Life's a Scream!

by cartuneslover17

Post-MU. A new semester at Monsters University, with the OK gang now back in the Scare Program and Mike and Sulley, despite expulsion, close by them every second of the way, it feels like it'll be a good year. Actually, it becomes interesting: the RENEWED Scare Games. That's not all, when a student transfers from Fear Tech, Squishy's life changes even more. PLEASE FOLLOW REVIEW!

15. Chapter 9 and three-fourth

Well, I know it's been a while, and a lot has happened since I posted the "special occasion" chapter: first semester of the Senior year, paying my fee for graduation, preparing for Winter class, mom planning to leave in November for the Philippines again, watching some Monsters Inc to relive Pixar memories, one of my cats having run away from home and accepting it that he might never come back, Mickey's Halloween Party which I had a blast at, oh, and being psyched for Big Hero 6. :D

Now I can FINALLY work on chapter 10 where it all focuses on the twins, and ALL your questions will be answered. ;)

BIG reference in here, and I don't need to tell you what film/show is came from. :lol:

I thank my good friend and fellow Monsters University fan for the notes we've exchanged in the past, the scenes featuring Nadya in the PNK house was something we enjoyed doing together and has been in the notes bucket for nearly a year before I finally found the right moment to use it. :)

And I just HAD to make these flashbacks! Who doesn't get scared when it comes to THESE type of situations, especially Don's?

PLEASE READ AND REVIEW!
_

The clouds began to disperse into a fading sunset as the usual rowdy and enthusiastic routine that was Monsters University began to quiet down for the day. Lampposts were already switched on, only a minor amount of students were present among the dim lights and darkening features of the alma mater. Returning to their dorms for the rest of their hours, many resided in their comfy beds and turned to their respective roommates, awaiting another day to be started anew.

Katy held her knees tighter to her ovular form, leaning back against the wall as she peered out the window. Some days she found looking at the scenery rather boring, no ear-splitting noise sounding or external attractions occurring before her eyes.

But as a girl who did not grow up in Monstropolis, this particular setting in which she sat upon was reminiscent. A moment where she would gather her thoughts and contemplate the not-much-finer things in life.

Like the fact that her own two friends were probably still suffering under unconsciousness.

It infuriated her the moment Don announced their terminated approval for visitation. Who, for the love of glob, could actually do that? But after what she learned had transpired for Terry, a breakdown or whatever, perhaps the sight of their state would have been far more devastating than not seeing them at all.

Still, that didn't cease the entire university from speaking out in anger toward the unfairness. Hardscrabble was beyond mad, no doubt. And Mrs. Carlton, bless her soul, was still nurturing her broken heart. She hadn't even come out of the house since Oozma Kappa returned to Frat Row.

There very well could have been a revolt, monsters banding together to protest outside the hospital. But no way would Hardscrabble approve of this, especially after what Katy and the girls had performed. All they could do was petition and send the most "lightly" of demands. And wait.

Everyone was angry. And everyone was especially scared.

Katy's expression hardened, her lips curving into a malicious scowl as she averted her gaze from the window. All forms of bitterness bubbled inside her, making her just want to punch something.

These particular feelings were not foreign to the Vocal Music major. Long before she arrived in MU she had bottled all these emotions before erupting like Monstos drowning inside a liter of soda when she desired to. She held no regrets blowing up in Heimlich's face for every critical insult and stupid comment he directed at her.

She was practically brooding right now, as if only the darkest of thoughts could placate this mood.

Back then this was the emotion she expressed on a daily basis.

Of course, back then she hardly cared. Especially about any monster.

Before MU she had been alone and unwilling to cooperate with others. And despite having been a cheerleader for her high school, that was merely a thin-layered guise. Once the pom poms were gone she had expressed reasons to despise the people around her.

Because they despised her just as much.

Now here she was in a completely different environment, among monsters who actually do give a darn about her. And a sorority...who would have thought the possibility of that?

These monsters were nothing like the ones she grew up with her whole life, and even now it still felt like a splash of cold water every time she opened her eyes.

And realize she was cared about.

Here she was now, giving a major darn about two heads who had been quick to regard her even before she noticed their presence. No doubt they would feel this circumstantially if their roles were switched; and she was the one in the hospital.

And she had been so close to crying about it!

She hated to cry, having sucked up most of her tears her entire eighteen years before moving to MU. She was suppose to be a tough one, the girl with all the compulsive yet attractive attitude.

And here she was moping over two guys that were nothing like she had expected. Most of the monsters in this university were unlike anything she ever met.

She lifted her head the moment she heard a click across the dorm. The door slowly opened, trudging in no other than her glasses-sporting roommate who was carrying a couple of take-out bags.

"Hi," Monnie greeted as casually as she could sound. She then held up the bags for Katy to see. "Brought food."

The aquatic nodded, lanky legs tightening closer to her. "Yeah, thanks, DJ..."

The yellow-skinned monster watched as Katy resumed looking over her own feet. She couldn't blame her for feeling this way. After all, everyone was in the lowest of spirits, even for Monnie who hardly could force a smile.

Katy was something far more distinguished in comparison. While they had shared many things, from the most favored music to what homework answers they could grab for each other, some things about her roommate seemed a mystery.

True, Laura was the biggest mystery of all with the panic attacks and hating to get her picture taken. But there appeared to be so much more hidden beneath the hardened exterior that was Katy McCrea. Monnie wouldn't budge on such a topic, not wanting to drill a hole leading to a more personal matter that could temporarily taint their relationship.

But she would stand by her, like all their sisters would.

As she re-organized her desk to make room for their food, she glanced over at Katy once more. This time, a more sincere smile twitched across Monnie's lips, sea green eyes becoming rather emotional.

"They'll be okay," she spoke, her tone barely above a whisper. "That's what their fraternity name implies, right?"

Katy stiffened the moment her roommate spoke to her. She said nothing as her dull claws dug into the wooden plank beneath her seated position. But the smell of fries and burgers momentarily drifted her out of her thoughts, and hunger overcame anxiety and internal rage.
_

The Worthington heir peered out the living room window of his frat house, which had finally been cleaned of what those EZ girls (and the pig) had created. His room would have still been in disarray had Javier (and a very remorseful Chet) not offered to clean it up, much like he had finally rid the atrocious scent that once lingered in the gym. The tour had been a success, he needed to remind himself of that...even though it created nada between him and the hot Sharp heiress.

But they had their moments...before they had been interrupted and his house had nearly been destroyed.

He delicately rubbed the single bandaid that layered over the small indentations left by Fear Tech's mascot. He harbored no ill feelings toward the orange-clad animal, only wishing the little guy chould show a little more trust.

And it wasn't that he didn't appreciate that Dot girl coming to the nurse's office to check on him, he had just hoped it would have been a certain midnight beauty...

Things have quieted down in Frat Row, especially all of the university. After the bomb of bad news had been dropped on the desperately awaiting Hardscrabble and student body...everything just stopped.

Like time was frozen in a moment of misery.

Of course, despite always butting heads with Oozma Kappa and their former student coach, he had to feel at least a little pity. Carla would rip him apart if he didn't...

...but he honestly did.

He had to especially feel bad for how Mrs. Carlton was coping right now. That OK mom hadn't come out of her house since Don spoke of Terry's breakdown. She being heartbroken made everyone heartbroken. Even for someone as compressed as Hardscrabble.

He wasn't sure what was to occur from here on. No doubt all of Frat Row (and most likely the entire university) was angered beyond compare that their beloved fraternity had been denied visitation again. He could just imagine monsters marching toward the hospital with pitchforks and torches, showing no fear before the CDA, and protesting hours for the family to see their two comatose brothers. Of course, Hardscrabble would ultimately refuse this type of approach...but that didn't mean she couldn't blame them. She was probably on the phone right now arguing with one of the twins' doctors or even that one representative from the CDA.

She cared so much about the twins. Everyone did. And for any member of Oozma Kappa to be in the hospital felt like a tragedy.

Of course, as Johnny recalled last semester, it really hadn't been a tragedy.

More like a typical phobia gone overboard...

Campus courtyard...

"Art!" Squishy called out, hands clasped around his mouth as he paced down the cobblestone path. "Art, where are you?"

Mike emerged from behind a kiosk, Sulley beside him. Both regarded the smaller monster with just as much concern.

"Any luck?" the green monster asked.

Squishy shook his head miserably. "No. He wasn't kidding about "going invisible" after mom brought up the letter!"

Sulley sighed and shook his head before peering across the courtyard. Students roamed about them, some having turned heads in their direction after hearing Squishy's voice ring through the campus. No doubt some were already assuming the Oozmas had brought up, once again, more "wacky, zany trouble" that was like watching a comedic television series.

Wacky and zany yes, but this was a bit more...troubling.

The green cyclops then caught sight of no other than George Sanderson speaking with Omar Harris, the two JOX boys deep in conversation as they sat on a bench. Raising his fingers to his mouth, Mike gave a deep whistle that immediately attracted both frat monsters' attention.

"Hey!" Mike called, sounding rather desperate. "You guys seen Art?"

George shook his head, wondering what that crazy pair of legs had pulled this time. Omar was quick to assume he might have tampered with the Biology department's stinging urchins from the first Scare Games event; Art had tried to use their glowing exteriors to make lanterns to hang for when the OK frat house was finally built.

"Uh, nope, sorry," George responded sheepishly.

Mike groaned, throwing his hands up before gesturing for Squishy and Sulley to follow him. George and Omar watched as they left, immediately interested in what Oozma Kappa had brought themselves into this time.

"Boy," George chuckled, "Mike Wazowski sounds like they're in trouble..."

Omar smirked. "The fun kind."
~

Maria tightened the strings of her purple robe as she hurried toward the front door. She was just about to relax on the couch when there was an abrupt knock echoing through the living room. Her long, red hair tied back, she reached toward the knob and flung it open.

Her heart raced the moment she found herself staring into the handsome blue eye of the older twin. And his equally handsome younger brother...but she still preferred the older.

"Terry!" Maria gasped in surprise.

She immediately straightened her robe, brushing loose strands of hair from her face, golden eyes blinking up at the conjoined monsters with adoration. The younger twin gave a wave while the older smiled politely toward the EEK girl.

"Hey, Maria," Terry greeted, his voice thick with anxiety. "Any chance you seen Art around here?"

Getting over her wildest fantasies about her and the Scaring and English major, she gave an apologetic grin. She shook her head, resting a hand against the doorframe as she drank him in.

"Oh, I'm sorry, I haven't," the redheaded monster replied, her eyes practically sparkling. Her smile faltered, and she stared at them in concern. "Why, did something happen?"

"Nothing you should worry about," Terri spoke assuringly. "We just need to know because he ran off after Squishy's mom got his letter."

Maria blinked in confusion. "Letter? Letter for what?"

Before either twin could answer, they heard Ms. Squibbles' voice across the cul-de-sac and turned to see said woman speaking with Nancy Kim who had answered the HSS house's door.

"Well, if you see him, let me know," the blonde-haired woman told the walking eye stalk. "Really, we're in no hurry."

Nancy could only nod, unsure of what exactly Art had been thrusted into. Or rather, what had he thrusted himself out of. Either way, from the looks of it, he was pretty much missing and no one on campus had seen or heard from him since last night. She peered over to see Don who had already spoken with Brock and Claire.

"Did he get in trouble with the police or something?" the vice president couldn't help but ask. He let out a grunt the moment Claire punched him in the arm, sending him a stern glare.

The president of Oozma Kappa laughed. "Oh no, nothing like that! Art's just flown the coop earlier and Sherry's pretty keen on looking for the ol' crazy kid."

"We'll let you know if we've seen him," Claire responded, her deadpan tone carrying sincerity. "Something going on today?"

Don gave a wave of his hand. "Oh, not really. Just heading out of the neighborhood for the day."

Naomi peered out the window of the PNK house, and she gulped nervously when she saw Terry and his younger brother approach in the direction of their yard. This could be the chance that they could actually speak with one another...and not just socially discuss in the circle of others.

However, her heart instantly plummeted the moment the older twin steered his brother away from the entrance of the sorority estate, much to the surprise of Terri.

"Hey, brother!" the younger twin pointed out, trying to haul his side of their single body back. "You forgot to ask this house!"

Terry didn't even look at him, eye focused straight ahead. A hint of a frown twitched at his lips.

"I don't think they've seen Art," he responded quietly.

Naomi broke away from the window, then slowly turned the knob of the door. She carefully poked her head out through the slight crack, trio of eyes blinking sadly as she watched the twins approach another Greek house.

Johnny closed the door after Ms. Squibbles had asked him if he had seen one of her "little Oozmas". He honestly hadn't seen that psycho purple pair of legs. Of course, he didn't say that to her face, just promising to inform her if he had seen the guy.

"What's going on?" Chet asked, he and Javier exiting out of the kitchen with bowls of salsa and chips.

Their leader shook his head. "OK mom's looking for one of her boys."

"Which one?"

"The crazy one," Johnny answered, "lady said something about his letter having arrived."

"From the mental ward?" the crab monster joked before he and Javier chuckled.

"Beats me," the Worthington heir shrugged.

He walked over to the couch, the other two following him. He raised the volume on their giant television, the actors' voices drowning out any noise outside their house.

"Let's just get going with our movie time," he insisted.

"Right behind you, boss!" Chet agreed as he and Javier placed the bowls on the coffee table.

In unison, they all plopped onto the couch.

However, all three immediately rose the moment they felt something beneath the couch cushions.

"Holy glop!" Chet cried, eye widening as he pointed a claw toward their one piece of furniture. "Something's moving in there!"

And something definitely was. Johnny was almost going to consider hitting whatever it was with a bat when the seats were forced off the couch. He and his ROR boys jumped out of the way, and nearly screamed the moment they heart a loud, strenuous grunt.

Two furry legs popped right out of the couch before plopping onto the floor. Hands stretched out, and there was already purple hair shedding onto the furniture.

Johnny's eyes instantly narrowed and he bared his row of sharp teeth.

"The HECK are you doing here, Oozma?" he demanded, pointing a claw.

Art pushed himself out from inside the couch. He had folded his legs together and squeezed perfectly into it, having been able to think "square thoughts" that helped him calmly fit into his new hiding place. He gave a nervous smile toward the glaring ROR boys.

"Uh, hey, Johnny..." he chuckled nervously. "Um...don't tell Squishy's mom, will you?"

He was nearly white in the face the moment Johnny's fists tightened and he seethed angrily at him.

"GET OUT!" the president roared.
~

Ms. Squibbles and many others turned their heads the moment the front door of the ROR house swung open. Rushing out down the steps was no other than her beloved little Oozma, who bit his lip as he got out of there. Now standing at the entrance was a very angry Johnny and RORs.

"Artie!" the petite woman exclaimed happily.

However, the purple monster screamed before running faster. Confused monsters either got out of his path or were shoved aside. All they knew was that Art was definitely trying to escape from something.

"What the heck's going on?" Big Red cried as he watched the rest of OK run after their frat brother.

"Did Art do something bad?" Carrie asked, her girls exiting out of the house.

Brock grunted the moment he and Claire were pushed as Art began to escape Frat Row. They had enough sense to get out of the way as Sulley barreled past them, Mike following behind.

"I'm not going back!" Art shouted fearfully, running faster. "You can't make me!"

Ms. Squibbles' lips quivered with concern as she watched her precious boy make another break for it.

"Art, please!" she cried.

"Ma'am!" Rosie approached her. "What's up with him? Not going back to what?"

The mature woman turned to her beloved monsters of Frat Row. With a sigh, she pulled out a letter from the pocket of her dress. All eyes peered at it closely, the words VACCINE APPOINTMENT able to be read in bold letters.

"Oh..." the others murmured in realization.

"Art's due for his shot today," Ms. Squibbles explained with a stressed smile. "And, like last year, he's trying to avoid it."

Johnny, having heard her and noticed the letter, could only raise his eyes in surprise.

"Seriously?" he cried. "A shot? He invaded our privacy because of a stupid shot?"

Javier merely nodded, but Chet averted his single-eyed gaze to the floor, biting his massive lip.

Maria watched as the purple Oozma rushed out of Frat Row, tearing under the bridge with his brothers trying to catch him. Terri and Terry were ahead, trying to coax Art into giving in, assuring him everything will be okay. Gulping, she turned back to the OK mom who proceeded to go after them.

"Uh, ma'am?" the redhead EEK girl asked, stopping Ms. Squibbles in her tracks. "What...what exactly happened last year?"

The woman noticed the others were just as curious, all leaning in to listen to yet another interesting story that focused on a member of Oozma Kappa. She smiled, actually appreciative of their ample interest.

"Oh, last year," she said with a small giggle, "well, my boys and I were in Rashington D.C. during that time. We decided to get their shots early so we went to this nice doctor who gave them free at his clinic."

She smiled at the thought, pocketing the letter as she watched her fiancée push himself even harder as if he were in a marathon. He and her little Scottie made such a nice father-son pair...

"But then, you know," she rolled her five eyes, "Art didn't want his shot, so he got himself lost in Rashington." Then she laughed. "He wouldn't come off the top of the Capitol, and even the President was having a hard time getting him down!"

She failed to notice the stunned expressions of everyone, all utterly speechless by yet another mention of Art's past. And they thought his experience with jail was mysteriously shocking...

"I need to go!" the OK mom told them. "Art might have tried to hide in the School of Aquatics by now."

They could only watch as she ran off. Johnny just snorted, joining the others as he placed his hands on his hips.

"All this because someone's not monster enough to get a shot..." he grumbled. "Who the heck's even afraid of that?"

Maria's hands shook, bottom lip trembling. Then she glared over at Johnny.

"Shut up..." she almost whimpered.
~

Art gulped, watching all of the university from atop its clock tower. Climbing up here had been a bit terrifying, but it was a lot better than someone putting a needle in his arm! Already there was a crowd forming down below, all watching him curiously and wondering how long he would be up there.

He would stay there until his appointment was over, and that there would never be another one made after that!

The purple pair of legs clung to the wall, watching fearfully as Ms. Squibbles stared up at him with Hardscrabble next to her. He knew he should have hid in the door labs, at least he would have had a number of escape plans in there; human contamination or not.

He hated to get his shot, the sight of that needle making him buckle at the knees and his teeth chatter. While even the likes of Squishy had the guts to take one in the arm, Art just couldn't handle it.

At last minute he realized he felt mighty embarrassed having acted like that, and now almost the entire alma mater was watching him. From the looks of it, Hardscrabble especially did not look amused. But she stood by Ms. Squibbles, holding her head high while trying to remain as civil as possible. He watched as Claire Wheeler handed his fraternity mother a megaphone.

"Artie!" the petite woman called, raising her five toward the clock tower. "Sweetheart! It's dangerous up there!"

The pair of legs gripped to the wall, shivering at the unexpected breeze that blew through his fur. He fearfully shook his head, almost at the brink of tears.

"I'm not going to the doctor!" he wailed loudly for all to hear.

Ms. Squibbles sighed as she lowered the megaphone. She shared a glance with both Don and Squishy before trying again.

"Art," she called once more, "honey, the shot will only last a second and that'll be it."

"It's going to HURT!" he retorted miserably from atop the tower. "I don't care if you call the National Guard again! I'm not going!"

Maria stood beside Terri and Terry, hands clasped together as she gazed up at the fearful Oozma. She felt the urge to just say something, but she wasn't sure how to bring it up. And she could very well be alone in this one confession...

Hardscrabble sighed, rubbing her temples before turning to Ms. Squibbles. "How on Earth are you going to bring him down? I feel incredibly embarrassed for the university right now."

"We can try something," the other woman responded. "Art's just really sensitive, and shot needles are not exactly like the urchins you used in the Scare Games."

"What do you suppose will persuade him?" the Dean asked almost desperately.

Ms. Squibbles thought for a moment, then lifted the megaphone to her mouth once more.

"Art, sweetie," she called, "don't forget that your brothers are going to get their shots too. You won't be alone in this."

Art swallowed. "They're a lot braver than me!"

"Oh, honey..." Ms. Squibbles cooed sympathetically. "If you don't take your shot, you'll be the only monster who never got one."

She then gestured to the monsters around her, especially to her beloved Greek neighbors, and even Johnny and his boys.

"All these students here have already received their shots," she informed, "take it from them, Art. If they're brave enough to take a needle to the arm, then I'm sure as rain you are too."

Maria's eyes widened, glancing over at the mature woman before looking up at Art once more. He was as scared as ever. And here she was having to be claimed as something she was definitely not.

She couldn't take it anymore before stepping forward. And without a second thought, she took the megaphone from Ms. Squibbles before pointing it at Art.

"She's wrong!" the EEK girl called out. "Art, I never took my shot!"

Maria bit her lip as all eyes fell on her. Her cheeks grew even more red, but she possessed no regrets. She looked back at Art, who was just as stunned.

"I'm scared to take my shot too!" she admitted.

"Garcia..." Carla gasped as she turned to her sorority sister. "I didn't know you were..."

However, another voice spoke up, straight after grabbing the megaphone from Maria's hands.

"I don't like the needle either!" Dirk Pratt cried, licking his large teeth nervously as he accepted the immediate attention. "I hoped to never get another one again!"

"Seriously?" Big Red asked him, although his tone carried no malice, just surprise.

Suddenly, Susan Jensen walked forward. She held her head high, red and purple hair gleaming under the sunlight.

"Shots are not my cup of tea," she confessed through gritted teeth. "I refused to get another one..."

"Same here!" Britney Davis exclaimed, waving her hands in the air and nearly tripping on her own feet. "I about cried to death the last time I had one of those needles in my skin! So I've been avoiding them too!"

"Wow..." Carrie said in awe as she stared at the other PNK girl. "That's...that's new..."

Johnny looked up at the ridiculous sight of Art before turning his attention to all the monsters who confessed to this silly phobia. Hands on his hips, he could not believe what he was hearing. He himself always received his shots on time, the mere feel of a needle like a little pinch that was no pain to his own biceps.

For Scarers, these guys really knew how to be scared.

"You got to be kidding me," the Worthington heir snorted. "You guys are seriously afraid of a little needle? You don't see anyone from my fraternity getting scared over something as childish as-"

"Uh, Johnny?"

He stopped before looking down to see Chet, the crab-like monster staring up at him rather guiltily.

"I, uh..." he murmured, wringing his claws. "I'm...I hate shots too..."

His leader's eyes widened and Chet averted his single one to the ground.

"Are you serious?" Johnny exclaimed. "Alexander, how the heck can you be afraid of a little-"

However, Ms. Squibbles stepped in between frat brothers, Chet shuddering as he was regarded with mild disappointment in his leader's eyes.

"Johnny, it's perfectly understandable," the mature woman informed him in her most motherly tone. "We all having to fear."

She then looked at him, all five of her eyes peering into his.

"And I'm certain I know exactly what you're afraid, sweetie."

The ROR leader gawked at her, stunned by her statement. Although there was never any malice in her tone, never from a kind woman like her, he felt chilled by her words. He then shifted his gaze from left to right, noticing other monsters regarding him closely. He coughed quietly, popping his collar and trying to be nonchalant. He didn't notice Carla smirking.

Ms. Squibbles patted Chet's claw affectionately, then turned back to see her beloved Oozma still standing atop the clock tower. Suddenly, an idea popped into her head.

"Art," she called through her megaphone, "how about this..."

She then regarded the various monsters who were mutual in the pair of legs' feelings. A keen smile played on her lips before turning back to her purple-haired boy.

"You take your shot..."

Before Art could make another protest, she then gestured to the monsters behind her.

"...along with everyone else who didn't take theirs."

Maria, Dirk, Susan, Britney, and especially Chet stared at the OK mom in horror. Eyes fell from all directions and they felt almost trapped as much as Art. However, the spontaneous Oozma appeared to be rubbing his chin as he contemplated all this, and everyone waited with bated breath.

"Will this really make it better?" he called down.

Ms. Squibbles smiled. "Art, honey, it'll make it better for everyone. I'll be right there when you get it." She smiled at the other fear-induced students. "I'll be right there when you all get it."

Maria felt her locks of red hair stand up on end, wringing her hands with discomfort. "Ma'am...I don't know..."

"I've been avoiding my shots for a while," Susan gulped.

"It is so going to hurt!" Britney whined.

"A lot!" Dirk cried.

"Oh, sweeties..." Ms. Squibbles cooed lovingly. "I know it's a lot to measure, but for the sake of one of my boys..." she gestured to the Oozma still lingering atop the tower, "...will you please become my brave monsters as well?"

Her sincere and encouraging words really hit them each hard, and Dirk could just cry at the patience that was evident at the tip of her tongue.

"Oh, for the love of glob!" Mike exclaimed, throwing his hands up in the air. "Just do it already!"

At that silent nods were given. And Art, having seen the gestures, climbed himself down by the long banner that draped toward the ground. He had done this dangerous stunt before.
~

"Okay, the camera isn't really making me feel any easier..."

Lane Picca smiled, a hospital lanyard around her neck as she pointed her device in front of the EEK girl. The webcam was giving live feedback to the students back in MU, so everyone could see the "brave monsters" stand by Art when the inevitable occurred. Along with Oozma Kappa, the monsters who confessed were waiting in a large infirmary.

Maria hugged herself, tightening the grasp on her jacket's sleeves as she drank in her surroundings. It was a homely environment, every bed promised with nice, clean sheets, blankets, and soft pillows. Nurses and doctors directed themselves in every patient present in this room, which was considerably private since it was specially prepared for the arrived students of MU. She watched as Art laid himself upon one of the beds across from hers, legs hunched together under his body while he hugged a pillow close to his chest. He was still scared, the poor thing, and Ms. Squibbles was there to hold his hand when the time finally came.

The OK mom had done a lot of hand-holding, and darn what Worthington even said. The redheaded athlete appreciated the comforts the petite woman strove to provide them with. She could say the same for Lane Picca as well, despite fighting the urge to slap that webcam away. But she needed to make a good example for the students back in MU.

And no doubt Brock was enjoying every second of this from the comforts of a couch and snacks...

"Hey," the photographer spoke softly, her voice still able to be heard by thousands back at their universal home, "it's going to be fine."

The EEK girl shrugged. "That's easy for you to say. You already had your shot months ago."

"Well, to be honest," Lane assured her, "it felt like a pinch."

"Then you're the braver monster," Maria insisted. "Oh, my glob, I'm a Scarer who's suppose to watch out for human kids and here I am worrying about a shot!"

"We all know the feeling," the camera-wielding monster informed. "The best thing to do is just get on with it."

She then lifted her webcam a little higher, smiling behind the lens.

"Say hi to the people back in MU, Garcia!" she giggled.

Maria forced a timid smile, then gave a shy wave toward the camera.
~

Back in MU, Brock and Claire and many others had taken space in the EEK sorority house, along with other beloved Greek monsters as they huddled around the living room, staring at the TV that was switched to the university's personal channel.

"How many want to bet one of them is going to make a run for it?" the vice president joked, a hot dog in one hand and a can of Blort in the other.

"That's not funny at all, Pearson," Claire said, trio of eyes glaring at him while she held a bag of chips atop her crossed legs.

"Okay, we know Maria," Carla insisted protectively. "She would never back out of a challenge. And she would never desert others like that, especially Art."

"He's looking a little better," George pointed out, taking up a seat on the couch beside the EEK leader. "I don't think we need to worry about him."

"Aw, he still looks scared!" Brynn said mournfully.

"Dirk looks like he's going to faint," Violet added, hiding her chuckles.

"Susie's not looking too hot..." Rosie muttered.

"Well, Brit's not exactly peachy either," Carrie added.

Carla then turned to Johnny, who sat on the floor with his legs close to his chest. When he had tried to refuse her offer that he and his boys come to the EEK house to watch the "event", she had been ever assertive. At least he finally gave in, and she wanted to see more of his reaction to one of his own braving the needle.

"You know, Chet's got guts, Worthington," she told him.

Johnny just rolled his eyes. "I still can't believe everyone's making a big deal out of this."

"Aw, jealous because little Johnny isn't the center of attention?" the EEK leader mocked playfully.

He glared at her. "Not funny."
~

Back in the hospital, the time was nearly approaching. Britney sat at the side of her bed, claws digging into the sheets as she bit her lip; Dirk laid on his back against his own, staring up at the ceiling while licking his massive tusks; Susan was on her stomach, pillow beneath her chest as she hugged herself to her bed; Chet idly flipped through a magazine that was placed on his bedside table; and Maria tried to get her mind off with a game on her phone.

Finally, the door of the infirmary opened and in came the doctor that Ms. Squibbles had mentioned. A tall, ovular monster with thick legs and glasses entered, followed by a nurse who carried a tray of what he needed for this appointment.

Art's eyes widened at the sight of the needle with a tube of fluid attached to it. His legs began to buckle as he leaned further against the headboard of his bed. Squishy was there to grasp his hand while the rest of the scared monsters were comforted by the others of his frat.

The doctor was quiet for a few moments, taking in the sight of more than one patient he needed to deal with. He looked over his clipboard, then turned back to the awaiting students.

"Maria Garcia?"

The EEK felt her reddish orange fur grow whitish pale at the mention of her name. She stared back at Lane Picca, the photographer having stood up from her bed as she aimed her webcam to get a good view of her face. Students back in MU were now witnessing her expression of awe, and almost the need to puke.

She almost forgot to swallow as the doctor approached her bed. He gestured for the nurse and she placed the tray down on the table. She gracefully handed him a single needle, and he inspected the fluids closely before he held it like a pencil. He then turned to Maria, and smiled.

"You ready?"

She felt a rush of anxiety course through her veins before her eyes wandered over to the other monsters, Art especially looking more worried than ever. With a sigh, she turned back to the doctor and gave a faint nod.

"Ready as I'll ever be," she responded uneasily.

The doctor gently took her arm, rolling the sleeve up. Maria's other hand gripped the sheets of her bed tightly, before closing her eyes and looking away. She did cast one peek at the needle, which hovered over her flesh. She quickly shut her eyes as it began to press against her skin.

She felt the pressure. Then she felt something like a small pinch.

And then nothing.

Maria slowly opened one eye, only to see the needle was no longer there and she was given back her arm. Rubbing it tenderly, she felt the small indentation where it had been, but that was just it.

Hey eyes lit up with amazement, before turning to the others.

"That didn't even hurt!" she exclaimed happily.

"Yeah, totally!"

She looked over to see Art whose arm was lovingly rubbed by Ms. Squibbles. Already a nurse had finished on him and was putting the now empty needle away.

"Man, did I totally dig some of this action!" he laughed, legs spread across the bed.

The EEK girl smiled appreciatively before she turned to the others. They were much braver, bracing the needles meant for them and feeling barely nothing. Chet had been a little hard to coax, but the nurse managed to slide it into his larger claws and then pulling out after a moment's notice. The ROR boy was now back to his usual naive yet cheerful self.

Maria sighed with relief, then looked back toward Lane and the webcam directed at her. The redhead gave a more confident wave, feeling quite blissful. Her eyes then nearly hit the ceiling when two certain heads approached her beside.

"Hey, great job, Maria!" Terry told her happily. "You got your shot!"

"Oh, thanks," she responded, trying to hide her blush.

She nearly melted when the older twin laid his hand upon her arm, his smile even more dashing and handsome than possible.

"You got some courage there," he told her, his brother nodding.

Maria felt her heart race at his touch, and she could have just fainted on the spot before just nodding like some lovestruck idiot.

She then smirked at the webcam.

Sonia seethed, watching as the EEK girl received precious attention from the handsome and oh-so charming Terry Perry. She almost wanted to rush at the TV and break it in half, but she just remained in her seat, tentacles curled like fists.

"I should have pretended I needed a shot too..." the HSS girl glowered.

Memory fading, Johnny just had to roll his eyes at the memory once more. It had been ridiculous how worked up they all were just because some monsters just weren't "monster enough" to take a dang shot. At least it had been over with, yet they were all treated like heroes afterwards. Big deal...

A loud jingle erupted and he looked down on the coffee table to see his eye-phone light up. The caller ID showed no name but a number, and Johnny almost wanted to ignore it, assuming it was some lame telemarketer. But he decided to deal with it and picked it up.

"Hello?" he answered.

"Hey, uh...you..."

He raised his eyes at the rather child-like tone on the other end. Definitely not a telemarketer.

"Who is this?" he asked, placing the device closer to his ear.

"It's Dot."

He immediately remembered the orange female who had called him Nonny at one point. Seemed she still couldn't remember his name. He blinked as he stared at the receiver.

"How did you get my number?" he asked.

"Your brother Chuy gave it to me."

"I think you mean Chet," he corrected with a chuckle.

There was a pause on the other end.

"Oh, right..." Dot muttered. "Anyway, how are you?"

"Uh, I'm good," he responded politely, leaning back on the couch. Deep down he had hoped his youngest frat brother had given his number to her leader, but maybe he would get lucky and the Art major would hand it to her instead.

There was another pause on the other end, and Johnny wondered if the call was going to end just like that.

"Hey, I'm sorry about earlier...what we did to your house...and your room..."

He was quite taken aback by the soft, sincere tone. Leaning against the couch cushions, he never expected to receive an apology. Although he had to admit it was rather touching, made all ill-feelings about the ordeal slip away completely.

"Aw, you don't have to say that," he assured her with a nonchalant smile.

"I really do," Dot responded. "One thing led to another and I guess we pretty much lost ourselves having too much fun. But the toiler paper thing was not my idea. It was Katy's."

Johnny had to roll his eyes, not exactly surprised. "Well, I appreciate you calling me, Dot," he told her. "Apology accepted."

"Oh, thank glob!" Dot exclaimed with relief. "I just hope we can hang out more in the future! Your house is really nice, Lonny!"

Johnny couldn't help but smile, finding this EZ girl more and more likable, at least much more compared to the other three, one of them having wrecked his gym.

"Sure," he promised, "and it's Johnny."
_

Big Red peered through the window, watching as the lights in the OK house remained on. Things were deplorably quiet, Frat Row usually being the most upbeat and boisterous part of MU. But the familiar cheers and hollers of another sleepless night would never emerge...especially when the cries and sobs of a certain frat mother still plagued his thoughts.

He could see that the lights were off in Mrs. Carlton's room, indicating she still hadn't emerged from bed. And he doubt anyone would be able to see her in the morning, her cheery face and kindred smile lost after what her family had witnessed today.

The JOX captain felt his insides squirm, unable to fathom the image of how someone, especially conjoined, could experience a nervous breakdown without even being awake. These twins, as well as their fraternity brothers, had been through a lot since the day they first arrived to the university.

And Big Red knew he was among many who were to blame.

He remembered last semester how he had proceeded toward the fires of hatred. The older twin was so close to tearing him apart the moment he found him in the only haven that welcomed Oozma Kappa. The JOX leader had been willing to shed his own blood and skin, just to bring himself closer to the fraternity that felt there would never be "anything more" between them and the university they once adored.

It had been a tough, terrifying ordeal...

...but it had all been worth it.

And just when Oozma Kappa's love for their Greek community and MU had been restored, all this just had to happen.

It wasn't fair! If all these near-death experiences were to occur to any monster, why couldn't fate had done it to any of them? Big Red would accept what more karma didn't punish him with that day they tried to win OK back. After all, they had a lot to be at fault with...

Especially Worthington...

As if he could show real care! Out there some stranger had gone out of his or her way and left the most generous of gifts on OK's door without even a note, and Johnny was probably moping about the Scare Games being postponed! Darn him and all his ROR buddies! Darn them for everything they did to OK and dragging everyone else into it!

Big Red's fists tightened, trying to simmer down his already burning temper as he sat on the couch of the JOX living room. Flora was coming over later and he needed to not appear like an erupting volcano. But it was difficult to release the tension because no one else would, especially Hardscrabble who was more peeved than anyone has ever seen her be.

They were all just scared. More than ever.

This was far scarier than that time of panic last semester. Because Terri and Terry hadn't been the first to receive immediate medical attention...

Evening at JOX house...

Monsters in the living room cheered the moment Oozma Kappa entered the front door. The party was in even more swing as the monsters in green and yellow greeted their fellow Greek neighbors and classmates.

"PIE! PIE! PIE PIE! PIE! PIE!"

Ms. Squibbles beamed as students chanted gloriously while she had Mike and Sulley bring her recipes toward the JOX kitchen. The pizza and Blort were going by fast, but her cooking would be jumped on like a pact of lions on a steak. And she knew how monsters adored her delicious pies...

"Hi, Squishy's mom!" Carrie greeted as she and Carla sat on a nearby couch. "Can't wait to grab a plate of your food!"

The petite woman blinked two of her fives eyes toward the younger girl's trio. "Oh, thank you, sweetheart. And soon you won't be calling me 'Squishy's mom' in months' time..." she added knowingly.

The PNK and EEK leaders grinned at each other, hearts racing at the anticipation of the biggest party planned in MU history.

"Thanks again for inviting us to your wedding," Carla added. "We'll do our part to make it a dream come true for you."

"Oh, my glob, a wedding!" Carrie squealed. "I'm so excited!"

"Do you think Don's going to be nervous?" the EEK captain couldn't help but ask the OK mom.

Ms. Squibbles sighed, still smiling before glancing over her shoulder. There he was beside the buffet table and next to her son, chatting with the leader of JOX. Always so jovial, he and Squishy were getting along as well. They always had since the fraternity first started.

Though she still worried about Squishy's feelings regarding her marrying his "brother"...

Although her son was trying not to show reluctance about the future union, she could see the discomfort in his eyes whenever the wedding was brought up. She and Don had decided to marry at the start of the new semester, having all summer to plan it out and make sure every student of Monsters University had a spot in the wedding. And that included soon-to-be Freshmen...

Some admitted the entire concept of this wedding would be impossible, inviting every single student and faculty member to the celebration and occupying the entire stadium for this one day. Hardscrabble was still perplexed by it all, but she still offered her support and was willing to do everything she could to make it happen. Just as everyone would, to give one student the happiest day of his life...

"Well, I honestly feel butterflies in my belly thinking about it," she told the sorority monster with a giggle.

Don caught her glance and smiled, giving a wave of his sticky tentacle. She grinned, blowing him a loving kiss in his direction.

This did not go unnoticed by her son, who grimaced before averting his five-eyed gaze from the sight.

Ms. Squibbles mentally sighed, wondering if this wedding would happen at all...

...and if her son was willing to have a father again.
~

Watching his frat brother being taken away by a group of hooting monsters who wanted Don for a Blort-drinking game, Squishy turned his gaze to see his mom enter the JOX kitchen.

Soon they'll be living together (not like a frat monster in his brother's mother's house, but like an actual married couple), Don's presence filling the house with "stepfather essence"...and Squishy having to change his last name.

He felt his insides squirm at the thought, not really sure how he would handle becoming Squishy Carlton...

Big Red noticed his expression of discomfort and leaned down before placing a strong hand on the smaller monster's shoulder.

"Your mom's marrying Don, Squish," the JOX leader reminded him gently. "And Don's awesome."

Squishy glanced at him, sucking in his pale cheeks and shifting a little. "I know...Don's a really great guy..."

"Then how come you seem so bummed about him becoming your stepdad?"

The little monster was silent for a few moments. Then he sighed.

"I really don't know," Squishy muttered. "At first I thought it was because he's my frat brother and he's going to marry my mom."

Big Red gestured for him to continue. "And the other?"

Squishy gulped. "Well, it's still a shock to me that I'm actually going have a dad now...I mean, it's been so long..." he added quietly.

The towering red beast nodded in understanding. "Well, you should feel happy to have a dad again, Squish! And it's going to be Don, who is one really cool Scarer, of course!"

The youngest OK monster bit his lip. "Yeah...I'm not really sure if I'll ever be able to call him dad though..." he said nervously.

The JOX president said nothing, merely nodding.
~

Music grew louder that it blared through Frat Row, and students were taking over the floor and dancing with Blort-boosted energy. While keeping clear of each other and surrounding furniture, everyone was able to accommodate room to shake his or her body to the beat.

Sonia swayed enticingly, not caring what guy's eyes fell on her as she approached another buffet table. Her eye stalks narrowed desirably in the direction of Terry Perry, he and his brother standing among their fraternity. She noticed their frat mom was also present, but the HSS girl was sure Ms. Squibbles would hardly notice her charming one of her boys. OK's very first party, she had been beaten for the hand of the older twin in a dance by Maria Garcia. And the EEK girl was nowhere right now, so Sonia was even more determined to finally grab the chance at holding him to her on the floor.

And she didn't intend to let go...

She smiled before exchanging a nod with Mike and Sulley before slithering toward the twins. It was Terri who first noticed her presence, and he shifted their single body before his brother discovered Sonia as well. Grinning slyly, she puckered her ruby red lips a bit before regarding Terry almost hungrily.

"Hey, boys," she greeted politely to both twins. "Enjoying the party?"

"You bet!" Terri exclaimed happily.

"This is a wonderful night," Terry added kindly, "just like every other party this semester." He rolled his single eye before jerking his head toward Terri. "My brother here wants to keep dancing, but I need a break."

"You're always tired," Terri whined.

Terry glared at him. "You're always all over the place. And since we're attached, that means I have to be dragged against my will."

"Oh, lighten up, brother!" Terri insisted. "Don't be such a stick in the mud!"

"Oh, I'm the stick in the mud?" Terry argued. "Says the one who complains about how boring my English class is!"

"Just because you like it, doesn't mean I have to!"

"You're so 'passionate' about music and dancing yet you can't enjoy simply English writing?"

"I like poetry though!"

"You're horrible at poetry!"

Sonia gulped, discomforted by yet another pointless argument conducted between the twins. Sometimes they verbally fighting was entertaining...then there were times it made them worry. So much for wanting to ask for a dance...

She then noticed Violet Steslicki lean toward her, having come to the buffet table for a drink.

"Here they go again..." the single-eyed EEK girl muttered. "glob, I don't know how Ms. Squibbles can deal with this at home..."

However, it wasn't the petite woman who stepped in to cease the arguing, but Don. He gently nudged the twins with both hands, smiling nervously as he looked up at the two glaring at one another.

"Okay, that's enough!" he chuckled warily. "Boys, it's a party tonight! We shouldn't be arguing, we should be having a swell time!"

"He started it!" both twins pointed at each other as if they were little kids casting blame.

"I am ending it!" Don cut in, frowning as he placed his tentacles on his hips. "You two cut it out right now this instant!"

Both brothers muttered under his breath, quietly throwing each other names before simmering down. Don sighed before shaking his head, then turned to Sonia and Violet.

"Boy, never had to put up with something like this in my earlier college days," he chuckled dryly.

Violet immediately grew interested. "Were there parties in your day, Don?"

"Of course," the mature student responded proudly. "Little get-togethers where we would dress in our fanciest and boogie."

"Boogie?" Sonia giggled. "Only ever heard that from my mom."

She flinched when Violet smacked her on the side. The EEK girl was very strong...and that hurt very much. If there was one thing they all learned to be very careful about, it was reminding Don of the fact he was much older than them, only aged evenly with Squishy's mother.

"Well, dance, boogie, getting jiggy with it..." he laughed. "I do it all the same."

He then rolled his shoulder, grunting a bit before adjusting his glasses.

"To be honest," he admitted, "I haven't danced this much in a while."

"And now you can dance again," Violet encouraged. "How about dancing right now?"

"Well, if you insist..." Don rubbed his cheek.

Before he knew it, his tentacle was grabbed by his future bride. Ms. Squibbles had a wild look in her eyes before dragging him off.

"Come on, honey!" she urged. "They're playing one of my tunes right now!"

Next thing Don knew, they were among other students moving to the fast, rhythmic beats. His body began to respond in ways he never thought he ever had, and he found himself swaying his hips before pumping his hands into the air. He was actually hopping from one foot to the other as if springs were beneath them, and he hardly cared about the droplets of perspiration that accumulated at the back of his head. His sweet Sherry laughed and clapped her hands, encouraging her future groom to cut himself loose as if they were as young as any of his classmates.

"Hey, check out Don!" Percy hollered, raising a cup to the president of Oozma Kappa.

The music suddenly began to increase, and Don had gained a crowd of supporters as he became the center of attention. Hands clapped and monsters chanted his name, encouraging him to feel as if he was between 18-20 all over again. Don laughed as he shook with everything he possessed, gliding his arms back and forth while making sure his glasses didn't fly off his face. He could feel the fire at his toes, his heart thumping to the increased volume of heavy beats.

"Go Don!" Art cheered, his fellow fraternity brothers and soon-to-be wife motivating the mature student's energetic desires.

"Oh, golly gee!" the OK leader chortled as he thrusted his hips left and right. "I am the man!" He pointed to the circling crowd. "Who's the man?"

"YOU'RE THE MAN!" the monsters screamed in unison.

Johnny just stood among the crowd, clutching his drink. He watched as "Grandpa" received all the attention. Again. His claws dug into the plastic of his cup, wondering why this old guy was receiving more praise than one of his own brothers having tied in ping pong with the multi-armed champion Zane Xiao. He barely noticed Carla sway her hips, giggling joyfully. She playfully nudged his arm, eyes narrowing with a deviant smile.

"Oh, come on, Johnny!" she laughed. "Don't be so jealous because Don is the better dancer!"

He wanted to just splash his cup in her face, but that would be far from mannerly, especially toward a girl. He merely frowned, brows sinking onto his lids as he watched Don hop like some bunny high on carrot caffeine.

"Who says I'm jealous?" he retorted defensively.

Don never felt so liberated in his life, having pushed his body to the limits beyond the simple "Robot". He circulated his entire body, almost as if he was giving hula-hooping a shot. Sweat began to form underneath his OK shirt, but he hardly cared less. He felt so young again, and he had to thank the love of his life, his fraternity, and everyone else who knew he was never too old to feel like a real college student.

He openly breathed, heart racing like the speed of Sherry's car as he allowed to be drowned in the music and cheers of his Greek community and alma mater. The feeling was beyond blissful, and he could only imagine how much floor he would tear once the wedding party occurred. Flesh began to tighten like the bolts on a pipeline, and the nerves around his legs were writhing as if they threatened to pop through his knees. And his heart could very well burst from his chest in a color of positive colors such as green and yellow.

But it wasn't real dancing until someone felt the burn. And boy, was he feeling it.

He could just dance all night if the party were to last that long. But thankfully, the song had faded off, giving him the break his body had begged for. Gulping his breath, he laid his hands on his knees, sweat dripping onto the floor. He adjusted his glasses and smiled toward the pleasing crowd, claps echoing through his ears and the beautiful squeal of his precious Sherry making his heart flutter like a butterfly challenging a plane. He gave a shaky wave, hoping his break could extend a bit more before he could really impress his friends.

The crowd slowly dispersed, mild music playing in the background as dancers returned to friends or wanted to grab something off of one of the buffet tables. Don immediately grabbed himself a cup, filling it to the brim with punch. He nearly choked as he downed it, not caring that some was trickling down his perspired neck. After gulping the last few drops, he tried to steady his breathing, running a hand down his cheek.

"Man, Don, you were awesome!" Big Red congratulated, slapping the older monster on the back.

Don grunted from the impact, since the JOX leader was that strong, but he smiled nevertheless. He wiped his glasses, having fogged them up during his heavy breaths. He raised his cup to the other president, and grinning toward all present at the party.

"Oh, honey!" Ms. Squibbles exclaimed. "Honey, that was amazing! You actually danced!"

"Never seen you dance like that before," Sulley commented.

The OK leader chuckled, wiping more sweat off his face. "Well, I guess I really pushed it this time. It has been a while since I danced like this. I thought it was lost forever, but good golly for MU, huh?"

"That's some impressive footwork, Don!" Mike added. "Sure is something I'd like to see when we head back to training."

"Oh, yeah..." Don wheezed. "Sure...training..."

He placed his cup on the table, maintaining breaths. His body felt so pumped and excited, adrenaline rushing at a surprising pace. It sure had been so long since he felt this particular energy course through his body, and the feeling was rather unusual yet welcoming...

But he was starting to feel a little light-headed, and his vision began to blur that he could hardly make out Big Red. Groaning as he tried to shake the chaos running through his brain, Don gripped onto the table, trying to steady his wobbling knees.

"Hey, Don," Big Red called, "you okay?"

By now a few others were starting to notice the OK leader's posture began to falter. He tried to shake the feeling to no avail, and suddenly the room began to spin.

"Don?" Squishy asked, worry evident in his eyes.

He tried to smile at his soon-to-be son, but it came out as more of a wince as he forced to support himself against the table with both hands.

"I...I'm fine..." he murmured absently.

Big Red's eyes widened in horror as Don fell forward, and he would have landed belly-first onto the floor if the JOX leader hadn't caught him. Monsters gasped at the terrifying sight, and a circle began to form as Big Red carefully rolled the fallen OK leader over onto his back.

"Don!" he cried, laying him gently onto the floor. He tried to shake him. "Hey, buddy, wake up!"

But the older monster didn't respond, his eyes were closed and his mouth laid slightly ajar. Ms. Squibbles screamed, alerting the rest of the partygoers as she rushed to Don's side. Squishy followed, and both mother and son fell before the unconscious monster's form.

"Donnie!" Sherry cried, rubbing a hand across his cheek. It was incredibly hot.

More monsters gathered around the fallen frat president, all watching in horror and fearing for what might occur next.

"What happened?" Carla cried, bending down.

"Don fainted, that's what happened!" Big Red cried, supporting the man against his knees. "Holy glop! What do we do?"

"Someone call a doctor!" Carrie screamed. "The Dean! Anything!"

George came rushing in with a phone, quickly dialing a number.

"Hang on, I'm calling paramedics!" the orange monster informed.

"Tell them to get here faster!" his president cried. He then leaned down and placed his ear to Don's chest. "He's still breathing!"

"That's not assuring enough!" Carla countered before turning to George. "Sanderson, hurry, please!"

The aforementioned JOX monster lowered the phone, breathing anxiously. "Okay, they're coming!"

"Someone get him some cold water!" Big Red demanded. "This guy's burning up!"

Johnny stood there, eyes widening in shock by the display. While he didn't exactly respect the OK president that had started stealing his own frat's thunder...he couldn't imagine what was happening to an old guy like him. He immediately stepped aside when Violet and Percy came rushing in with a bowl of water that sloshed with every rapid movement. They quickly placed it down before Ms. Squibbles.

Brynn Larson pushed her way through the crowd, shoving students aside before she dropped beside the mature woman. She quickly ripped her headband off her head before offering it to the OK mom.

"Thank you, Brynnie!" the OK mom nodded before grabbing it. She immediately dipped it into the bowl, then rinsed it thoroughly. Tears in her eyes, she dabbed her beloved's head, ridding the dried up perspiration and heat.

Omar's eyes widened as he looked over his wings. He then turned back to the crowd.

"The Dean's coming!" he hollered.

Everyone quickly parted as Hardscrabble, a fearful look on her face, rushed toward the sight.

"What happened?" she exclaimed, falling to her knees beside Ms. Squibbles.

Her eyes widened in horror at the sight of one of her students, Don lying down as his nose pointed to the ceiling. Fear gripped her even further as she watched Ms. Squibbles wipe his forehead.

"My husband fainted..." the smaller woman sniffed. "He'll be okay, I promise..."

Squishy could only watch in despair. He never thought he would see Don like this, and it one of the most terrifying things he ever witnessed. Yet his frat brother looked so peaceful, almost as if undergoing a nurturing slumber that he just didn't want to awaken from.

For the moment the youngest OK member thought he could be-

"Don!" he screamed, tears falling from his face. He immediately reached forward and gripped the unconscious monster's limp arm. "Don, please!"

Everyone could only watch as he tried to jerk him awake. Not too much to hurt him, but just enough to show how scared and frightened he was.

"Don!" he whimpered helplessly.

Then his expression worsened, bottom lip quivering.

"Dad..."

That one word truly struck everyone, and it was Carla who immediately came to his side. She gathered him in her arms, holding him close and having him look away from his future father. Hoping to show instincts like that of a mother, she shushed him gently while cradling him to her chest.

She very well could have just cried right now after hearing him express that certain word with mourning. And if no monster felt the same way as she did, then that person was heartless, selfish and didn't deserve to be called a monster at all...

As she hugged Squishy, her eyes glanced over at Johnny.

He looked just as scared.
~

The paramedics arrived shortly, and all of Frat Row gathered around the JOX house. Those who were unable to get inside and get a closer glance could watch from the windows, or simply receive word from one student to the other. The flickering lights of the ambulance contrasted with the calmness that centered itself on the cul-de-sac, and most were already aware that the beloved Oozma Kappa president had fallen.

Fortunately for all of them, it was nothing of a heart attack...

Hardscrabble turned from one of the paramedics she had spoken to, glancing toward the now awakened monster in relief. No doubt the university would like an explanation on why there was an ambulance present so late at night; and some faculty members were assuming some foolish student had jumped off the roof.

Her smile deepened as she watched Ms. Squibbles grip her future groom's hand, who sat on a recliner chair with his feet propped up. She kept an eye on the breathing apparatus that was fitted around Don's face, paramedics assuring her that just a bit more time was needed to be spent on it. The latter was breathing normally, his voice slightly muffled by the mask but very much the same as he was earlier. His frat brothers and friends gathered around him, his future son sitting on the other end.

Squishy was holding his hand as well.

Don blinked tiredly at the monsters that meant so much to him, feeling even more blessed to be the student of a university that showed so much care for one of their own. He glanced up at Big Red who stood beside Carla and Brynn; the smaller EEK girl had a wet headband in her claws for some reason.

"So, uh..." Big Red gulped. "How ya feeling?"

The OK president gave him a sincere smile, unable to budge as he felt so relaxed upon his throne.

"I'm fine and dandy, thank you!" his voice sifted through the mask. "Sorry the party had to end like this..." he added sheepishly.

Big Red waved a hand, scoffing. "Hey, forget the party, Carlton," he told him, "we're just glad you didn't kick the bucket or something.

"We were really getting scared!" Carla added. Then she peered down at Squishy who didn't notice her heartfelt grin. "Some more than others..."

Don then glanced over Squishy. The little monster that would become his son very soon smiled, his eyes having dried from tears. Before Don could even say anything a paramedic approached him.

"Mr. Carlton," the monster asked, "quick question: when was the last time you were active?"

The others regarded him in confusion before glancing toward Don. The mature student shrugged sheepishly.

"Well, just recently, sir," he responded. "It was just this semester that I started exercising again." He glanced at Mike. "And I got this guy to thank because I never felt so energetic in a long time."

"Mmm-hmm," the paramedic nodded before flipping over his notes, "and you fainted right after you danced?"

After receiving a nod he inquired further.

"Really hard?"

Don blushed, then he slowly gave another nod. He raised an eye in confusion when the paramedic smiled.

"Mr. Carlton," he explained, "your body hasn't received much activity in years. It was only tonight did it start to occupy your new routine." He motioned to Mike. "It's amazing you hadn't fainted yet when you just started a training regime with him."

Don allowed the words to sink in, thankful it wasn't something too serious. "So, uh, what are you saying?"

"I'm saying that if you keep this up, your body will adjust more," he explained, "and this won't happen again."

Don thought about it. Then he smiled.

"Well, thanks a bunch, sir!" he chuckled. "That makes sense!"

Another paramedic stood beside the current one, this one much younger and regarding Don curiously.

"So wait a minute..." he began. "You're a...university student?"

Don nodded, smiling proudly. "Came back to school to study for a new career, son!"

However, instead of appearing impressed, the younger paramedic bursted out laughing, much to the shock and confusion of the MU monsters.

"Holy glop, are you serious?" he guffawed. "An old guy attending university! Boy, your life must have stunk to actually swallow your dignity like this!"

The OK president only stared at him, slightly dismayed by the rude gesture and comment. His future wife and son were just as upset by this, and the guy hardly noticed glares directed at him, especially by his superior.

However, he did notice a gray-skinned presence tower over him. Immediately his laughter died down as he gazed up into brown eyes behind black glasses.

Rosie Levin's fists tightened, and she bared her sharp teeth at him. The paramedic scampered away, yelping like a puppy the moment a vicious growl slipped through her mouth.

The older paramedic turned to Don, looking remorseful. "He's new..." he sighed.

"Understood," Don nodded, gripping the hands of both Sherry and Squishy.

Memory fading, Big Red remembered how he just wanted to pound the teeth right off that jerk. He was surprised Rosie hadn't gutted him for acting completely disrespectful and stupid toward Don, especially after all he had been through.

Since last semester, the proud OK president was doing much better regarding his active lifestyle. Certain days of the week he was under the intelligent eye of Mike Wazowski, and there were even moments his brothers were partners to the EEKs when it came to pacing around the campus. And the incident that occurred that night was something they could all laugh about, merely reminding themselves that Don had just fainted from being over-excited.

But this, however, was not something they could just look back on and share a chuckle about. That is, if there really would be something to look back on at all...

The twins had been unconscious for not one day but much longer that Big Red lost count! And who knew how much longer this was going to keep up!

He peered out the window once more, seeing that night would arrive soon enough. The lights in the OK house were still on, but sadness radiated from its windows. And Mrs. Carlton's room was still dark. There was no way she would be able to cook for her boys tonight...

Grunting softly, Big Red dug into the pocket of his jacket, pulling out his eye-phone. Pressing a familiar number that was on speed dial, he pushed the device to his ear and waited.

"Hello, Pizza Planet, how may I help you?" the voice on the other end automatically responded.
_

MU Dorm Room 1920...

Tammy Rollins fiddled around with her scream canister on her side of the dorm which she shared with Seya Sephira. The aforementioned object sat on her study table with an tool pack beside her, and a Scream Canister Design book open to the page of the instructions required by Professor Brandywine. As she tightened the tiny bolts, Tammy felt a small smile tug on her lips.

Other students may have felt bored by Brandywine's class, but not her. She personally found Scream Canister Design to be overall interesting, especially collecting the screams of human children to turn into usable energy for monster-kind. Monsters may argue that Scarers are important to the collection of screams from the human world, but Tammy would beg to differ as she has always stood by the fact that monsters who designed scream canisters were also quite indispensable especially. After all, what was the use of scaring human children when there was nothing to cram scream energy into? That was among the reasons that made her so fascinated with scream energy, and her eventual enrollment into the school itself.

Putting down her screwdriver, Tammy turned the finished scream canister in her tentacled hands to check for any cracks or scratches, inspecting her work like a potter would after molding a new vase from mud. She was about to make the final adjustments when she heard the door on her left opening. She looked up just in time to see the azure-scaled draconic monster who was her best friend and roommate walk in before closing the door. The latter's smooth scales shone in the soft glow of lights of their room.

"So, how goes the medical studies, Sephira?" Tammy quipped. She watched, Sephira placed her MU slingbag on her own study table, picked up her weekly timetable and flipped through it.

"Oh, you mean my pharmaceutical studies?" the other responded. "I'm coping with the assignments. I'm thinking of applying for the advanced medical modules soon." She circled a few dates on the monthly calendar behind the timetable, presumably for class tests and assignment deadlines.

The light-red tentacle monster regarded Sephira for a few moments before giving a nod. "By the way, congratulations for beating Ashley Danos in the last swimming lesson," she said with a smirk. "Looks like you improved since the last time I saw you in the pool."

Sephira chuckled politely at the compliment, winking two of her six azure eyes which decorated the front side of her face. "Well, thanks, Tammy. I still have a long way to go before I even match up to Carla Delgado's standards. She's possibly the fastest swimmer in the water."

She noticed Tammy roll her eyes at the humble comment, before the latter wave her tentacle to prove her point.

"Carla? Sephira, you've been tipped as one of the best students that can give her a run for her money, you know?" she insisted. "The last mock swimming event you matched against her second by second...and you came pretty close to her swimming record!"

Her roommate's eyes were so wide Sephira thought for a moment they would pop out of their sockets. Waving a finned clawed hand to dismiss the implication, Sephira laughed a little politely and gestured with her clawed fingers.

"Relax, Tammy. I still have a long way to go before I can even beat her record. I am fast in the water, sure, but Carla has the advantage. She's a natural, don't forget. And I still need to train harder."

Tammy crossed her tentacles in front of her chest, and grinned with encouragement. "I hope you aren't holding yourself back, Sephira. You have been way too humble."

The azure-scaled draconic monster chuckled. "Please! I've put my best effort for the MU swimming team, so there's no need to worry about me and Carla's rivalry. We're just friendly rivals after all."

"And what about her offer to join the EEKs? Have you considered it yet?" the other girl reminded.

Tammy tilted her head a little and looked at Sephira who put back the calendar on her study desk, beginning to tidy up her textbooks on Advanced Monstrology.

"Oh, that? Truthfully, I'm not interested in sorority life yet. I like my freedom right now," she joked. "And besides, I don't think I can adjust well into a workout-packed training regime anyway..." she added with a wince.

Tammy gave a polite chuckle, knowing that among campus students the EEK girls were known as the "purple princesses". Smart, beautiful, enthusiastic monsters who immersed themselves in various types of exercises and workouts even between classes, meals, and, as rumors go, on their dates.

The Scream Canister Design student watched as her roommate shrugged herself out of her MU jacket and flopped onto the soft mattress of her bed, her well-toned and muscled body stretching a bit. "Siren of the Oceans" she was called among her swimming class students, and especially by boys. Marbus Dagon was a lucky guy to have a nice girl like her.

Just like Tammy hoped she would feel the same way once she claimed the hottest Scare student on campus...who was currently in the hospital with his brother sadly.

Watching Sephira rub her head on her pillows and blanket, Tammy could not help but quip a little as she saw Sephira flip open her dark blue eye-phone, looking through her messages.

"So...thinking about your dashing football player again?" she smiled at Sephira, who turned and regarded Tammy with a raised eyebrow, and a flicker of a puzzlement on her face.

"So what if I am?" Sephira remarked. "I haven't been able to meet him for some time. Schedules are a real jerk."

"Oh, don't worry," Tammy snickered. "I'm sure you'll see him him again soon." She picked up her scream canister and slotted it into a special case for Scream Canister Design class tomorrow.

"Yeah, thanks," Sephira muttered.

She was about to ask Tammy about her own studies when a knock ruptured from their door. Before Tammy could get it, Sephira pushed herself up from her bed, walked over to the door and opened it carefully. She raised her eyes as she peered at the monster standing before her.

Nadya Petrov, dressed in her usual HSS clothing, gazed at Sephira and Tammy carefully for a few moments with her trio of eyes. She quickly gave the best smile she could muster, although it appeared more like a grimace. She appeared rather worried for some reason.

"Hey, uh, Sephira..." the purple-haired goth greeted nervously. "Um, how's it going with you and Rollins?"

Despite the unexpected surprise, Sephira gave a sincere smile while Tammy directed a wave toward Nadya.

"Pretty good," the blue aquatic answered.

"Studies are a drag," Tammy called out, "but we're fine."

Sephira noticed Nadya's expression of anxiety deepen, and she had a feeling something was going on.

"Petrov?" the medical student questioned. "Is everything alright?"

The HSS girl's eyes rose to hers, and Nadya's lips curved in a worried pout. She then glanced over Sephira's shoulder, Tammy having focused back on her Scream Canister Design book. Gulping, she quickly dug into her pocket before pulling out a small piece of paper.

"Look, I just need help with something..."

Sephira stared at her in confusion, folding her arms as she regarded her carefully.

"What kind of help?" she asked suspiciously. "Because if it has anything to do with some creepy ritual-"

Nadya frowned. "Hey, just because we're goth doesn't mean we do that kind of stuff!"

She then sighed, calming down for the moment before handing Sephira the paper. The latter took it, then glanced at everything written down. She was puzzled, with Tammy leaning in their direction trying to figure out what the heck was going on. The HSS girls straightened up, trio of eyes blinking hopefully before taking a step back.

"I'll explain everything," she spoke rather urgently. "Just please...I really need you for this."

And before Sephira could speak, Nadya rushed off, hair flapping in her pace before turning a corner down the corridor. The draconic monster could only watch from her doorway.

"Okay, that was weird..." she muttered.

"Must be a HSS thing," Tammy suggested, turning back to her work as if the entire interaction was no big deal. "I've already seen a bunch of 'JOX things' this week, so what surprise is that sorority?"

Closing the door, Sephira turned the scrap of paper in her finned clawed hands. Reading over the text, her six eyes loomed over the request that she meet the smokey-eyed goth in a few hours.

"At the PNK house?" she murmured to herself, eyes raising even further.
_

Carla leaned back against the couch as she and Johnny watched the big-screen in front of them flash much brighter as the evening wore on. Things were pretty much quiet now in Frat Row as it grew late, and the EEK leader had been welcome to sleep in the house of the Worthington heir himself. It was rather strange by others' perspective that the sorority president would "swallow her pride" and allow herself to be under the roof of such a fraternity.

That was far from it as Carla Delgado simply wanted to crash at Johnny's place while Violet and Brynn were bunking at the JOX house for tonight. That left Maria, Donna, and Debbie, and the former two just wanted to leave the lights on and the music up all night. As for Debbie, no doubt she was out on another date and wouldn't come back until much later. Carla just couldn't take to being awake all night, and had marched straight over to Johnny's frat house and nonchalantly asked for a night on his couch.

While the other ROR boys were a bit skeptical about allowing a girl into their "manly cavern", Johnny allowed it like it was no big deal. Out of all the presidents, he was on better terms with Delgado than even Big Red. "Best friends" as either would say through gritted teeth but sheepish smiles. And what Johnny said usually goes as the ROR's pizza dinner welcomed their unexpected guest.

She was active and exercised so much, yet she loved to chow more than her weight was worth much to their surprise. And to Johnny's astonishment, she loved sinking into the couch like some lazy monster who preferred marathons on TV than on the street. Of course, he never knew, before last semester, no one exactly opened up about their true colors. Now a monster can be honest about his or her beliefs and interests, and not be shunned by it. After all, Oozma Kappa was the epitome of that.

Carla grabbed a cold slice from the leftover box that had been abandoned on the kitchen table. Johnny watched, stifling a chuckle as she nibbled on the tip, eating out of boredom while an infomercial played on the TV. And he thought EEKs disapproved of this sort of thing, but boy had he been wrong.

"Hey, thanks for letting me crash here again, Worthington," the EEK leader said through a mouthful of pizza. "No doubt Maria and Donna are going to be sleeping in tomorrow morning after their little "fiesta" is over."

"No problem," Johnny chuckled. "I don't allow just anyone to stay in my house. But for you, it's an exception."

Carla laughed. "Heard you went to the nurse's office today. Archie seriously bit you?"

Johnny groaned before leaning back against the couch, eyes raising to the ceiling. "Little jerk nearly chewed my hand off..."

"And it was Dot who visited you?" Carla snickered.

He glared at her. "It's not funny! I had high hopes the Sharp girl would come, but her "little sister" jumped in instead!"

"You have to admit, that was really sweet," she giggled. "At least Dot's nice to you. Chet mentioned how the other EZ girls nearly destroyed your house."

The Worthington heir grunted before placing his face in his hands. "That Monnie girl broke the mirror in our gym, and the four of them invaded my room thanks to Chet!"

"You go to admit, your room is pretty cool," the EEK president commented. "At least you got rid of all the toiler paper."

"Can you imagine what kind of emergency all that TP could be used for?" he growled. "That McCrea girl has no regrets whatever she does, especially when she broke into that hospital!"

Carla's smile vanished, and she narrowed her eyes at him. "Okay, I know she bombing your room with toilet paper was bad, but you have to applaud her for doing something so...selfless! For the twins!"

Johnny rolled his eyes. "Whatever, at least the tour ended. But little progress was made, darn it..."

She chuckled as she continued eating her slice. "Not getting closer to asking Laura out, huh?"

He folded his arms with a mild pout. "Well, I'm doing the best I can. But that putty kid is cramping my style." He rolled his eyes. "As if he has a shot..."

She stopped chewing for a moment. "Johnny, he's sensitive, remember that," she reminded him carefully.

"Won't stop me from getting Laura," he scoffed. "He seriously has no chance at all."

Carla picked up her can of soda and sipped. "Still, you make him feel awful, you'll make Wazowski more peeved than he already is with you."

It was his turn to narrow his eyes. "Oh, don't bring up the "if Wazowski didn't have Celia" stuff again..."

"Just saying," she chuckled. She sank into the comforts of the couch as she continued chewing her food. "I should bunk here more often if the girls try to turn our house upside down."

"Well, I know you're not a moocher," he observed, "but careful around here, alright?" As much as he wanted to deny her persistence, he owed her that much, especially when she was the only supportive monster besides his frat brothers in regards to being Mr. Right for Laura Sharp.

"Johnny, we've known each other since we first came to MU," she reminded him. "I know the value of this house. And your gym..." she added quietly.

"Thank you, Delgado," he said with a nod.

At the blink of an eye Carla had finished every last slice in the pizza box. There goes breakfast, but Johnny was fine with it. He only hoped Chet and Reggie could settle for eggs and toast tomorrow if there was nothing much in the fridge. It had been a while since they last went grocery shopping, and no doubt Carla would eat her fill tomorrow morning if she stayed for breakfast.

It was about past an hour when all the food and soda was gone, and Johnny could see Carla was fighting to keep her eyes open. He chuckled before standing up from the couch.

"I think we can officially call it a night," he declared. "You ready to hit the snooze?"

Carla yawned as she rubbed her belly. "Yeah, I'm ready. I'll burn all this by tomorrow morning while I sleep."

"Alright, come on, I'll show you where you can stay. Reggie and Chet are actually going to take over the living room in a few."

The EEK girl followed him as he brought her into another spacious room of the ROR house. It took her a few moments to see that it was actually a rather nice cavern near the living room, separated by a wall and door from the main floor, appearing like a study of sorts. It was nothing like the library, but it was far more suitable to appear in a lavish cafe.

There were shelves neatly stacked with books, a large couch which looked extremely comfortable, followed by a medium table and chairs surrounding it.

"Wow," Carla said in amazement before turning to Johnny, "this is where you guys study?"

"Well, my brothers and I do come here at times," he explained, "especially Javier and Chip, either to enjoy a good book and coffee, or just listen to Javier strum his guitar."

"So Javier does play the guitar," Carla said. "I don't think I've ever seen him play."

"He likes to keep to himself," Johnny added, "but he has a real talent for that one. And he can sing."

Carla snorted. "He actually sings?"

"Yeah, I know, silent type guy who rarely says much," he joked dryly. "Irony, I get it."

She peered over at the nice couch where laid a few cushions that would make her slumber heavenly. Already a few blankets were prepared for the ROR's guest and Carla was actually quite impressed.

"Hey, thanks again, bro," she told him with a sweet smile.

"No problem. And I made sure Chet and Reggie won't turn the TV too loud while you're sleeping."

"Much appreciated."

"Anything else you need?" he asked. "Kitchen's not far from here."

She waved a tentacle. "I'm good. If I'm starving again, I'll just head there at my own accord."

"Alright, good," he nodded. "Now I can finally head to bed and get some sweet dreams." he added with a smirk.

She grinned as she sat on the couch. "Of a certain "midnight beauty", I bet?"

Johnny winked. "You are catching on, Carla. Just wait and see, I'll be making that dream real in no time."

Carla fought the urge to palm her face in disgust. "Okay, Johnny, spare me the details!"

"Hey, it's going to happen eventually, sister," he chuckled. "You think any other guy's got a chance with her?"

"Just remember what I told you," she said with a sigh.

"Sure, sure..." he muttered. "Be nice and take it slow. Whatever."

The EEK president folded her arms. "And don't act so...Johnny-ish."

"Hey, I'm Johnny Worthington," he reminded her haughtily. "And doesn't that one accident tell you anything?"

"That Big Red needs to work on his aim?" she quipped.

He frowned. "No, that it's pretty much fate right there."

"Oh, gag me with a spoon!" she muttered.

"What, don't think she'd go for the romantic approach?" he joked.

"Never even thought you would have one to begin with," she retorted slyly.

"Hey, I got her that spot for her sorority, didn't I?" he countered, throwing his hands up.

"The one Squishy got, too?" she asked in a shallow tone.

Johnny glared at her. "Now you know I came first."

"Yeah, yeah, sure," she responded with a tired yawn. "I doubt even your money's worth would make the Greek Council go any faster." Then she glanced at him, eyes glinting with disapproval. "Especially after what your money got some monsters to do last semester..." she added, voice dripping with venomous melancholy.

The Worthington's purple eyes rose, and he raised a hand to stall her before she could make him suffer a guilt lecture. As if he hadn't received enough last semester there were always those monsters bringing it up just to spite him. Like Carla.

"You knew about that?" he asked, tone hinting unease as if someone had been found out for a crime.

"It doesn't take a genius to know what you did, Worthington," she snapped, folding her arms.

Sensing the possibility that the EEK president was going to degrade him further with words, he decided to cut in. As if he didn't receive enough lip since last semester...

"Right, okay..." he muttered. "I think it's really time to sleep, so I think we can continue this conversation another time." he added hastily.

Carla knew how uncomfortable he was being interrogated by the only Greek leader who could actually stand him. She would have loved to press his buttons further and see remorseful trepidation in his facial features. After all, according to him, she had been the one able to shove him in the direction of generously gifting the comatose twins; even though he ultimately refused to make his kind act public.

"Fine," she murmured reluctantly, "but don't think I'll ever forget about something like this. No one has. We'll eventually have words with each other about this, Worthington."

"I would expect nothing less, mom," he responded cheekily.

"Don't push me, Johnny," she warned.

He just rolled his eyes and closed the door with a soft click. As his footsteps faded outside the room, Carla calmed down before laying back on the comfy couch. Her head and body rested on the cushions while she tucked herself under the blankets to become even more comfortable. She knew that without her, Johnny would be hopeless in his "Sharp" attempts and probably get in trouble with a few members of the opposite gender. It wasn't the first time...

Despite the fact she knew Laura probably wasn't in the right sense to consider a significant other, Carla felt that Johnny still wouldn't give up. She was the only Greek president who actually "cared" about the obnoxious and cocky ROR monster...and a little part of her felt that maybe he was perfect for the EZ leader. She couldn't think of any other single guy that was probably worth it.

And Johnny, well, he was both adored and hated by the community, and Carla honestly harbored both types of feelings toward him. Although "reluctant respect" would be the term she would use. Guess they were sort of good friends, or at least able to get along without her wanting to gauge his eyes when he was at his worst. She just couldn't let him look like a complete idiot/jerk when it came to Laura, and despite he was putting on a good show, his eyes needed to be where his mouth was when it came to Laura.

This was one of those times where Carla wondered if she was really doing the right thing, doing all these favors for a jerk like Johnny. But somewhere in those giant horns she was certain there was actually a caring monster in there. He had gone out of his way to purchase those instruments for Terri and Terry, the latter which hated the Worthington heir's guts.

Thinking of the twins, Carla wondered if Johnny had strong feelings regarding them. If he truly did care, or that he just bought those gifts to keep her from nagging him again. She just hoped he could give the least bit of "public support" about them even though he was constantly butting heads with the older. Staring at the ceiling as she waited for sleep to take over, she heard murmurs followed by the skittering of many legs, which indicated Chet and Reggie were preparing for some late night movies. Hopefully they took their orders and not have the TV too loud, or all her complaints would go to their leader and there would be consequences.

Closing her eyes, she drifted off to sleep, hoping she would get sweet dreams as well...but not ones like Johnny was probably having in his room right now.
_

Nadya smiled as the familiar face of blue-cad scales approached her. The HSS girl had been waiting by the illuminating lamppost for a few minutes, relieved to see not many monsters were walking the university at this hour. The lights were still on in every house of Frat Row, but so far no Greek monster had emerged from from his or her door and question what she was doing. Heaving her extremely heavy backpack over her shoulders, she was glad Rosie had believed her when Nadya fibbed she wanted to enjoy a nightly stroll.

When in reality she was on the verge of a task that was kept completely discreet even from her own sorority...

The moment Sephira approached her, the expression on her face implicated that she was still unsure about what was going on. Nadya couldn't blame her, recalling she had left her dorm with nothing more than a hasty explanation. All the paper said was that the non-Scaring student meet her in front of the PNK house.

"You actually came," the HSS girl commented as she reached a friendly hand toward her.

Sephira nodded quietly, shaking the other girl's hand. "Nadie, what's going on?"

The smoke-eyed monster swallowed, before gesturing toward the front door of the sorority house behind them.

"Just tell Carrie and the girls that we're here," she explained. "I just need to look in my backpack for a minute. But I promise, it's nothing bad."

At least, she hoped it wasn't...

The Greek supporter regarded her carefully, then glanced over at the PNK house. Her gut was telling her something was bound to occur, and she was certain she wouldn't like it. But Nadya and the PNKs would never do anything that could harm her, so she laid her trusts in all of them. With a deep breath, she walked up the steps of the sorority house.

Relieved that Sephira didn't back out, Nadya removed her backpack before placing it on the ground. Pulling the zipper, she decided to take one last look and make sure the inside was okay.

"Going out, Petrov?"

Her trio of eyes widened and she immediately wheeled around to see it was no other than Percy Boleslaw. His JOX jacket gleamed even in the dim lights of Frat Row, and she could barely make out his single eye with a heavy amount of pizza boxes stacked in his muscled arms.

"Percy?" she questioned. "What's with all the pizzas?"

He offered her a polite grin before jerking his horns in the direction of the OK house.

"There's a high chance Mrs. C won't be able to make dinner tonight," he explained, "on account of...stuff." he added dejectedly.

Then his face brightened before showing her the pizzas, the heavenly smell of cheese and pepperoni wafting through both their nostrils.

"So my guys bought them dinner and I'm just heading over there right now," he said proudly.

Nadya had to smile, picking up her backpack and slipping it around her shoulders again.

"Wow, that's really generous of you," she commented respectively. "I'm sure Oozma Kappa and their mom will really appreciate it."

"Thanks, Nadya," he responded, smile softening. He then noticed her backpack. "You on your way somewhere?"

The HSS girl's lips tightened before clinging to her bag tighter. "I, uh..."

He noticed her sneak a glance over at the PNK house. He chuckled, wanting to just pat her on the back for being such a supportive friend.

"Hey, I get it," he assured her, "after the big blow earlier, it's only the right thing you got to go comfort Jackson."

Nadya felt relief flood through her body, managing a small smile as she regarded Percy gratefully. She almost wanted to tell him what exactly was going on, but she stopped herself. At least his thoughts were in the right place...

"Well, that saves me the trouble of explaining," she laughed dryly.

Percy nodded. "Just do what you have to do."

Taking his words to heart, maybe the meathead had a deeper understanding than she fared to believe.

"Thanks, Boleslaw," she told her.

Without another word she hopped up the steps of the PNK house, Carrie waiting at the door. She could still feel Percy's gaze on her, and she felt even more comforted toward the matter that was at hand.
_

The PNK leader led Nadya and Sephira down a corridor of the sorority house. Thankfully, the other girls were in their own rooms taking care of their own interests.

One, however, wasn't in the best spirits...

Gulping, Carrie wondered if Nadya's suggestion would be worth it. While she knew Nadya would never do anything so horrid, she had approached her with so much desperation that she had jumped at the first idea that came to mind. But she trusted Nadya, and she was Naomi's best friend.

Although why dear Sephira was here made her confused...

The sorority leader gave the non-Greek student a smile, hoping the latter was not discomforted by the circumstances. She had a feeling Nadya hadn't been thorough with her yet.

"Thanks for coming, girls," she told them, "I was almost afraid one of you was going to back out of this."

"Me? Back out?" Nadya remarked. "No way."

Sephira was quiet for a few moments. "I, uh...sure."

Nadya adjusted the bag on her shoulders. "This has to be done in hushed tones. Remember, we can't have anyone else knowing about what's going on."

Carrie stared at her carefully, fear gripping his insides. "Hey, where's your "love expert" like you said?"

"Love expert?" Sephira asked aloud in confusion.

The other two barely heard her as Nadya regarded Carrie tenderly. "You'll see soon. Where's Naomi now?"

"In bed," the PNK president answered, "with Crystal watching over her."

"Making sure Naomi doesn't try to plan another break-in?" Nadya couldn't help but joke.

Carrie was not impressed, face faltering. "Nothing like that. Just making sure she can sleep."

"That's just what I wanted to hear," the HSS girl said confidently. "And it's a good thing I've gotten help."

"You mean Sephira?" Carrie asked, glancing over at the aforementioned monster who flinched at first gaze.

Nadya shook her head before removing her backpack. "What I really need is in here."

Carrie stared at her, even more utterly perplexed. Nadya sighed as they approached a nearby door.

"I'll explain later," she promised, "let's just go see Naomi."

They reached the bedroom of the youngest PNK girl, and once Carrie opened the door they found said monster tucked in bed. Crystal Du Bois sat at her side, gently stroking Naomi's mauve-colored hair while keeping vigil. The PNK sisters scheduled to take turns watching over their littlest sister, making sure she would get some real sleep. The news earlier had hit them all hard, but not as much as it penetrated Naomi so deeply. Crystal, being the most concerned, was willing to sacrifice her slumbering hours to watch over her.

She looked up to see her leader, and smiled in relief to see Nadya in tow. But she was confused when their non-Greek friend Sephira followed behind them.

"Nadya, you're here!" she exclaimed joyfully. She then glanced over at Sephira. "Uh...hey, Sephy..."

The aforementioned student offered a shy wave, shifting uncomfortably as Carrie spoke.

"Alright, we're all here," the leader declared. "Door's locked and the windows are shut like we told you to?"

Crystal nodded, hovering over Naomi's slumbering form rather protectively. "Okay, so what exactly is going to happen?" She turned to Nadya who cautiously placed her backpack on the floor.

The HSS girl adjusted her jacket, flipping her purple hair back before regarding the three girls. While she didn't expect Crystal to be present, it didn't hurt for one more monster to be let in on the secret.

With a determined glint in her eyes, she took a deep breath.

"We're going to heal her mind," she announced almost dramatically.

All three girls just gawked at her, unsure what to make of this. It sounded like something out of a movie, possibly associating with magic and the likes of 3D special effects and good acting. But this was reality, and maybe Nadya used a more interesting form of diction just to intrigue the situation.

At least, that's what they tried to believe...

"Is that some sort of therapy?" Crystal asked blankly, almost skeptically.

Nadya peered at her, not surprised by her reaction. "I guess you can say that," she responded quietly. She turned to Carrie. "Hey, where's the rest of your sorority?"

Overcoming her delusional assumptions, the PNK girl thought for a moment as she ticked off her fingers. "Britney's at the EEKs, Taylor's taking my car out for a joy ride, and Heather's meeting up with her friends at The Growl and won't be back until late. Just me, Crystal...and Naomi." she added quietly, casting a glance over at the slumbering sister.

"Good," the HSS girl said.

Everyone watched closely as she cautiously unzipped her backpack. For a moment, they thought she was going to bring out weird, alarming instruments seen in the most absurd of supernatural picture books. They all held their breaths as Nadya gritted her teeth, lifting something heavy.

However, all skittish thoughts were out the window the moment she brought out what appeared to be a a chunk of the sidewalk. It was lukewarm blue mixed with midnight gray, and shrouded in moss almost like decor. As Nadya carefully placed it down on the floor, Carrie was the first to speak up, eyes narrowing as if she had been pranked.

"Is this some sort of joke?" she demanded.

"Since when do I make jokes?" Nadya responded unpretentiously. "It's the expert."

"It's a rock!" Carrie nearly screamed.

Crystal folded her arms, perturbed by the sight of what could be better used as a lawn ornament. She glanced over at Sephira, who appeared just as confused before leaning toward her.

"I think Nadya needs to get her head examined," she whispered to the non-Greek monster. "How the heck is a rock suppose to help?"

Carrie was beginning to fume, cheeks nearly as red as her hair. "Okay, Nadya, whatever you're trying to do, it's not funny!"

However, the HSS girl merely smiled before gesturing to the rock once more.

"Keep in mind that appearances can be deceiving," she informed.

Before the PNK leader could scold her, all three girls flinched and took a step back as Nadya began speak in what could have been fast-paced gibberish. It was chilling and she spoke with such confidence that the other girls were getting frightened.

Suddenly the rock gave a little jump, nearly causing the others to shriek in fear, before it twitched and writhed. The girls just watched in both shock and slight fascination, they nearly dove for cover the moment it sprouted out small arms and legs. Eyes watched in horror/anticipation as what appeared to be a small head slowly popping out. Next thing they knew they were met with an elderly face, ears and a few chains of small pink crystals around the creature's neck.

Nadya smiled proudly as the being lifted and stretched its tiny arms, stoney flesh crunching against the moss that appeared to serve as its native garb.

"Everyone, meet Pyapi."

The aforementioned creature gave a sigh of relief, grinning at the HSS girl. Then she turned back to the three girls who appeared as if they were each on the verge of heart attacks.

"Yes, I'm real," she spoke rather jokingly, her tone feminine and showing her teeth that glinted as much as the jeweled stones around her neck.

Carrie felt her knees go weak, staring at the creature known as Pyapi in disbelief.

"Holy..." she muttered breathlessly.

Crystal took a step back, trio of eyes widening as she pointed a shaky finger at Pyapi.

"It moved!" she squeaked in terror.

Regarding their expressions of terror, Nadya had expected this type of reaction. After all, she had been there, and was thankful to glob they didn't start screaming and scattering like ants fleeing the owners of a picnic. She glanced once more at Naomi's form. wondering how she would react to meeting the one known as Pyapi. If the rest of the PNK girls had been present, Nadya wasn't sure how the other three would take it. After all, she never thought she would reveal this to anyone, even her own sorority.

Pyapi watched them all with an interested gaze, before switching her attention back to Nadya. She smiled before folding her stoney arms, eyes glinting the slight hints of mischief. She spoke, but in the same language Nadya had spoken moments ago, making their conversation discreet to the three girls who could only gawk at her.

"So this is a sorority house," she spoke in troll-ish.

Crystal continued staring at the object come alive. "You're...you're a..."

"A troll," Nadya finished bluntly.

"A troll!" Carrie cried. "In our house!"

"But I thought trolls were just made up!" Sephira practically screamed. "I mean, there's one here right now!"

"And it TALKS!" Crystal cried.

Pyapi rolled her eyes. "Oh please, what do you normal monsters think we're represented in your world? Trolls who live in boxes and steal stuff in the dead of the night?" she spoke in perfect English.

She ignored their stunned expressions before turning to Nadya, the only girl in the room who was just as annoyed by the immediate freak-out.

"Why did you bring me to this purple-dwelling again?" the little troll asked.

Nadya raised a finger to silence the others and began to speak Pyapi's language. "Remember my friend Naomi?"

"The one with the romantic problems?" Pyapi quipped.

The HSS girl gave a nod before gesturing toward the slumbering PNK girl. Pyapi's eyes glazed over the fuzzy heap of purple hair upon a pillow, heavily sleeping through everything that was going on.

"So that's her," Pyapi commented. She then glanced over at Carrie and Crystal. "I'm confused, they all look the same here."

Nadya rolled her eyes. "Big shocker."

Pyapi tapped her stone foot. "So you are nearly risking the trolls' existence to help her out? You remember your promise to keep all this in the dark right?" She jerked her head toward the trio before them. "Especially these girls?"

"Hey, I said I promised," the HSS girl assured her. "As if I would want to put Grand Pabbie and the others in danger. Can you just please help us? You agreed to it, remember that."

Pyapi sighed. "I can try, but my powers aren't as great as Pabbie unless someone can link me to your friend's mind."

Nadya pointed to Sephira, who nearly jumped the moment the creature's eyes fell in her direction. "That's why she's here."

Sephira flinched when Nadya pointed toward her while speaking some unusual language to the odd being. Confused and just as overwhelmed, she mentally demanded to know what in the world was going on. What exactly was the thing looking at her, and why did Nadya act as if she had known it her whole life? Questioned flooded her mind, trying to process everything that was about to occur.

Healing a mind...She read about bandaging or even performing surgery, but if by "healing" meant someone was going to spiritually shove some sort of magical string into the head, she had no idea what she had just agreed to. Carrie and Crystal were just as freaked out, nearly regretting having allowed such a presence into their comfort zones when they could have just cared for Naomi on their own. Did the purple PNK girl even need this far in assistance? She could have taken therapy for her problems!

But she tried not to be afraid, knowing that if it was kind to Nayda, it would be kind to all of them. It was then she realized that this thing right here was truly no doubt a troll, seeing a child-like image in her head come to life.

She, like some monsters, have read on trolls, a species of monsters thought long extinct and vanished from all but the most well-kept history records. Masters of magic and supernatural abilities, the trolls kept their magical to themselves closely guarded and refused interaction with outside sources. Sephira had thought trolls were merely just figments of imagination now, like something to intrigue a bedtime story or even a blockbuster film.

But here was one approaching her right now!

Pyapi walked over to Sephira who stood by Naomi's bed, and the blue-scaled monster gasped in alarm as the former reached out a gray stone hand. Nadya watched with bated breath while Carrie and Crystal witnessed nervously.

Pyapi cleared her throat, switching to normal dialect as she regarded Sephira carefully. "Young one, Nadya has chosen you for a very important purpose. Will you please do us the favor of handling this mind-link I will perform?"

Sephira regarded the diminutive monster with her six eyes, biting her lip before casting a confused gaze toward the HSS girl. Nadya just nodded, ushering her with her hands and mouthing for her to accept the offer. Gulping, Sephira looked down at the tiny creature, heart racing.

"I, uh..." she stuttered. "O...okay...I can try..."

What it is I have to do...she thought worriedly.

Pyapi smiled. "Good". She then turned to both Carrie and Crystal, who were clearly more fascinated than afraid right now after some time staring. "To whichever of you is the one who requested my help, let me ask this...are you sure?"

Crystal glanced over at Carrie, the latter biting her lip. This was a big step from their comfort zone, and things could go fantastically fine...or make things worse. Never in her most absurd imagination did the PNK girl ever assume she would be in this situation...especially with what she slowly realized was a troll.

It was still a lot to take in, and Carrie wasn't sure how much more she could take. And mind-linking? She didn't need to be a genius to know that meant the creature was going into Naomi's head, like something a dream-catcher net supposedly did. The mere thought of it was scary, and she wondered if she should just back out of this right now.

But regarding the stone being known as Pyapi, she realized she must have risked a lot to be brought here. So did Nadya, seeing as the HSS girl was rather protective of her non-monstrous friend. And Pyapi didn't seem like anything to fear, her stoney face serious yet quite friendly. She and Nadya had to handle a lot of difficulty just for the sake of Naomi, and who was she to deny now what she had been begging for the past week?

With a lump in her throat, Carrie held her head high and slowly nodded.

"Please, just do it," she almost begged. "I...I trust you..."

Crystal stared at her leader as if she was insane, before turning back to the being that gave a silent nod.

"You're not serious!" the identical redhead hissed at Carrie. "Are you serious?"

Carrie tried not to glare at her, fists tightening as she took steady breaths. "I asked for this. Let's...let's just give this a try, alright?"

"It's like screwing with dark magic or something!" Crystal cried.

"Come on!" her leader retorted. "Nadya's not like that. And besides, don't you watch the most recent Monstro movies?"

"Those were Monstro movies!" Crystal nearly screamed. "And they were family-friendly! This..." she gestured to Pyapi, "...could be something you might regret."

The PNK president stifled a moan, gritting her teeth as she watched Pyapi lead the nervous Sephira toward the side of Naomi's bed.

"I trust them," she said stiffly.

Unable to convince her leader to reconsider, Crystal stayed put and hugged herself, praying to glob the house won't burn down or something.

Pyapi looked at all present as she stood atop a dresser that was elevated with Naomi's sleeping figure.

"Then it is settled," she announced. "Nadya, I'm going near Naomi's head." She turned to Sephira. "Here, put your hands on either side of Naomi and wait for my command to trigger the mind-link."

Sephira swallowed, not sure if what she was doing was even legal. But she did as she was told. For a moment, as she placed her hands atop Naomi's head and careful not to touch her eyelids...she felt a flicker of something penetrate her memory. She blinked, but quickly shook it aside, trying to show more confidence.

Nadya carried Pyapi and sat her down on the pillow beside Naomi, the troll having gathered one of her stony hands atop her forehead. Pyapi focused her gaze on the sleeping PNK girl, and quietly muttered a few magic words in her complicated language. The pink crystals on her chest glowed brightly, and she gave the nod for Sephira to trigger the mind-link.

With as much understanding as Sephira could offer, she did as was told. Breathing skeptically, she carefully repeated every word Pyapi patiently told her. Carrie and Crystal watched, jaws dropped as a faint glow emerged from Naomi's forehead, almost as if a star had fallen from space and planted itself on her face. The aforementioned mind-link processed, Pyapi spiritually slipped into Naomi's mind and began to work with Nadya keeping surveillance.

After several tense moments, Pyapi managed to pull herself out of the mind-link momentarily as the glow faded. Carrie and Crystal quickly rushed to Naomi's side while Sephira dared not remove her hands.

"Did whatever that was work?" Carrie asked fearfully.

Pyapi wiped her face of accumulated sweat with one hand, the other still on Naomi's forehead.

"I have done what I could," she informed. "The mind can be persuaded, but the heart cannot be changed that easily.

"Where have I heard that before..." Crystal couldn't help but ponder.

Pyapi tried to release a few of Naomi's thoughts for them to see, but most still remained stubborn and refused to leave her mind. The troll sighed before turning back to the anticipating monsters.

"I have calmed her of her most recent anxieties and grief, but sadly the damage is already done," she said regretfully. "There is so much grief and hurt inside her, it's like a hungry beast threatening to consume your friend."

Crystal and Carrie glanced at one another while Nadya looked on with a mournful expression. Naomi's grief for Terry was powerful, and the pain and fear would remain until otherwise placated. They should have known the older twin had mentally scathed her more than they had believed. Still, Pyapi had done all she could, and they were grateful that she had tried. Looking over the youngest PNK girl, she was sleeping soundly, almost at more peace than they had ever seen her as.

"So...is there any words of wisdom you can provide us with?" Carried asked, folding her arms and hugging herself.

"All I can is this," the troll insisted. "An act of acceptance and mending the supposed bond by the one that is the result of her like this."

Nadya sighed almost defeatedly. "I should have known you were going to say that..."

Carrie dipped her head sadly. "Okay, that's going to be hard..."

"No, duh!" Crystal exclaimed. "Terry hates her! He hates all of us!"

Nadya crossed her arms as she looked at Sephira and her troll friend finishing up on their work. The former still appeared unsure of herself, fingers twitching nervously as they remained upon Naomi's flesh. She watched as the non-Greek monster slowly turned away from the sight of her supposed assistance and regarded the two other PNK girls.

"It's about just the prank?" she couldn't help but ask. "Or something deeper? Long before MU when you guys acted like jerks toward his fraternity?"

The sharp edge in her tone did not become unnoticed as her six eyes stared carefully at the array of sorority girls. Nadya swallowed, wishing Sephira hadn't hit that nerve. Despite her uneasiness and overall confusion with the situation beneath her hand, the blue-scaled monster spoke with serious apprehension.

Nadya remembered how Sephira once screamed.

At all of them.

That particular night.

The HSS girl maintained her anxiety before coughing lightly. "He...he did mention something about high school. But that was it."

"Oh, right," Carrie gulped. "Naomi did mention that part..."

"Well, thanks to Johnny," Sephira said bitterly, "we now know Terry can be a walking time bomb if you peeve him off."

"And look what it did to Naomi!" Crystal cried.

Suddenly, Sephira and Pyapi's mind-link with the slumbering PNK girl immediately went out of tune. The sapphire draconic monster felt as though a large metallic spike pole was being pile-driven into her mind, and she fought to let out a startled shriek. Pyapi emitted a frightened gasp as her own thoughts were suddenly being assailed by a flood of memories, and she scrunched up her face to stem the tide of snatched images bursting from the brain of Naomi Jackson. Carrie, Crystal, and Nadya watched in horror, the glow upon their friend's forehead becoming violently bright that it nearly blinded each of their trio of eyes.

"What's happening?" the HSS girl cried.

She quickly felt the surge of the emotional link seep itself out of her best friend's mind. It was spilling rapidly during the falsely finished process, and was aiming itself at new hosts that were responsible for its breakage. Despite it was an invisible, imaginary thread of release, Nadya was quick to notice that it grappled at both Carrie and Crystal.

The PNK girls began to moan in pain, clutching their heads as they felt their youngest sister's memories and painful thoughts penetrate their own minds, feeling the agony Naomi had concealed within. No doubt what the two waken sisters', and Sephira's, comments had just mentioned moments ago had inadvertently triggered an emotional overspill from Naomi's subconsciousness.

"Guys?" Nadya cried fearfully. "What's going on?"

Pyapi managed to squeeze out a few words despite trying to push back the onslaught of emotions.

"...Nadya...overspill...too much.."

Her pained expression and words hit Nadya like a brick. Without a second thought the HSS girl dove forward. Placing her hands upon Sephira's, she quickly muttered something in the troll-ish language. Afterwards, she immediately yanked the blue draconic monster's finned grasp away from Naomi's head.

The link was abruptly broken as Sephira fell backwards onto the carpeted floor, accidentally letting out a shriek as the emotions were immediately cut off. But the backlash was akin to tearing a bandage off a wound. Both landed with a crash onto the carpet, and Nadya barely had time to grab Pyapi as the troll was flung off from Naomi's forehead by a telepathic rebuff. She managed to catch the troll shaman in her claws before the latter impacted into the ground, and the HSS girl breathed a sigh of relief.

Shaking her stone head of the recent impact, she gazed up and blinked with an expression of surprise and awe.

"The feelings are very strong," she informed Nadya after a few clenched breaths.

"That coming from someone who nearly got caught by the CDA just to see someone?" the HSS girl retorted with a roll of her eyes. "No duh. What did you do?" she asked fretfully.

"I was trying to heal the final few snatches of memories from your friend," Pyapi responded hotly as she patted the imaginary dust off her. "Then your talking with this Terry fellow triggered a subconscious feedback that resulted in an emotional overspill." She averted her gaze. "I managed to skim a few thoughts, but most of it was hidden behind mental barriers so thick even I can't breach them," she added regretfully. She gestured toward the sleeping form of Naomi. "She has extremely powerful telepathic powers, I noticed."

"Oh, yeah, that..." Nadya chuckled dryly. "The PNK sisters sort of share that. It's rusty, but they can feel the tiniest bit of each other's thoughts."

"Oh, now you tell me," Pyapi rolled her eyes.

Beside them, Crystal was groaning as she shook her head of the barrage of mental emotions that flooded from Naomi mere moments ago. She could only remember bits and pieces, like an outstretch hand with a bunch of flowers...a smile in the sun...and a myriad of other images she knew nothing about. Over in the corner, Carrie was helping the cobalt-blue draconic form of Sephira to her feet. The latter felt as if her blood was coursing rapidly through her veins after such a horrible ordeal. She could have very well been traumatized from the experience, but chided herself that this would leave no scars, just more confusion.

Although, as she looked over at Pyapi, she felt a fuzzy image play itself through her head. Almost like a flashback of some sort...

But it was cleared away as she merely watched the troll speak with Nadya. How in the name of glob did that monster know about these things? But that question wasn't as important as she looked over at the slumbering PNK girl. She was relieved the mental agony it had inflicted on the fellow sorority sisters had disappeared; Carrie and Crystal were immediately by Naomi's side, checking every little hair on her to see she was not damaged.

"We didn't hurt her, did we?" Sephira asked nervously.

Carrie stroked Naomi's forehead. "You didn't, don't worry," she assured her with a relieved breath. "But did she hurt you?" she asked carefully, glancing her trio of eyes at the other girl's direction.

Sephira shook her head. "My mind still hurts," she admitted. "Naomi is like a telepathic powerhouse. She nearly sucked me and the troll into her mind like a vacuum!"

"Yeah, sorry about that..." the PNK leader muttered. "Naomi is the most telepathically powerful out of the six of us. Although, like her, that brain of hers can be stubborn sometimes. And she's really sensitive in some cases."

They both turned toward the slumbering victim. It was then she uttered a single word in her sleep, so quiet that it was barely above a whisper.

"Terry..."

Both Carrie and Crystal glanced at each other sadly, and Nadya could only regard her best friend with remorse while Sephira could only look on with an exhausted yet pained expression.

"Hmm, this boy sure sounds like he did a lot of damage..." Pyapi commented, rubbing her chin.

"More than you can possibly imagine," Nadya sighed.

"Not to mention every girl wants him!" Crystal quipped. She was immediately sent a chilling glare from her sorority leader, and the former raised her hands up defensively. "Just saying!"

"Are you sure he's not the one who needs his head examined?" the troll asked.

"No way," Nadya retorted, "and besides, I hardly doubt it'll make much difference."

"Will Naomi be alright now?" Carrie asked, casting her gaze over the sleeping PNK girl's form.

"She will be fine," the troll insisted, "for now, anyway." she added with a sigh. "All I can suggest is that she rest and hope a better day for her. There's not much else I can do, because this is unlike anything I've done before in my years of healing and mastering my powers." She glanced over at the sorority president. "It'll be up to this Terry fellow to fix the damage."

Carrie gulped. "Then we're pretty much dead here..."

"Don't be too negative yet," Pyapi almost chided. "That is the only thing that none of my potions, elixirs, and healing techniques won't be able to replicate. I just say do your part to help your little sister in the best way you can."

"Ah, crud..." Crystal muttered. "That's going to be hard."

"You think?" Carrie snapped at her.

Sephira, who had been quiet the entire time and standing at a corner of the room, cleaned her face with a piece of tissue she picked up on a nearby desk. She glanced from the troll to the sight of Naomi, and already she was getting a headache that needed more than just aspirin.

"Tell me, what is this Terry like, exactly?" Pyapi asked curiously.

"Well, for starters, he shares a body with his brother," Carrie explained calmly, "smart, mannerly-"

"Not to mention cute," Crystak couldn't help but add with a smile. She shuddered the moment her leader shot her a glare. "It's true!"

Nadya rolled her eyes. "So, yeah, he's darn attractive, and smart, not to mention he's "like a sir" if you get our language today. And above all...he is TERRIFYING if you get on his bad side." she added with a grimace.

Pyapi mulled over the details. "He sounds like such a nice boy. I can't imagine what had made him hate your sister." She then peered at all of them. "Something tells me a few of you hold some responsibility for this as well."

Sephira looked over to see the two other PNK girls and Nadya flinch the moment Pyapi stated that. The draconic monster folded her arms, having expected this subject to reach the surface once more. After all, she had been there when it happened.

Carrie rubbed her arm nervously. "Well, uh, it was during a ROR party last semester..."

"Last semester?" Sephira couldn't help but snort. "Try two years of their college lives!"

The troll glanced from Carrie to the suddenly strong-minded Sephira, and the former, followed by Crystal and Nadya, could feel the steel blade of the latter's words cut her deeply. Pyapi cleared her throat before gesturing to Carrie once more.

"I see, so it was pure torment, was it not?" she asked carefully. "And this party was...?"

"It was some stupid prank..." Crystal glowered. "Just when OK was starting to trust us...all heck breaks loose." She then lifted her eyes, bottom lip quivering. "And we didn't do a thing after that!"

"Because..." Carrie sighed. "We were saving face."

Sephira couldn't help but regard them with six stern eyes. "You were all bigger jerks that night. I could have torn you all to pieces if I wanted to."

The PNK leader looked toward Sephira, her trio of eyes nearly moistening. "Sephy, please! You know we're making up for this! You were there at Big Red's apology party and everything!"

"I know..." Sephira grunted. "But every time I think about it, I just want to break something!"

Before Carrie could say anything, Pyapi intervened.

"Who exactly is responsible in all this?" the troll asked.

Both Carrie and Crystal peered at the ground, looking dejected and guilty with that familiar sense of pain. Nadya decided to save either the trouble as she stepped up with an agonized heart.

"The RORs."

Pyapi blinked. "The what?"

"It's a fraternity on campus," Sephira explained bitterly, hardly recalling she was talking to an actual troll. "Top fraternity."

"Oh, a group, huh?" Pyapi nodded. "Well, what did they do that dragged you all into this?"

Carrie released the breath she never knew she held in. "Well...the RORs decided to play a prank Terry's frat during their party. Dumped paint and kiddy stuff on them, and got their picture taking which was posted on the campus newspaper."

"We had no idea what was going on!" Crystal cried fearfully. "So don't go saying we were in on it! Johnny just told us to go invite the guys and that was it!"

Carrie looked at her sister. "She didn't say anything."

Crystal deflated for a moment before smiling sheepishly. "Oh...sorry...just in case..."

Sephira nodded at this, the coldness rising in her body as that terrible memory emerged into her mind. "And that destroyed their belief in your Greek community." The three sorority girls looking at her woefully, and she sighed, trying to relax. "But things are better now...for most of you. Terry was able to forgive everyone...but not you PNKs." she added pitifully. "I can't believe not many even realize he hates you girls. Heck, not even Carla knows about this."

Carrie gulped. "Well...it's Terry's business. Whoever saw it should just hush up, and not make it worse for Naomi."

Pyapi absorbed this newfound information. "RORs, you say?"

All the girls watched as she stroked her chin silently.

"Tell me, would it be possible if you could sneak me into their house?"

The girls looked at one other skeptically, Nadya especially shocked by the request.

"Why would you want to go into their house?" she exclaimed.

"Super bad idea, trust me," Crystal added.

"I can't imagine how Worthington could react if he found you," Carrie quipped.

Pyapi smirked, her smile proving that anything dubbed impossible can be "persuaded" to some degree.

"First of all, I'm a troll that can blend easily to the foreground," she explained. "Second, my intake with these RORs you speak of is to see what exactly is "embedded within"." she added wisely. "Tell me, you really can't stand them, can you?"

"It's more a like/hate relationship," Carrie explained, reluctance evident in her tone. "At one point we can respect them, another we just can't stand their guts."

Crystal nodded. "They really don't know how to treat monsters well! They are Oozma Kappa's biggest rivals, and Terry HATES them like you wouldn't believe."

"I can believe," Pyapi responded nonchalantly.

"They are braggarts and jerks," Nadya commented. "Not to mention they're just jealous because Oozma Kappa is the better frat, that's public opinion right there."

"Love and jealousy," the troll spoke admirably. "Two things I've learned about in my many years."

"Uh, pardon me for asking this," Carrie began, "but what exactly do you plan to do once you get into the ROR house?"

Pyapi smiled. "Like your friend there, my work with these RORs involves a little mind penetration."

Nadya's eyes widened. "You're not going to give them bad dreams, are you?"

"I'd like that to happen," Crystal couldn't help but say with a giggle.

"Of course not!" Pyapi retorted. "I'm simply going to venture through their minds, and see if they're as "despicable" as most monsters claim they are."

"You'll be amazed," Carrie commented.

Nadya still appeared skeptical. "And what will you do looking in their heads, Pyapi?"

"Nothing but gain understanding about their true character within," the troll said simply. "Can you point to me which one is their house?"

Nadya picked up Pyapi and carried her over to the nearest the windowsill. Both were given a great view of Frat Row, seeing every other house in the cul-de-sac from the PNK residence.

"Follow my finger," she instructed before pointing. "See that red and gold house that looks like some fancy five-star hotel? That's the RORs' house."

Pyapi's eyes momentarily widened at the sight, but she gave a brief nod as Nadya placed her back on her feet.

"Quite a difficult exterior," she mused, "but I can manage. I'm guessing the inside is more extravagant."

"Just watch out for Reggie," Carrie informed her.

Pyapi looked up at the PNK leader. "And who is Reggie?"

Carrie slowly turned to Crystal. "Bring out last semester's yearbook, would you?"

The other PNK girl nodded before making her way over to Naomi's desk. She pulled a rather thick book before handing it to her leader. It took a few moments as Carrie flipped to the right page. Bending down to Pyapi's level, she showed the troll the photo of a three-eyed green monster with a torn ROR sweater.

"That's Reggie."

Pyapi took one glance at the photo before scrunching her face a bit. He was quite muscular, probably able to move boulders or pound trees into mere seedlings. But for as long as her race had been hiding from monsters, she knew how to avoid being seen from even this fellow's three eyes.

"He doesn't seem so tough," she spoke rather forcefully.

Nadya bit her lip. "You can't be serious."

The troll turned to her with a raised stoney brow. "Nadya, for as long as I've taught you, you should already know that we trolls intend to insert ourselves deeper into newfound discoveries. These ROR boys will be a new thing to my list."

Carrie's eyes widened before glancing over at the HSS girl. "Taught her? Taught her what?"

But Nadya coughed quietly, looking away as her little friend climbed back into her backpack.

"Just promise me you won't be seen," Nadya told her.

Pyapi smiled. "Of course, dear. After all, is sneaking not something we both know a lot about? Future Scarer?" she entailed playfully.

Nadya blushed before hoisting her backpack onto her shoulders. Carrie and the remaining girls could only watch, seeing as the night with their "new friend" was over with. However, the troll turned to them, her eyes peering at each of them carefully.

"One more thing..." she began quietly as she gestured to all the monsters present. "As far as we're concerned, I was never here. If Naomi wakes up, you will tell her she was dreaming it all. Is that clear?" she asked carefully.

Sephira tensed a bit. "S...sure..."

"Of course not..." Carrie gulped. "Never."

"We...we promise..." Crystal added fearfully.

"Good," Pyapi nodded, "because I wouldn't want to turn all you darlings into human kids now, would I?"

The three girls regarded her with horror, Crystal appearing on the verge of having an anxiety attack. Pyapi laughed.

"Just kidding!" she assured them. "I know you all are honest monsters. So I hold you all to your promise." She gave a little wave. "Farewell, my children, may we meet again in the future."

With that said, she slowly descended her appearance until her eyes were out of sight. Following some grinding sounds, Pyapi turned back into an innocent looking rock sitting at the bottom of Nadya's backpack. The HSS girl looked over her shoulder, smirking at her still awestruck friends.

"Way better than a pet dog," she joked.

Sephira played with her fingers, still unable to fully fathom what she had just experienced tonight. "She's an...interesting person..."

Carrie stared back at the backpack where Pyapi had remained. "What are you going to do now, Nadya?"

"Well, got to do what Pyapi says," the HSS girl responded with reluctance. "But once it's done, I am taking her back to her home. I just pray Pabbie doesn't notice she was ever missing."

Carrie gawked at her. "There really are more?"

Nadya chewed her lips for a few moments. "Yeah, but I ain't telling where," she responded edgily.

The PNK leader almost took a step back, seeing the protectiveness in the other girl's three eyes. "Right, sorry..."

"It's fine," Nadya told her with a tired sigh. She turned toward the draconic monster who had remained quiet. "I think it's time for Sephira to go too. Hey, Carrie, walk her back to her dorm, will you?"

The sorority president shared a glance with the aforementioned non-Greek monster. She smiled softly before nodding.

"Sure," Carrie said before wrapping an arm around Sephira. "I think she's had enough "excitement" for one night..."

Sephira managed a tender smile as well. "Thanks...both of you."

Carrie turned back to Nadya. "Oh, and thanks for, you know, everything..." She glanced over at her backpack. "Especially to, know you, your friend..."

"You're welcome," Nadya nodded before glancing over at Naomi still in her bed. "Sorry if the results aren't exactly what you had hoped for."

"It's fine," Carrie assured her with a pained expression, "it's better than nothing."

Crystal crossed her arms. "All that hocus pocus stuff and that troll says it's all up to Terry?"

"Yeah, that's not going to be easy..." Carrie muttered.

"Well, good luck all the same," Nadya told them. "Seriously, you'll need it."

"Crystal, stay here and watch over Naomi," the PNK leader told her sister. "I'm going to take our friends out and bring Sephira back to her dorm."

"Sure, whatever you say," the other PNK girl responded.

She gave a small wave to Sephira and Nadya as Carrie led them out of the room. After her leader carefully closed the door behind her, Crystal picked up the Fearbook and sat down in front of Naomi's desk. She doubt she would be able to sleep after all that, so she decided to browse through it.

What she didn't notice, however, was a small tear oozing down her sleeping sister's cheek.
~

Carrie glanced over her shoulder once more, hand place protectively upon Sephira's back. Nadya stood by the glowing lamppost, gripping her backpack. The HSS girl gave a promising smile and a nod, almost waved farewell to her. The PNK girl bit her lip, but said nothing as she led Sephira out of Frat Row.

She could always ask Nadya another time. If there was bound to be one...
_

The entirety of Frat Row was in deep slumber as the night wore on. Carrying Pyapi, who was in her stone disguise, Nadya snuck across the cul-de-sac toward the ROR frat house, bypassing the EKO's residence in the process.

She had to remain in her own house for a bit, making sure all of her sorority sisters were asleep (she had felt a bit uncomfortable when she overheard mutterings from Sonia, indicating the sister's desire for a certain older twin was become almost obsessive). Sneaking and darting through all the paraphernalia carelessly left by students during the evening time, Nadya eventually reached the ROR house, running across to the side and searched for an open window.

She managed to find one by the in-house library, and using her claws she eased it open slowly to make as little noise as possible. Placing her backpack down, she dug for Pyapi. She carefully hauled her stone form onto the windowsill, then muttered a few words in the special language. A few moments later, limbs stretched out and the friendly face of said troll blinked at the HSS girl.

"Ah, here we are," she said as she regarded the interior of the ROR house. "Quite impressive, I must say. Looks like these monsters have great tastes in homely fashion."

Nadya placed a hand on the little troll's shoulder. "You have a couple of hours, Pyapi. Just get in, do your thing, and get out before anyone even knows. It's really late and I have Scaring classes tomorrow."

"I will try to be as brief as possible," she whispered with a smirk.

"Okay, off you go," Nadya said, trying to sound confident. "If anything happens, just hide. I'll wait for you."

"I'll be careful, dear," the troll promised.

With a little hop, she jumped from the windowsill onto the tiled flooring of the ROR house. She didn't even turn back to Nadya as she began to venture the insides of her new surroundings, curiosity getting the better of her.

Nadya watched, forcing herself not to call Pyapi back. Although she was certain her rock friend would succeed, the HSS girl still felt worried as she watched the little troll explore through the massive fraternity house. Pyapi was long gone by now, searching the wide hallways of the residence and hoping to find the location of their rooms.

With nothing else to do but to lie in the shadows and wait, Nadya kept all her eyes out for any signs of alert. She pulled the collar of her jacket tighter, feeling a slight chill in the air.
_

Pyapi walked the dimly lit hallways of the ROR frat house, and from both sides of the walls previous generations of members and presidents glared down at her from exaggerated portraits of their former selves. Even though the hallways and various rooms were extravagant and incredibly cavernous, the air within those rooms seemed more of suffocating than accommodating.

Behind all the glamour and decorum, there was a sense of hostile pride within these walls of history and famous background. If what Carrie and Crystal had stated was accurate, then Pyapi was sure to be in for a surprise once she came across one of the ROR boys' rooms and began her work. She would handle the one known as Johnny Worthington for last, seeing as he was quite "popular" amongst any infuriated monster's mind, especially the one known as Terry.

Eventually she learned that the second floor contained all the members' bedrooms after consulting for directions at a handy diagram that had been put up in the reception area. She nearly jumped the moment she heard soft snoring coming from the living room.

Thinking that perhaps one or more of the ROR members was present, Pyapi took a peek from behind a bust statue of Earl "The Terror" Thompson, and saw the occupants in the living room. Leafing through her mind of the pictures she had memorized from the Fearbook with Nadya, she almost immediately knew the monsters present: Chet and Reggie. Although she did not know why they were both spending the night in the living room. From the piles of snacks and beverages stacked around them, the two monsters could have been watching a movie.

At least it made her search that much easier and faster as she crept into the room, avoiding trash and scattered soda cans while hearing the buzz from the large TV screen carelessly left on by the slumbering monsters. Pyapi winkled her nose as she tried not to gag from the many aromas of snacks and drinks wafting from both monsters' mouths, and she had to admit they were both pretty large in comparison to her. Climbing up the sofa with another little hop, she hauled herself up onto the soft padding and climbed up beside Chet. She winced as said monster turned a little and let out another snore, before she eased herself onto the sofa right beside the crab-like beast.

Holding her breath for the moment, she carefully placed her stony hand on his forehead. Like Naomi, she muttered the incarnations of mind-link, and slipped into the thoughts of her first ROR subject.

It took a few moments of sifting, and to avoid waking the monster's consciousness during investigating, Pyapi took slow careful steps within the his head as she searched for what she needed to know. But there was one thing in common for Chet: food, and lots of it. Almost every single memory she peeked into was about food, or at least related to food.

And there was also the revelation of his need to be more recognized than he already was. And followed by this was the adoration he had for his fraternity president. Why was she not surprised the crab-like monster adored that Worthington pup like some deranged fangirl?

Nothing "heartless" about that. The troll kept searching the mind to see what exactly most monsters in the Greek community were talking about. Looking his thoughts, Pyapi soon found the appropriate memories. She discovered that Chet was at times Johnny's enforcer, and practically took everything that the Worthington said at face value. He was the one who told a certain one-eyed green monster off, and was the one who took the humiliating picture after a certain cruel prank.

She was absolutely horrified what the smallest of this ROR pact had participated in as she saw the cold smirk on his face as he flashed the photo. She switched to a far worst memory, one featuring the photo he had taken which had been displayed all over the university. Again, she saw that green fellow being told off rather pathetically by Chet who donned a hat and drinking from a mug.

Truth be told, she was disgusted by these few chunks of memories, and immediately pulled out of there. Although she would have loved to plant something dark and terrifying into his thoughts, she eventually restrained herself. After she looked through a few more memories, she severed the mind-link and moved on to Reggie, who was only a few inches away from her.

He was just as intimidating as his yearbook photo implied as she crept near him, slightly terrified by all those teeth; she held back the urge to gag as drool dribbled down his massive mouth. He proved to be a more difficult target, due to the fact he was lying on his side and snoring, and he turned every few seconds which made it almost impossible for her.

Finally, Pyapi sat on a small wooden table near the sofa which was crowded by various Blort drinks and half-eaten chips. Brushing the bits and pieces of sweet and salty snacks off her arms, she placed her right hand on Reggie's head and performed the same technique she did on his friend. His breathing was somewhat loud as she muttered the troll language and sifted into his mind. Dear GLOP, look at all those teeth!

She was sure she wouldn't survive if he decided to have her for a snack, and she wouldn't doubt it if his teeth can crack even her rock-hard skin. But if they don't, Reggie would need to go for several dental appointments.

Turning her mind to Reggie's thoughts, she was somehow stumped by what she witnessed: Reggie's head was cluttered with so many thoughts that it was like a sea of turmoil, constantly churning and changing as memories were made up and then carelessly discarded like used toys. She would need a mental shovel to get what she wanted to see, but Pyapi was a little worried that she would wake up the slumbering consciousness of said monster when she performed a deep mental probe. Pabbie would have done this without a hitch, but sadly her skills were nowhere near his at all.

As she sifted through the motioning memory-scape of Reggie's mind, Pyapi somehow felt as though someone or something was watching her. It then hit her that Reggie had a beast chained within him, and it was one of his dominant emotions: anger.

Somehow she wasn't too surprised. Muscle-bound and large in size, Pyapi wondered if this anger issue was just a trademark that made him a monster not to be forgotten, that being said among the RORs. Even as she probed Reggie's mind, she noticed that he mostly conversed with grunts and snarls rather than words, and he also looked upon Johnny as his superior, although without the child-like wonder of Chet, and most certainly without any form of adoration; just as a respected leader. He apparently was terrifying once unleashed in a mock scream exam, easily scoring very high results, although she wondered if he did any studying at all.

As Pyapi's fingers moved across Reggie's head, the deep green monster grunted and groaned as he snored loudly, and the troll winced as she heard Reggie's muscles grinding against each other like dry reeds being wrung. His hands and arms were so bulky, everything about him fit so well in not just mind but body, and Pyapi wondered if she could find at least one hint of emotion that showed no aggression or severity. But no matter how much she searched, there was only anger, anger, and yet more anger.

Picking out a few memories, she noticed that Reggie did train a lot with weights, and hence the reason why the hypertrophic musculature. And he did have quite a temper at first, but it did eventually cool down considerably as he did interact more with his ROR brothers, Chet in particular.

She wouldn't give up just yet. Surely there was something in that large head and small brain of his.

Pyapi dug through Reggie's memories as carefully as she could, until she pulled out a particular chunk that she extracted with some difficulty. It featured Reggie in the MU Wrestling club, going up against other monsters in the wrestling field from rival universities, and winning trophies for his alma mater. A beast on the field, but when he was swamped by cheering students who ran out to congratulate him, Reggie did allow himself a small (blink and one would miss it) genuine smile of happiness, showing that he actually appreciated their support

However, a flicker of something completely undetermined sparked in Pyapi's eyes as she continued the mind travel. Reggie in this particularly blurred memory looked not only happy with a wide smile on his face, his three eyes were completely mesmerized.

As if he was in love.

She tried to make sense of who exactly he was looking at, but sadly the memory fragment was so fuzzy and half-forgotten that the best she could make out was a certain female monster in the crowds cheering for him. Using her mental probe, Pyapi tried again but it didn't produce any success like her previous attempt. Her efforts only came up with a blurred image of that monster girl.

So the wild beast had a heart somewhere within. Regarding the failed imagery once more, Pyapi felt this particular emotion had been all too recent as she watched the unidentified girl swoon over some other male monster; one who appeared to be attached to another's body and the color of yellow vibrant for her to follow. And needless to say, when Reggie had regarded that, a barb of envy stabbed into his heart. But as quick as that emotion surfaced, it was smothered to death by his other thoughts.

So maybe sometimes he did have a reason to be angry, though, from observing the blurred memory alone, he was much angrier. Pyapi had to pity him.

She guessed that this was indeed a chink in his messy mind, but somehow this memory was the most coherent one compared to the many other chunks she has retrieved from Reggie's head. It was truly a wonder that he had managed to keep his anger in check despite what he was seeing at that time, and she did feel what seemed like regret in Reggie's heart.

She could only murmur soft words of sympathy, hoping, maybe, he could gain what he uttermost desired...despite that the mysterious girl vied so heavily for the one named Terry.

And even though he did play a part in that stupid prank, she felt he was just following Johnny's commands. And it was this little measure of supposed good that had discouraged Pyapi from planting any potential dark thoughts for a nightmare in Reggie's mind. She could only put back that memory where she found it, and cover it with other thoughts floating around.

After inspecting her handiwork for a few moments, Pyapi pulled out completely and was relieved that Reggie did not wake up at all. She watched as he turned on his side, and began sucking his thumb.

She had to admit, that was pretty darn adorable.

Relieved that her job with these particular two was done, Pyapi's adventure continued as she searched for the remaining ROR boys; Worthington was to be last.

Leaving the two monsters still snoring away in the living room, Pyapi eased herself out of said place and scuttled across the grand library inside the ROR house, which was crowded with so many books of lore and a wide variety of subjects that most monsters would indeed give anything to even get a peek. She eventually reached the staircase and climbed up gingerly, before turning a corner and saw a number of bedroom doors, of which some were closed but a few were slightly ajar.

Tiptoeing to the nearest door, Pyapi gently eased it open, finding herself welcomed to an incredibly large room that could fit her entire colony.

Unlike the other two monsters below who have no qualms about tossing their stuff anywhere they want, this monster's room was spotlessly clean and his things were carefully kept in drawers and cupboards. Trophies of ping pong championships and guitar events adorned a small gallery fixed on one of the walls, and books on Scaring theories and various other subjects were stacked neatly on a custom-made oak table, with a half-consumed can of Blort on it and some pieces of stationery laying around. But all were arranged neatly along with a number of notebooks and a photo album.

A custom-made limited edition ROR sweater hung from a clothing rack near the bed, and Pyapi's eyes widened as she took in the sight of the monster who occupied the room. He was currently tucked in bed and snoring gently like a young monster child. His purple exoskeleton sheathed every inch of his body with overlapping armor plating, and his feelers twitched in various directions like a sensing mechanism.

This was Javier Rios, and he looked extremely difficult.

Pyapi rubbed her chin as she thought of a way to avoid the feelers. If they so much as touch her the ROR monster would instantly awaken and there would be heck to pay. Last thing she wanted was to wake up a giant cockroach, so she got on all fours and silently crawled toward the king-size bed.

She made it to the edge of the bed with little difficulty, and peering around she saw a small stack of books near the table beside a red and gold sling bag. Seeing that it was just the right height for her, she pushed and pulled the small stack of books toward the bed, as close to Javier's face as possible.

After a few minutes she managed to finish her task and climbed up the small staircase of books. True enough, she was face to face with Javier himself and miraculously she was not in the way of those twitching feelers. Rubbing her hands with satisfaction for a job well done, Pyapi carefully placed her stony hand on his forehead, then muttered the same words for the mind-link once more.

If she had expected an easy entrance, Pyapi was sorely disappointed to say the least. Javier's mind was like a huge fortress barred with iron gates and bulwarks so tightly packed that it betrayed not a single thought of his mind to outsiders, or even a probing mind like a troll shaman. Important memories were hidden like buried treasures in his mind-scape, and even those less important memories were also adequately protected, sealed behind chunks of recent memories like the shields of a cavalry before an invading army.

Still, she would not give up. The more difficult the mind, then the more supposedly interesting the host was. And she was determined to know what was in the head of this interesting creature.

After several seconds of probing and digging, Pyapi came across an interesting memory. And it was of the time Javier had a ping pong match with what she perceived as Mrs. Carlton at a frat party. Severely underestimating her, Javier had suffered a blow to his pride that might have not healed, even though he was tipped to be one of the best players on campus, as mentioned many times to be Zane Xiao's top rival.

She had to admit...it was downright HILARIOUS! And the woman was what, barely up to his legs in height?

It would have made the younger trolls have a field day, but Pyapi managed not to giggle. Sifting through his thoughts some more, she noticed that Javier actually glared down at a smaller monster, a female this time, with a single eye stalk and the color of turquoise, wearing an EEK jacket, who was snickering at his defeat. It might not be anger, but that feeling emanating from Javier at that time was quite close.

The female monster of the most incredible shade of color looked quite pretty, and her snickers only induced the image further. The bug thing really needed to lighten up...of course, that being said because he thoroughly deserved such a beating as Pyapi recalled the prank Carrie mentioned.

And another memory she uncovered was of Javier in his room, resting his head in two of his hands while another one held a can of Blort drink, and the final one scribbling something on his notebook. A journal entry perhaps? His face was a mix of amusement, anger, and barely contained shock. She wondered if she could glance at what exactly he was writing...

She rewinded the memory and tried to piece together what Javier was scribbling down, but his cursive was very difficult to read. But she was sure it was regarding the turquoise monster who laughed in his face. Pyapi rolled her eyes, assuming he was typically venting out his frustrations of being one-upped by an older monster one would call "Grandma".

But what she managed to read was a little different. It was actually Javier reflecting on his actions last semester, something about feeling the need to turn the clock back, or make some amends, despite his wounded pride.

That came somewhat as a surprise for Pyapi, but she took into consideration after recalling Reggie and Chet's thoughts. Maybe these monsters weren't too bad as the girls stated they were.

Javier might be proud by nature, but surely he doesn't always like what he has joined in to do. Among the ROR boys she mind-linked so far, this fellow was fairly interesting, his strong silent-type attitude ever fitting with the emotions he kept within to avoid showing any signs of vulnerability.

He was like a mystery box: opening one and finding another staring back. And his emotions were locked down so tightly that very few monsters knew what he was thinking at any time. Also, she shivered at his banshee cry during the Scaring Finals; it was something that could cause a human kid turn pale white.

Of course, like Nadya mentioned, these monsters came from famous families; she never even knew a cockroach could make that sound.

However, the memory of his parents were quite difficult to discern, so Pyapi decided to let it go instead of probing further and later unwillingly triggering anything unwanted.

At least she had proof Javier had a heart so deep down.

Well, at least she knew Javier did indeed possess something worth giving to if he ever had a significant other...and she was not going to ruin his thoughts by planting anything nightmare-ish there. So Pyapi pulled out after burying the memories she found where they were in their previous locations and made sure there was no trace of her presence.

Avoiding his feelers, she carefully stepped down from her base, satisfied by her results.

However, as she turned to walk away, she heard the soft rustling of a blanket. She peered over her shoulder to see Javier turn in his sleep, his armor clacking against each other. Pyapi froze, fearing that he might awaken, but breathed a sigh of relief as the insect monster let out a soft wheeze and continued to sleep. Wiping sweat from her brow, Pyapi stemmed her breathing and went on all fours until she was out of his room.

Now that the seemingly hard part was finished, it was time to find the next ROR boy as she crept toward the room right beside Javier's.

This one was a bit difficult, but she managed to squeeze her bulk through the narrow gap in the ajar door. Looking around the place, she noticed that this room was also quite neat, but there were still some things that were carelessly discarded to be used at a later time. Basketball posters covered the walls of this room, and a basketball replica was sitting snugly in an easily seen location on the study desk. There was no doubt about it, it was Chip's room.

Chip...Chip...Chip Goof? Goff? She recalled his picture in the yearbook, his arms having been crossed as he had a smug smile on his face while the photo was taken.

He seemed like a jolly good fellow, but that remained to be seen as Pyapi ran across his room and climbed up to the side of his bed with the help of his school backpack, which was conveniently placed beside Chip's bed.

Gently placing a palm upon his forehead, she muttered her language before processing into his mind.

It took a few moments of searching, but Pyapi found out that Chip was just a soft-spoken, quiet guy. Yet he wasn't afraid to voice his opinions if the situation called for it. That and he got along pretty well with Javier and Reggie. Still she searched for the negativity and anything severe that his little pact was solely responsible for.

She did sense a hint of doubt when it came to the creation of that infamous prank. Although, it was hard to think so with that annoying, cocky grin of his...

If there's one thing about him she immediately disliked, it would be his obviously big ego and pride, although she would bet the leader of the fraternity would have a far bigger one. Influence was influence, and it was a trait fairly spread among this group. But she could tell when someone has a controlling influence, and there was obviously one monster capable of doing so: Johnny Worthington.

He was definitely going last, but right now, Pyapi needed to continue finding other memories in Chip Goff. She searched further, and noticed that Chip also respected Johnny, but he wasn't a yes-monster, and held the president in his highest regard. Like a servant to the royal class. But like the rest of the fraternity brothers, his services were being used to accomplish whatever harsh deed the Worthington pup could ever consider.

Still, as Pyapi analyzed, he remained loyal to the monster who was both his leader and friend; a sense of interdependence was vital in this relationship as she noticed. She searched further into his mind, ignoring the past years of victories and mocking other monsters-

Hold up.

She started to notice something...something very similar to what she had seen in Reggie's thoughts...

Although he did participate in the prank, she passed it off as just following the instructions from Johnny. But it also seemed like he did also have quite an interest in a certain female monster...

She mentally cursed for the image of the female monster was just as blurred as she witnessed in Reggie's mind; although, she can sense bitterness coming from Chip as the woman of his interest vied so heavily for the one known as Terry as well.

It seemed that the common denominator that Terry Perry had become quite a girl magnet, and Pyapi was could feel resentment coming from Chip's mind when she viewed that memory. So these RORs had some vulnerability within their powerful fraternity, particularly focused on their main contender. She initially thought they were little better than bullies, but it seemed they do have soft centers hidden within, which very few discovered except for among perhaps themselves.

She had to admit she pitied them in a way. Of course, for Johnny, she would have to see.

Chip seemed like a soul somewhere in that flamboyant exterior of his, and she couldn't bring herself to plant any potential dark thoughts into his mind. So Pyapi released herself from the memories she plucked out and pulled away from him.

Now came the final review.

Pyapi slowly eased her way out of Chip's room, and proceeded down to where the fraternity president's location was. She was pleasantly pleased to find that the door was also unlocked and partially open. The occupants didn't seem to bother even locking their doors, not expecting any unwelcome visitors, least of all a small troll shaman. From the looks of it, Johnny's door was slightly larger and even more gracefully designed than his fraternity brothers' as she eased it open.

As expected for the frat leader, his room was perhaps even more extravagant than any part of the ROR house. Pyapi saw that it was also incredibly neat despite the amount of trophies and furniture crammed into his room. Sigils of the ROR fraternity were everywhere, even on the carpet and the walls, and a large framed picture dominated one side of the room, which presumably showed the Worthington family in all its glory.

Wealthy and famous family background, holding ROR pride like the ultimate trophy, and a headful of negativity for most monsters who knew the real side of ROR, Pyapi was glad she saved him for last.

The troll made her way to the side of Johnny's bed without any difficulty, and she wrinkled her nose at the smug grin that Johnny possessed on his face while sleeping, one hand on his chest while the other on his blanket. Although she noticed he did wear some sleepwear, and true to ROR dedication, red and gold pajamas with the initials of ROR printed all over it. Had the red fabric been brighter, she would have been blinded by the amount of it as she regarded his terrifying appearance.

The two curved horns on Johnny's head were like a pair of wicked-looking pincers. And it didn't add to his already pretty scary appearance that he had quite a number of sharp teeth. Although Pyapi didn't understand why he was faintly smiling in his sleep, she had a feeling she was about to find out. Positioning upon a comfortable spot for her to sit on (and she was astonished by how soft Johnny's bed was) she placed her hand on his forehead and established the final mind-link.

She slipped into Johnny's head and was surprised that it was easier than she expected. He had a big ego and pride that probably would smother another monster to death if he so wished, and hence kept his thoughts outside for every monster to see; and in this case, an unsuspecting troll shaman.

At first Pyapi saw the usual stuff, his great scores in the Scaring tests department, adoration from other monsters due to the fact he came from a wealthy and respected Scaring family, heir to the Worthington name, his dreams of becoming a famous Scarer, and making a title for himself in the monster world...and perhaps have a certain special someone he fathomed about affectionately in the far future.

That was all pretty common, so Pyapi dug deeper and was instantly appalled by what she saw which confirmed her suspicions: Johnny was indeed the one who purposed the idea of crushing the little one-eyed monster's dream, that as well as the OK fraternity. And he didn't even blink twice to expel the one known as Sullivan when he stopped showing "Scarer Potential." Not only that, he was also quite arrogant and prideful towards others, and the reason why other monsters even stand having him around because it would be better to accommodate him than to disrespect the president of the top frat on campus, who appeared to almost rule with an invisible iron grip.

Recalling that some of the other ROR boys did have someone who longed for the affection of, Pyapi decided to search for any memory that indicated Johnny as well. Sifting through his memories further, she found out that he did desire a strong and beautiful monster girl, and decided to follow that thread of thought to hopefully something that can shed more light on that particular phenomenon.

After a few more moments of searching, Pyapi came across the memory of which a certain midnight draconic monster that has absolutely and positively captured this frat president's attention. She had to admit it was pretty easy to tell why: such a well-developed body with monstrous curves in all the right places, strong wings that can bear her afloat in the sky, and, sweet goo, those sky forest eyes could peer deep into one's soul and know the secrets there. Pyapi could tell this was definitely a monster all the boys would be going after if one even had half a chance.

And from the smirk on his face, no doubt he was dreaming about that girl in particular. And Pyapi found herself slightly disgusted and refused to dig further. As if this "Laura Sharp" would ever consider a brute like him, famous or not.

Pyapi took a few moments to get her own thoughts back in order, before locating the exit she had made just in case of a situation when curiosity got the better of her. This monster definitely deserved a nice, hard lesson, and she was more than willing to give one to him...by tampering with his mind.

Without a second thought, she firmly planted her second hand on his head, muttering a darkly word in her language.

Within a span of a few seconds, the deed was done. Pyapi allowed herself a faint smile as she hopped off Johnny's bed and pushed the backpack where it originally was before she borrowed it as a support a while ago. With one glance behind her, seeing that Johnny Worthington was still asleep, she rubbed her stony hands together in anticipation what will happen if the dark seed she planted in his dream would be like if he accidentally triggered it unconsciously.

So pleased with herself, the little troll silently made her way out of the leader's room. She tiptoed across the corridor before slowly descending the stairs. It hardly felt like an hour had been sacrificed for her work and she had gone through every single monster in the house in record time.

However, as she crawled across the living room while making sure her stone form did not awaken Chet and Reggie, her eyes caught sight of a barely opened door across from her.
~

It didn't take long for the president of the EEK sorority to drift off to sleep, and she hardly cared that the door was slightly ajar because Johnny didn't close it properly when he left. A small opening was made between it and the wall, and it was more than enough for a particular diminutive being to slip in without alerting Carla of her presence. Snoring softly as she hugged the pillows close to her on the couch, slumber ignored the being that climbed onto the table beside her.

A stony hand was placed on her forehead for those given minutes the being wanted to be present. And it was afterward did the little creature mutter a few words, before leaving as quickly as she came. The sleeping monster had no idea what dark seed had penetrated her dreams.

But she was in for a cold, hard lesson as the night wore on.

They all would.
~

Pyapi slipped out of the study room, holding her breath as she peered at the pink monster she had just mind-linked. If she recalled the Fearbook Nadya had taught her, that was no doubt one of the monsters of this cul-de-sac.

And one of many who had done wrong to the ones known as Oozma Kappa.

She hardly even knew what these OK monsters were like, save for the fact they were victims of not just some stupid prank, but the ones who suffered immensely since their Freshman year. That was something Nadya painfully had to admit to the troll, the HSS girl being among her sorority leaders who refused to give even the time of day to the proud and friendly fraternity.

It soured Pyapi quite a bit that her precious Nadya had formerly been so heartless and cold to the monsters who only desired friendship. And it infuriated her that these other Greek beings had once harbored such ill-feelings for a group who had formerly been removed from the Scaring program. They, and that Hardscrabble, never realized what impact they inflicted on those poor boys.

But Nadya had promised things had changed, that they were better and more considerate.

But Pyapi felt that even her own monster friend could use a hard lesson again.

She glanced over across the living room, and spotted the kitchen. There was a window that seemed easy to open, and where her HSS friend was not waiting for her. Taking the opportunity, she quietly scurried over while avoiding the two monsters in the living room and the one in the study room.

Grunting softly, she hoisted herself onto a nearby stool before stepping atop the clean counter. Reaching her stony hands, she tediously parted the windows before cool air struck across her natural features. Peering across Frat Row, she caught sight of a single light that was on within the residence whose initials spelled out in giant, gleaming, golden letters.

JOX.

She watched the other fraternity house for a moment. She still had time, and Nadya had no idea what she was planning this instant.

With a low grunt, she lifted herself onto the windowsill before falling to the soft grass with a tender thud.
~

Sneaking into the house of the JOX boys was no easy feat. Pyapi had to take the backyard and hoist herself onto a tree that hardly met any attention. When she was leveled with the nearest window, opening it was like trying to lift a boulder. She had to use one of her crystal charms to dig beneath the wooden frame, careful not to leave evidential scratches of her presence. It took some time, but she managed to lift it by an inch before using her stony hands to push it upward. Closing it once she was done didn't seem necessary, certain no one would notice it had been opened to begin with.

She found herself in the kitchen, and her nose twitched at half-opened pizza boxes carelessly left on the round table. There were even empty Blort cans scattered around a nearby trash bin that was already spilling contents from its overflowing plastic bag. And she thought Chet and Reggie were untidy.

Trailing across the floor, she poked her head out the kitchen doorway and found herself gazing at the living room. A homely interior with various furniture, yet she was nearly blinded by the heavy amount of JOX memorabilia that littered the walls. Trophies, jerseys, photos of past members and presidents, it was as if she was staring into a more unkempt version of the ROR house. Still, it was all lovely and touching in a way, and it made her more eager to discover the current leader of this fraternity.

If she recalled what Nadya had informed her, the monster's name was Roy, yet everyone referred to him as Big Red.

Her eyes widened as she saw the massive mountain of muscle laying on a wide couch. He was asleep, JOX jacket as his only blanket as he leaned against the cushions. He was snoring soundly, that large mouth showing a collection of sharp teeth and a hot pink tongue.

And apparently he wasn't alone. Wrapped under one arm and laying against his shoulder was a lovely fuchsia monster with a single eye, her darker pink horns like the crown of a princess atop her head. Pyapi had initially thought she would just see the ginormous president himself, but it was clear she would have to be much more careful.

Only one of them was going to get the dark seed, despite the troll fighting her urge to just have them share.

With a heavy sigh, she laid on her hands and knees and began crawling across the floor. Most of the living room appeared as if it hardly met any cleaning days, and her foot nearly hit a pizza slice that had been dropped on the floor and never noticed. She made it to the side of the couch, eyes drinking in the incredible amount of muscle the biceps of the one known as Big Red possessed. He could very well split the bulkiest of wood if he wanted to.

Gulping, Pyapi reached up and took hold of the arm of the couch, then lifted herself up. She quietly positioned herself before the slumbering red beast. She paused for a moment, hand just inches away from his scalp. With gritted teeth and clenched breath, she gently placed her tiny fingers against his fiery red skin.

She refused to look into his thoughts, knowing time was precious and she needed to work fast. With dark words slipping from her tongue, the deed had been done. Lifting her hand away, she felt a bit guilty about what she had just done. Glancing over at the girl who was undoubtedly his significant other, at least Pyapi was assured the lovely monster would be right beside him when the inevitable occurred.

He seemed like a good fellow. But she felt he just needed to see.

With her work finished on the leader, she climbed down from the couch. Nadya mentioned four other members in this household, and there were still so many minds to approach after this fraternity...
~

Pyapi congratulated herself, slipping out the ajar window of the HSS house and sneaking back toward the ROR residence. She couldn't believe she had actually managed to slip into every known Greek monster's house and room without being noticed, all thanks to her excellence in sneaking and blending in. Like a Scarer would.

She knew it was a harsh lesson that would practically make them all toss and turn and perhaps cry afterwards, but she knew it needed to be done. And despite knowing Carrie and Crystal and especially Naomi as kind girls, Pyapi had decided on them long before Nadya had brought her to Frat Row. Planting the seed in not only their minds but the rest of their sisters was actually easy, because they were the only sorority that can somewhat be telepathic.

While her actions may have seemed wrong, especially having done the deed for the youngest who was emotionally torn enough as is...it was for the right reasons.

As she snuck through the backyard of the ROR house, she peered over her shoulder toward what was the OK house. Her heart immediately went out to them the moment they were spoken of, and nothing but sympathy seeped from her heart as the beloved slept. She couldn't understand why they had been through such trouble the past two years before this semester...

...but she hoped what she had done to all their Greek friends would make the other monsters feel even more like trash.

But she gave that arrogant beast of the ROR fraternity something special, while his brothers would remain in their special dreamlands. Those remaining four, as well as Oozma Kappa, would be sleeping pleasantly tonight.

The rest. Well, Nadya will figure it out as soon as she gets to bed herself...

Pyapi would love to stay and see whether her dark seeds have borne fruit within the chosen's dreams, but time was short and she needed to get back to her friend. After all, her work was done, and she still had some potion lessons to teach her shaman acolytes when she returned back to her colony. She knew for a fact she was breaking enough rules among the troll race to put her through court for a month...but it was worth it.

A part of her insisted that what she had done was wrong and insensitive to the redeeming Greek monsters that would sacrifice their lives for Oozma Kappa, but Pyapi felt that something must be regarded. Like a quest of the mind that proved how they would react within their nightmares. And she knew too well what each would dream because the twins Nadya had continuously mentioned were the reason of the university's misery.

Let's see how they handle it if the fears actually did come to light...

Pyapi blew a sigh of relief as she gave one last glance at the JOX house; she was sure the girlfriend would comfort the tears of that raging pile of red muscle. With a twitch of her stony nose, the troll rushed off to look for Nadya.
~

She found the HSS girl herself huddled against the side of the house, eyes closed and her knees drawn to her chest. She hadn't suspected a thing as Pyapi lightly poked her arm. Nadya's trio of eyes slowly opened and she held back a gasp before throwing her arms around Pyapi.

"Are you okay?" she asked worriedly. "Were you seen?"

The troll hid her smirk. "Not even close, my dear." She beckoned her with a hand and Nadya took the cue as she lowered her backpack. "It's time for me to go home now, and you really need to get to bed as well."

Her friend nodded as Pyapi crawled into her bag. Hoisting it onto her shoulders, Nadya silently walked away from the RORs' yard and slowly made her escape out of Frat Row.

"So," the HSS girl began as soon as they were out of the cul-de-sac, "seen anything interesting?"

"Oh, other than the fact you do have a point about those guys," Pyapi replied, hiding her mischievous giggles, "not really much."

"Even Johnny?" Nadya chuckled.

"Well, you certainly were right about him," Pyapi added, placing a friendly hand upon her friend's head.

Nadya laughed softly as she kept her eyes on the path in front of them. However, what she did not realize was that single touch had resulted in something that immediately embedded into her mind. Pyapi had whispered the word away from her ears.

As her friend took her home, the troll was sure she would be having a fit once night turned to morning.

And most of her Greek community would be scarred.
_

Within the lone hospital room, the moon casted its glow over a single head whose face was toward the ceiling. Mouth closed and eye having been gracefully shut for such a long time, he or his duplicate were not to be disturbed. And that included no visitors for the time being, especially after what the nurses and doctors had just been through earlier.

However, as the moon laid a loving blanket of tender white over the features, it felt like motherly arms were rocking an infant who refused to nap any longer.

The heart monitor that had been calmly working 24/7 suddenly picked something up.

It began to beep much loudly, as if the RPM of a race car had been plugged into its system.

There was a twitch. Another twitch.

A soft rustle of the sheets. Another soft rustle of the sheets.

And one eye slowly opened.
_

Also, a little mention: Chuy is the name of the pig from The Book of Life movie. ;)