I do not own Kamen Rider Ryuki or Ever After High. They belong to their respective creators and not me. I am not writing this for profit, only for fun.

Knights of the Otherworld

By Ten-Faced Paladin

Chapter 18: Dexter and Cupid's First Date

The students of Ever After High are all a colorful and unique bunch. Every one of them has their own stories to tell.

The Knights of the Round Table may be the most exciting one, but everyone has their own time in the spotlight to enjoy. Case in point, Dexter Charming and his lovely girlfriend, C.A. Cupid.

Ooooh, those two are just adorable!

Dexter Charming, second-born son of the Charmings and younger brother of Daring Charming was happy. The reason: he finally had a girlfriend. For the longest time, Dexter had a crush on Raven Queen, daughter of the Evil Queen. It didn't matter to him if she was supposed to be destined to be evil or that she was a Rebel. He liked her because she was smart, beautiful, funny and he found her snarky wit to be endearing. Unfortunately, he lost his chance after Arthur showed up and won her heart.

He regretted not taking his chance sooner. Fortunately, he still managed to find love right under his nose. With some encouragement from his friend Harry, Dexter finally realized what he had been missing this whole time. His best friend, Cupid, had a crush on him. She liked him and he had been too blind to see it. He was also made to realize that, deep down, he had feelings for her too. She was always there to help him and she was also smart, funny, and cute. He also enjoyed her company.

Frankly, that was enough for Dexter to try and pursue Cupid as a romantic partner. He had tried to write a love poem for her. Unfortunately, every single one he wrote could not properly convey his feelings. How would you make a love poem good enough for the daughter of the God of Love?

So, on the night of True Hearts Day, he decided to be brave and confess his feelings to Cupid while accepting hers. It worked out as Cupid happily returned his feelings and the two of them decided they wanted a relationship. Dexter thought there might be more to declaring themselves official, but just agreeing to it there on True Hearts Day made it seem special enough. They were together ever since and never looked back.

Ever After High - Halls

Harry was collecting his books and notes for his next class when he spied Dexter walking down the hall. He was clearly in a good mood if the goofy grin on his face was any indication. He didn't even look bothered when the Three Billy Goats cut him off and nearly spun him out in their mad dash down the halls. He just stumbled and got to his locker.

"Wow, Dex," Harry observed. "I don't think I've ever seen you so happy."

"Well, I took Cupid to the carnival," Dexter said, grinning brightly. "We had fun." He took out his phone and showed the pictures they had taken together. Some of the photos consisted of the couple enjoying treats together, Dexter managing to win Cupid a stuffed dove toy, and of course the two of them sitting on the Tunnel of Love ride, about to enter it. All the pictures had Dexter obviously being happy and Cupid glowing, almost literally, from how happy she was.

"Looks like you did," Harry couldn't help but comment.

"And thanks for, you know, opening my eyes. I would've missed something great," Dexter said gratefully.

"No problem." Harry had lost the bet but at least his friends were happy and in love. "So, have you taken Cupid out on a date yet?"

"Wait, a date? Didn't the carnival count?" Dexter asked, confused.

Harry shrugged, "Well, if what my brother has told me is true, a first date has to be a romantic, semi-private thing, you know? The carnival's a good start but it kinda looks like two friends having fun and - Dex, are you OK?"

"I haven't taken Cupid out on a date!" Dexter panicked and started to hyperventilate.

"Shoot!" Harry cursed. "Hey, Dex. Relax, chill out, it's not a problem. Cupid already likes you so taking her out on a date shouldn't be a problem, right?"

"But I don't know what to do on a date!" Dexter panicked. He hadn't taken Cupid out on their first real date yet! Had he already screwed up at being her boyfriend?

"Er..." Harry grimaced when the bell rang. Saved by the bell. "Hey, we better get a move on or we'll be late for class. We don't want Prof. Rumpelstiltskin to give us detention."

Science and Sorcery Class

Cupid hummed happily in class, reliving the memories of the carnival with one Dexter Charming, her boyfriend. Just knowing she really was with Dexter just made her feel all warm and tingly inside, even if they had gotten together on True Hearts Day, which seemed so long ago now. She couldn't help but still feel giddy about it. Unfortunately, she was rudely interrupted when Prof. Rumpelstiltskin slapped her desk with his ruler.

"No humming! Pay attention!" he ordered. "Now, in today's lab assignment, you will all brew a potion that will turn straw into gold!"

"Thought so," Harry muttered and he looked at Dexter who was staring at Cupid.

"Now, for your lab partners," Rumpelstiltskin looked around. "C.A. Cupid, your lab partner will be Dexter Charming." Both lit up when their partner was announced.

Rumpelstiltskin kept pairing up lab partners but neither Dexter nor Cupid were paying attention.

"Could the lovebirds be any more obvious?" Raven asked with a grin as she and Harry were paired together. Of course, she was glad to see two of her friends so happy. As someone who was pretty happy with her own relationship, she wanted all of her friends to feel the same.

"Let them have this. Glad I got you as my lab partner. I know you'll pull your own weight. Sparrow would leave me to do all the work." Harry sighed. Sparrow may have been a nice guy, but he sucked at Science and Sorcery, often leaving his partner to take the majority of the work.

"You handle the science parts and I'll handle the sorcery," Raven offered.

At their own table, Cupid smiled as she worked beside Dexter. Oh, this was just fableous for her. They were dating and now lab partners too. This could not get any better for her.

Seeing Cupid was in a good mood and they had the chance to talk, Dexter decided to simply go forward in his plan, "So, um, Cupid?"

Cupid perked up, "Yes, Dexter?"

Dexter rubbed the back of his neck, showing he was nervous, "Well, would you like to see a movie with me?"

Cupid instantly gasped, hope sparkling in her eyes.

"Oh, like a date?"

"Yeah, like a date," Dexter nodded, slightly red in the cheeks. "I mean, it is a date."

It took Cupid all she had not to swoon right there and get the teacher mad at them.

"Then it's a date! Oh, our first real date!"

The two did not notice their potion was bubbling over. Rumplestiltskin yelled at them, prompting the couple to yelp and frantically clean up the mess.

Ever After High - Castleteria

In the castleteria, Dexter went straight to Arthur and Lance to ask for their help. He would have asked his brother Daring for advice but he would just tell him to be like him. Dexter loved his brother and knew he meant well but Dexter could not be Daring. So to that end, he decided to go to some of his other friends who seemed like they had good relationships to ask them for advice.

"So, first date jitters, huh?" Lance chewed on a fry. Dexter had come straight to their table and asked for advice on what he should do. Most would have called Cupid's radio show, but considering Dexter was dating her, that just wasn't an option.

"Pretty much," Dexter admitted. "I figured since you're always out with Apple and Arthur's been with Raven for a while now, you guys might have some advice."

"Well, you came to the right place," Lance grinned. "Arthur, pay attention since you haven't taken Raven out on a real date either."

"Lance, I have taken Raven on a few dates already," Arthur admitted, deadpanning at Lance's tone. This caused the Wing Knight to blink in surprise.

"Wait, since when?" Lance asked.

"You wouldn't notice. You've been too busy with Apple," Arthur answered. "So, Dexter, you asked Cupid to the movies tonight, right?"

"Yeah, and I don't know what to do. This is my first real date with her. What should I wear? Should I bring flowers?" Dexter questioned. Their carnival date had been so simple. They just went and had fun. On this date, however, he needed to be romantic for her.

"Take care of your personal hygiene, put on deodorant, cologne, wear something casual but not too casual. This is a date so dress nicely, but not formal unless you're going to a formal place. And be yourself, it's why Cupid's dating you," Arthur listed. "Flowers are optional but recommended."

"And don't forget to show her a good time," Lance finished. "Oh, and pay for everything. That's what a gentleman does."

Dexter took notes, nodding at every word.

"Is that all?" he asked.

"Don't pressure her for anything," Arthur reminded him. "You may think a date should end with a kiss or something, but that's not guaranteed. It's her choice if she wants to give you one. If you want to kiss her, make it on the cheek or something unless she's made it clear she'd like one on the lips. Never assume you're supposed to kiss or things like that on a date unless she's given signs she'd like to."

"Right, got it," Dexter nodded, recalling his time with Cupid in the Tunnel of Love. Cupid made it obvious when she wanted him to kiss her. They had their first kiss then too.

"Just pay attention to how close she likes to be to you," Lance explained. "If you're not even holding hands, likely this will be a casual date and not much will happen. If she can't keep her hands off you, then it's safe to assume she'd like a kiss. Depending on if she likes to just hold hands or outright cuddle, you use your best judgment."

"Right," Dexter nodded, furiously scribbling notes. This was really good advice. Daring never went into detail like this with his advice before. He'd always advise just to do the things he did. "This is really helpful advice, guys. Thanks."

"Glad to help," Lance nodded. "Now you show Cupid a good time."

"Now, gotta pick something to watch," Dexter looked up on his phone to see what movies were playing tonight. "Wait, what movie should we see?"

"Considering Cupid's a, well, cupid, I think something romantic would be a good idea," Arthur suggested. "But make sure it's a movie you'd like too. Both of you should have fun on a date, not just one of you."

"Right!" Dexter looked back to his phone.

"But a horror movie is good too," Lance grinned. "Lots of chances to get her in your lap for the night."

"But if you can't decide, then let her pick," Arthur suggested.

Ever After High - Courtyard

"Dexter and I are going on our first real date tonight!" Cupid cheered to her friends as they sat outside. With her were her friends Ashlynn, Apple, Blondie, and Briar. While a Rebel in the Destiny Conflict, Cupid was the type of girl who could be friends with everyone, and actually did become friends with anyone who spent time with her. The charisma of a cupid was an amazing thing.

"Oh wow! Really?" Briar grinned. "I am so jealous! I haven't even managed to have a date with Harry yet."

"Didn't you all go to the carnival together?" Blondie asked, puzzled.

"Doesn't count," Briar and Cupid said simultaneously. A carnival, while enjoyable, was not exactly the ideal place for a first date.

"Oooh, what are you going to do?" asked Apple.

"Well, we're going to see a movie. It's our first date so Dexie wants to be safe and make sure we both have a good time," Cupid giggled, already imagining what movie they might see. Would they see a romance since he knew she loved them? Would it be action so they could both enjoy it? Or would it be horror so she could be in his arms all night? Oooh, she couldn't wait to see!

Ever After High - Dorms

Arthur and Raven were together in her room, passionately making out on her bed. They could not get this kind of privacy back in his place, unfortunately. Raven had been a little insistent, wanting some privacy with her boyfriend for at least a little while after classes were over. Since Apple was out with her after school activities, Raven thought it would be a perfect time to just get some intimate makeout time with her boyfriend.

Arthur rolled off Raven, panting. He wanted to do more with Raven, go to the next level in their relationships. However, he also did not want her to feel pressured, his hormones he damned. Unfortunately, he had urges and he found Raven incredibly sexy right now.

"Not that I'm complaining, but what brought this bout of passion on?" Arthur asked.

Raven rolled over to rest her head on Arthur's chest, an arm wrapped around him, "Well, I just wanted to. After that dork Perfect Knight tried to hurt you, then more Mirror Monsters, I just...needed to feel like you're still here."

"Ah," Arthur nodded, running his fingers through Raven's hair. "Sorry I seem to keep scaring you like that."

"Not your fault," Raven sighed happily. "I knew what I was getting into when I started dating a knight. I just didn't think it would happen so often."

"Merlin seems to think more are gonna show up and I agree," Arthur sighed. "We're just not sure where they're coming from."

"Well, if they're anything like Perfect Knight, I don't think you have much to worry about," Raven laughed lightly.

"If only," Arthur nodded. "So, how do you think Dexter's going to do on his date? He came to me and Lance for advice."

"Was any of it good advice?" Raven asked.

Arthur shrugged, "Just stuff we've both learned from experience. Let's hope it serves him well."

"He's dating Cupid, a romance expert," Raven smiled. "I think they'll be fine."

Ever After High - Dorms

Dexter steeled himself as he approached Cupid's room to pick her up for their date. He had a bouquet of flowers, some colorful ones mixed with roses. He remembered his mother once saying flowers had meanings, so he decided to get several flowers which had several loving meanings. Hopefully, Cupid would appreciate that.

He tried to dress casually, but also nice enough to show that he was taking the date seriously. He picked a black coat with a letterman shirt underneath. The night was warm so he wore a pair of khaki shorts. Of course, he wore his crown since he didn't feel like he was properly dressed without it.

"Okay, here we go," Dexter breathed before knocking on the door. He took a moment to check his breath. He made sure to brush, floss and take mouthwash. He even carried breath mints just in case.

"Just a moment!" Cupid's voice came from the other side. Sounds of movement and Blondie giggling about something was heard before the door opened.

"Hi Dexter!" Cupid beamed, wearing a black top with a pink shawl over her shoulders and a black beret on her head. She also sported a black and pink skirt with gold boots that reached up to her knees.

"A-ah, hi Cupid," Dexter smiled. "You look great tonight."

Cupid's smile widened, "So do you."

He looked to the flowers in his hands, "Um, I got you these. These are for you."

Cupid cooed, easily seeing the message behind the colorful bouquet, "Oh, thank you, Dexter!" She happily took the bouquet and brought it into the room so to place it in a vase. Inside, Dexter could see Blondie was recording the meeting. Either Cupid didn't notice or allowed it as a memento of their first date. As he waited, he mentally went through his checklist of things to do on their date.

'Be clean, be calm, pick a movie we can both enjoy, don't expect a kiss, check to see how close she wants to be,' Dexter went through the advice in his head.

"C'mon!" Cupid giggled as she took his arm. "Let's go!"

"Right, let's go," he agreed as he walked her out the door.

Book End - Multi-Hex Theatre

The Multi-hex theatre was a popular teenage hangout and the perfect place for a first date. It wasn't like the theaters on Earth, but was more wood and forest. The theatre rooms themselves were open-air with trees covering most of the area, making it dark while allowing some moonlight from above, or just closed if films were seen during the day. Cupid and Dexter could just sit in darkness and enjoy each other's company while watching the movie, feeling like they were having a nighttime picnic.

"So, what are we seeing?" Cupid asked.

"Well, I think you should pick, Cupid," Dexter answered. "I thought you'd like a bunch of them, so I decided to let you pick."

"Oh, hm, well, let's see," Cupid pondered as she looked to see what was available. She saw there were a few she would like. A romance looked great, or a rom-com, but there was a heroic story too which seemed interesting. She was even tempted for the horror movie, but she wasn't sure if that would be too much for her and Dexter's first date. He was so shy about the 'cuddling in the movies' aspect of a date.

"Hmm, can we see this one?" Cupid pointed to the romantic movie, a retelling of Sleeping Beauty. It was plenty romantic, but she knew there were some good dramatic bits which would help keep Dexter interested.

"Sure," Dexter smiled. "Let's get the tickets." Dexter of course paid for the tickets and the couple began going to the theatre, "U-um, do you want snacks? I can go get snacks and drinks before it starts."

"Oh! Sure, I forgot," Cupid giggled, rather excited to actually get into the theatre and get to cuddling in their spot.

They collected some treats, mainly soda and popcorn, before heading to the theatre itself. It was almost like a hillside with blankets set up which many couples and other visitors would sit on to enjoy the show. Dexter and Cupid found a nice spot in the middle row and settled down. Fireflies kept the theatre lit up for a time before the film started, giving people time to enter and find spots.

Dexter was quickly finding himself growing more nervous as he had nothing to focus on before the movie started.

"So, um Cupid, what do you, um, I…do you want anything else before the movie starts? I can go get it if you'd like."

"I got everything I need right here," Cupid smiled as she gently put her hand over his.

"Ah, um, great! Happy to see you happy! Yeah, going great so far!" Dexter rambled, feeling a little overwhelmed just by Cupid holding his hand in a first date scenario. He went over the advice he got in his head again. When she leaned against him, he smelled her hair and it smelled like fresh strawberries. This made his mind go blank.

"It's okay to be nervous, Dexter," Cupid sighed. "To be honest, I am too."

"Y-you are?" Dexter blinked. "But you're, like, the expert with love and dating, aren't you?"

"Well, I know a lot because my dad taught me," Cupid nodded. "And it's easy to give advice to other people, but it's just hard to do it myself. I feel so nervous, and I just want it to go so perfectly. So far it's been wonderful and I have to keep reminding myself to relax a little."

"Well, I could do that," Dexter gulped. Yes, relax. He could do relaxing...only he had his pretty girlfriend leaning against him. Was he supposed to act in a certain way now? Ugh, why couldn't Lance and Arthur have given specific advice about this? "So...how long have you had a crush on me, exactly?"

"Since my first day. I was the new girl and I didn't know my way around and then you bumped into me. I dropped my books and you offered to pick them up and carry them for me. You were so sweet," Cupid answered, the memory bringing a smile to her face.

"Well, uh, I only did what anyone else did."

"It was more than that. You were also the first friend I made in Ever After High. Have I ever told you about my time back in my old school, Monster High?"

"..Monster High?" Dexter looked at Cupid. How could anyone think she was a monster? She was so pretty.

"I looked a lot different then. I was pale as a corpse and my wings were made of bone. Part of being a cupid is to look lovely depending where you are and that's what monsters thought was lovely," Cupid said. "I fit in and had lots of friends. When I transferred to Ever After High, I wasn't sure if I'd ever make friends like the ones I had back home. Then I met you and I knew my time in Ever After High was gonna be fableous."

"Um...is there anyone special you left behind?" Dexter asked.

"Just my ghoulfriends. I never dated anyone there. No sparks for me but I still did my best to spread love there. Dexter, I'm new to dating but I'm glad I get to experience what romance is like with you," Cupid kissed his cheek.

"Wow," Dexter blushed, but the warmth in his cheek wasn't from that.

Ever After High - Dorms

Arthur left Raven's room as it was getting pretty late and boys were not allowed at the girls' dorm after 9 pm. It was a shame, really. He wanted to spend the night with Raven and just cuddle. She did, however, let him get to second base with her. It was a wonder that Apple hadn't walked in on them but Raven reassured him that she was having a girls' night out with her friends.

Still, he found himself blushing as he recalled being with Raven. Girls were really soft...he shook his head. He didn't want to dwell on it like some kind of degenerate. He would treat it as the special and intimate moment that it was. Of course, that wouldn't stop Lance or Merlin from trying to pry details out of him since it was pretty obvious he had been spending the afternoon in Raven's room.

*Eeeeeeeeeeeee!*

"Duty calls," Arthur sighed, feeling his intimate high suddenly get shredded. He ran up to a window and held his Advent Deck to it. His V-Buckle appeared and he activated the transformation, "Henshin!"

His armor formed, earning gasps from one or two people in the hall with him. Ryuki stepped into the mirror tunnel and mounted his warhorse before he sped into the Mirror World and went to the source of the signal. The crystal tunnel flashed by, the warhorse knowing where to go and Ryuki came out into the Mirror World version of the Multi-hex.

"The Multi-hex? Isn't this where Dexter was taking Cupid to for their first date?" Ryuki worried as he dismounted. "If that thing's stalking them, then I can't let it ruin their date." Mirror Monsters tended to jump into the real world and cause chaos, but if he could cut it off, then Dexter and Cupid could still enjoy their date.

Ryuki dashed into the theater, looking around for the monster. He didn't have to wait long before he found the source. Crawling around the walls of the Multi-Hex, spying through the brass decorations and plexiglass signs were a trio of humanoid spider monsters. One he recognized as a Solospider, but the other two were new.

One was humanoid and covered in pale white armor and spider leg plates of armor around its waist. White orbs decorated it's body and chest, giving it a feminine appearance. Two orbs sat on its head and its face was segmented metal with bronze fangs on either side. This was the monster known as a Mispider.

The other Spider was covered in red and bronze armor, save for black and white web designs on its abdomen, biceps, and thighs. At the ends of its hands, it was armed with three metal claws. Its head was bullet-shaped save for its black web eye and its bronze mouthplate shaped like mandibles. This Mirror Monster was called Reispider.

"An infestation, great. Guess that makes me the exterminator," Ryuki muttered. The three monsters were so busy looking for targets, they hadn't noticed him yet. Seeing his chance, Ryuki drew a card.

[Strike Vent!]

Dragredder flew in with a roar and dropped the Drag Claw which Ryuki caught as it equipped itself to his right arm. Drawing his arm back, he thrust it at the Spiders and fired a stream of flames like a flamethrower. He swept the Drag Claw across the theater, hitting each of them and sending them to the ground.

The Spiders recovered and climbed back to their feet. They now had a new target as they glared at Ryuki and hissed angrily.

"Oh, boy," Ryuki realized how outnumbered he was. "Should've called for backup." The Spiders shrieked and lunged toward Ryuki and he blasted them with his Drag Claw. He hit the Mispider and Reispider but the Solospider landed on top of him and knocked him to the floor. It clawed at him and Ryuki managed to plant a punch into its face and shoot a fireball that repelled it. Climbing to his feet, Ryuki dismissed his Drag Claw and moved outside to the open street where the spiders followed. Getting some breathing room, he decided to switch weapons.

[Sword Vent!]

[Guard Vent!]

Dragredder dropped the Drag Saber into Ryuki's right hand as the Drag Shields connected to the sockets on his shoulders. The Spiders weren't impressed, confident in their numbers as they charged, claws forward to rip Ryuki asunder.

Ryuki swiped at the Solospider, making it back off before the Reispider slashed at him. He managed to deflect it with his shield before kicking it back, knocking it away. He spun around before the Mispider slashed him across the chest before kicking him away. He tumbled away, but managed to right himself, facing off against the arachnid trio.

"I'm not dying here tonight! I just got to second base with my girlfriend!" Ryuki yelled. He raised his weapon while the Spiders began to charge. All three circled around, baring their claws and waiting for their opening to try and tear him apart.

Said opening never came as the Reispider screeched loudly when something struck it from behind, causing it to stumble. Ryuki spun around and stopped when he saw someone approaching him.

Without a doubt, it was another Rider. He sported the same black bodysuit along with the armbands and greaves. Around his waist was a V-Buckle with a dark green Advent Deck that bore a golden alligator head emblem on it. His torso armor looked like leather, scaled like alligator skin with sharp teeth lining the collar. Bands of red thread made it look like the pectoral pieces were stitched together and large reptilian claws gripped his shoulders just over the sockets. The helmet seemed to have the jaw of a large reptile lining the bottom, teeth poking up to the mouthplate. Green covered the majority of the helmet with three ridges running along the back and a yellow diamond on the forehead. The visor appeared jagged at the edges, as if in the jaws of an animal, and the slits arced downwards like fangs over the actual eye areas. On his left arm was an alligator head, similar to but larger than Ryuki's Drag Visor, perhaps closer in size to Raia's Evil Visor

"Oh boy," Ryuki grunted.

"Relax, Dragon Knight. I'm on your side," the gator Rider spoke up. "Just call me the Bog Knight. I'm here to crush some pests."

"Considering the last two knights I met had a grudge against us, can you blame me for being wary?" Ryuki frowned.

"No," Bog Knight shook his head. "But when the checkerboard flips around, red and black swaps abound." He drew a card from his deck and he pushed the brow of his shield down, proving it worked similar to Ryuki's own and slid the card inside.

[Sword Vent!]

The sword dropped from above, looking like a longsword, but styled after an alligator's tail. Ridges on the side made it look like a weapon more suited for shredding than cutting. Lifting it, Bog Knight charged into the fray, hacking at the Mispider, leaving Ryuki with the other two.

[Advent!]

Ryuki decided to summon Dragredder to support him and the dragon happily complied as it roared and fired at the Reispider, leaving the Solospider to Ryuki. He landed a violent slash across the Solospider's chest and kept slashing and hacking away, sending it backpedaling.

Bog Knight pressed his advantage, cutting the Mispider several times. It attempted to tie him down by firing strings of webbing from its mouth at him. The Bog Knight reacted and lifted his sword to catch the threads. The Mispider believed it had the advantage, but Bog Knight pulled back, leaving the two to play tug-o-war. Bog Knight pulled strong, but then suddenly let go, letting the sword fly and the flat edge collided with the Mispider's face, making it grunt and stumble, clutching his head.

Bog Knight quickly drew another card, this one depicting a biomechanical alligator with the name 'Vilegator' printed across the top. Not hesitating, he fed the card into his Visor.

[Advent!]

A roar shook the air and Ryuki had to stop himself. From a side street, a massive alligator equal in length to Dragredder stomped onto the scene. It was armored in dark green with its sides having the same black and gold designs as the dragons and even Venosnaker. Its snout was long with gold teeth seen on the sides. Its eyes glowed red in the night as it roared, once again shaking the air.

"Holy…" Ryuki gasped. The thing looked so bulky, it made Dragredder seem puny! "Where did you find that?!"

"He found me," Bog Knight answered. "Meet Vilegator."

Bog Knight then charged for the Mispider, using an upper slash which tore through the ground as his sword's length caused him to cut the ground. It didn't stop the force of the swing as it struck the Mispider, sending it sailing into the air with a shriek of pain. Bog Knight then tossed his sword aside, drawing his Final Vent which of course had his emblem surrounded in dark green light. He quickly dropped it into his Bog Visor.

[FInal Vent!]

Vilegator roared and stomped towards Bog Knight before the knight himself jumped up and landed on Vilegator's snout. The massive Mirror Monster lowered its head before abruptly tossing it up, sending Bog Knight sailing up to where the Mispider was starting to reach the apex of its flight. On his arms, a pair of gauntlets appeared, shaped like the top and bottom halves of Vilgator's head. These were the Vile Jaws.

"VILE CRUSHER!"

Coming upon the Spider, Bog Knight spread his arms apart before swinging them like an alligator snapping its jaws shut. The Vile Jaws caught the Mispider between them with crushing force, crumpling the monster between them before it exploded with a shriek of pain.

Bog Knight came back down, landing in a crouch. From above, the Mispider's life energy lowered, dropping onto Vilegator who roared happily as it fed.

Dragredder attacked the Reispider and Solospider with Ryuki, herding the two Spiders together. Ryuki slashed and bashed either one that tried to get by him while Dragredder shot fireballs at them if they tried to flee. Both ended up scorched and huffing for breath before a swipe from Dragredder's tail threw them into a heap down the street. Now that the two monsters were weakened from their assault, Ryuki drew his Final Vent and activated it in his Drag Visor.

[Final Vent!]

As Dragredder circled around him, Ryuki assumed the pose then launched himself into the air, followed by his dragon. He flipped in midair and assumed the flying kick position with his Contract Monster hovering behind him. Dragredder exhaled, coating Ryuki in dragonfire and fired him like a missile that crashed into the two monsters, taking them out in a huge explosion. The life energy flew up in two spheres which Dragredder happily gobbled down.

Once Dragredder devoured the energy spheres, Ryuki and Bog Knight locked eyes. Ryuki kept his guard up, still wary of the other Rider.

"I heard the other two had grudges against you guys," Bog Knight admitted. "But not me. I only want to make sure those monsters don't ruin someone's home. Not like mine was."

"Well, if you want us to trust you then come with me and introduce yourself," Ryuki offered, relaxing. "You can join us."

"..." Bog Knight was silent. "I'm...not worthy. Not yet. Not when I still have so much to do. Ask me again when what's wrong has been made right. I might be worthier by then. A knight needs his home and family to be worthwhile and I've already failed to protect mine."

Ryuki wondered what he meant by that but Bog Knight did not elaborate further as he stepped through a reflection to return to the real world. As Ryuki watched him leave, he mentally listed Bog Knight as a potential ally.

Ever After High - Dorms

Completely unaware of the battle which had taken place on the other side of the looking glass, Dexter and Cupid enjoyed cuddling up in the moonlight as they watched the movie. They both did enjoy it, but the company just made it even better.

After the movie, they just enjoyed a lazy stroll back to the dorms. Cupid of course felt like she was in a dream as she hugged Dexter's arm, not wanting to let go. Still, they reached the dorms and even if they took their time getting up to Cupid's room, they reached it just the same.

"I had a great time, Dexter," Cupid smiled, reluctantly letting go.

"Me too," Dexter grinned. "Hey, how about next time we grab some dinner too?"

"That sounds nice," Cupid beamed.

Dexter nodded and scratched the back of his head. Cupid didn't seem to be pushing for a kiss or anything so he figured he'd best not push either, "Well, uh, good night. See you at school."

"Dexter, wait. Don't I get a good night kiss?" Cupid tapped her cheek. Dexter froze, but then felt some excitement and relief, realizing his date must have been good if Cupid was asking for a kiss. One on the cheek, but it was definitely a good sign.

"Oh, right. Sorry." Dexter leaned in to kiss her cheek when Cupid deliberately turned her head so his lips landed on hers. Dexter was surprised but then Cupid wrapped her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss as she lifted her right leg. It was awfully passionate, but what was a cupid but passion incarnate in so many ways?

Cupid finally broke the kiss, but stole one more peck from a now thoroughly dazed Dexter, "I'll see you at school, Dexie."

"Oh, yeah," Dexter murmured, dazed, "G-goodnight, Cupie…"

Cupid beamed and slipped inside of her room as hushed and excited whispers from her roommate could already be heard. Not that Dexter was in any state of mind to wonder about it. Instead, he stumbled down the halls so he could begin the long trek back to the boys' dorms. He'd need that long to get his head back on straight. He still had one clear thought though.

'My girlfriend is awesome!'

Book End Library

After the battle with the Spiders and encounter with Bog Knight, Arthur reported back to the library. Most of the others were either sleeping, studying, or doing some other nighttime activity so it was quiet. Merlin was still in his office, reading some kind of tome. He immediately welcomed Arthur back. He first teased him about getting into Raven's room alone, but Arthur went on to explain about the monsters which grouped up at the theater and the new knight he'd met.

"Glad to hear that Dexter and Cupid's date went well," Merlin smiled as Arthur finished his report.

"Well, I couldn't let those monsters ruin it," Arthur defended. "Just lucky I managed to hear the signal. Odd that none of the others did."

"You may have been close enough to hear it. That world's empty so sound echoes. But you really met a new rogue Rider?" Merlin questioned, moving on to the rest of his report. "That's three so far."

"Yeah," Arthur confirmed. "But he didn't try to fight me. Instead, he helped me defeat those Spiders then left after we were done."

"So, at least there's one decent person in this group," Merlin rubbed his chin. "Whoever's handing out these decks must not care much for alignment."

"I did notice something off about him," Arthur added. "When he spoke, it was full of regret. I think he suffered some kind of loss and he's either trying to make up for it, or keep it from happening to someone else."

Merlin nodded, "Why didn't you question him further?"

Arthur shrugged, "I offered to let him come with me but he said he couldn't and I didn't want to force the issue. Vilegator's size alone made it clear that would have been a bad idea."

Merlin shivered, remember what Arthur said about the size of that particular Mirror Monster. "That's fine, Arthur. At least we can consider him a possible ally, for now, until his true colors show."

Arthur nodded, but blinked when he recalled something, "Speaking of allies, have you considered a new user for the Bow Knight deck?"

Merlin flicked his wrist and the Bow Knight deck appeared in his hand, "Well, I've looked into this thing six ways to Chapterday to make sure whoever made it didn't leave any surprises. Scout Huntsman may have been an arrogant dunce, but going off the rails like he did was a bit out of left field."

"You think there was something in it that made him get worse?" asked Arthur.

"You got it," Merlin nodded. "But it seems clean and Scout just had a superiority complex or something. I've got some candidates, but I can't drag people from Earth here. Yours was a one time deal. We'll have to pick someone soon too. Guldwind's getting hungry and the magic packets I've been feeding him aren't going to keep him satisfied forever. Sooner or later, he's going to hunt down some prey and Scout's at the top of the list for violating their contract."

"And most Fairy Tales these days aren't quite suited for our kind of combat," Arthur sighed. Scout may have been a hunter, but he had no experience in fighting people. Perfect Knight was clearly an idiotic amateur, but Bog Knight may be the exception.

"The only ones who I can think of as possible users are some of your friends at school who've seen you fight and understand what's at stake," Merlin replied.

Arthur shook his head, "No way. None of them are remotely ready for this. Daring and Dexter may have the skill, but Daring's going to be in over his head and Dexter has nowhere near the confidence. Hunter never hurts any living creatures, Hopper would just croak out, and Sparrow avoids fighting or things his dad does."

Merlin shrugged, "Maybe, but they may surprise you. Remember, you kids weren't exactly combat-ready yourselves before I recruited you but you've grown with experience and become stronger."

"It's not like you asked us before you recruited us. You basically kidnapped us, Merlin." Arthur deadpanned.

"Desperation and necessity make for strange tactics," Merlin replied. "But my point remains valid. When the time really comes, you'd be surprised how they'd step up to the plate."

Arthur paused and accepted Merlin's point, for now. He turned but stopped before looking back at Merlin with a serious question in mind.

"How is everyone reacting to our disappearance on Earth?"

Merlin sighed, looking down to his book, "It's...been noticed. Hard not to when a bus full of kids goes missing."

"My parents must be freaking out," Arthur groaned. "Did you send any hints or can we send them letters?"

"Well, I...did send word to the concerned parties," Merlin nodded. "If you want to send letters, I can arrange that. Don't expect much of an answer though."

"Thank goodness," Arthur sighed. His parents may have annoyed him in how they kept pushing him to be some kind of redemption for their family, but he still loved them. "I just want them to know I'm alright and that I'll come home soon."

Merlin nodded, "I understand that you're feeling homesick. Why did you decide to ask now after all this time?"

"We've been distracted, if you haven't noticed," Arthur snorted. "With just discovering we're in a fairy tale magic world, then a magic school, the Mirror Monsters, and our girlfriends, guess we never stopped to think about it before."

Merlin chuckled knowingly, "Life tends to hit you hard, fast, and in rapid succession."

"But what happens when this is all over? Do we just leave? We've made friends, gotten attached, found people we love. It's not going to be easy when the day comes."

Merlin sighed and leaned towards Arthur in his chair, "Arthur, when that day comes, you have one advantage over every other story there. You said it when you first met Raven, remember? You're writing your own story. No fairy tale script can force your decision. It's all up to you and everyone else will just have to lump it. You're the author of your tale, no one else, despite what folks like Milton would like to believe."

Arthur accepted that answered, for now, "Thanks. Good night, Merlin. I'll see you in the morning."

"Good night, young Arthur."

As Arthur stepped out of the office, he couldn't help but wonder what Merlin was hiding from them. The man may be their mentor and guardian in this world, but that did not change the fact he had kidnapped them and spirited them away to another world. Also, it was a strange coincidence that he had fourteen Advent Decks and just happened to find a bus carrying fourteen teenagers. True, Merlin gave them everything they could need, personal space in the dorm aside, but Arthur and others suspect he was playing a game somewhere and they weren't seeing it.

Still, offering them the chance to send word back to their families was a big step towards trust. Provided the letters actually got to them.

As Arthur left Merlin alone, the old wizard looked at the Bow Knight deck again.

"You went to a Huntsman and you will be with a Huntsman once more."

And so the Fellowship meets a potential new ally, but one who hints at a tragic past.

While on the other side of the looking glass, Cupid and Dexter deepen their relationship.

Arthur and Raven sure deepened theirs too. Still, does Merlin mean to give that deck to-!

Brooke, what did we say?

Spoilers, right, right. Hey, besides Cupid and Dexter's date and Arthur meeting a new Rider, something else happened tonight too.

Another story?

Just a bonus.

Book End Library

Briar Beauty was happy for Cupid since this would be her first date with Dexter. Encouraged by her friend's romantic mood, Briar decided to call Harry to see if he was busy.

Meanwhile, Harry was going over his homework when his MirrorPhone rang. He answered when he saw the call came from Briar.

"Hello?"

"Hey, Harry. Are you busy tonight?"

Harry leaned back in his chair, "Well, I was going to do some homework before I went to bed."

"On a Friday night? No, forget that. Meet me in front of the Red Shoes Dance Club in an hour. Bye!"

"Wait, Briar-?" Harry blinked as Briar hung up. "Did Briar just ask me out on a date?" It did sound like that. He had not said he would meet her but she still expected him to be there and it would be rude to keep her waiting. He should call her back to give her an answer but she was probably getting ready so he hexted her his answer and left his homework to get ready.

Lance saw Harry going through his wardrobe with his clothes laid out across his bed.

"Hey, bro," Lance said. "What's up?"

"Briar asked me to go out dancing," Harry answered.

"Sounds like a date," Lance grinned. "First Dexter and now you. I'm so proud."

"I know, I know, but I only have an hour and I need an outfit."

"You could borrow some of mine, little bro."

"Lance, I appreciate it, but I think I'll dress my way." He found his outfit. "OK, this should look good."

"Be sure to show her a good time."

Book End - Red Shoes Dance Club

Briar stood in front of the Red Shoes Dance Club waiting for Harry. She checked the time.

"Hope he doesn't stand me up," Briar murmured. Harry had hexted her, saying he would arrive. She soon saw a nearby window ripple and Raia stepped out, complete in armor, before it shattered away. Harry looked around and spotted her before crossing the street.

He cleaned up nicely. He wore a black t-shirt with a pink shirt thrown over it with the sleeves rolled up, blue jeans and sneakers.

"I almost thought you stood me up," Briar remarked.

"Would I do that to you?"Harry asked and appraised her outfit. She wore tight pink jeans with sandals, and a black tank top with a rose on it with a pink jacket thrown over it. Her hair was in a ponytail topped with her signature rose-tinted crown-glasses. He had never seen Briar dressed in something so casual before. She looked good. He liked it.

"Now, let's go in and dance!" Briar grabbed his arm and dragged him into the club with her.

The couple went immediately to the dance floor, moving with the music and began dancing the night away. Briar was as energetic as ever and sometimes Harry felt himself struggling to keep up with her. Still, unlike some hyperactive people he knew, Briar at least made trying to keep up with her fun, and when he did manage to keep up, she was waiting and just made it worth it in some way

As the music slowed down, Harry was able to get some of his breath back, "Where does all your energy come from?"

"Can't say. I just have it," Briar shrugged, stretching. "But it's a good thing I do. I have a lot I want to do before I get hit with that 100-year sleep."

Briar was known to say that a lot to explain her wild and energetic ways. As he got to know her since meeting her mother, Harry was starting to see signs that it wasn't just words to explain things, but that it was really bothering her. She hid it behind her normally bright and energetic persona, but as he had Lance as his brother, he knew when someone was trying to hide their insecurities behind bravado.

Briar was likely terrified of her curse and Harry long since knew why. Falling asleep and then waking up 100 years later after being kissed by someone you don't know? Finding out everyone and everything you knew was dead and gone? It made for a dramatic story, but Briar was faced with living it and experiencing it from her perspective must have been terrifying.

Seeing Briar showing that same bravado again, Harry decided to do something about it. As a slower song started, he took Briar's hands and pulled her towards him. She gave a surprised yelp, but smiled when Harry wrapped his arms around her to hold her close. It was a move Lance would have done on a first date, but not Harry. Fortunately, Briar enjoyed spontaneous things like that.

His next move brought her up short.

"Briar, I know how your story goes and I won't let you go through it. If you do get cursed to sleep for 100 years, I'll find you and break the spell within a day so you won't ever miss a thing," Harry swore.

Briar found herself speechless by his words. Since she learned about her destiny, everyone around her just seemed to tell her to accept it and make the most of it. The Rebels encouraged not doing it, but how do you stop the Dark Faerie from cursing you? Faybelle likely would if she was having a bad day and once she signed the Storybook of Legends, it would be guaranteed.

To hear someone promise her, directly promise her, that they would fight to break the curse before a day passed, rocked her. In front of her, her knight, her boyfriend, was swearing to defy destiny in the biggest way and end her supposed story before it barely began. It wasn't just the words, but his eyes that conveyed how serious he was about it as well. He meant every word he said to her in his promise.

And a knight never broke their word.

Briar Beauty could not help herself but before she could kiss him, he leaned in and pressed his lips gently against hers. Their lips just brushed against each other but she definitely felt a spark.

"Wow..." Briar sighed.

Harry was not sure what came over him. He was never so forward or spontaneous, that was his brother's department. Maybe love did make you do crazy things.

"Kiss me again!" Briar insisted, her energetic desire for experience making her pull him back to her lips.

The pair kissed right there on the dancefloor as the slow music continued to play around them.

See? A bonus. A soft and romantic bonus.

Okay, okay, you had your fun, Brooke.

A nice finish though.

Wasn't it?

A/N: Well, here is a bit of a slice of life and introducing a new and oddly friendly Rogue Knight. Cupid is in fact one of my favorite characters and the date webisode was actually too good to pass up. This is a bit of a drama story along with action after all. So letting our underdog Dexter get his first date with his adoring Cupid seemed like a fun idea.

Just for reference, if you're having trouble visualizing them, the monsters contracted to two of the Rogues, Bicolius and Vilegator were inspired by Dark Magic Horse Barikion from Magiranger and Gaoligator from gaoranger