This story was inspired by a picture, Gattocoltello/status/1550453230546698241/photo/1, created/drawn by FrancescaGuariso ( Gattocoltello) on Twitter. The image is their profile picture, and they are an amazing artist/comic maker. With appreciation to YukiFrills, also on Twitter, who keeps this ship alive with her amazing art. I highly recommend checking out their work and supporting them if you can.
I have a theory that Odalia's parents were, by most accounts, not that good. My headcanon is that Odalia came from an abusive home and possibly worse than the one in the show (though that's for a different topic.). That she suffers from generational trauma that could be diluted by Disney standards. And while she doesn't harm her family physically (like her parents might have), she does it more emotionally. But, doesn't see it as abuse given how bad her home life was. Shame the show might not give any reference or notes to other characters' backstories. I really want to know what came between Odalia, Alador, and Darius because, and this is just a thought, they come off as a poly-couple. Even without any scenes together other than the flashback when they were kids. They have a dynamic of three couples in one because of the way they could have complimented and complicated one another between the three. But, again this is a thought/theory/headcannon and with the short third season, there is a low probability that their past will be touched, if at all, because of cancellations.
Odalia was known for many things. The daughter of a no doubt wealthy family. Evidence mostly by her dress and money. Though no one had ever met her parents outside of Principle Faust. Most assume with her socialist attitude; she was of high status. Leading many to envy, admire, and mostly dislike her. Outside of her social status, she was smart, headstrong, and at times rather unapproachable due to fear. Yet, still held a level of popularity within the halls of Hexside among both students and faculty for a different reason or another.
The semester was nearing its end. Meaning it was time for the biggest dance of the year.
Grom.
A time when students would ask their crushes and potential others to a night of dancing. To dress up, mingle with other students, and dance.
Even Odalia herself was excited about the up incoming dance. For her, it was not only a chance to talk with others outside the classroom setting and make a few connections. But, it was also the perfect chance to finally make her feelings known.
The general tradition of Grom was one person asking another by presenting a flower or some kind of gift as a token. The flower was mostly used to be worn to symbolize a person's connection or acceptance of the other. Of which would be worn when the couple presented themselves at the dance.
Though the dance happened every year it was still a huge event of the school year. Especially if one was chosen to be part of Grom court. Where two people would be crowned King and Queen of Grom if deemed worthy. Many had sought the title and honor that came with being chosen for the position.
And Odalia was one of them.
Becoming Grom Queen would certainly be a boost to her status in school and could aid in her quest to be a part of the Emperor's Coven one day. Where only the best of the best was allowed to be a part of the top coven on the Isles. And of course, her parents would be impressed with the achievement as well. Especially her mother who had been anticipating the coming dance after Odalia brought home a flyer for the coming event.
Giving off small inquiries about the dance, but mostly her prospects for dates. Whoever she asked or asked her would no doubt be under her mother's gaze. All to make sure they were the 'right' individual to accompany their precious daughter. As the days to Grom counted down and the time for dates shrank as well, Odalia already knew who she wanted to ask for the dance. Making plans and preparing for the perfect opportunity to ask the questions.
All leading to today. After spending the night prior in the kitchen baking and going through her closet for the right outfit, she felt now prepared to enact her plan. Lunch was coming next and that would be the time.
When she returned home, as expected, her mother was waiting for her. Her gilded golden eye looked down on her daughter, a smile on her lips, as she greeted Odalia with a warmth that blistered her skin. She already knew her mother was going to question her about how her proposal went. And she wanted every detail. Even though her mother didn't specifically care for the dance conventionally one might think a parent would. She was interested in picking outfits and taking photos of her daughter and her date. Memories of her 'little girl going to her first dance with the one she seemed so focused on coming to whisk her away. And of course, when she would be chosen as Queen of Grom.
And though she wished to lie to her mother, she knew how dangerously futile it was to even think she could, let alone try. Her mother could pick her apart with just a glance. Peeling away at her until every layer was exposed.
Giving Odalia only the option to confess the truth. That there would not be a dance. At least not the way she wanted it to be. That her confession could not be completed. Not that she didn't try, but that it would have been a worthless endeavor. Someone else had been chosen instead of her. Her observations and presumptions had been wrong. And the one she had hoped would ask her, had picked someone else.
Leaving her holding the literal basket of mini-pixie pies that she had prepared herself when she believed she was going to be asked.
Her mother listened to Odalia's explanation. Feeling her gaze never blinking and her smile never leaving her face. As if her daughter wasn't explaining how she felt down and lost about her crush wanting another. Her conflicted feelings welling inside her and the effects it would have later on.
Her mother just gave a small sigh, placing her hand on the top of Odalia's head. Giving her a couple of pats and slow strokes through her green locks. Over the bun like a crystal ball.
"It seems I was correct on this matter.", her mother spoke with a sweet tone, "Sweet Pea, you shouldn't be so focused on these little endeavors."
"I just thought he would...that he...", hands fidgeted on the basket handle.
"You thought he liked you.", her mother finished, "You assumed he had feelings other than what you called friendship. Of course, it was destined to fail.", because if he wanted to, he would have already asked her, "You need to focus more on your endeavors to grow your powers as a witch. Not, preoccupied and wasting valuable material on others who clearly don't want it or you.", taking hold of the basket she held it so that Odalia could see it.
"You worked so hard. Planned everything out for this moment. And what do you have to show for it?", just a basket of treats, no flower or invitation, and a fractured heart.
"So, Sweet Pea, who did your little crush pick over you?", she asked, her gaze glowing as she observed her daughter, "Tell me about her. I want to know who got picked over you."
Odalia muttered something.
"Speak up dear.", her mother instructed, "You know how I don't like it when you whisper.", her voice lowered into an almost menacing instruction as she smiled down at her daughter.
"It was...a boy.", Odalia finally admitted, "The person I liked asked a boy to the dance."
"A boy?", her head tilted slightly, and an audible cracking sound could be heard.
Odalia nodded, "Yes mother.", she confirmed as her heart hit inside her chest.
Her mother stared at her for what felt like an eternity. The magic from her gaze burned against her skin. Feeling the judgment scarring her from the inside out.
"How...disappointing.", a finger came under her chin to make Odalia look at her mother, "All that work to make you presentable. And not even a simple boy from this place desires you.", figuring that she hadn't received any type of invitation to Grom.
Even from the person she had hoped would ask her.
Odalia did her best to keep her features neutral. Her ears dipped now and then, only hidden by her mother's movement of her face.
"Instead, he chooses a boy.", she couldn't tell if her mother was upset, disappointed, or possibly simmering with an emotion she feared was brewing in her complex mind, "Are you not as pretty as a boy? My daughter is beautiful, correct?"
"I think so.", at least she believed she was. Her mother always said she shined like a freshly polished emerald.
"And yet you still didn't get an invitation. And the dance is so soon.", only a few days away, "And I was looking so forward to dress shopping with you."
"I could still go.", there still might be time, "Someone, maybe, will ask me."
"Perhaps.", she hummed, "I would hate to think my daughter won't have anyone clamoring over her. I expect you to be quite the prize."
"..."
"Who wouldn't want my precious little princess as their date.", she smiled, "Remember, a Brightmare is a prestigious name. Only the best of the best.", she reminded her daughter.
"Yes, mother."
"Good.", Idalia smiled, "Now go clean up. Dinner will be ready soon. Your father is making a special meal."
Odalia nodded and excused herself to wash up. Feeling her mother's eyes following her as she made it up the stairs. And as she entered the bathroom, staring into the mirror, her mother's words echoed through her mind.
'Only the best for a Brightmare.'
"Only the best.", she whispered.
The next day at school...
Perhaps her mother was correct.
She was a Brightmare.
She was pretty, she believed so. Following her mother's beauty regiment, Odalia prided herself to maintain a clean and organized presentation. Making sure that her hair was brushed and neatly tied in her signature. Her clothes were washed and ironed for the week. And of course her precise hygiene.
'A lady should always present herself in an according to manner.'
One's presentation was everything. Appearance showed how you wanted to be treated.
If she wanted to be asked to Grom she would need to better herself. Simple.
She would prove herself more than just talk. Rising higher than any oracle or witch on the Isles. She wasn't just some basic witch or some common 'rich girl' as others would want to think.
And so that's what she did. For the next few days, she had thrown herself into her schoolwork and appearance. Boosting her chances to attract a wider range of suitors from the 'normal' bunch. Though she maintained a cordial relationship with Alador and Darius. She mostly kept to herself and leaned away from their blossoming relationship that had become a rather hot piece of gossip in the school. Mostly from those who were happy for them and offered support. To the school, they were the new couple, even if it wasn't official and was only one dance.
Their first date.
And though the actions were a constant twisting knife in her withering heart. As her mother had taught her, she concealed the feelings and buried them deep. No one would ever know of her embarrassment and failure. Removing all traces of her mistake both inside and out. Leaving only a hollow hole that she would fill with academics and priority-set goals. Maybe even joining a club or two if she scheduled her time right.
All she had to do was get through the remaining days until and after the dance.
But, as the days until Grom ticked down Odalia found herself at a loss. In the span of 4 days out of the 7 until the dance and not one person had asked her. No one had even attempted to mention going to Grom with her. Even dropping hints seemed fruitless when the topic quickly changed or ended with some half-backed excuses that Odalia saw right through. It was like one minute she had a potential date and then the next minute-nothing.
'So, I'll be spending Grom at home.', participating in all the various activities her mother no doubt had planned for them. She even suspected her dad would be there at her mother's side and providing any assistance to keep her mother contented as they subjected her to Titan knows what.
'At least someone wanted her.'
Two days before Grom saw her seated outside of school. Her attention focused between her notebook and listening to Darius going on about preparations for Grom and his first date with Alador.
"As I've come to find out, Alador doesn't exactly follow the rules of proper dress etiquette.", explaining how shopping became a trial when attempting to pick out outfits for the dance. Alador's nonchalant attitude at times made it impossible to get a proper pick on clothing. With him just picking anything without much of an opinion, "Why is it so hard for him to pick a proper dress suit?", or even formal casual clothing in general?
"You know he doesn't much care for getting dressed up.", outside the school uniforms and a few changes for practices or physical activities, Alador preferred more 'comfortable' articles of clothing that required little to no work to put on, "A simple tux with a purple shirt or tie should work.", it was simple and would match the abomination aesthetic of their tracks.
"Not a bad idea.", they could go in matching purple.
Of course, it was. It was the outfit she had hoped to match hers. Which was now in her closet and would no doubt see the light of day. No one had asked her. Not one boy, girl, or genderless body had even attempted to ask her.
She could hear her mother's voice in the back of her head.
If no one asked her, she could forget about going to Grom. Maybe even leaving the house if worse came to pass.
"Well, Alador and I are going shopping after school today. You know, to pick up some last-minute things before the dance.", mostly a few accessories and Alador's outfit, "Wanna tag along?"
"Huh?"
"I asked if you wanted to come with us?", he confirmed his question, an invitation to go shopping with him and Alador, "We haven't exactly spent much time together.", mentioning how besides school, the three haven't really been together, "Plus I'm sure Alador would like having you to keep him company."
"By company, you mean keeping him from wandering off.", as he would usually do when out in open spaces and with many things to look at.
"That too.", he didn't deny the extra motive, "I swear, it's a miracle he hasn't fallen off a cliff.", he pouted at other boys' air-headed moments.
Odalia snorted, "Well as much as I would love to play handler, unfortunately, I'll have to decline your invitation.", not thinking she could make it being with them at the moment.
"Other plans?", he inquired, "Seriously Dal what has you so busy these past few days?", to the point she was always in her notebooks or off doing Titan knows what.
"Just a personal project.", a failing one at this point.
"Does this 'personal project' have anything to do with Grom?"
"What makes you think it has anything to do with that?"
"Just guessing.", considering it's the biggest topic of the school at the moment, "Speaking of which...what's your dating situation?"
"Careful Dar, you know it's not polite to ask a lady personal questions like that.", she playfully warned. But, on the inside felt an unwanted pang at the mention of a date.
"Not really.", he argued, "I'm asking because if you didn't have a date-"
Odalia gave a quick laugh.
"Like I, Odalia Brightmare, wouldn't have a date.", it was ridiculous, "Especially only two days before Grom."
Darius shrugged a bit, "Wasn't trying to offend. Just seems like you haven't really been 'into' the Grom conversation.", besides listening to him and Alador, "I mean it's alright not to have a date. Most students haven't gotten a date or just going with friends.", and even a few alone.
'But, I'm not like everyone else.'
"Well, I'm not.", she shook her head, "My mother would bea-be upset if I missed Grom."
"It's still not that big a deal."
"Says the one voted Grom King."
"Nominated.", he corrected, "I haven't won."
"Please.", she scoffed, "You're one of, if not the, most popular boys in school. Co-captain of the boy's Grubgby team for three years straight. And top pick to make the Emperor's Coven.". they might as well just give him the crown.
"Yeah, yeah all that.", he seemed to wave off, "Still, who knows, there might be someone else who gets the crown."
Odalia again laughed, "Sure they will.", she didn't need to be an oracle to see who would be the obvious choice, "Guess we'll have to wait and see, won't we."
Darius gave a small, but smug smile to the oracle.
"Guess we will."
The two shared a laugh. Something they hadn't for what seemed like forever.
Yet even in this, time of bonding and friendship. The voices in the back of Odalia's mind whispered and scratched at her brain.
As the night of Grom came and students were heading to school, Odalia found herself at home. Even with her best efforts to find a date to take her Grom, it ran out with the ringing of the last bell. It was a gamble that Odalia had lost in spades. Leaving her with the only option of spending the night with her parents. It wasn't the worst that could have happened and at least she wouldn't be bored.
"Oh, don't you look so cute!", her mother beamed happily seeing her daughter dressed up in specially made pajamas sewn just for tonight.
"You look very nice.", her father complimented.
"Thank you.", she curtsied to her parents.
"I hope you're ready for a fun night!", her mother beamed, "It'll make you forget all about that little dance.", as the room was being set up for the long night, the sound of the doorbell caught their attention.
"Dear, be a sweetheart and get the door.", she tasked her husband while she finished the last checks for the night.
Her husband, Asher, gave a silent nod and went to see who had been knocking at their home. Moments later he returned inside the living room.
"Who was it dear?"
"They said they were friends of Odalia's.", Asher answered.
"Friends, you say?"
Odalia looked surprised at the announcement. Friends? Who had come to visit her at this time?
"Well, we shouldn't keep them waiting. Come along Sweet Pea.", without arguing Odalia obeyed and followed her mother to the front door. Thoughts ran through her brain of just who had come to her house.
At the door, she opened it and was met with a sight. Two young men, about Odalia's age, stood on her porch.
The gaze of her eye zeroed in on the boy's hands holding the others.
"Sweet Pea, aren't you going to introduce me to your little friends?", her mother's voice, though sweet and innocent to others, sent a chill down her daughter's spine.
"Yes-mother.", she had no other choice, "This is Aldor Blight and Darius Deamonne.", she introduced to two, "This is my mother.", she introduced her mother, mentally preparing for the worst outcome.
"Marigold Idalia Soliel.", her mother introduced herself to the two young boys. A warm smile on her lips.
"Nice to meet you, mam."
"Oh, such polite young men.", she commented, "My, don't you make such a cute pair.", she added, a knowing sparkle in her eyes. And the blush on Aladors cheeks only proved it.
"What brings you both here this time of night?"
"We were wondering if Odalia was coming to Grom."
"Grom? Oh! You mean the school dance I've heard so much about.", she smiled.
Inside Odalia could feel a part of herself wilting. Whatever happens, would affect her night one way or another.
"Yes mam.", Darius nodded, "It's tonight and Odalia said she wasn't coming."
"Oh yes.", her mother said with a sad tone, "Unfortunately, my precious Sweet Pea, has been feeling rather down lately. Being unable to find a date has her in the dumps."
The two boys looked at each other for a moment, then back to their friend's mother. Alador peeked behind the golden-haired woman, seeing Odalia standing behind her. Her hands clasped in front of her. But, an expression of something between sadness and disappointment.
"So we decided to let her stay home for the night.", she informed him.
"Well, that's kind of why we're here.", Darius said, 'We were hoping Odalia could come with us."
"With you where?", Idalia questioned, head cocking to the side as if confused.
"To Grom.", Darius replied.
"For?", she cocked it to the other side.
"For?", now it was Darius who seemed confused.
"We thought if Odalia want she could go with us.", Alador spoke rather bluntly.
Odalia gave a small blush, her ears twitching a bit.
Idalia smiled, "As her mother and guardian, I would be remised if I didn't inquire why two young men have come onto the steps of my home. And then ask to whisk her away into the night."
"..."
"Tell me, boys, what are your intentions with my Sweet Pea?"
"We-uh...just..."
"We just wanted to take her to the dance.", Alador answered and Darius nodded.
"I know that.", that wasn't difficult to understand, "Though you're both young I'm sure you understand the etiquette of a dance. One must be asked to adance by one with intentions of feelings towards another. By definition a date."
"If neither of you has feelings for my daughters outside of friendship then it makes it seem like you're only doing so out of pity. You feel bad that my Sweet Pea was offered no invitation.", by neither boy, girl, or miscellaneous creature, "And even as noble as you think you are coming up and offering her to come along with you. It's no more than to be a tag along.", and she would not allow that.
"But mam...", Alador wanted to speak, but the older woman made a shushing sound, instructing silence. Not just of him, but everything as well. Creating a hush that sucked the sound out of the world.
"Anyway, Odalia is staying home for the night.", it was already decided, "Perhaps next time she'll be able to find a date."
Odalia said nothing, only looking down as her mother confirmed her actions to keep her home Her two friends looked just as disappointed by the answer.
"Actually.", Idalia spoke up, "Perhaps something different can be applied.", using her powers to dress her daughter. The boys looked both surprised and amazed at Idalia's power use and how she had fixed up Odalia for the dance. Dressing her in an emerald green dress with black accents and embroidery on the skirt. Even her hair had been down up. Down with a matching black headband with an emerald green flower. Lastly came a matching clutch purse that materialized in Odalia's hands.
"There we go. Don't you look precious!", her mother seemed to gush at her daughter's appearance, "Isn't she just lovely?"
Both boys looked at the oracle. Both were equally stunned by the sudden, but drastic change in appearance. Odalia again blushed, moving a strand of hair behind her ear. Revealing the gold stud earring pierced into her lobe. The casting moonlight created sparkles around her.
Idalia smiled in both victory and thought.
"Now, I expect you to be on your best behavior. I expect you home before ten. And boys...", she looked at the two young men, "I also expect you both to take good care of my Sweet Pea.", declaring how precious she was to both herself and her husband, "I hate to think what would happen if something were to happen to my only daughter. Or to either of you.", the last part sent chill down the boy's spines.
"Now have fun, little darlings.", she gave another warm smile to the three.
With no time to comment the three were transported to the dance.
Managing to get their barrings together the three friends entered the school.
As the night continued Odalia could only make herself scarce on the walls of the auditorium. The music had slowed and become more romantically inclined for the couples on the dance floor. Many of which had already faced the Gromethus that was going around. Allowing those brave or foolish enough to face their deepest fears in front of everyone. Some were able to conquer it, while others broke down and were left in a petrified mess of fear and trauma. A few even had to go to the school nurse.
Odalia was neither and none.
She was on her fifth or sixth cup of Apple Blood punch. Slipping in a concoction her parents had packed in her purse into her drink before downing the elixir and letting herself slip away further.
'This was a mistake.'
'This is what I risked the wrath of her mother for?', sitting in a dark corner and drinking Apple Blood all night. She could have been at home. Dressed in her comfy pajamas, surrounded by pillows, Grinny, and her parents. Baking cookies with her dad and let her mom brush her hair.
'This is a joke.', and she felt like a clown.
While the next dance was getting ready to begin, Odalia was gathering herself up after downing the last of the punch. With her purse in hand, she made a break for the door while everyone else was preoccupied. Slipping out the door she made it into the hallway. If she made it outside, she could call Grinny to come and take her home. She would rather face the comments of her mother than continue to wither away in the shadows.
She had at least some dignity still left in her.
Enough to crawl back home and endure her mother's words and father's silent critiques. Anything was better than this.
She was nearly out the main doors, thankfully clear of any extra bodies, when she heard a voice.
"Odalia?"
She was so close. If she ignored the voice and left now, she could pretend she didn't hear her name being called. Flee away into the night and walk back home.
"Odalia?"
No matter how she seemed to push her body it refused to budge. The voice doing odd things to her. Things she couldn't understand and wished she could push away. Though she didn't look back or reply, the voice continued to speak.
"Where are you going?", Alador asked.
"I'm...not feeling well.", she replied, not looking back, "I'm going to go home."
"Now?", he sounded disappointed, "But, the dance isn't over.", there were still many students facing the Grometheus and they hadn't even announced who the Grom King or Queen would be.
"I didn't want to spoil everyone else's evening.", no more than she felt it already was, "You just go back to the dance.", he had someone waiting for him.
"Did you need me to walk with you?", he offered to walk her home.
"No, I'm fine.", she assured, ready to head out the door. Her mind beginning to come up with several reasons for returning home early. Her mother was easy to lie to or even at all. But, she was already in a hole, might as well add a couple of extra feet.
So in her head, she didn't notice Alador until he was right next to her. She nearly jumped out of her skin in surprise forgetting how quite the abomination witch could be.
"I...um didn't get a chance to say you look really nice.", complimenting her dress, "The color brings out your eyes. You look like a princess."
"Oh, thank you.", she blushed a bit at the comment, "You look nice as well."
"Thanks, though...Darius really deserves most of the credit. I would have just thrown on anything really.", Grom King or not, he wasn't trying to draw too much attention, "I also took your advice. You know about the flowers. It helped a lot."
"Don't mention it.", she looked off for a moment.
"Still you've helped me a lot. I mean, I've never asked anyone out before and was surprised Darius said yes.", thinking he was going to be turned down or rejected and it would ruin their friendship.
"...Right.", she and half the school knew that information, "Guess you two really hit it off. I'm...happy for you.", in a way she couldn't say or might ever be able.
"Yeah. I think he actually likes me.", he gave a small, but hopeful smile. His cheeks dusting for the uncountable time tonight.
'Is my daughter not as pretty as a boy?'
Odalia gripped the handle of the door. The voice in her head echoed. Reminding her repeatedly of her faults and flaws. That while everyone was having a night of their dreams. Even those who had failed to conquer their fears.
She was alone.
No one had even tried to ask her to Grom. Not one person seemed interested.
And when she did come to Grom she was left in the corner and drinking by herself.
Brought out only out of pity and left by herself. Having to listen to couples, including her friends, gush over each over.
'I expect you to be on your best behavior.'
'Who wouldn't love my Sweet Pea?'
'A Brightmare doesn't cry on small insignificant things.'
Odalia exhaled, "Anyway I need to get going. Have a good rest of your night-", as she prepared to turn and head out the door she felt herself, once again, stopped. This time by a hand of her own.
"Wait, Odalia.", Alador spoke, "Before...I mean if you have to go I wanted to-wanted to tell you something."
"...Okay?", she didn't know why she had decided to listen. Perhaps she was tired or maybe just numb from the underwhelming night. It wasn't like she could feel anything past embarrassment. Taking a soundless breath, she prepared to listen to Alador, "What did you want to tell me?"
"Well...we've been close friends for a while.", since they started Hexside, "And I wanted to say that I like our friendship."
Odalia didn't say anything but continued to listen.
"You're smart and always have interesting things to talk about. You're also nice and thoughtful.", even when others don't see it, "Anway, what I wanted to say is that I-", he took her hands in his. The action surprised the training oracle, her blue eyes looking from their hands to meeting those yellow eyes.
"Your?"
"I'm...", he paused for a moment, "Happy I get to be friends with you."
"Oh...", she looked down. Trying to hide the heat in her cheeks. It wasn't what she was expecting. But, it was a little better, "I like being friends with you as well.", what else could she say? It was clear the boy only saw her as a friend.
"That's good. Because I always want to be with my friends. With you."
His thumb glided over the skin of her hand. One of the many quirks Odalia had noticed about the inventor. How he liked to touch things with his bare hands. His mind would be deep in thought with things even she couldn't fully understand.
It intrigued her and fascinated her to think about what was going on in his head. A knowledge many would barely grasp or even expect for the usually quiet and aloof young witch.
To most, he was uninterested and without drive.
For others, he was weird and boring.
For her, he was a genius.
"Is that okay?"
"Hm?", she looked up and saw him staring at her, waiting for an answer to his inquiry, "That's fine.", she supposed she could be okay for the moment. Being this close to him, even for what they were, was more than she could hope for. While the feelings still lingered in her chest, fed by her stubborn resolve, she knew when she had to let them whither. Less they choke her heart until the final breath.
"I don't mind."
Alador smiled softly at that. Still holding her hands in his own. The soft music drifted out into the hallways and filled them with soothing tones.
Before she knew it she found herself drifting to the music. Humming to the soothing tunes and feeling contented.
"That's lovely. Your voice is nice.", Alador complemented Odalia.
Odalia paused and gave a slight chuckle.
"If you say so.", truthfully Odalia did enjoy singing. It was one of the few things that she and her mother could actually bond to. Singing along when her mother would play her records during downtimes at home.
"It is beautiful. Like you.", the compliment made Odalia blush.
"You think I'm beautiful?", she teased a bit. internally wondering over his words. Was he just being nice or just saying things?
Alador nodded and, with her hands still in his, began dancing with her. Odalia, surprised, followed his lead. Swaying and moving along the floor. The hallway became their own private dance floor. The moonlight spilled through the windows and added to the ambiance. It felt like they were gliding across the floor, moving with the music.
Looking up she met the yellow eyes of the inventor. Her blue eyes sparkled in a feeling of awe. She didn't know what it was, but something was drawing her towards him. Never having seen this type of action from Alador before. Taking the lead and being...confident.
"Your eyes are like starlight twinkling in the bluest water."
Odalia nearly squeaked. Feeling heat welling up inside her.
Where was all this coming from?
"A-Are you feeling okay Alador?", her answer came in the form of her being spun and brought back into a dip. Alador holding her form and practically suspending her head from the floor. When he brought her back up they were chest to chest. His hand was on the small of her back and the other still holding her own hand. Treading her fingers together and locking his eyes with her own.
She could feel her heart beating against his. His eyes drew her in. The feel of his breath, the smell of his cologne.
Her head was spinning. Her mind was racing.
"Odalia.", with her name on his lips he leaned forward. Odalia blushed.
'What's happening? Is he? Was he?'
Kiss her?
As he drew closer the part of her mind that screamed at her that it wasn't right. Blaring and waving red flags.
She didn't care.
Leaning in, she went to meet Aladors lips.
So close, she was so close.
Just inches away...they would...
"Alador?"
Like a bucket of cold water, Odalia was snapped out of her fantasy. Realization hit her of what she had nearly done. Looking to the side she could see Darius just down the hallway.
"Odalia?", Alador looked at the oracle. Seeing her pull back from him. Removing herself from the arms of the other, "Dalia?"
"I-I...I...", she slowly moved back only for Alador to follow.
"What's wrong? Odalia?"
'Wrong.', everything was wrong.
"I can't...I shouldn't-wasn't going to-", her breathing had picked up. She felt hot. She felt cold.
Dizzy. Why was the world spinning? Everything was crumbling around her.
She could hear voices inside and out. Her head hurt.
'Get out. Get out. Get out!'
"I need out-get out!"
Turning on her heels she made a dash for the door. Nearly hitting it, but managing to make a break. Not hearing the voice calling behind her as she reached the forest and entered the brush.
As she continued to run into the forest she stopped in a clearing. Leaning against one of the trees, she leaned down trying to catch her breath. Wiping her mouth and eyes with the back of her palms she sees the stains.
"What was I thinking?", she scolded herself for her naivety. Almost kissing Alador. She could still feel the closeness of their lips. Her hands being held by his own hands. Drawing her near and wanting...her.
Only to be easily forgotten when Darius showed up.
'Stupid. Stupid'
She should know better.
'He doesn't love you. He doesn't want you.'
"No one does."
"Odalia.", a voice spoke, "Odalia.", it spoke again.
Looking up a figure stepped from the shadows of the tree. Long, golden hair flowing elegantly, with a single unhidden yellow eye piercing through the darkness.
"Mother?", she whispered, surprised seeing her mother out in the forest.
"There was no date was there?", the question was sudden but spoke volumes to the young witch on the ground.
She looked down and shook her head.
"No secret admirer to meet you? Bearing his heart and soul for his crush."
Again, she shook her head.
"You lied to me."
"I-I didn't...", she denied, wiping her eyes and smearing her makeup, "I thought..."
"You actually believed someone was waiting for you here. That someone actually cared for you.", she walked toward the witching kneeling on the forest floor, "Is that why you lied to me?"
"No. No, I didn't lie. I would never lie.", not to her. She knew better than to try to lie to her mother.
"So why are you here? Crying on the ground. Alone.", each word jabbed into her heart. Her form toward her daughter still on the ground. Sniffling and trying to regain what little composure she could, "Oh, Sweet Pea.", her voice was soft, but sent chills down the girl's skin, "How you always seem to disappoint me."
"I...I..."
"You are making me so upset with you.", the woman, her mother, smiled with a mix of honey and asinine poison in her voice, "You actually thought there was someone waiting for you here.", she giggled, "Oh, Sweet Pea, you only came here because those little 'friends' of yours pitied you."
'Pity.'
"You were a charity. Something to make them feel better."
'Charity?'
"They probably didn't even want you there. They just felt sorry for you."
"They look so happy together. Without you."
"They haven't spent any time with you since you came to the dance."
"Leaving you to sit alone in the dark."
"Like a gremlin."
Odalia tried to get away. She tried to block out her mother's voice. But, she was everywhere. Appearing all around her.
"You're dragging them down."
"They're going to leave you."
"You'll be alone."
"Alone"
She was trapped. Surrounded by a cage of her mother's words raining down on her worse that the sting of boiling rain on her skin. Smiling and laughing all around her. She was alone. No one was there to help her. Who would help her?
Why would anyone want to help her?
"Perhaps it would be better if you just disappeared."
"Odalia? Odalia?", Alador called out for the oracle, "Where is she?", after she ran off from the school Alador had run after her. Losing her in the forest.
"Alador!", Darius called after the other boy, "Will you hold up?", they had been running for what seemed like forever. Going after the other after he bolted from the school when Darius came looking for him.
The two finally came to a stop in some random path that neither could place. But, while Darius tried to collect himself, Alador continued to call out to the oracle.
"Seriously, Alador, what the TItan is going on?", he questioned.
"I'm trying to find Dalia.", explaining how something was off about the oracle and how she had run into the wounds, "She's not feeling well and I don't know what's wrong with her.", and now she was somewhere in the forest.
"How do you know she ran out here?", Darius raised an eyebrow, "She could have gone back home.", thinking of plausible explanations.
"No something's wrong. She's hurt.", he could feel it, "I need to find her.", and make sure she was okay.
"Hold on.", he grabbed Aladors wrist, "Look, I get you're worried about Dalia. But, running into a forest without a plan isn't helping.", just causing more problems.
"But, Dal-"
"Would want us to make a plan.", not run in head first and risk getting into more trouble.
"We can't leave her.", he couldn't let her go.
"We won't.", they were going to find her. He offered a reassuring smile that Alador seemed to accept.
The moment seemed quickly lost when a scream broke through the forest. Shaking the trees and trembling the leaves.
"What was that?"
Not waiting for an answer Alador quickly raced off in the direction of the yell. ignoring as Darius called after him. Whatever the scream was he knew, deep in his stomach, that it had something to do with Odalia. He could feel it.
He only hoped he wasn't too late.
"Just relax Sweet Pea. Mother will make all the pain go away.", the woman said, stroking Odalia's hair, as her body continued to absorb the young girl's body into her own, "You'll never have to feel ever again. Just return to your mother.", she whispered as the oracles slumbering body drifted away and sunk.
"Odalia!?"
'Was someone calling her?'
"What is that?"
"Is that...Odalia's mom?"
"I don't think so.", no unless her mother suddenly got the power to turn into goo.
"Odalia is in that 'thing'.", even in the massive blob morphed into his friend's mother, he could make out a head of familiar green hair, "Odalia!", he called trying to get her attention. But, she didn't respond. She didn't move an inch as the blob, her mother, dripped around her.
"Oh, look Sweet Pea.", the mother spoke, "Your little friends have come.", her fingers laced under her chin and puppet her to look at them. Her eyes were dull and lacked any kind of luster. As though the spirit had been sucked from them completely, "Isn't that sweet~", she giggled.
"What are you doing to her!?", Alador demanded seeing his friend in such a state.
"What do you mean? I'm just helping my daughter feel better. As a mother should.", her voice was a twist of sweet and a warped hollowness, "Isn't that right Sweet Pea?", Odalia's head slowly bobbed in a confirming nod, "See, she wants to be with her mother."
"You're not her mother.", Darius stated, "You're the Grometheus!", manifested into Odalia's fear. Which turned out to be her mother of all things.
"Of course, I'm her mother.", it refuted, "Only her mother would come here. Only her mother would comfort her. Only her mother wants her.", her voice chuckled, "Who else could love such a disappointment.", the muck of which made up her body crawled further up Odalia's form.
"It's absorbing her.", she was sinking into its body.
"It's like the worse she feels the deeper she sinks." and there wasn't much of her remaining.
"But, why her mother?", they had only met her a couple of hours ago, but she seemed nice and friendly.
"The Grometheus manifests into your deepest fears. Which apparently is Odalia's mother.", who, by the looks of it, was only pulling her down further with her remarks toward the oracle.
"See what you've done Sweet Pea.", her mother spoke into her ear, "You've made such a mess. You've ruined their date. They're getting hurt because of you!"
"Don't listen to her, it, Odalia!", Alador yelled.
"They should be at the dance. Instead of fighting for their lives in the woods.", she reminded, "Their special night was ruined because you can't accept that no one wants you."
"You poison everything you touch. You drag everyone down with your selfishness. Only thinking about yourself."
"Even when your mother tries to help you, you just continue to hurt her. Don't you want me to be happy? If you can't live up to the expectations desired for you. The least you can do is just disappear without dragging others into your mess.", the more she spoke the more despair Odalia felt within herself. The growing misery she had created consumed her further and further into the awaiting abyss. At this point, only her head was still visible.
"Odalia!?", Alador could only watch as his friend was being sucked down into the creature's body, "We have to save her.", he looked to Darius.
"The Grometheus is feeding off Odalia's fear.", and it was strong.
"Can we attack it or...?"
"If we do that, we might end up hitting Odalia in the process.", plus who knows how magic would react to the creature if they just attacked it. They could get the teachers or a stronger witch, but who knew how long that would take. And it might be too late, "We'll have to make a plan an-?", he paused seeing Alador missing. After a quick search, he saw the inventor running towards the Grometheus. The creature noticed him and shot masses of muk. Alador ducked and weaved, trying not to get hit.
By some miracle, he managed to make it to the creature and attempted to pull Odalia out.
"You seriously couldn't take a minute to come up with a plan. Just run in headfirst.", Darius scolded his inventor, who seemed more focused on pulling Odalia out of the Grometheus. Grabbing hold of the inventor, he wrapped his arms around his waist and pulled.
"I-I almost got her.", even though the melting muk he could see the oracle as he stretched his arm to reach her, "-Just...a little more."
"This is so disgusting.", Darius held onto Alador, while the abomination rope tightened to keep them from being swallowed. The muk pulled them down deeper and deeper. Further into its form. When it looked like they would be swallowed whole, Alador was finally able to grab a hold of Odalia. Using the gunk of the abomination Darius made a rope that shot it out of the creature. Managing to snag around the trunk of a tree it retracted and the three were yanked away from the creature.
The three fell to the ground and rolled to a safe distance before landing in the bushes at the forest edge.
"Odalia? Odalia?", Alador held the oracle in his arms. His hand touched her cheek, trying to wake her up.
Darius came over and did his own check.
"She's breathing.", a good sign, "We need to get her to the healers.", and quickly.
From the clearing they could hear the sound of the Grometheus, still in Odalia's mother's form, reforming itself.
"I don't think it liked it.", and was back on the hunt.
"How are we going to get passed that thing?"
As the two carefully began hatching a plan to evade the creature, Odalia began to stir. Her noises drew both boys' attention, just in time to see her slowly open her eyes.
"Dal?"
Blue eyes slowly peeked out. Blinking through the pain and tiredness.
"W-Wha?", with a number of groans she tried to sit up. Her body ached and she felt like she had been asleep under a rock.
"Careful Odalia.", the two did their best to support the oracle to sit up. Both were relieved that she was okay.
"Where am I?", looking around she saw the trees and bushes around, "I...what happened?"
"You...we're in the forest.", explaining how, after she had left the school, the two went off searching for her and found her in the clutches of the Grometheus and nearly getting sucked into its body.
"Now we're trapped and the Grometheus...isn't too happy.", and was now off searching for them.
"Are you okay?", Alador watched as Odalia brought her knees up to her chest and wrapped her arms around them, "Odalia?", for what seemed like the longest minutes the oracle just sat in silence. Not talking, only laying her forehead against her knee. Hiding her face from the two.
"Are you hurt? Do you need to take you to the healers?", Alador tried to find what was bothering her. After the ordeal, she must have been in shock or worse.
"We need to move.", the Grometheus was still out in the forest.
"Okay.", Alador nodded, "Odalia let's go back to the school.", but she didn't move, "Dalia?"
"You two go.", she said, her face still hidden from the two, "I'm not going back."
"Not going? What are you talking about?"
"I'm not going back to school. I can't go back.", her voice was little more than a whisper at times, "Just leave me here."
"What are you talking about? We're not leaving you.", it's the reason they came.
"Yeah, not sure if you noticed, but there is a creature that feeds on fear out in the forest.", and no doubt hunting them, "Maybe we can have this 'moment' where it's safe."
"Odalia? Why won't you come with us?", she wasn't making any sense, "The Grometheus-"
"Was right.", she finished, "I'm a failure. Because of me. Because I am too weak. I deserve to be out here.", and be devoured by the creature.
"The Grometheus just said those things to mess with your head.", Alador tried to snap her out of the haze she was obviously in.
"No. It's true. I'm being punished for my failures.", she stated as though it was fact, "I even brought you both down with me.", and now they all were going to suffer, "Just go. You both are stronger than I am. You have a chance to escape.", and survive, "Just leave me here. I'm no use to you or anyone."
"Stop talking like that!", he couldn't stand to see her like she was, "Your not weak."
"I am."
"Odalia.", Alador continued to try to talk sense into the oracle.
"I can't even face her.", even a fake one with her face, "She was right..."
'You always seem to find a way to disappointment me.'
"I'm not going to let it hurt you.", not anymore, "I'll protect you. With all the power I have."
"Children~"
"It found us!"
Darius backed away from the Grometheus as it slithered through the bushes. It's from walking towards them.
"Looks like the game is over! And you've all lost!", swinging its arm it released arrow-like projectiles toward the three.
Using her powers she created an energy shield to block the Grometheus projectiles.
"A barrier?"
"It won't hold for long.", she had only so much energy left.
"And escaping is off the table.", especially with the Grometheus attacking.
"So what do we do?", they were out of options.
"The Grometheus feeds off fear.", drawing power from its prey from their worst and deepest fears, "We'll have to defeat the Grometheus in order to survive."
"How?", they couldn't even attack it or make much of a dent in it. Not for trying.
"Then we'll just have to face it the other way.", Darius said, "We need to confront our fears."
"Maybe now is not the time-"
"Time is what we don't have.", and it was ticking down fast before the barrier broke, "If we face our fears then it will weaken the monster and we can have a chance to get out alive."
"Well that shouldn't be hard.", given the possibility that what they feared didn't make things worse, "I guess...I don't like big crowds.", he didn't really care for overly sociable activities or just people judging him in general.
"And I can't stand disorderly places.", most people know of Darius's dislike of dirt and messes.
"Odalia?", the two looked at the oracle still tucked into herself.
"I couldn't even get a date to the dance.", she said after a long moment of silence.
"That's it?", Darius didn't sound like that was an impressive fear.
"Darius.", Alador seemed to chastise the other boy.
"No offense, but that isn't a fear.", it was more of bad luck of circumstance, "But, the Grometheus did go after Odalia specifically.", to the point of following her into the forest and transforming into her mother, "There has to be something more."
"Not that it matters...", given the position they were in, "For over a week I've been trying to find a date to Grom.", explaining how after the person she wanted to ask was 'unavailable', she tried to find a date. But, every time she was either rejected or avoided like she had the plague. It was both frustrating and embarrassing, "Worse is that when my mother found out I couldn't get a date she was...less than enthused.", to put it mildly, "Hopely when the Grometheus eats me it will be a mercy.", compared to what awaited her when her mother got a hold to her.
Just thinking about it made her curl further into herself. Muffled whimpers and cries could be heard.
"Dal. Please don't cry.", Alador tried to comfort his friend, hating seeing her so fragile and hurt. It pained him to know that she was in pain of any kind, "I'm sorry Odalia.", he apologized suddenly, moving closer to the oracle, "This is all my fault."
"What are you talking about?", even muttered, the question came out clear.
"Well-I might have had something to do with you not having a date.", Alador admitted, "Nothing too serious.", he tried to downplay, "I just...mentioned that perhaps they might want to look elsewhere for a date. And that you were...off limits."
"You...what?"
"I may have...did talk to some of the guys you were going to ask you.", admitting that he had spoken to the boys that Odalia might have been thinking of asking out, "Darius told me it was okay to do."
"Don't bring me into this.", Darius slapped him on the shoulder.
"You told me to confront them.", Alador reminded the other boy.
"Hey, if I didn't you would have actually killed someone.", or multiple people.
"So you, both of you, threatened and nearly killed every boy that tried to ask me out for a date?", she looked between the boys. Her eyes reddened from crying and mascara running.
"No exactly..."
"What do you call encasing two people in abomination goo, sticking them in a tree, and leaving them in the forest?", Darius had to release and basically do damage control after Alador had left them in the forest. By some miracle, he was never caught.
"The same thing as you call putting three players of the Grudgby team in the nurse's offices on 'accident'.", having witnessed three boys getting hit in the face during practice after Darius 'spiked' the ball too hard during passes and blocks.
"Okay, those were accidents.", for the first two. The third one was collateral damage at the very least.", but they were all fine the last he checked, "You were literally taking people and leaving in the forest."
"So you both were sabotaging me?", keeping her from getting a date, "Why would you do that?"
"I'm sorry Odalia.", Alador looked down in shame at what he had done.
"I was just trying to prevent Alador from getting arrested or worse.", Darius stated, "...But, I guess I was worried about you.", especially in the boys that tried to ask her to the dance.
A roar interrupted the confession moment. Reminding them of the creature still trying to get through the barrier.
"Almost forgot about that."
"We need to work together.", combining their powers would allow them a boost and give them the necessary strength they needed to defeat the Grometheus, "You in?", Alador held his hand out to Darius.
"If it means ending this nightmare.", Darius gave a trusting smirk and placed his in the inventors.
"Odalia?"
Blue eyes looked up. meeting the yellow eyes of the abomination inventor. Holding out his hand, offering for her to take it. Slowly she brought her hand up, debating whether or not to take it.
"Trust me Dalia.", with pleading eyes he looked into blues eyes.
As the barrier finally gave way, pieces of energy cracked and faded away.
The Grometheus growled, watching as the dome disappeared. Revealing the three individuals standing before them. Darius and Alador were in front, while Odalia was behind them. One hand on her seer stone.
"Children.", it growled from its form.
With his hand in his, both boys looked at each other and nodded. Drawing close in a starting embrace they prepared to face the creature.
The Grometheus took the first attack. Launching a strike from its body, shooting it toward the boys. Together they moved back from the attack. The creature continued to launch its body at them. They moved together in a fluid dance and even finish with a pose. Dodging the creature as they glided across the forest floor. When the attacks looked like they would hit one of the boys would use their powers to block the attack with the abomination gunk.
"I think it's working.", the creature was weakening. Barely able to keep its form and become nothing more than a mass of muk with little features other than large white circles for eyes.
The fear-devouring creature grumbled and growled. Watching the young witches that continued to fight them, defy them. The two boys proved to be the biggest threat to it. With their combined powers countering anything it could throw at them.
And then...
It looked over at the green-haired girl on the ground. The one it had been chasing and nearly finished consuming until the boys came. She hadn't been fighting. And it could still smell the fear within her.
The fight wasn't lost yet.
Crouching down, it went to launch itself at the two boys. Both prepared to deflect the attack. But, as they summoned their magic, the Grometheus moved. Stretching itself over the two, it headed toward Odalia.
"Odalia!?", both boys used their powers to go after the Grometheus as it made a dash for the oracle. So focused on saving her they didn't notice pieces of the creature behind them until it was too late. They were ensnared by the creature. Trapping them in the bindings of their own body. Odalia tried to use her own powers but was tackled by the main part of the body. Seeing it morph back into her mother.
"Hiding behind your little friends? How pathetic.", it mocked her, "Now, you get to watch as your friends die!", she laughed, holding Odalia to watch as Alador and Darius were being crushed.
"No!No!No!", she cried, struggling to get free.
"Dalia!", both boys struggled and cried out as their bodies were being held.
Odalia cried. Her friends were in trouble. Her friends were going to die.
Her friends. Her friends. Her...
"Get away. Get away from my friends!", the oracle's eyes were illuminated in pink and the stone on her dress sparked with a mass amount of energy. The bindings boiled and began crumbling away. The Grometheus yelped in pain and quickly shoot away from the intensity.
Even Darius and Alador, now released from their bindings, looked stunned seeing Odalia in such a state. She was floating in the air and a massive specter right behind her as she toward over the creature.
"...Woah."
"Dalia?"
"Y-You...fear...me.", the creature's voice was murky and struggled to stay coherent. With a motion of her hand, she summoned a mass of energy, reforming it into a giant hand, that scooped up the creature.
"Compared to her. You are nothing.", closing her hand the energy specter responded in a similar manner and crushed the Gromethemus in its grasp. The mass exploded into puddles of goo that splattered onto the clearing.
Both boys watched, speechless, after witnessing the power displayed by the oracle. As the energy began to wane down, Odalia began returning back. Seeing this both boys rushed to make sure she got back to the ground safely. Both boys kept close to her to help her steady herself.
"We got you, Dalia."
Believing the worst was over the three didn't see as the Grometheus began pulling itself back together. Globs of its body reform into a mass of mixed-up pieces.
"Doesn't that thing ever quit.", apparently it didn't know when to take a hint and just take a loss.
"Guess we'll have to teach it.", Odalia spoke.
"But, Dalia...", Alador tried to protest that the oracle fought in her condition.
"Don't fret over me Alador.", Odalia offered a small, but knowing smile, "Now, let's see if you two can keep up with me.", offering them both her hand. Both boys finally caught on and each took one of her hands. From her stone, she summoned any energy she had left and channeled it between the three of them.
Both boys were surprised by the sudden boost.
"Not bad shortstack."
"Your really amazing Odalia."
"Save it for after we finish off this pest!"
As the Grometheus roared, it launched itself for one final attack. The three young witches stood against the creature, unfretted or feared.
Darius and Alador created a large, single circle of energy. Odalia built up magic in her stone. As the creature came closer and closer, the three launched all three of their attacks.
Odalia's specter shot out, followed by the abomination gunk that whirled around it in a spiral of pink and purple.
Connecting with the Gromethus the creature was pushed back. The force sent up towards the sky. The monster let out a deafening scream as it was launched into the night sky. Exploding into a miraculous hue of colors that burst and sparkle through the night sky.
"Did we do it?", was it finally over?
Seeing that the attack was enough to launch it into the sky, the three breathed a sigh of relief.
"Oh thank Titan.", it as over.
The two boys felt Odalia suddenly fall back, they managed to catch her at the last minute. Allowing her to be laid on the forest floor. After using the combined spell the oracle was no doubt exhausted.
"Dal?"
Odalia was silent for a few moments before she slowly began to stir. Opening her eyes with a flutter she stared up at the faces of her friends, Alador and Darius, looking down on her with what she could come to recognize as worry and relief.
"Alador? Darius?", she blinked.
"You're, okay.", both boys gave relieved looks seeing Odalia had awakened.
"What happened to the Grometheus?"
"We kicked its butt or whatever it has.", Darius explained, relieved the fight was finally over.
"Are you okay Odalia?", Alador asked.
Odalia blushed as she saw the position she was in between the two boys.
"Y-Yeah, I'm fine. Just a bit tired.", she replied. The battle took a lot out of her.
"I'm glad you're okay.", Alador gave a small smile, before reaching into his jacket pocket, "Um...there's also-"
Odalia blushed, seeing the purple paper in the witch's hand.
"What's that?", Darius asked.
"I found it after Odalia left...", and Alador picked it up off the floor, "I recognized the handwriting.", he could never forget the elegant penmanship of the oracles.
'...Will You Go To Grom With Me'
And the top of the note had been torn off.
"You had someone you wanted to ask out?"
"Yeah...I did.", she admitted, "A boy a really liked."
"I'm sorry you didn't get a chance to ask your crush to the dance.", Alador apologized for his actions to sabotage all of her possible dates.
"Titan you are dense.", Darius sighed at the other boy's obliviousness.
"Huh?"
"You, Alador.", Darius said, "Odalia wanted to ask you to Grom."
"Me?", he pointed to himself, "Is that true? Odalia?"
"Yes.", she admitted, "I was going to ask you to Grom.", even made an entire plan to propose, "But, you had already asked Darius.", and Darius had accepted. And while she was upset, she couldn't really show it. Less she causes more problems. So, she bottled up her feelings and tried to move on. In a sense attempting to cover a wound with a bandaid. Even some of the boys that tried to court her didn't make her feel any better or anything close to 'happy'.
"I guess I know why most of the boys were avoiding me."
"Um...yeah. I might have gone overboard.", Alador scratched his cheek, "Sorry Dal."
"Why were you so upset with someone asking me to Grom?, Odalia questioned the boy's reasons for the campaign to keep her without a date.
"It was nothing.", he blushed in embarrassment, "I guess I didn't like when other boys liked you.", just seeing the boys trying to get close to her or even flirting made his blood run cold and boil at the same time. He knew the appeal of his friend. She was smart, pretty, and full of ideas.
It's what he loved about her.
"I just hated the thought of someone else liking you.", and trying to get her affection for themselves.
"So you were jealous?", the answer was plain on the boy's face.
"Very much so.", Darius confirmed.
"I wasn't that bad.", Alador denied.
"Is that why you were staring daggers at any boy that came up to Odalia.", he reminded.
"I just didn't like those guys.", he didn't trust them from the moment they approached her. He could feel that they weren't right for her and had their own motives for trying to ask her out.
"Really? I didn't notice.", he wasn't even hiding her sarcasm.
"So you sabotaged me getting a date because you didn't like the boys that were asking me?"
"I didn't like them.", and he still didn't.
"Alador.", she sighed, "That still isn't a reason for chasing away potential dates."
"I know, but I still don't think those guys were right for you."
"Why?"
"Because they just...weren't.", it was the only way he could describe it. They only saw her as a possession or something to acquire. To use her for her name or powers. And the way they talked about her. Looked at her as prey they could snatch up and feast on.
He wanted to end them all. Crush them and bring their remains to her. Laying them at her feet. Testaments to his skill and want to protect her.
He would have done it too if it pleased her.
"I know what I did might not have been the best, but I'm not ashamed of doing it.", and didn't regret the decision of keeping her dateless, "I wanted to protect you. I do anything to make you happy.", as long as he was the one doing it, "You're special to me."
"As a friend.", just a simple friend.
"Maybe more than that.", he placed his hand over hers.
Blues eyes, surprised by the gesture, looked into the yellow hues full of hope and truth.
"More?", he wanted to be more than friends. With her?
Alador nodded. A blush on his cheeks.
"I...really like you Odalia. More than words can say.", even now he felt like there were butterflies in his stomach, "I like the blue in your eyes. Your laugh. When you remind me to eat and even feed me during projects. And when you let me nap on your nap when I feel tired.", and soothe him by petting his head, "You listen about my projects and inventions.", seeing the way her face lit up when he showed her his new inventions.
"You're smart and coming up with plans.", making her one of the best strategists in school with how she planned everything out in advance, "But, what I really like is how confident you are.", holding herself up and not letting other's get her down, "Even when you do get upset, you find a way to come back.", like how she protected them from the Grometheus, "And I feel...happy being with you."
"I love you Odalia."
The oracle blushed at the confession.
"I think you broke her.", Darius pointed out the frazzled look on the oracle.
"Y-You...love...Alador...me.", she mumbled as her face turned a variety of shades of red.
"Dalia? Are you-", he never got to finish his question before Odalia seemed to compose herself, even mildly.
Fine!", she blurted out, "I'm fine. Just...absorbing everything.", she patted her cheeks a couple of times, "Do you mean that? You really l-love me?"
"I do.", he nodded in confirmation, "Since the first time I meet you, you did things to my heart.", she made him feel special. Like he could do anything, "I can't explain it, but you're special to me. And I want to stay with you.", for as long as he could. Leaning over he placed a kiss on her cheek.
Odalia let out a squeak at the sudden kiss. Her face heated up again. Even as he drew back the energy from the kiss warmed her body.
"I see.", was all she could say, "I admit I do have feelings for you.", even after he asked Darius to Grom. Suddenly a thought crossed her mind, "Wait, if you like me, why did you ask Darius to Grom?", she questioned.
Alador blushed.
"I...like Darius too.", he admitted that he had developed feelings for his best friend and rival. Even as he started liking Odalia his feelings for his friend never disappeared or faltered.
"So you like both of us."
Alador nodded.
"I know it's not normal. Liking to people at the same time. I just...didn't know how to...", explain himself without hurting someone, "I wanted to tell you. Both of you. But, i thought if I did everyone wouldn't like it.", and it would cause trouble for all of them.
"Alador.", Odalia began, "As I said before. The words of the masses are completely irrelevant. You are far over the opinions of everyone else."
"?"
"What Dalia means is you shouldn't worry about what everyone else thinks.", Darius summarized.
"So...you're not upset?"
"Aside from you actively and purposely sabotaging my dating life, I would be remised if I wasn't a bit annoyed at you.", Odalia said, "The both of you.", adding that Darius wasn't off the hook either, "Honestly, Alador, you could have just talked to me."
"I know. I just...thought you wouldn't want to be around anymore if you knew.", it terrified him of what Odalia would think of him and how she would react if she knew the truth, "I'm sorry."
"Honestly.", she sighed, "While I'm still cross about what you did.", and would hold it over both of them until the end of time, "I can't help but also find it rather sweet. In an oddly overprotective kind of way. But, sweet non the less."
"Really?"
Odalia gave a single nod.
"G-Great.", he smiled, "Also...I know it's a bit late, but...will you be my...our Grom date?", he asked.
"Our?", she looked at Darius.
"Yeah, why not.", he shrugged a bit. Plus after all, they had to go through it seemed only right, "It'll be fun with all three of us together."
"So would you like that?", both boys looked at Odalia for an answer.
"We'll I suppose.", Odalia smiled a bit, "I'll be your Grom date.", both boys smiled as they brought her into a hug.
"Oh sweet pea~", a voice cut the moment short.
Three sets of eyes turned to see a figure stepping out of the forest and into the clearing.
"M-Mother?"
"The Grometheus is back!"
"Seriously?", it was like a never-ending nightmare.
"No.", Odalia said, "That's not the Grometheus.", but how she wished it was.
"Children.", Idalia spoke, "I hoped I'm not interrupting. I happened upon this little scene after your little fireworks display.", indicating she had witnessed the creature exploding in the sky, "Would you care to explain what happened here tonight? I believe you were to be at a dance, not a fight in the forest.", noting the damage she had passed to find them, "And just look what you've done to your dress.", she added her daughter's appearance.
"Mrs. Brightmare, mam, it...wasn't Odalia's fault. The Grometheus...", Alador tried to explain what had happened.
"While I commend your performance, mistakes aside, I still told you about keeping an eye on my Sweet Pea. Which you both failed to do.", as noted by her appearance, "Now I believe it's time to return home. Say goodbye to your little friends."
"B-But mom...i...", Odalia spoke up, "I wanted to go back to the dance.", feeling Alador and Darius holding her hand for courage, "Please let me stay."
Idalia laughed at that, "Of course not. I will not allow my daughter to return to a place with individuals who obviously cannot keep their word.", using her powers she picked up her daughter and began pulling her towards her. Odalia gasped as the boys held onto her. Trying to prevent her from being taken away.
"Now none of that. This is for your own good. We'll have a full conversation back home."
When things looked like they would end would Idalia taking her daughter away, she felt a hand on her shoulder. Finding her husband having come right behind her.
"Something wrong dear?", she looked at her husband. Without a word, he used his powers to disrupt her own. Releasing Odalia and allowing her to be pulled back to her friends.
"Asher?"
"You made a deal with your daughter. You must honor it.", her husband reminded his wife of her own words, "Also, it seems are daughter is actually happy.", pointing out how the two boys were tending to Odalia. As she smiled, genuinely, at them.
"With them?"
"You might not see it at the moment, but those boys bring out a special energy from her.", he noted, "A power that could be beneficial to you in the future if it continues to grow."
"Of course, dear.", Idalia smiled, placing a kiss on her husband's cheek, before turning her attention back to her daughter and her two...suitors, "It would seem she found a prince after all. Two."
With that in mind, she quickly teleported herself before the three young witches.
"Mother.", Odalia gulped a bit.
"It seems you've had quite the night.", noting the damage in the forest.
"Mother I..."
"You shouldn't blame her. She was only protecting us."
"Please don't take her away."
"I see.", she smiled, "That's perfectly fine!"
"Huh?"
"I figured a mess would arise from this little group date. But, I must say the results were quite interesting.", in its own way, "Aside from your appearance, I'm quite impressed by your magical growth."
"R-Really?", Odalia looked generally surprised at her mother's compliment.
"Of course. I expect more improvements when the time comes.", reaching down she pet Odalia on her head.
"But, remember what I said, boys. Never break a promise to a Brightmare."
"Alright off to the dance with you all.", she instructed, cutely shooing the three back towards the dance, "I'll still expect you back home and a full detail of how it all went.", she squealed through her smile, "Have fun children!", with a snap the students were transported back into the hallway of the school. Their clothes had been fixed into a matching set for all three of them and wounds healed, much to their relief and surprise.
"Your mom is..."
"Insane.", Darius finished.
"Trust me I know.", Odalia was just relieved her mother wasn't upset with her and seemed to approve of her new relationship with Alador and Darius. And allowed her to continue to Grom.
"You guys ready to get back to the dance?", as before he offered his hands to the two his hands to take. And just like before they accepted. And with assurance, the three walked together back to the dance. Instead of being apart, the three kept close. Even sharing in a dance together.
"Now that the Grometheus has been defeated.", and for some reason won't come out from under the school, "It is now time to officially crown the Queen and or King of Grom!", Vice Principle Bump announced as the students and faculty cheered, "Now then, by a majority vote, the winner is...", the vice principal opened the envelope and took out the paper with the winner, "Oh! What a surprise. It seems we have a three-way tie!", the crowd gasped at the announcement.
"Along with Darius as Grom King. Alador Blight and Odalia Brightmare have been elected as King and Queen. Congratulations!"
"We won?", all three students were crowned as the other students and faculty clapped as the spotlight came down over the three friends.
As the shock of their victory wore off, the three began celebrating their victory.
As the night went on the three friends managed to slip away from the dance and onto the roof. Allowing themselves to spend a peaceful moment together. Looking up at the stars and moon high above. While sharing kisses as they cuddle together and basked in their new dynamic.
And while they were only beginning their new relationship together, hopefully, they would have remained this way and more in the future.
A future as one.
The End
This was going to be in 2-3 chapters. But, I just compiled it into one story. It would have been something if they actually made them a poly-couple/dynamic in the show. Though, considering it was on the Disney Network that basically oozes hypocrisy now...and is a kids show. I'm guessing it wouldn't fly. I mean besides the other things they let fly in a labeled kids show from a quote, 'family friendly network'.
The ending was kind of rushed because I spent so much time on the fight scene and wanted to finish this story.
Anyway, thank you for the support and please remember to comment, review, add suggestions for future stories, and leave a kudos.
Until Next Time