, and soon after, Anchovy's fist imprint ended up on my face. It was a good day regardless, if a painful one.
"Not very good." I shake my head, trying to forget that memory.
"So you're born with two left feet, then?" Amanda asks inquisitively.
Is that some sort of American slang? Because I'm pretty sure Amanda knows I have a right and left foot, just like everyone else.
"You can say that…yes?" I mumble half heartedly to her, still unsure the meaning of her words.
Hearing this doesn't sway Amanda at all. In fact, it only seems to strengthen her desire to teach me.
"If you want, I can choreograph something for you." Amanda tells me with a smirk on her face. "I used to dance."
I never knew that about her. I suppose it makes sense, she does seem like quite the flexible one.
Not that I'd admit it out loud, but the thought of swooning Diana off her feet, leading her in a slow dance of some kind, that does please me a great deal.
With my mind made up, I nod my head at Amanda.
"Yes, please do."
With my confirmation, the redhead turns to one of her friends.
"Jazzy." She addresses Jasminka. "Since you're about Diana's height, you'll be my partner!"
"Okay then." She enthusiastically mumbles with food in her mouth.
Shoving a few final chips into her mouth, the Russian hands the bag over to Constanze before meeting Amanda in the middle of the room.
Amanda turns to me with Jasminka standing idle at her side.
"In the world of dance, height is one of the most important factors." Amanda explains. "The tallest is usually the lead, the one who holds the dipping partner, and the like. Since Diana is the tallest between you two, she will naturally lead the dance. However, that won't stop you from showing off a few moves of your own, which I will show you now."
At first I was doubting this, but now I feel like this may be worth learning.
I really appreciate these lengths that my friends are going through to ensure that my time with Diana goes well. I have no choice but to make it up to them one day.
Smiling at both the potential of my dance, and Amanda's charity, I say
"Yes, please show me."
Nodding at my request, Amanda's face turns into a sudden smug look, her eyes gleaming with some sort of snarkiness.
This can't be good.
"Alright, so, I'm going to get to Ted's height, so you can see what I mean…"
Amanda then squats low to the ground, her chin at the same elevation as her knees, before smirking at me with a sharp grin.
Her head is currently level with Jasminka's stomach.
Another short joke, how funny and original.
"Oh, thanks…" I mutter to myself, crossing my arms.
There's nothing I would love more than to dress well for my time with Diana, but I'm just not sure if I can put up with these insults much longer.
"Come on, he's not that tall!" Akko joins in on the joke.
"I can't squat any lower!" The redhead responds, giggling as well. "I think I'd break my legs!"
"Can you please just show me how to dance?" I beg, wanting this to be over with.
I swear, I only put up with them because they're my friends.
"Alright, I think I've tortured you enough." Amanda says, cracking her knuckles as she readies herself. "But be warned, wrath pours down when I move my feet."
"Oh my god!" Akko cries out upon Amanda's words, her eyes lighting up with excitement, fists balled in joy. "That's from a Family Force Five song!"
"Yup!" Amanda declares, a smug look on her face. "I'll admit, a few of their songs are pretty good."
Suddenly, Amanda turns to Jasminka, herself extending a hand out to her friend, a fiery look of determination spread over the redhead's face.
With a light smile, Jasminka joins hands with Amanda, as the two begin their session.
I clasp my hands to my knees, buckling down as a cough, out of breath.
Honestly, I must've gone over this same manoeuvre one hundred times, but I just can't seem to get it quite right.
I either trip up on my own feet, Amanda's, or just lose my balance and fall to the floor in defeat.
I know it's been some time since I've last danced, years, but I didn't imagine myself I'd be this bad. I mean, aren't Italians supposed to be good at dancing?
I guess my older brothers inherited those genes, while I instead got the uptight traits of Grandpa Roma.
Still gasping for air, I look up at Amanda, herself bearing a mix of amusement and slight disappointment.
"Wow, you really do suck at this." She declares, a thin smile on her face.
"Oh haha…" I manage to sarcastically declare in between my breaths.
While improvement has been made since I first began, it has been very slow and hard.
I put a hand on my knee, pushing myself up off the ground, my heart pounding from over exertion.
It's rare enough for me to work out, something as physically demanding as dancing really is showing this case.
My thighs and calves burn, my entire body drained of energy. Just how does Amanda do this so casually?!
Amanda picks up on my strain, raising a brow.
"You're worn out, bud." She states "We'll continue later, but at this point, you're too drained. There's no point in practice if you can barely stand."
I hate to admit it, but Amanda's right.
As much as I would love to become a master of the dance in just one day, it seems as though that's not possible. In all honesty, it may be best for me to just relax and take it easy for the rest of the day, and try again later. Maybe I'll have better luck next time.
"You're right." I tell her, letting out a sigh of both exhaustion and disappointment.
Amanda pauses her smirk, as she puts a finger to her chin, thinking.
Only a few seconds later, she snaps her fingers in exclamation.
"But we've forgotten the most important part!"
Oh no...
"And just what is that?" I ask, not knowing if I can bear much more of her treatment.
Despite my obvious lack of enthusiasm, her smirk doesn't falter.
"A tuxedo!"
Looking at my new attire, Principal Holbrooke casts a smile at me.
"Well, I can certainly see that you're already prepared."
I nervously finger my collar, the stiff fabric chafing my neck slightly.
Honestly, the suit is a bit big and saggy on me, it being from Amanda's personal collection.
However, looking myself over in the mirror, I'll admit, she did do a good job on me.
I can only hope that this won't pale in comparison to the beauty that Diana will surely display.
"We dressed him up!" Akko beams.
"I dressed him up." Amanda corrects her. "The rest just kinda watched."
Sucy shrugs at this while Constanze throws up a thumbs up, both of them agreeing with Amanda's statement.
The Principal nods at this.
"And I hope the rest of you do the same." She addresses the rest of them. "Afterall, it is imperative that Luna Nova puts their best foot forward. We need to show these donors and investors that we are thankful."
A smile spreads on her face as she states
"In fact, I have brought you back to emphasize a point which I forgot to mention earlier."
Ah yes.
Soon after we were done dressing me up, one of the school gnomes came and told us to come back to the office.
I suppose even magical principals can forget to tell you things.
"As all of you are aware, the image of witchcraft is not the best at the moment with the general people." The Principal recounts. "In all honesty, this is the first time in quite awhile that Luna Nova has opened the gates to non magic uses. This party may help decrease the tension between magic users and non magic users."
Well that certainly gives much more importance to this party.
Not only is it a way to thank those who have donated, but to also rebuild the bridge that has been broken between our two people for a long time.
Although I highly doubt that one party would heal hundreds of years of prejudice, it's certainly a step in the right direction.
"But there is one family which will be attending." Holbrooke continues on. "These two gentlemen have a history with myself and Luna Nova, and have given a sizable sum of income to keep us afloat."
"Being the three who survived the island ordeal." Holbrooke casts a glance at Akko, Lotte, and myself. "It is important that you set a good impression towards them, on behalf of yourself and Luna Nova as a whole."
"And just who are these two?" I ask, raising a brow.
Afterall, if a horde of investors are coming to Luna Nova, what would be so special about the two of them?
Not at all discomforted, a smile spreads on Holbrooke's face.
"Their names are Paul Hanbridge, and his son, Lord Andrew of Viscount."
Author's Note: I hoped you guys liked that latest chapter! I know I had a few laughs writing it!
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