Knights of the Otherworld REWRITE

by Ten-Faced Paladin

(REWRITE of KOTO). Destiny has always been a focus to the people of Ever After. However, Destiny is not so easily predicted or controlled. A force outside of Giles Grimm's written pages has forced itself into their world. A meddlesome mage, with the power of Prophecy, sees a solution outside of the context of their stories.

6. Chapter 6

I do not own Ever After High or Kamen Rider Ryuki

Knights of the Otherworld

By Ten-Faced Paladin

Chapter 6: The Phoenix Knight and the Candy Witch

We return once again to our stories of Ever After High, watching as the Knights of the Round Table bond with their peers and take their first steps into their destines.

I wouldn't be so sure about that. First and foremost they are dedicated to facing the Mirror Monsters whenever they appear.

Yeah Mom! Even Rex and he's the most princely of them all!

(***)

Rex Shephard yawned as he rode towards Ever After High on his steed, Grani. It was a pleasant day, like most days, being not too hot or cold, not too bright and not too cloudy, the sun was shining and the birds were singing. All in all, just another fairy tale day.

Rex carried himself with pride and pedigree, often having some of the denizens wonder if he was a member of the Charming family. He had posture, a fit physique from playing rugby, and even had golden blonde hair which he kept in a ponytail. His chiseled looks made him appear every bit more like a Charming, but there was just something more to him. He even wore the hottest trends which involved khaki pants, designer shoes from home, and a royal red polo shirt.

Coming to the school with the others, Rex dismounted with another yawn. Rather than remain poised, he looked like he was low on energy. Slouching slightly, he slapped Grani's flank, sending the artificial horse back to the Mirror World.

Rex adjusted his posture and stood up straight again. As the others moved around to see their various friends that they had made since arriving, Rex checked his watch and decided to do his usual rounds around the school, just to make sure he didn't spy any Mirror Monsters looking to try their luck.

To be honest, as serious as he was about his duties, Rex thought it was frankly ridiculous that they were suddenly drawn into a world of fairy tales. He would have called it absurd if he wasn't experiencing it. Once he saw proof of the Mirror Monsters though, Rex quickly stepped up and began leading his new comrades as a fellowship of knights to protect the people of Book End. The absurdity of manipulating destiny fell on the wayside as there would be no destiny to manipulate if the people of the village and Ever After High got devoured by the denizens of the Mirror World.

So Rex became the unofficial leader of the newest generation of the Knights of the Round Table. Technically, he was taking the role of Sir Percival, the knight who discovered the Holy Grail. Honestly, Rex would have preferred to take the role of King Arthur, as it was more befitting his lineage, but Percival was a good second choice. At the very least, Arthur was standing to a standard of behavior…which was more than Rex could say about some of the others. Darren and Rob's game of Ball Tag, Gabe and his video game fixation, Kyle and Lance with their fixation on girls….it wasn't exactly model behavior Rex would attribute to people who were considered knights of Camelot.

Walking around the school grounds, Rex patiently listened for any signs that a Mirror Monster was trying to find prey. As he walked, Rex tried to keep his usual bearing, but he was just finding it harder that day. He just wanted to yawn, slump over, and take a nap. This was because he had been suffering his own personal version of withdrawal since coming to Book End.

Something Rex kept quiet about himself was he had quite the sweet tooth. He loved sweets and pastries, often getting a snack every morning. Sadly, Rex had recently run out of his stash and was now looking for someplace to get new ones. Hocus Latte didn't have the portion sizes he liked and the Beanstalk Bakery never kept their stock for very long and Rex always missed out because of his training or other duties. Sometimes he could sneak in and get what he wanted, but the lines were annoying and often half of their stock was gone when he did get there.

It tended to make Rex…irritable.

Coming around the bookball field (no, that wasn't a misspelling), Rex kept an eye on things. Daring Charming and his friends on the bookball team were holding court. The knight of Camelot did not have much of a high opinion of Daring, considering him much too vain and arrogant, even if he did have considerable skill in being heroic. It just made him look completely foolish so he did not often cross paths with the vain prince if he could help it. Not that it hadn't stopped many of the Royals from approaching him, mistaking Rex as a member of the Charmings with his own golden blonde hair, regal bearing, and athletic frame. Not a wrong assumption to make, but from the wrong family…

Sighing, Rex followed the bleachers as he headed toward the school. A few more places to check before the first bell rang and he would be content to relax for classes. He just had to check…

Rex stopped when it hit him. A sweet aroma that wafted around his nose and set off all sorts of signals in his mind. His eyes widened, recalling quite well the scent of baked chocolate, freshly baked if he was smelling the scent properly. One mixed with the distinct scent of cookie dough, brown sugar, and vanilla.

Rex could not help himself and followed the scent. Coming to the far end of the bleachers, he spotted a girl sitting in the bottom row. She certainly stood out, having long strawberry/cotton candy pink hair tied in two ponytails. She had caramel-colored skin and chocolate brown eyes with red circular glasses as she read what looked like a cookbook. She wore a candy pink top with a grey mini jacket decorated with blue candy-like swirls. She also sported a light chocolate brown skirt with the appearance of white sprinkles on it.

Rex had to blink at her appearance, reminding him of some kinds of fairies he saw in commercials about a girl's show. Was she the next Sugarplum Fairy? It was but a momentary thought as he soon took notice of the plate set down next to the girl, topped with chocolate-chip cookies.

Before he knew it, Rex was closer, eyeing the plate of cookies with his critical eye. They were golden brown, clearly still warm to the touch. He saw not one overcooked edge, not one dried chocolate chip, not one split crack in the surface of the cookies. They appeared, for lack of a better word, perfect.

Rex was not drooling. He would never stoop to such crude behavior.

"Oh!" the girl gasped, reaching for another cookie before she noticed Rex there. "Um, hello there."

"Uhhh," Rex was stunned by the smell and sight of the cookies before he realized that the girl was talking to him. Wiping his lips, he quickly tried to recompose himself, "Ah, y-yes, um, apologies. I, ah, just smelled the delic-, ah, cookies! Yes, I just smelled the cookies and got drawn in I suppose."

"Oh, thank you!" the girl beamed. "I made them myself. There's nothing like a sweet treat you made yourself."

Rex blinked in surprise, "You made them? Hm, I would have pegged their quality at a professional level."

The girl's cheeks turned pink, but the smile on her lips was unmistakable, "Well thanks! Just for that, do you want to try one?"

Rex immediately forgot his decorum, leaning closer to the cookies, "Well…if you insist…"

"I do," the girl nodded. "Help yourself. I always make more than I need."

Rex gulped, but he did take one cookie from the small plate. It was as he suspected, being fresh and still warm to the touch. He felt his mouth water in anticipation and he didn't feel the need to resist. He bit into the cookie, tasting its chocolately goodness. He hummed in delight as he found his first impression of the cookie to be correct. It was a perfect cookie.

"Do you like it?" the girl asked hopefully.

"Delicious," Rex managed to get out. Looking at his hand, he realized he had finished the cooking before he even noticed. "Ah, thank you, miss…?"

"I'm Ginger Breadhouse," the girl introduced herself.

"I'm Rex Shephard the next Percival," Rex nodded. His eyes darted to the plate of cookies, "Um, could I have another?"

"Sure!" Ginger nodded. Rex licked his lips and preparing for the chocolatey goodness again…

Eeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

"Tsk!" Rex grimaced, recognizing the tone of the Mirror World. Spinning around, much to Ginger's confusion, he tried to see where the monster was going to appear from. His answer soon came when above himself and Ginger, the metal surface of the school's ornamental emblem began to ripple. Blue clawed hands tore from the reflection before gripping the sides and Raydragoon tore itself out, diving down with its hands outstretched at Ginger.

"Look out!" Rex called, grabbing Ginger's hands and pulling her out of the way. Her squeak of shock was rather adorable, but it was drowned out when the Raydragoon smashed into the bleachers, shattering the seating as it landed. Snarling, it began to rise as it stared hungrily at Ginger, seemingly ignoring Rex in favor of its next meal.

Rex frowned at the monster, but took notice of crushed under it's foot was the plate of cookies, utterly destroyed by the impact.

"Now I must destroy you on principle," Rex frowned. He pulled his Mirrorphone and his Advent Deck, a golden brown one with a golden emblem of a bird with its wings spread out. Rex held the deck to the reflection cast by his phone. Like his comrades, his V-Buckle appeared, but unlike the others, his was a polished gold than metallic silver.

Rex glared at the Raydragoon, which tensed as it saw the belt appear. He then lifted his open hand before curling it into a clenched fist, "Henshin!"

He slid the deck into his belt, causing the monochrome images of his armor to begin folding over his form. When it solidified, it filled with color and showed the majestic image of the knight. He wore a black bodysuit while his torso armor was black with gold talons at the bottom edges. The front was emblazoned with a golden brown V, stylized like a bird which reached his shoulder plates, made in the form of golden feathers. The shoulders themselves had curved brown plating while his gauntlets had V-shaped adornments with gold lining, the sockets on both pieces being golden as well. His helmet was elaborate, sporting a silver mouthplate with black slits in it like a knight's helm. The rest was a golden helm, inspired by spreading wings with six black slits in it, topped with a black spike rising from the middle.

The Raydragoon snarled and lunged at both knight and student. The transformed Rex snorted before he swung with a simple backhand which smashed against the Raydragoon's head. The impact caused sparks to fly as armor met chitin and the Raydragoon was knocked into the bookball field in a heap.

The transformed knight glanced at Ginger, who was openly gaping, before he walked onto the bookball field where the monster was recovering from the strike. On the other side, Daring and his friends clearly had noticed what had happened, several reaching for their phones to record the event.

"I suppose an introduction is in order for this debut," the knight rolled his shoulders. "Behold! I am the Knight of the Phoenix! Heir of Percival, he who found the Holy Grail!" He spread his arms out in declaration, "I am Sir Odin, the Unyielding!"

The Raydragoon snarled again, getting to its feet. Growling, it charged toward Odin once again. Odin lifted his hand and in a burst of golden feathers, a scepter appeared in his hand. The shaft was golden brown and topped with a golden bird with its wings closed around the top. The base was black, inlaid with gold and acting as the bird's tail. A handguard was incorporated in it where Odin gripped it.

As the monster drew closer, Odin lifted the scepter and wielded it in both hands, revealing the bottom ended as a sharpened tip. He spun the weapon and blocked the Raydragoon's strike with the scepter before he swung and smashed the top against its side like a heavy club. The Raydragoon grunted but stumbled from the blow.

Odin capitalized on the opening and thrust with the spiked tip of his weapon, piercing the monster's defenses and dealing more damage as he drove it back. Several strikes forced it back before the monster unfurled its wings, taking to the sky with a loud buzz.

"Hm, annoying," Odin recalled how fast Raydragoons were from Arthur's first fight. Stabbing his scepter into the ground, he drew a card from his belt. The card was a Sword Vent, depicting a pair of golden scimitar weapons in the shape of feathers. Gripping the guard of his Gold Visor, he pulled it down to reveal a card chamber underneath. Odin pressed the card into place before lifting the guard back into place.

[Sword Vent!]

Odin lifted his arms before a flash of gold came from the same decorative school emblem and the swords from his card landed in his hands. Running the blades against each other, making them sing, Odin eyed the flying Raydragoon.

"Shall we?" Odin asked, raising an eyebrow behind his helmet.

The Raydragoon hissed before diving for Odin, its body moving at high speeds. The knight expected such a thing, studying Merlin's notes and recalling what he saw of Arthur's experience with the same breed of monster. Waiting for the monster to be unable to back away, Odin spun, sidestepping the high-speed monster before slashing at what seemed like open air. The Gold Sabers cut through the air before the sound of shattering glass echoed through the area.

The Raydragoon crashed in a heap, leaving a rut in the dirt as it crashed from its high-speed attack. Spitting out dirt, it stood up, revealing the wings on its right side had been shattered, leaving jagged glass-like stumps.

Odin examined his blades, seeing no damage done to them before he looked back at the Raydragoon, "Well? I'm waiting."

The Raydragoon hissed and charged, summoning a spear reminiscent of its dragonfly tail and charged at Odin. The golden knight readied himself and waited for the monster to get in close. The monster thrust with its weapon, which Odin sidestepped and slashed, catching the Raydragoon across the shoulder. The monster let off a shriek but pressed the attack. Odin merely watched its movements and reacted, dipping around, making it look easy, before striking back where the monster had its guard open. The Raydragoon was a monster, not a trained warrior, so it was not exactly a spear master.

The monster thrust again and Odin spun around the blow, coming to the monster's open back. He swung with another cut, leaving a sparking trail across the monster's back. It spun around to try and fight, but Odin pressed his attack and swung with both blades. The Raydragoon attempted to defend, but the blades shattered through the shaft of the weapon, cutting it in half. Defense gone, the Raydragoon was open and Odin kicked it in the chest spartan style, knocking the monster back.

"I was hoping I could feel some satisfaction from this," Odin sighed. It seemed satisfaction for losing out on those cookies would be denied to him, "But duty before personal affairs."

Odin dropped his swords and snapped his fingers, summoning his Gold Visor to his hand again. He reached to his belt, drawing another card, this one showing his emblem on a golden-brown background. Opening his Visor, he slapped the card into place before shutting it again.

[Final Vent!]

The air grew hotter in the bookball field before a ball of fire announced the arrival of Odin's partner from the Mirror World. It was a monster which seemed to have golden armor in the shape of a large bird. Its feathers were individual blades with a red or a blue gem on the joints as the wings blazed with golden fire. Its tail feathers seemed to be merged together as a flexible metal plate. Its gold talons appeared to be sharper than steel and despite its appearance of ferocity, its head was one of delicate gold while it trilled a musical song through the field.

This was Odin's trusted parter, the Mirror Monster known as Goldphoenix.

All the witnesses gaped in awe at the sight of a true phoenix. In Ever After, a place where myths and legends were real, even a phoenix was considered mythical. Everyone knew they existed, but seeing one was incredibly rare. Fortunes could be made just by finding a feather and hints of one nesting somewhere were chased by many determined wizards and bird-watchers. Seeing one right in the bookball field had every student there gaping in open shock.

Goldphoenix let off a musical trill before lowering to Odin and attaching to his back. Odin crossed his arms as he was lifted into the air, looking down at the wounded Raydragoon. He watched it with disdain before he nodded. Goldphoenix's fire began to shine before it let off a hawk-like shriek, diving down at the Raydragoon. The Raydragoon stumbled back, but Goldphoenix only adjusted its flight before both it and Odin crashed into the monster, causing an explosion wreathed in golden fire.

Odin and Goldphoenix flew out of the golden inferno before the monster let the knight down. They detached and the blazing phoenix fluttered through the air, capturing the Raydragoon's essence which was rising from the flames before diving back to the Mirror World through the school emblem above the bleachers.

Odin sighed, eyeing the burning spot in the bookball field, "Headmaster Grimm is certainly not going to like this." He turned to where Ginger was, spotting her tucked behind the front barrier of the bleachers, peeking out to see the events. Removing his deck, his armor shattered off in brown shards as he approached, "Are you alright, Ginger?"

"Ah…" Ginger gaped, but caught herself with a flush in her cheeks. "Y-yes! I'm fine, but…how did you find a phoenix?"

"Pardon?" Rex blinked, confused. He heard the sounds of pictures being taken nearby and he glanced to see Daring's friends taking numerous pictures of him and the still burning fire of the Raydragoon's demise. Taking pictures of his fellow knights in action was not unusual, but Rex was surprised by the fervor of them trying to find the right angles and taking several shots. "Oh, now what?"

(***)

Ever After High - Halls

Rex suddenly found people paying much more attention to him than usual. Since the battle with the Raydragoon, word naturally spread about what happened. The burning patch on the bookball field that didn't go out for an unusual amount of time made it rather difficult to hide the events that took place, much less the numerous photos all the witnesses took.

All through the day, more and more people seemed to be either watching him with awe or looking at him with suspicion. It confused him, considering how the others were often lauded as heroes for fighting and destroying monsters. Rex reviewed the battle in his mind but came up with no reason why people would look so divided about him. Ginger mentioned the rarity of a phoenix, but no one seemed to be willing to outright say what the issue was.

In any case, he headed to the Castleteria for lunch. He pondered if one of his comrades might have heard why people were being a bit divisive towards him. Quickly purchasing his lunch, he searched for familiar faces before finding Gabe, Kyle, and Tristan seated at one particular table.

"Well, well, the golden hero of the day arrives," Kyle grinned as Rex approached. "Heard about how you took down a monster at the bookball field. Everyone's been talking about it."

"Yeah, you curb stomped that thing," Gabe agreed eagerly.

"The training paid off then," Rex nodded as he took a seat. "Besides, it was a Raydragoon. We've run into some which helped with knowing how to deal with them."

"True," Tristan nodded, munching on his food. "Everyone seems kind of hyped when they saw Goldphoenix though."

"And seem rather divided over something I did," Rex agreed. "Ever since word spread, people seem to be in awe of me, or suspicious about something. There's no rhyme or reason as to why."

Gabe rubbed his chin, "Well…I think some kids in the Beast Training and Care were asking the teacher about it. A phoenix is like, super-super rare. Most people only ever hear stories about them. They're on the same tier as dragons I think."

Rex nodded, "That explains the awe then, but not the suspicion."

Kyle gave an answer, "Someone started up a rumor that you're a Rebel and you're trying to outshine Arthur's story since yours involves finding the Holy Grail."

Rex stopped his eating and blinked, looking at his teammate, "Excuse me? People think I'm trying to outshine Arthur? How the devil does someone draw that conclusion?"

Kyle shrugged, "Well, according to Max, who heard it from some girl in his classes named Faybelle, a cheerhexer who loves gossip, you're being branded a Rebel. Supposedly, the fact your armor is more ornate than Arthur's, and you've got a phoenix which is the same tier of magic creature as a dragon, it's a clear indicator you want to outdo Arthur and bring more attention to your story."

Rex frowned, considered it, but then grumbled, "I shouldn't be surprised. Everyone here likes to gossip like back home. Honestly, Percival wouldn't even have a story without being part of King Arthur's. There is simply no way to escape that. My armor is the way it is simply because of the contract with Goldphoenix."

Gabe nodded, "Yup. He's definitely one of the strongest we've got. A whopping 8000 ATK! That's 2000 more than Magnugiga and he's a walking tank armed to the teeth!"

"In any case, it makes people think you're a Rebel and with this whole Destiny Conflict going on, it's getting people to take sides," Kyle shrugged.

"Of course. Cliques," Rex scoffed. "Never mind the fact that if the Mirror Monsters run free, there won't be any fairy tales to take up those destinies. We simply don't have time for frivolous spats like this. Destiny can wait."

"Good luck telling the school that," Tristan shrugged. "It's like they forget the dangers once the monster of the day is destroyed."

"Fits for a fairy tale. Everything is Happily Ever After once the bad guys are beaten," Gabe nodded.

As the knights were talking and giving Rex the lowdown on what they knew, a familiar baker came into the Castleteria. Ginger nibbled on her lip as she looked around, carrying a plate of something covered in tinfoil. She seemed almost shy as she searched, but then spotted a familiar head of blonde hair. Taking a breath, she approached the table where the knights were sitting.

"Um…S-Sir Rex?" she began, her cheeks turning slightly pink as she got closer.

"Hm?" Rex looked up from his lunch, blinking in surprise. "Oh, hello Ginger. What brings you this way?"

"I…I just wanted to thank you for saving me," Ginger admitted, shyly looking at the plate in her hands. "It's…it's not everyday I get rescued by a Knight in Shining Armor. So…well, I wanted to say thanks. So I…Ibakedyouaplateofbrownies!" She finished in a rush and held out the plate to him.

"Oh, ho," Kyle grinned. "Sir Rex, you charmer."

"Quiet!" Rex hissed. Turning back to Ginger, he graciously accepted the plate, "Well, thank you for this. I greatly appreciate it," He lifted some of the tinfoil and the scent of fluffy, freshly-baked brownies hit his nose. Rex began to grin, absently drooling again, earning snickers from Gabe and Kyle while Tristan rolled his eyes.

"Um, great," Ginger fiddled with her fingers, "Okay, maybe I'll see you around?"

"...ah! Y-yes. Most certainly," Rex fumbled with his words, snapped out of his sweet-induced stupor. "W-We will see each other again. We go to the same school and all…"

Ginger nodded, her cheeks now bright red like licorice before she turned and headed away, almost running really. Rex groaned, wanting to devour the brownies right there, but recognized them as a sweet treat to be savored. If Ginger's cookies were perfect, what might her brownies be like?

"Soooo," Kyle snickered. "Got a sweet tooth huh? Don't blame you. That girl looks like she's as sweet as candy."

"Shut. Up." Rex hissed. "She was merely showing gratitude to me for rescuing her this morning."

"Looks like she wanted to show more than that to me," Gabe teased. "Blushing maiden rescued by a knight in shining armor? You totally charmed her without even trying."

Tristan rolled his eyes, "Whatever. Are you going to share those?"

"Never!" Rex hissed, clutching the brownies possessively. "Get your own!"

(***)

Now I know I do not approve of this. The next Sir Percival being in courtship with the next Candy Witch? Impossible!

Oh come on Mom! It's not like Rex knows who she is and Ginger is definitely not her mom!

Indeed Brooke. Ginger wants people to see her for who she is and not her mother. So like Raven, it seems she purposefully did not mention who her mother is.

And like with Raven, I do not see this little fib lasting for long.

(***)

Ever After High - Halls

Bliss.

Rex was walking in utter bliss. One brownie made by Ginger was all it took and now he felt as light as air. Truly, the perfectly made treats could brighten even the darkest day. His earlier frustrations and weariness were things of the past.

"Truly Ginger doesn't make baked goods, but baked greats," Rex smiled after swallowing the brownie. "I'm going to have to ration these and keep the others from stealing them."

Walking down the hall, he was stopped when he saw the rather well-known Apple White and Blondie Lockes apparently working on preparing for a Mirrorcast for the school. With them were stacks of posters that other students were hanging on the walls, wordless depictions of Apple with a green checkmark in the box.

"So, Apple, just why are you preparing like this? I mean, people would have to be out of their crown to run against you," Blondie commented.

"That doesn't mean I can rest on my laurels," Apple shook her head. "The deadline for candidates hasn't passed yet, so I have to show how hard I'll work to earn this position."

"But you're just so perfect Apple! Who would even try to run against you?" Blondie insisted.

Rex approached, looking at the controlled chaos of people putting up posters. Perhaps it was his good mood from his newly acquired treats, but he couldn't help but be curious. To that end, he merely approached the girls and announced his presence with a question, "I'm sorry, but is there some kind of student function going on?"

"Hm?" Apple looked up. "Oh, hello Sir Rex. We're just getting ready for the Royal Student Council Elections. The student body who is put in charge of making sure life for the students in Ever After High is as Happily Ever After as it can be!"

"I see," Rex pondered. "Back home we usually hold those closer to the end of the school year so the student council can start fresh during the next."

"What better time to have the election than the beginning of the year?" asked Blondie. "With Legacy Day happening soon, it's just good sense to have the elections sooner. And no one's better at it than Apple who ran unopposed last year and looks like the same will happen this year!"

"Oh Blondie," Apple smiled, taking the praise.

"Unopposed?" Rex blinked. "That's rather odd. Surely there'd be at least one or two people who would try. I mean, several princes and princesses go to school here."

"You know, I thought that too," Apple tapped her chin in thought. "I mean, I was only a freshman. I was sure the previous president would run against me and so would others. But, once I submitted my name, no one else tried to run against me."

"Hm," Rex pondered. That sounded rather…bizarre to him. With so many strong personalities in the school, surely there were others who wanted to be the Student Council president. Then why would none of them try to run against Apple? Was it because of nepotism, due to her being the next Snow White? Were people just afraid of being cast in a bad light by opposing her when she was considered so perfect? Why would anyone be worried about that? It was not as if events in high school mattered once people moved on to college or other institutions.

"Still, it sounds fun," Rex admitted,

"Fun? What?" Blondie gasped. "Rex, are you saying you want to run?!"

"I didn't say that," Rex admitted. "I do have my knightly duties to consider. Still, even if they lost, an opponent might be good for you, Apple. It would help sharpen your skills and truly show everyone you earned the position."

Apple did consider it for a moment, "That would be true. I don't exactly like to be given things on a silver platter. How do I know if I have the best skills if I don't put them to the test?" Of course, anyone who saw Apple in the halls would know many would fall over themselves to try and give her things to get her attention. As a princess, she took it all in stride and was even used to such attention.

"Oh Apple, if you weren't the best, people wouldn't be giving their overwhelming approval for you," Blondie argued.

"Hm, I guess," Apple admitted. "Well, even if I'm running unopposed, I'm still going to work my crown off to be the best Student Council president I can be!"

"Admirable," Rex nodded, even as Blondie seemed ready to clap or cheer at Apple's declaration. "Well, good luck to you Apple. I'll be on my way."

"Good day to you Sir Rex," Apple smiled that radiant smile she was known for.

"And don't forget to vote on election day!" Blondie called after him.

"I won't," Rex waved back. If one could see his face, one would see deep contemplation there as he considered what he had been told.

(***)

Hm, Rex is plotting something Dad.

Indeed. I wonder what he intends to do.

(***)

Ever After High - Main Doors

Arthur rubbed his shoulder as he walked to the front doors of the school for another day. Coming to the front doors, he spotted Maddie and Raven seated on the front steps, watching something on Raven's Mirrorpad.

"Morning Artie!" Maddie waved, smiling happily as always.

"Good Morning Maddie, Raven," Arthur greeted. "What are you watching?"

"Announcements for the beginning of the Royal Student Council elections," Raven answered. "Blondie's making a big show about it, even though everyone knows that Apple is just going to run unopposed again."

"Unopposed? In this school? Aren't there tons of princes and princesses who would want the spot?" asked Arthur in confusion. Back home, no matter how popular or prepared their student council candidates were, they always had someone running against them.

"You'd think, but no one wants to look bad by running against perfect Apple White who's going to be the next Snow White," Raven rolled her eyes.

Music began to play from the Mirrorpad, announcing that Blondie's show was about to begin. Sure enough, the energetic (and pushy) blonde appeared on the screen with her winning smile, "Hello fellow fairy tales! It's time for a special edition of Just Right with Blondie Lockes! Today, we're doing out big show announcing the start of the Royal Student Council elections!"

Some cheers went off, making Arthur wonder if there was a live audience or not in the hallway that Blondie was recording in. The intrepid reporter continued her speech, "Everyone is buzzing about the elections, but we just have a dazzling candidate who just can't lose, Apple White!"

"I think…her bias is showing," Arthur commented, hearing Blondie describe Apple.

"They're good friends. Of course she is," Raven shook her head.

On the screen, Apple walked into view, "Oh Blondie, I wouldn't say I can't lose. It's up to the students of Ever After High to decide who they want as their Royal Student Council president. So I'm going to work my crown off to show everything that I can do the job and be the one they can trust to be their next president."

"And what will you do if you get elected?" Blondie asked.

Apple happily began to explain, "Well, I have several plans already outlined for royal dances, royal fundraisers, royal canned food drives, royal…"

"Royal this, royal that, blah, blah, blah," Raven rolled her eyes. "Come on Blondie, you're making it sound like someone is actually running against her this year."

"I wonder who it is?" Maddie pondered excitedly.

When Apple had her time on screen, Blondie turned and began walking to the right, "Now one might think they have no chance against a princess with a sterling reputation like Apple…"

"Okay, now her bias is showing," Arthur rolled his eyes.

"...but we have one knight who is willing to try!" Blondie had her cameraman scroll to include someone in the shot. "Now we have Apple's opponent, Rex Shephard!"

"Huh?!" Arthur gaped but did indeed see his friend on the screen, arms crossed and back straight for the camera.

"Wow Artie! You didn't tell us Rex was going to throw his hat into the ring!" Maddie giggled.

"He didn't tell any of us," Arthur shook his head. "He never mentioned anything about the Student Council."

"Rex, some people might say you've flipped your crown to run against Apple like this," Blondie stated. "Do you think you have what it takes to win?"

"I certainly do," Rex nodded. "While I am new to the school here, I've already felt like I can offer much to make life more enriching and fun for the students."

Blondie nodded, "So what are your plans if you get elected?"

"I have several plans for social functions, special holiday events, but also special sports days, knightly events, ways for heroes to let their hair down, and to help villains raise some hex in a safe environment to sharpen their skills," Rex explained.

"Hm, sounds interesting," Raven pondered. "At least it's not the same song and dance Apple says all the time."

"He's trying to appeal to all the students while Apple seems a little more focused on the Royal side of things," Arthur gave his opinion.

"But do you think you have a shot at being elected? I mean, Apple's reputation is sterling and she's a princess who knows how to govern," Blondie asked. Perhaps it was part journalistic curiosity, but it still seemed Blondie was rooting for her friend.

"And Apple is a proven leader, having already sat on the council once already," Rex admitted. "But I think Ever After High can only grow and get better if there are multiple points of view and changes in leadership so we can see what works best for us students who grow and change with the school."

"Well, I think this could be great," Raven smiled as the introduction continued. "We finally have someone who is running besides Apple so we might see something new-!"

"I'll do it! I'll run for Student Council too!" Maddie suddenly declared.

"Wait, what?" Raven and Arthur blinked at Maddie's sudden declaration.

(***)

And so the race for the Royal Student Council president seat was on!

Ooooh, it's going to be a tough one for everyone!

Now why must others run against Apple? She's a perfect princess. Clearly, she's the most qualified for the position.

Aw Mom, don't be a stick in the mud and enjoy the story!

(***)

Book End - Library

Rex was quick to make the library his campaign headquarters, much like Apple and Maddie made the dorms their own HQ for their campaigns. Like any activity he took up, Rex was taking it seriously and had already recruited the other knights he could get to help in his plans.

Max, surprisingly, volunteered to help with administrative duties. He was already at the table in the study room with Rex, looking over paperwork, forums, and contacts. How he got it collected so fast when Rex just announced his candidacy that day was anyone's guess.

"Well Rex, I shouldn't have to ask, but are you sure you want to do this?" Max asked while adjusting his glasses. "Considering our duties in stopping Mirror Monsters and all that, can you commit to being the Student Council President on top of that?"

"I have no doubt," Rex nodded. "We've gotten our patrols and organization down solid now and we're well-versed in executing it. Quick reactions, our steeds, and open communication will keep us doing well. Student Council duties shouldn't add too much on top of that so long as I form an effective council I can delegate to in case of emergencies."

"Alright then. You've given this some thought at least," Max nodded, riffling through his papers. "That said, you've got some stiff competition. Apple is as squeaky clean as they come. She has great grades, several extracurriculars, community involvement, popularity, and is royally photogenic."

"All expected of the next Snow White," Rex nodded. He knew he was going to have a tough race against Apple since she did have so many advantages. "Possible avenues we can use to get ahead?"

"Well, legacy is important here, but being a Knight of the Round Table, that gives us legacy credit, so people are going to notice you," Max answered, moving to another sheet of paper. "She's big with the Royals, the fairy tales who want to embrace their destinies, but as expected, it doesn't make her so popular with the Rebels, the ones who want to write their own stories."

"I suspected," Rex agreed. "My goal is to appeal to as many students as I can. I won't make everyone happy, but I'm still one of the new kids at school. I need all the support I can get if I am going to get the votes I need to win. That means appealing to everyone and not just one group."

"Trickier, but your plans for events which cater to heroes, villains, and all subtypes of fairy tales might be the way to go," Max nodded. "But you do have one major drawback: that rumor that you're trying to usurp Arthur's glory and become king instead of him."

"I know," Rex groaned. Whoever started that rumor was going to get a smack upside the head if he found them! "How would that affect demographics?"

"Well, it scores points with the Rebel clique, yet hurts your chances with the Royals, but that's obvious," Max answered. "Right now, it's just a rumor and if you keep playing neutral between Apple's Royal and Maddie's Rebel, you probably won't be hurt too badly by it."

"Speaking of Maddie, what am I up against with her?" Rex asked.

Max groaned, "I just can't get a read on her. She's just wild and her strategy flip-flops between normal campaigning and doing weird things which confuse everyone. I tried asking Darren for some insight, but he's already in her camp and won't spill any details."

"Birds of a feather," Rex shrugged. Since Darren and Maddie were good friends, there was no doubt that the Chameleon Knight would help the Mad Hatter's daughter without hesitation. "There's no helping it. I assume she's promoting a more chaotic campaign which would look appealing to a more Rebel mindset?"

"I would assume but she's speaking Riddlish half the time so I can't figure out what her policies are going to be," Max muttered, clearly not liking how he couldn't get the details he wanted.

"We'll have to play it by ear with her then," Rex nodded. "Very well. Who among the rest of us is willing to help out in the campaign?"

"Lessee," Max opened up his Mirrorpad and scrolled through the notes he made, "Lance is siding with Apple for this and you already know that Darren took Maddie's side. Arthur claims he's neutral, but with Raven helping Maddie's campaign, let's assume he's at least going to be helping her out. Harry, Tristan, Gwen, Kyle, Ben, and Gawain are neutral. We can ask them for favors of course, but they aren't really invested in this. We can count on Gabe's help while Rob and Kevin are already doing rounds with the campaign posters and buttons. We lucked out since Gabe is going to be a PR darling for us."

"How so?" asked Rex, slightly puzzled.

Max began to grin, "Oh, he's got appeal."

(***)

Ever After High - Halls

"Vote for Sir Rex!" Gabe called as he marched down the halls of the school. "The knight who found the Holy Grail will find you your best student government! Vote for Sir Rex!"

Gabe was dressed to the nines for his duty. He was wearing a pack filled with fliers for Rex's campaign and was carrying a box filled with buttons. All of them were colored gold, golden brown, and crimson, Rex's campaign colors inspired by his suit. Gabe was even wearing the cliche wheat straw hat with Rex's colors at the base.

Wherever Gabe went, many of the damsels and princesses gushed. His small stature, mixed with his blonde hair, baby-blue eyes, almost cherub-like round face, and his all-around nice personality (competitive gaming streak aside), had many girls eagerly watching him and cooing over his adorable enthusiasm.

Gabe marched right up to several groups of students, offering buttons or fliers for Rex's campaign. Funnily enough, no one really asked him what Rex's policies would be. But more often than not he would end up passing out some of the fliers and buttons when he asked if anyone wanted one. Gabe knew they were gushing over how cute he was, which was annoying sometimes, but Max was paying him and the games that Gabe had his eye on wouldn't pay for themselves.

Spotting a pair of girls chatting by a locker, Gabe saw his chance. He strode forward to present some buttons. He was able to recognize Blondie of course, but he hadn't seen her friend before.

The girl was, of course, pretty with blue/green eyes leaning more towards blue and fair skin like many princesses and wore pink lipstick. Her auburn hair was amazingly long, almost reaching her ankles and styled with braids on one side while sporting a purple tiara. She wore a pink jacket with a violet top with a white/pink skirt with a floral design on it.

Gabe would admit, appearance-wise, she was kind of his type. She reminded him of plenty of the princesses he would rescue in games when he was younger. She had long beautiful hair, bright eyes, and her smile was just dazzling. In fact, he could almost see the sparkles and lights dance around her…oh, wait, that was the sunlight coming through some fairy girl's wings who was hovering above.

"Hi!" Gabe greeted, approaching the two. Admittedly he was paying more attention to the long-haired girl, "I'm gathering support for Sir Rex. Want to take a button and show support for a golden president?"

"Ooooh!" Blondie giggled. "I'll take one if you give me that just right smile!" She scooped up a button and held it, but then she blinked, "Wait, I'm supporting Apple…but that would make him sad…"

The other girl giggled and smiled at Gabe, "I'll take one," she elegantly took a button and pinned it to her jacket. "Are you Rex's little brother?"

"H-Huh?" Gabe blinked. "No, I'm his friend. I'm a student here at Ever After High too."

The girl blinked, "What? But you're so cute and small."

Gabe groaned. So much for hoping to make a good first impression on the girl. "I'm the same age as everyone else here. I'm just short…"

The girl winced, "Oh, I'm sorry. When I saw someone as adorable as you, I just thought you were younger than you were."

"Yeah, I hear it all the time," Gabe pouted. "Kind of hard to make friends when people keep thinking I'm a little kid."

The girl frowned slightly, "Well, would you like to be friends with me?"

Gabe blinked and looked surprised at the girl, "Really?"

"Of course!" she smiled. She held out her hand, "My name is Holly O'Hair, the next Rapunzel."

Gabe smiled, blushing a little as he shook Holly's hand, "I'm Gabriel Lighthart."

"Nice to meet you, Gabriel," Holly smiled. "I might just vote for Rex if you're being such a good friend in supporting him."

"Holly!" Blondie gasped. Holly just giggled at her scandalous gasp and she waved goodbye at Gabe before they moved on. Gabe waved back, smiling slightly as he watched Holly go.

(***)

Ever After High - Halls

"Hats over crowns! Vote for Maddie Hatter!" Darren declared, holding up the poster of purple and magenta which was Maddie's election colors. To emphasize his spectacle, he was standing on a soapbox and waving his arms to get attention.

"Vote for Maddie! Vote for me!" Maddie announced, presenting buttons to the three pigs brothers, the next Three Little Pigs. She didn't mean to, but she loomed over the small brothers and they ran with a squeal hiding behind a nearby Gawain's legs as he was putting up a poster.

"I think the point is to attract voters, not scare them off," Arthur commented as he and Raven were partnered up in passing out buttons to passing students. Unlike in his school, a lot of the students were really engaged with the student elections and were eager to show support.

"Well, Maddie is a bit of an acquired taste," Raven shrugged. "But get to know her and she's a great friend. Imagine if she was president, all the new things we'd be trying and doing in school?"

"Like weekly teatime?" Arthur teased.

"Great idea, Arty!" Maddie popped up from behind the pair. "I'll add it to my official platform!"

Passing through the crowd, Dexter Charming approached. Coming to the trio, he grew increasingly nervous, although his eyes were solely focused on Raven, "Oh…ah, hi, Raven…"

Anyone with an ounce of observational skills could tell that Dexter was hoping to speak to Raven, maybe do something to get her attention. Stumbling over his words, he tried to think of something to say, but Maddie was quick to see an opportunity. She popped up between him and Raven, wielding a button, "Hey Dexter, vote for me!"

She punctuated her declaration by jabbing a button into his chest. Dexter yelped, "Ow!" He grimaced but surprisingly kept a somewhat neutral face.

"Um, are you okay?" Arthur blinked.

"Yep," Dexter rasped out. "I just meant ow yeah! Thanks for the pin. Ah ha ha ha," Dexter spun around and began cradling his chest before starting to run for one of the washrooms when he was sure no one was paying attention.

"Ow," Arthur winced in sympathy.

(***)

Ever After High - Halls

Lance, of course, threw his lot in with Apple. He offered his help in her campaign which she was happy to accept. So he was setting up distribution points for buttons and posters, using his own innate charisma to gather support for Apple. He was seeing a lot of foot traffic from Royal supporters, or people who were just besotted with Apple.

"Need another box of buttons," Lance reported to Apple, who was on a stepladder, pinning more posters.

"I have them over there," Apple pointed to a stack of boxes that were being moved by several bookball players.

Lance glanced over, but then saw his chance to chat with Apple a little bit, "So, how are you dealing with this? Feeling the pressure of having so many people running for president?"

"Not at all!" Apple smiled. "I think it's a good thing. This way, I can prove that I really earned the position."

"So no hard feelings to the other candidates?" Lance asked.

"Oh no, I don't mind at all. Don't think I'll stop liking you just because Rex is running against me," Apple teased.

"Well, that's a relief," Lance chuckled. Secretly, he had been a little worried that Rex running against Apple might hurt his chances with her.

As they chattered, the Billy Goats Gruff came running through the hall in total recklessness. They passed by, bumping into Apple's step ladder. She gasped as the ladder wobbled. Her balance quickly failed and she began to fall back. She anticipated hitting the hard floor, but instead felt herself land on something warm and soft.

Apple opened her eyes, surprised to be looking up into Lance's own, "Are you okay Apple?"

"Um…yes," Apple nodded, her cheeks turning pink. She couldn't help but smile, being in the classic princess carry, "You came to my rescue again, Sir Knight."

"When you need my help, fair damsel, I'm there," Lance grinned, gently setting Apple down on her feet. Apple daintily stood up, but she did mentally pout at not being carried longer. Still, she couldn't help but feel a little flustered at such a charming little rescue.

"Then it makes a princess like me feel that much safer," Apple giggled, "So let's keep going on the campaign trail straight to the president's throne!"

"Then lead the way, princess," Lance chuckled, mentally scoring a point for himself.

(***)

And all the candidates are blazing the trail!

So they are, but I'm sure the students of Ever After High will recognize a proper president in Apple.

I don't know honey, Maddie's way of doing things may be quite appealing, and Rex is playing neutral for all students.

Against a proper princess? I would think not.

Hey, hey, don't start arguing now!

(***)

Ever After High - Halls

Arthur huffed as he moved another box of buttons for Maddie's campaign. The day was done so he, Raven, and Maddie were moving their extra supplies to store them until tomorrow. The debates were going to be coming quickly so all three candidates were going to be campaigning hard for such a short period before the elections themselves. It struck Arthur as odd that an election would be pushed for such a short time. Back home they had at least two weeks for the student council election.

Placing the box in the supply closet they were allowed to use, Arthur dusted his hands off as he turned to leave, "Arthur Pendragon, please report to the Headmaster's Office."

"What?" Arthur frowned. "What did I do? The school day is over."

Arthur headed upstairs, needing to use the signs to direct him to the headmaster's office. It was on a higher level floor. With the way the school was constructed, the only spots which were higher were the towers which were part of the student dorms. Outside was a desk set up for who he assumed was the headmaster's secretary, a literal troll of a woman.

"Um, I was asked to come here?" asked Arthur.

"Just inside," the woman spoke in a raspy voice before hitting a button which opened the door. Arthur nodded his thanks, which seemed to surprise the female troll before he stepped inside.

Arthur glanced in the room, finding it large, open, and a bit intimidating. Many portraits hung on the walls, mostly depicting various fairy tale figures. At the far end of the room was an ornate desk with a high-backed chair set in front of a massive window which was letting the sunlight pour in. The man at the desk had the very look of a private school headmaster, scribbling away at paperwork.

"Um…Headmaster Grimm?" Arthur tentatively asked.

"Hm?" the man looked up. He broke out into a welcoming smile, "Ah, hello Mr. Pendragon. Come in, come in."

Arthur did so and approached the desk as the headmaster set his papers aside, "So, how can I help you, sir?"

"Well, I was hoping to check in with you," Milton answered. "I do hope you and your court have been settling into Ever After High well. We're certainly happy to have you. I would have given a bit of a more formal welcome, but Merlin sprung you on us at the last minute."

Arthur nodded, "Well, you don't have to do anything special for us. Still, everything in the school has been very nice. We've been making friends and having fun."

"Splendid, splendid," Milton nodded. "No worries or concerns, I hope?"

Arthur shook his head, "Nothing comes to mind. If anything Ever After has been quite an exciting experience for us."

Milton nodded again, pleased to hear such a positive opinion, "Good. I do want to speak to you about an important issue."

"An issue?" Arthur asked, gripping his bookbag. Was the headmaster about to grill him about the Mirror Monsters? It made sense since an attack happened on school grounds during the day. Really, Arthur was expecting that sooner, but the headmaster seemingly didn't mind since it seemed settled. With multiple monster attacks, it was only a matter of time before Milton began asking questions.

"I've noticed you've been a little active in the Student Council elections," Milton explained. "While that is good, I really think you would be much better suited to running rather than supporting another candidate."

"Bwuh?" Arthur blinked. Wait, the headmaster wanted him to run for Student Council President and not discuss the Mirror Monsters?! "Um, Sir?"

"Let me explain," Milton replied. "I don't think you truly realize how important your story is. It is so far-reaching and important to many people. We only have a few years to truly prepare you for it. Being the Student Council president would be an excellent starting point in your training to being the future king of Camelot."

Arthur started to feel a familiar annoyance coming to his head, threatening to ring in a headache. He was used to hearing such speeches from teachers and authority figures, all of them feeling he wasn't living up to his potential or should be doing more since he was a Pendragon. They were all people who were connected to his father or grandfather. To him, it all sounded like people who were hoping to tap into some reputation through osmosis or boost their own standings. Wanting to help him develop his potential was one thing, but hearing the same arguments over and over again made Arthur quite dismissive of people making those arguments.

"That's…an idea, sir," Arthur answered neutrally. "But as I understand it, the final debates are only a few days away and I would be at quite the disadvantage in the running. Besides, I believe the cut-off time has passed for candidates."

"Oh, not at all!" Milton shook his head. He pulled out a flier, one which Arthur vaguely recalled was an announcement of the elections. He had dismissed them out of hand but he was fairly sure in the original fliers, the cut-off date wasn't hastily scribbled out for tomorrow's date. "See? You have some time left before the cutoff is announced. I'd happily file it myself."

"How generous of you," Arthur smiled, faking it entirely. "Still, I do feel like I wouldn't be able to commit my full attention to being the Student Council president. I would run the risk of having to abandon meetings, events, or other duties. If you recall, my knights and I are actively combating Mirror Monsters who are trying to slip into Book End and attack people."

Milton grimaced, "Oh, right, those things," he shook his head, "Nonetheless, you could exercise the tried and true approach of delegation. There are thirteen knights who aid you of course. I'm sure they could pick up the slack while you tend to your own duties. Mr. Shephard certainly knows this."

"Rex is not a king-to-be. I am," Arthur responded. "And if I do not lead, who will be expected to follow?" He knew he had to end this conversation before he started getting lippy or he upset the headmaster. "But I will take your suggestion under advisement, sir. That said, I do have homework tonight. May I be on my way?"

Milton seemed a little put out at Arthur not immediately agreeing to his suggestion, but nodded, "Of course. Please give my suggestion some serious thought. I only wish the best for each of my students."

"Yes, sir," Arthur nodded, turned and quickly stepped out of the office.

Milton returned to his paperwork, feeling a little more concerned than before. When the elections began, he was sure the next King Arthur would put his name in. Even if he lost, it would sharpen Apple's own skills and allow her to be a more effective president. With luck, both would serve on the Student Council and perhaps make for a glorious year for the students and help soothe those Rebel mindsets. Instead, it seemed like Arthur was hardly interested and Rex had stepped up. Granted, each of the Knights of the Round Table had their own lands to see to eventually, but in their first year at Ever After High, it really should be Arthur who was hitting the campaign trail.

"Hm, perhaps a little bit of a gentle nudge is needed," Milton mumbled to himself as he took out a new piece of paper and began to scribble on it.

From behind, he was unable to see a bronze and white figure in the window, staring intently at the back of his chair.

(***)

Ever After High - Courtyard

The open courtyard of Ever After High was certainly a busy place that day. The usually open area with perhaps a few picnic tables for students to sit at was bustling with activity as three temporary stages were set up. On them were posters and photos of the candidates for Student Council President. On the stages themselves were the candidates in person, meeting and speaking with the various students. The event was preluding the big debate which would be happening that afternoon, giving the students the chance to ask their own questions to the candidates about their plans for the school.

Apple seemed to be getting the most attention, having a large circle of people coming to meet her. However, those people seemed to be asking the least serious questions. Their conduct appeared to be more like fans or admirers, often either declaring their support right there or asking questions pointed to getting to know Apple rather than learn what her policies as Student Council President would be. In fact, a number of them were holding up signs of admiration, or crowded up front, holding presents like red roses or bright red apples, hoping Apple would take them.

"Apple, what's your favorite treat!"

"Apple, you're the fairest in the land!"

"Apple, won't you go out with me?"

To her credit, Apple took it in stride and answered the questions or graciously accepted the compliments. She was actually used to people falling over themselves for her so the spectacle was rather old hat for her. Still, the ones who were actually asking questions as they considered voting for her, she did take seriously.

Blondie was swiftly reporting on the scene, sidling up to her friend with a hapless Humphrey in tow, "Wow, Apple! There's such a turnout for your supporters! Do you think you just might have the election in the bag?"

"It makes me so happy to see I have so much support, but I wouldn't have that throne fitted for me just yet," Apple smiled. "I am competing against a fresh and wacky Wonderlandian and a proud and noble Knight of the Round Table. Both would make good presidents so I have to do my best to show I am the best choice."

"Such a humble princess!" Blondie smiled. "So, if you are elected the president, what would be one of your first acts as President?"

Apple tapped her ruby red lips as she pondered it, "My first act would be…to pick up where I left off last year. I already have several ideas and plans ready to go. Once I pick my ministers and we can look at them, we'll be ready to really make the school year a Happily Ever After for every student in Ever After High!"

Cheers came from Apple's supporters as she waved to them in thanks for their support.

Over at another stage, which seemed to be decked out to look more like a tea room than a stage, was Maddie herself and her supporters. People were able to come on to the stage and sit down for a spot of tea with Maddie so they could talk about her plans as Student Council President. It was a good way to feel more approachable to the rest of the student body.

In execution, the plan wasn't going so well. As Maddie was comfortable in her element and dealing with questions, she kept flipping back and forth between the common language and Riddlish.

"S-So, Maddie, what are your plans for dealing with club budgets?" asked Dexter, awkwardly sitting in his seat. A lot of the sports clubs kept getting better budgets and he was hoping that Maddie would make it a little more even so clubs like the Tech Club could do more than just a few activities and fundraising for the rest.

"Golden streams coveted by all. Fill the lakes and swarmed by call. Splitting streams and cut with care. Bringing it all narrowed by a hair," Maddie beamed, sipping her tea.

Dexter blinked, "Ah…what?"

"I think she means she'll do her best to split the budgets as fairly as she can," Darren translated.

"Exactly!" Maddie nodded.

Rex's stage was set up more like a typical podium. He was at said podium and rows of chairs were set out in front of it. Several students were filling the chairs, ones who did not seem particularly Royal or Rebel, but a fair mix of Hero and Villain among others. It was not nearly as flashy or as open as the other two displays, but it did offer a kind of…relaxing of standards, where everyone could take a seat.

"...and that is my outline for heroic events to allow heroic students to showcase their skills and perhaps offer opportunities for new clubs and expanding already existing ones," Rex continued his explanation. "Next question."

"You said you were going to do the same for villain clubs and students," one student raised their hand. "What kind of activities can we expect?"

"Many villainous activity days will be planned, namely potion brewing contests, cursing competitions, evil fortress construction days, and other activities to help the villainous students reach more of their potential and raise some hex for the day," Rex answered, earning some murmurs of interest from his audience.

So far, Rex had been steadfast in his neutrality stance between Rebel and Royal, offering activities, programs, and events for both sides of the line. He was even offering such for Heroes and Villains, giving both sides the opportunity to have their fun and in ways that wouldn't cause problems for the rest of the school. He was gaining traction, but many students still preferred to see their side win rather than simply calling it a tie.

During this event, Milton Grimm was watching with a discerning eye. Of course, he was silently rooting for Apple to take the seat of the president. It was only natural in his mind since Apple was the next Snow White and would be the greatest of fairy tales, she would thus be naturally fit for any leadership position. Maddie, well, she would be fun to listen to, but her Rebel ideals certainly couldn't hold as much traction as it seemed. She was simply an amusing distraction before Apple took her proper seat. Rex, Milton could give him credit for being fair and it was a good strategy to appeal to the largest number of students. Still, Milton did not have much faith in him winning. How could a knight, even one from Camelot, compare to royalty?

'No, it would be better if Arthur was standing at that podium,' Milton thought to himself. He had already been hard at work, drumming up interest in Arthur's potential as a leader. True, his name wasn't on the ballot, but Milton already had the paper ballots printed to consider him as a candidate. Arthur would surely be pleasantly surprised to discover he may have won the election, or help Apple make a shining Student Council, and it would certainly help shape him up for his future Destiny.

Of course, as good at politics as Milton was in Ever After, it should be noted his actual plots were rather simple. He wasn't a true villain after all. His excitement about restoring the stories of King Arthur may have had him overlook some flaws in his plan in favor of going for the end result.

Patting his briefcase, Milton headed for where the ballot boxes were being set up. After the debate in the Charmitorium, the students would head out to vote either on paper, or by electronics. Milton would have Trollsworth change the electronic ballots during the debate so Humphrey Dumpty or Dexterous Charming wouldn't notice, but for now, he could easily make the switch with the new paper ballots.

Coming to the first of the ballot stations, set at the far end of the courtyard, away from the hubbub of the presentations. With all eyes on the three candidates, he approached the station and opened his briefcase. Inside was a stack of papers that looked exactly like the ballots which were already set on the table. The only difference was Arthur Pendragon's name being just under Apple's in who the students could vote for.

"You'll thank me for this later Mr. Pendragon when you are a shining example of kingship in Camelot," Milton spoke to himself as he began swapping the ballots.

As he went about his way, a nearby window began to ripple, giving off a silent ringing noise that Milton was deaf to.

Eeeeeeeeeeeee!

Pulling its way out was a bronze-covered Mirror Monster. Its armor was segmented like an insect's, its arms ending in large, thick gauntlets with gold edges. Its chest plate was white with black markings reminiscent of music notes, albeit warped ones. Its shoulder plating was larger, covering its biceps and shoulders. They sported holes, making the plating look like insect wings. Its head was covered in thick bronze chitin with a white faceplate and a spiked chin. Its eyes seemed to have a thick bronze plating, showing only a slit of darkness. Accenting the top of the helmet were two green orbs giving the helm the image of a cicada.

"Buzzzzzzz!" the monster known as a Sonorabuma buzzed as it lifted its arms.

Milton, of course, failed to notice as the buzzing was drowned out by the noises from the presentations. As he was swapping the papers, one slid off and fell to the ground from his quick handling of them. He huffed and bent over to pick it up while the Sonorabuma lifted its arms and pointed them at him. A sonic ripple fired through the air as the Sonorabuma's buzzing hit a crescendo. It flew over Milton's head as he bent over, impacting the ballots and the table, destroying with a ringing blast which shredded the paper and broke the table, making an artificial blizzard in the small area.

"Wh-what on Earth?!" Milton yelped, getting back up. Spinning around, his eyes bulged when he eyed the Sonorabuma emerging from the window, its dark gaze settled hungrily on Milton. "EEEEEEK!"

The Sonorabuma began to close the gap between them, a predator closing in on prey. "Headmaster!"

The call made the monster turn to face whoever had called. Milton dared to glance, seeing the forms of Arthur, Lance, and Rex racing onto the scene, the many students starting to notice and phones began to come out to record the action.

"Children!" Milton gasped as the monster snarled. "Now would be the time to show the fruits of your heroic studies!"

The three did not hesitate as they produced their Advent Decks, lifting them to their reflections in their MirrorPhones. Their V-Buckles appeared and the three didn't hesitate to take their stances before activating them, "Henshin!"

In a flurry of greyscale images, the three were adorned in their suits in a flash of color, becoming Ryuki, Knight, and Odin once again. The three lifted their fists or weapons, ready to take on the monster. The Sonorabuma let off a frustrated buzz, tense and prepared to fight. The knights knew they had the numbers advantage and were prepared to see the monster run.

"That's right, bug," Knight held his Dark Visor, "You done ducked up."

The Sonroabuma buzzed, almost snarled, before it seemed to inhale deeply before it let out an ear-splitting buzz. It sounded almost painful, like cicadas at summer at their highest intensity. IT forced the three knights and Milton to cover their ears to try and drown out the noise. Among the buzzing, another familiar noise began to echo through the air.

Eeeeeeeeeeeee!

"Whut, whut, whut!" the windows around them rippled as the familiar white and grubby forms of Sheerghosts jumped from the reflections and landing on the ground, shuffling to the Sonorabuma's side, hooting and looking everywhere, seeing so many people around.

"What the-?!" Odin gasped.

"I thought Mirror Monsters didn't work together!" Ryuki cried.

"Well, these ones do!" Knight grimaced.

The Sonorabuma let off a hiss and pointed at the three knights. The Sheerghosts obeyed and charged at the trio, their club-like limbs raised.

Ryuki blocked a blow from one Sheerghost as he and the others took the fight to the others. He kicked the Sheerghost away before looking back at the crowds of students, "Don't just stand there! Get back! Get the students out of here!"

In the crowd, the other knights like Darren and Gabe heard the orders. Immediately, they began to shout for the other students to get moving and keep away from the battle. Darren shuffled several Wonderlandians away while Gabe took Holly's hand and began trying to lead her away with her friends. They knew it was the right strategy since they weren't sure if more monsters weren't coming. If the Sonorabuma could suddenly call in reinforcements once, it might bring more if the battle turned against it, putting everyone gawking at the fight in danger.

The fight was on as the knights tried to keep the Sheerghosts from getting out of control. Despite the surprise of the monsters suddenly obeying another, the three knights managed to start pushing back against the Sheerghosts.

[Sword Vent!]

The three managed to activate their cards, summoning their swords to start striking against the Sheerghosts. The grub-like monsters, for their dangers in numbers, were still clumsy and dull fighters, fit for cannon fodder unless they evolved into Raydragoons. Ryuki slashed one monster across the chest, knocking it back as he looked around, "Wait, where's the Sonorabuma?"

"HA!" Knight bellowed, stabbing a Sheerghost and knocking it down. He glanced around, looking for the bronze monster in question. Dodging a stumbling blow from another Sheerghost, he spied the monster charging to another set of doors, spotting Milton Grimm running in the same direction in front of it.

"It's going after the headmaster!" Knight shouted.

Odin punched a Sheerghost, knocking it down and kicking it away, "I'm on it!"

"We'll keep the Sheerghosts contained until the others come back!" Ryuki nodded.

Odin nodded and he ran after the Sonorabuma, slamming the doors open. Glancing in both directions, he heard the constant buzzing from the monster from his left side. He quickly ran in that direction, dodging the odd student who was either shocked by the monster passing them, or gaping openly at Odin.

"Get back! Do you know who I am?!" Milton's voice rang through the hall, prompting Odin to put on the speed. He followed it to what he thought was the Cooking Class-ic classroom. The door was ajar and it looked like several students were running out.

Odin charged into the classroom and wasn't disappointed to see Milton hiding behind a set of ovens while the Sonorabuma was trying to get around them and get at him. It was…kind of pathetic to watch, but then again, Milton wasn't exactly a heroic character himself.

Odin pulled his arm back and threw one of his swords at the monster's back. The blow landed in a blast of sparks, making the Sonorabuma shriek in pain. Spinning around, it was met with Odin's other sword, striking it across the chest.

"Run, Headmaster!" Odin bellowed. Milton did not need any more incentive than that and ran for the exit.

The Sonorabuma snarled and tried to follow, but found itself tackled by Odin. He pushed against it, running for the windows of the room. Odin did not hesitate as he attempted to push the monster against the glass. His goal was to push the Sonorabuma back into the Mirror World to limit collateral damage as well as keep innocent people from getting involved. A solid strategy and a standard in the playbook that Odin had been making for himself and his fellow knights.

The Sonorabuma was less than cooperative with this plan. As its back came closer to the glass, it clenched its hands under its gauntlets before it unleashed a painful shriek, sounding like the largest, highest pitch of cicada screams. Inside the enclosed space of the classroom, it was absolutely torturous. All panes of glass in the room shattered, sending glass flying in all directions.

Odin let out a scream of pain, clutching the sides of his head and dropping his swords. He couldn't even hear his own cry of pain as his hearing was overwhelmed by the deafening sonic attack. The Sonorabuma quickly capitalized on that, swinging its armored arms at Odin and smashing him across the face and chest in blasts of sparks.

Odin attempted to get his bearings back, but sonic attacks had a very different effect on the body than more physical ones. The sonic waves struck Odin's inner ear, even through his desperate bid to cover his ears and what protection his helmet could give. His balance was swiftly compromised and his footing was severely unstable.

He was a sitting duck for the Sonorabuma.

BWOOOOOOM! The Sonorabuma unleashed a concentrated blast of sonic waves which hit Odin head-on. The force took him clean off his feet and he crashed through the doorway, impacting the far wall of lockers, denting them as he got stuck in the twisted metal. Odin's vision swam from the impact, his ears rang, deaf to anything going on around him.

Groaning, Odin tried to get his senses back and back into the fight but his balance wasn't helping him. The Sonorabuma emerged from the classroom, its arms vibrating for another sonic attack. Odin grunted, trying to summon his Gold Visor to try and defend himself. He refused to just lay back and be beaten-!

*SPLAT!*

The Sonorabuma shrieked as a chocolate cupcake flew through the air and hit it in the face. Odin blinked, looking from where the cupcake had come from. To his surprise, it was a familiar pink-haired girl holding a plate of cherry-topped chocolate cupcakes.

"Get away from him!" Ginger shouted, throwing her cupcakes at the monster in a feeble attempt to distract it from Odin's downed form.

"Gin…ger?" Odin grunted.

The attack should have been as feeble as it seemed, but the Sonorabuma did indeed stop as the cupcakes stuck to its head via chocolate frosting. The monster perked up and picked up the cupcakes. Surprisingly, it began to messily devour the cupcake, smearing chocolate all over its faceplate.

Ginger's cooking was a level above most of her peers and for good reason. Her mother was the Candy Witch, the nemesis of Hansel and Gretal. Not only had Ginger inherited her amazing skill with sweets, but also knew how to use magical ingredients to make high-class baked goods. Not like how her mother did, using it to trap people, but it made it taste better and be more enjoyable.

Mirror Monsters, who devoured magic as readily as life force, could easily find sources of it. In the Sonorabuma's eyes, the cupcakes sticking to its body were large balls of concentrated magic power, right there for the taking. The smell they gave off, being fresh from the oven before the classroom got invaded, the monster in all of its hunger couldn't resist them.

Ginger realized she was distracting the monster and quickly threw another cupcake at the monster. It caught the confectionary and began to chow down, again ignoring everything around it, "Rex, hurry!"

Odin grunted and flexed his muscles, enhanced by his suit. The locker metal screamed in protest, but he managed to pry himself out of the crater his body made. Faltering slightly, Odin managed to get his feet under him and stand straight again.

"How dare you steal those delicious cupcakes!" Odin roared, charging at the distracted Sonorabuma.

…needless to say, Odin was not quite back at his normal senses even if he was back on his feet.

The Sonorabuma stopped from its chewing and was hit by Odin, tackling it to the floor with a loud buzz. Ginger gasped and backed away, clearly frightened by the scene of the fight, but unwilling to let Odin be alone in it all.

Odin huffed and had the clarity of mind to summon his Gold Visor to his hand before swinging it like a club, clocking the Sonorabuma in the head. It fell back with a loud cracking noise from the impact. A sharp kick had the monster slide across the polished floor, allowing Odin some breathing room.

"Ugh, my head hurts," Odin grunted. Grasping at his deck, he pulled a card before snapping his Gold Visor open and slipping the card inside.

[Final Vent!]

A burst of golden fire emerged from a nearby classroom before a door burst open, heralding Goldphoenix's arrival. Odin huffed and stood straight, allowing the monster to fly in close and attach to his back. Oddly, as it flew by ginger, Goldphoenix's fire didn't so much as singe a hair on her head even in the enclosed space. Odin was lifted off his feet and soared at the Sonorabuma.

The monster got to its knees and launched more sonic attacks at the pair. Goldphoenix shrieked and intensified its fire. The sonic attack came close, but petered out as a distinct lack of air prevented the attack from getting closer. The Sonorabuma shrieked and tried to move, but failed as Goldphoenix crashed into it, causing an explosion as the monster was wiped out. Gold flames rose from the spot as Odin was released, stumbling across the floor before he steadied himself against a wall of lockers. Goldphoenix trilled happily, swooping back to take the Sonorabuma's energy before vanishing through a nearby window.

"Rex" Ginger gasped, running to her friend's side as he clumsily slipped the deck from his belt, dismissing his suit. "Oh, gosh! Rex, are you okay?"

"Head hurts. Can't hear too well," Rex groaned, rubbing his head as he sank to sit on the floor. He looked up to Ginger with unfocused eyes, "...any more cupcakes left?"

Ginger giggled and sat next to him, "I have one just for you."

She yelped as the sounds of several explosions came from nearby. Daring to get up, she walked down the hallway before getting a look through some windows to the courtyard. There, she spied Ryuki, Knight, and several other knights taking stock of a situation and several burning craters where monsters once were.

"What was that?" Rex asked from his seat, still dazed.

"The fighting is over," Ginger reported with a sigh of relief. "We're all safe now."

(***)

Ooooh, those Mirror Monsters! They come at the worst times!

With how many people were in one spot, I'm not surprised one appeared.

I know Dad, but it's still annoying!

And since when could monsters order others to work with them?

(***)

Ever After High - Charmitorium

The air of worry and excitement filled the school after the attack, but it faded as the time of the Student Council presidential debate was getting closer. Despite the severity of the attack, everyone seemed to be treating the Mirror Monster attack as a one-off event and were moving on with their lives, considering it an exciting story to tell later since all the monsters were destroyed.

Due to the blows to the head he took, Rex would have to sit the debate out. Baba Yaga was insistent. Magic could heal a lot of injuries, but blows to the head were always tricky and the witch refused to let Rex get up until he was completely healed. A witch she may have been, but Baba Yaga made sure she did her job as a healer to the best of her abilities.

"I don't like this," Arthur frowned as he walked with Lance and Gabe towards the Charmitorium. They had skipped the majority of the debate so they could make sure no more Sheerghosts were crawling around the school. "Since when do different breeds of monsters work together?"

"I know. Something smells fishy about that," Lance agreed. "Well, at least I managed to put on a bit of a show for Apple."

"Lance…" Arthur warned, making Lance wince and nod.

"At least you got to try and impress a girl," Gabe huffed. "The moment I tried to go and fight, Holly pulled me away and wouldn't let me go. Man, I hate being so little."

"At least the cuddles were nice, right?" Lance teased, making Gabe's cheeks turn pink.

The three slipped into the Charmitorium and slipped to where their friends were saving spots for them. Arthur took a seat next to Raven while Lance got a seat next to him. Gabe was waved over by Holly who made sure he was sitting right next to her and in arm's reach. Gabe could tell she was fretting slightly, perhaps frightened by the attack, so didn't complain about her actions.

"How did the debate go?" Arthur whispered to Raven.

"Blondie asked stacked questions, asking why anyone would vote against Apple," Raven rolled her eyes. "Pretty biased in favor of her friend."

"Thought so," Arthur sighed. Blondie could mostly be unbiased in her reports. When it came to the Destiny Conflict, she was firmly on the Royal side. Any chance she could use to promote royalty, especially in herself, she went for.

"How's Rex?" Raven whispered back.

"He took a few blows to the head. Baba Yaga said he'll be fine, but she won't let him go until she's happy he's recovered," Arthur reported. "Might hurt his chances at winning the election."

On the stage, Maddie finished her rebuttal, speaking entirely in Riddlish before Blondie took center stage again, "Okay everyone, the candidates have, mostly, spoken. It's up to all of you to vote for the next Student Council President! Make your vote count and make sure the right royal takes the throne!"

"Wow, biased much?" Lance blinked. Even if he was on Apple's side, even he could admit that Blondie really was showing which side she was on.

(***)

Book End - Library

Rex paced through the main hall of the library, hands folded behind his back as he waited for the results of the election. He silently cursed himself for the fifth time for missing out on the debate and being sent home by Baba Yaga thanks to the blows to the head that Sonorabuma had inflicted on him. He should have had better reflexes than that! Never mind he was still training and no one would have expected sonic attacks, he still chastised himself for fighting as poorly as he did.

"Rex, calm down," Ginger tried to soothe him. She had stuck right by him during his entire treatment, worried about his health. She even went back to the library with him, missing the last few hours of school. Not that any teacher would really care, considering she was a villainous student. Bad behavior was all but encouraged in many ways.

"How can I?" Rex sighed. "I missed out entirely on the presidential debate, my QnA session was interrupted, and now I can't even be present at the school to try and solicit last-minute votes. This is a huge setback for my campaign and all of it on the eleventh hour when the votes are being cast!"

"And is worrying about it going to help?" Ginger asked. Shaking her head, she produced a box from…somewhere. Magic was strange that way. "Here, I brought these back from the Beanstalk Bakery while you were resting. Chocolate chip cookies."

Rex stiffened, eyes darting to the box of cookies. After a moment of silence, he took a seat across from Ginger, "Well, one or two couldn't hurt."

"Good. I brought milk too," Ginger smiled, lifting a carton of cold milk and two plastic cups. Rex almost shuddered with delight as he saw the classic, but wonderful treat ahead of him. Already his tense mood was vanishing.

The two enjoyed the sweets for a few moments before footsteps heralded the arrival of the other knights. Rex wiped crumbs from his face as he saw his friends and comrades come in, "Well?"

"No more Sheerghosts," Arthur reported, walking to a chair. "It seems the ones that Sonorabuma summoned were the only ones there. The school's clear of Mirror Monsters."

"Yes, yes, and the elections?" Rex pressed.

"Counting the votes still," Max removed his glasses with a sigh. "Blondie should be reporting it on her Mirrorcast soon. Most of the votes were done electronically this year so the counting won't be as intensive as back home."

Rex nodded and returned to his cookies. He did retrieve his phone and bring up the link to Blondie's stream. Already an art font was up and showing a countdown until the next stream, which wasn't very long. All Rex could do now was enjoy the cookies, although they weren't nearly as good as Ginger's. Around him, his friends chatted, introduced themselves to Ginger, and made a point of not talking about the election so Rex wouldn't get more stressed than he already was.

After a time, the phone began to play a fairy tale tune before Blondie's smiling face came onto the screen, "Hello fellow Fairy Tales! It's time for a special edition of 'Just Right with Blondie Locks!' For this episode, we are announcing the results of the Royal Student Council Elections!"

Everyone in the room regained their tension and crowded around the screen.

"And here are the results!" Blondie lifted an envelope. Opening it, she declared, "Hm, it seems…it's a tie? A perfect tie between Apple White and Maddie Hatter!"

"Wait, what?!" Rex blinked.

"Wow. Didn't know that could happen," Kyle commented. "So…what does that mean now?"

"A recount?" Kevin shrugged, just as confused as the others.

Blondie seemed at a loss for words for a moment before Humphrey Dumpty poorly tried to sneak onto the scene and pass Blondie a piece of paper. The intrepid reporter did take it and read it over for a moment, "Hm, it seems that considering this event, Apple and Maddie have both decided to be Co-Presidents of the Student Council and serve together!"

"Can they do that?" Gabe asked.

"I…guess?" Gwen shrugged.

The camera moved to see Apple and Maddie sitting together on a pair of thrones, usually meant for the president and vice-president of the Student Council, but would now be for the first-ever co-presidents.

Blondie was quick to begin the interview, "So, wow, how did you two decide to go about doing things this way?"

"Well, we saw during the debate that many people had a lot of passion for all of us candidates to win," Apple explained. "So when we heard the results, Maddie and I decided that we could serve together and with Royal and Rebel sides, be the best presidents we could be for everyone."

"When the muddles and puddles get in a fuddle, what is more fun when two instead of one?" Maddie smiled.

All eyes turned to Darren for a translation and he shrugged, "Something along the lines of when things got as crazy as this election did, having two presidents who can see both sides works better than one."

"Wow! Talk about a crazy ending to a heated election," Blondie laughed. She was about to sign off when Humphrey came onto the scene again, passing another piece of paper. Blondie read through the script and blinked, "Wait, we're not done yet! Apparently, there was a Student's Choice who got a landslide of votes even when they weren't in the running!"

"Wait, what?" asked Rex.

"In the voting app, there was a comments section for people to just add their thoughts about why they voted," Blondie explained, shocked at what she was seeing. "And a huge number of them said they would have voted for this person if they could!"

"Wait, they actually read the comments?" asked Tristan. "I thought that was just fluff or a suggestion box."

"So who was the surprise candidate?" wondered Rob.

"It seems we have an unofficial elected third president too!" Blondie laughed as she looked over the results. "It was…Arthur Pendragon!"

"WHAT!?" Arthur yelped from his seat. All eyes turned to him before Lance and Harry broke out in laughter. "What the hex is this?"

"I don't know, Arthur," Rex frowned, eyebrow twitching. "Perhaps you could explain how so many people consider you president material?"

"Ah ha ha ha ha ha!" Lance laughed loudly. "Again, it happened again!"

"Oh man, this is rich. Even when he's not trying he wins!" Harry snorted.

"Something to share?" asked Max, confused.

Harry snorted, "This happened during our first-year political science course. For a year-long project, we had to plan, advertise, and prepare for mock Student Council elections. We had to pick candidates, write either speeches or campaign material, everything to understand how the election process worked. We had Sabrina Hemsworth, the cheerleader and Todd Jones the jock running because no one else wanted to, or got intimidated into not running. They led the projects and campaigned the whole year…and then Arthur got elected!"

"It wasn't funny," Arthur growled. "I don't know how Mr. Willis allowed it. I hadn't even signed up as a candidate! I was just working on campaign material!"

Gwen frowned, "Wait, this was during finals, right? Sabrina was cheesed off something fierce that day. I had to listen to her in my English class exam witch about it."

"And she didn't leave me alone because of it," Arthur grumbled. "Whatever. This isn't official so I don't have to worry about being pulled into official duties."

"Hmm, this actually could be a good thing," Apple's voice came from the continuing podcast.

"Totally! With Artie and Rexie, we have our first two ministers for the Student Council!" Maddie cheered.

"God-mother dang it!" Arthur groaned.

(***)

And so the Student Council Elections come to a very unique close.

I still say it's only proper that Apple be the sole president.

Oh come on Mom, the people have spoken! Maddie and Apple both take the lead!

To Be Continued…

(***)

OMAKE CORNER

The Knight's Armory

Sir Odin, Knight of the Phoenix

The armor worn by Rex Shephard is easily the most ornate of the collection. Bearing regal ornamentation in gold and flair, it is easy to mistake him as being the next King Arthur. Despite its elegant appearance suggesting it is more for show, it boasts a sturdy defence, easily one of the toughest out of the fourteen sets, able to take powerful strikes before being forcibly shut down.

The armor is paired with the Gold Visor, an ornate scepter that can be summoned at will by Odin or dismissed so that both his hands can be free. Despite its appearance, the head can be used as a heavy club while the bottom tip is sharpened, allowing it to be used as a functional weapon.

This set of armor is bonded with the Mirror Monster known as Goldphoenix. Without a doubt, one of the strongest Mirror Monsters that the knights have in their arsenal. So powerful in fact, its power has bled into the V-Buckle, turning it golden as opposed to the silver of the others. Being based on a phoenix, a mighty mythological creature, it no doubt will afford Odin some unique abilities as he grows accustomed to its power.

So far, his Advent Deck has revealed a single card, a Sword Vent. It summons the Goldsabers, a pair of scimitars which are made from Goldphoenix's feathers. Again, they boast some of the highest offensive power out of the fourteen knights, making them lethal weapons when they are called upon.

The Final Vent for this suit is the Eternal Chaos. When this attack is triggered, Goldphoenix will attach to Odin's back and lift him into the air. Goldphoenix's fire will then increase like a rising charge before both fly at the target, causing an explosion that is 99.9% of the time lethal. Unlike regular explosions when Mirror Monsters are destroyed, these ones result in golden fire which takes longer to go out.

Beyond the Looking Glass

Sonorabuma

An insectoid Mirror Monster which bears a significant resemblance to a cicada. These monsters are almost always followed with a constant buzzing noise they make, much like a cicada. Their primary weapons are a pair of jagged gauntlets which they use as clubbing weapons. The Sonorabuma's greatest weapon though is its ability to unleash sonic shrieks and sonic blasts of power, able to physically throw targets away and disorient them thanks to damage to their hearing. Despite not being the most powerful of monsters, it is still a formidable foe.

A/N: Might sound like a broken record, but work got hectic and I admit I had some trouble getting this one worded out. I know the Odin suit is the strongest of the Riders and I didn't want Rex to be OP. He wasn't shown much or fought for long before, but with a chapter focused on him properly, I wanted to show Odin was just as new in his training and experience as the others. He did so well against the Raydragoon because the knights had fought a few by this point. The Sonorabuma was a monster none of them had fought before so it got the advantage. It also shows that Rex can get knocked around and it can effect you if you take disorienting blows, especially getting knocked in the head.