Luz and Amity walked over to check on Ed and Em only to find Kim already at work with a pair of circles assessing and healing the pair. With her having to focus, Skara took charge of the coverasion as she pulled Luz and Amity into a strong hug. "You two were awesome. I've never seen anything like that before. Amity, when did you learn how to incorporate fire into your Abominations, and Luz I didn't know you could use advanced Beast Keeping magic. Why are you going into Construction with skills like that?" asked Skara.
"Skara, I don't think…" Amity started, but Luz just sighed, and shook her head.
"Skara, I'm going to be learning every type that I can, but to do that I need to find a tutor in every class who is willing to break the rules. I think I've got a solid pick for a few of them like abominations, illusions, plant, healing, and bard if you want to help. That just leaves beastkeeping, construction, and oracle. I like Matt, but he isn't a teacher, and hopefully either Kim or I can convince Viney to take beastkeeping since she is crazy good at it. That just leaves oracle, but that might be rough. Amity is trying to pick it up, but maybe Celine… It sucks, we don't know any other powerful oracles that don't suck like Obitchla," sighed Luz.
Luz suddenly heard movement behind her and saw Fenris shambling over, and collapsed nearby. "If you need a teacher in the arts of oracle and shadow magic I would happily volunteer my services once I have had time to recuperate, my Lady, and I am a fair hand in beast magic as well. If you can find and free my other parts we should be able to assist in the others. My knowledge may be a bit out of date, but it is at your disposal."
Luz smiled, "Thanks Fen. How many other parts are there, and do you know where they are? Any information you can give could be helpful."
Fenris let out a long breath, "There are two other parts like me, Draconis and Pyrus. They are my mind and heart respectively, but I can only theorize about where they are. Perhaps asking a dragon, basilisk, or one of Pyrus's demon birds about where their progeniture is kept could help, but beyond that I'm afraid I can not be of much assistance. Without Draconis and her knowledge I must admit my mind remains hazy, and Pyrus holds the lionshare of our power so as you saw my combat potential is sadly limited. For now, I think it would be best if I rest with an old ally if she still lives. Do you know if Ivana the Bat Queen still remains free?"
Luz smiles, "There is only one Bat Queen as far as I know. Large, dark hair, kind of looks like a flying head. Does that sound right?"
Fenris smiles slightly, "That is her. In that case, I will head there for the time being, with your permission, my Lady." Luz nodded, and Fenris disappeared into the shadows.
Luz laughed, "He's an odd pupper, but I think he'll fit right in. Anyway, Kim, how are our grandes hermanos looking?"
"Don't worry about us. We've taken harder punishments from Odalia," laughed Ed, causing an awkward silence in the room. "Ya, bad choice of words, but still true. Gotta ask though, did a very large talking dog just disappear into the shadows, or do I have a concussion?"
"Both actually, you're also missing a fair bit of blood, but it doesn't look like Ebonclaw did anything besides tenderizing and sipping so you both should be fine in a few hours… which is good because we have school in about six to seven hours… great," groaned Kim.
Luz laughed, "Oh please, like this would be your first all nighter this month, much less this week Professor. Worst case scenario I can take a sip of espresso…"
"YOU WILL NOT. Dammit Luz that stuff gave one subject a heart attack, and the others were in a coma for three days once it wore off. Never and I mean never drink the espresso potion. It's not safe, and we have no idea how it would affect your magic," yelled Kim.
Skara and Amity hugged there partners as they said, "Let's just get back to camp." The duo gave each other a surprised look before chuckling.
"I think we spend too much time around twins. We are starting to think like them," giggled Amity.
Skara sighed, "I for one couldn't pick a cooler witch to be my 'twin' so no complaints here." Amity and Skara gave each other a half hug. Before they started their long walk back to camp.
When they arrived they saw a woman waiting for them that Amity and Luz recognized, but when she saw their looks of concern she only laughed, sounding like icicles ringing off each other. With a gentle smile the Yuki-onna said, "I just wanted to thank you. I know it wasn't your intent, but when you freed Master Fenris you caused enough of a weakness in Ebon's power for me to escape them. I'll be returning home soon, but I noticed your magic," she pointed to Luz, "And I think I can offer you a gift." The Yuki-onna swirled her hand, and a glyph took shape in the air. "Also, while I am dreadfully against being bound once more, if you gain enough power, call to me, and I will attempt to help. My name is Ginger. My magic is fading so I must go, but thank you again young royals." With that she scattered into diamond-like snow and blew away.
Luz took a moment to absorb what Ginger said before cautiously drawing the glyph, and to her surprise a pillar of ice rose from it. Luz chuckled, "Score. That makes four glyphs. I can't wait to experiment with it." Luz gave Amity a half lidded look, "But I think we should get out of these clothes first." When Amity blushed, Luz added with a snort, "Can't make my grand debut in corpse-y smelling clothes. I might make you look bad, mi amor."
Amity giggled, "A very cute girl told me once, "Screw the haters', but I will admit they are a bit ripe. Ok hun, let's get ready to turn some heads."
"I hope their trip went well," said Gus as he waited with Willow by the treeline in front of Hexside.
"Don't worry about it Gus. I'm sure they just had a bit of fun, and did some training. What's the worst that… could… have… happened," reassured Willow before her eyes went wide, and her mouth went slack.
Walking up to them were their favorite quartet of girls, but each of them was wearing some new accessories. Kim and Skara were wearing a matching set of gold hair ties covered in black and red stars. While Amity and Luz each had half of a pair of spiked wristbands on, that only added to the punk look they had going on since Luz was wearing her beanie, and Amity had washed the green out of her hair, and was wearing it down and free along with some new lilac-purple eyeshadow. None of these things would have caused Willow much pause, but when she saw the marks on each of their necks she nearly passed out.
Gus just looked on stunned, before gasping out a, "Since when was this a thing? Oh my Titan, you all look great, and… are those marks?"
The Noceda's smirked before giving their partners a small kiss on the cheek, and Kim saying, "When you find your Queen you give her what she wants, and apparently they wanted to try something… Dominican. Might I say, I think we got the better end of this situation cuz look at my estrella. She positively glows."
"No regrets here either. What about you, mi hermosa novia?" asked Luz coyly.
Amity looked offended, "As if there could ever be a better girl for me, my Chaos Queen, but I have to disagree. Skara and I are the lucky ones. We managed to snatch up the sexist twins in the whole Demon realm." Skara just nodded as she gave Kim another small kiss.
"We heard that," said Ed and Em as they finally caught up, still a little pale, but mostly ok.
"Sorry guys, but they got you beat, and honestly, ew. You're my siblings, I can't call you sexy, that's just wrong," snarked Amity, before sticking her tongue out.
Willow finally recovered and gave her friends a strong hug as she giggled, "This is great, but are you ready? When people see this… there's going to be a lot of talk."
"Good, let them talk. The sooner they get it out of their systems the better," said Luz with a deadpan voice, but fire in her eyes as if already ready to start busting heads.
Amity gave Luz a small kiss, "Calm down, my Titaness, nobody is going to start anything, and if they do…" Amity smiled wickedly and gave Luz a small wink, "I want the first shot. Otherwise it will be over too soon."
Luz scooped Amity up and spun her, "Best girlfriend ever. Your so cute when your feisty." Making Amity giggle.
Walking tall and comfortably for the first time Amity led everyone into school with her awesome girlfriend's hand still held tenderly in her own. As they walked they left ripples of conversation behind them as people were awed or confused by what they saw. Some were amazed by the powerful way they moved through the halls, like royalty or Titans. People were used to how Boscha and Amity's old crew used to walk around, but this was different, less intimidating and more awe inspiring. A lot of people gave them small smiles, and waves as they passed which would have never happened before, but what really got people talking, beyond the obvious marks, was that they seemed to try to smile or wave back, and actually acknowledged the onlookers. They never gave off the familiar aura of unreachable superiority or made anyone feel lesser in their presence.
Slowly the group separated to get to their individual classes, but nobody missed the very public displays of affection they made as they did, mostly hugs between friends or siblings, but tender kisses between partners. As Luz walked into her Construction class she found an excited Matt waiting for her with a bag in one hand, and a couple drinks in the other, "Morning Boss. Heard you and Blight are together. Nice job, but I never took you for the upper class type. Anyway, thought you might have forgotten to grab breakfast this morning so I made sure to grab an extra Chicolisk claw and a hot chocosmilk if you're interested."
Luz gave the shorter boy a side hug, and ruffled his hair, "You Matt, are a good one. You're right I did forget with everything going on, but don't go making a habit of this. I appreciate you looking out, but as I said before it's not necessary. I'll bring you something cool to try next time, ok?"
Mat smiled, as he said, "You're the boss. By the way, be nice to everyone else for the next few hours. Somebody decided to tag some projects again so they might be a bit testy."
Luz's mood dropped as she let out a small growl, "I think not." With an angry glare Luz made it over to the Professor and Forman as she stated, "Heard we got an artist, and they keep leaving presents where they are not wanted. Is there anyone who keeps receiving every time?"
"Love the energy Luz, but we got this. Leave it to us," chuckled the Professor.
Luz gave him a stern look, "I don't doubt it, but that's not what I asked. This is my track, and that makes this group my crew… Nobody messes with my crew. Let me do my thing. I'll find out what's up, and if it's something that requires the hammer," Luz smirked, "I'll let you swing it."
The Professor and Forman looked at each other before chuckling, "Ok Luz, show us what you got. Batroc over there is always targeted one way or another, but light touch. He can be a bit flighty." Luz nodded and made her way over to the four eyed bat-like demon student.
"Morning. Batroc right? I hear you are having a bit of difficulty with an artist always messing with your projects. I'm really sorry to hear that," said Luz calmly and warmly to the clearly frustrated demon.
"An artist?! Try a scum sucking pain in my wing membranes. This is the sixth time they have done this, and that's just this month. This is getting so frustrating," Batroc seethed, before seeming to shrink a bit. "Sorry to yell. You're the new student, Liz Noceda, right?"
Luz laughed, "Close. It's Luz, but maybe I can help." Luz pulled a potion out of her bag, and carefully splashed some on some of the enchanted paint, removing it, but more importantly causing a small pool of yellow fluid at the bottom that Luz casually used a spell circle to return to the bottle. Pulling out a second potion she dripped a few drops in before caping and shaking it leading to a slightly glowing red potion. When Batroc looked at Luz confused she stated simply, "Tracking magic. Now that we have a sample the potion will glow in the presence of our artist. Keep it close, and report back when you find them so we can get answers, but either way. Don't sweat it. I'll find them before it happens again." Luz gave him a small shoulder punch, "Nobody messes with my crew." Batroc smiled and nodded as Luz walked back to the waiting pair.
The professor looked at Luz confused, "What was that about? What's with the potion?"
Luz laughed, "As the primary target it's probably someone he knows. The potion will glow when he gets close. We just have to keep an eye out for when he starts getting excited, and we will have our artist, or at least one of them." Luz smirked, "Once we have one it will send a message, and that's the real point."
The professor just laughed, "Sure, but why do you care? This is your first day. You don't know anyone or owe anyone anything?"
Luz smirked back, "First rule of being a boss, forman, or leader. If you look out fo your crew, they look out for you, and if I expect others to have my back, I had better stand tall while I have theirs."
"Forman, Luz is shadowing you today. Show her the ropes. I think we just found our Floor Boss," chuckled the professor.
Within half an hour Luz had the whole class working smoother than it had ever run before, and she proved shockingly competent at leading, both hands on and off. By lunch Luz practically had the whole class singing while they worked, everyone was so comfortable, and best of all no accidents. Even the students that usually had issues found themselves digging deeper, and doing things that they never believed possible before under Luz's tough but fair leadership.
All good things have to come to an end as on her way to lunch Luz found Batroc in a screaming match with a potions student, and when Luz saw how her potion was glowing she knew why. Like an oncoming storm Luz rushed forward and broke them up. When Batroc saw Luz he immediately calmed down, "Boss Luz, your potion worked. She's our artist, but she refuses to tell me why she keeps tagging our projects."
Luz gave him a firm glare, "You did well Batroc. Let me handle this. If you see Matt or one of my other friends let them know I'll be there soon." Batroc saluted as he ran off, and Luz watched the witch girl as he did. Once he was gone Luz sighed, "Really, this is how you choose to get his attention? Weak sauce. What's your name?"
The potion's track witch paled, "Lany, ma'ma."
Luz laughed, "And now you lose your nerve, double weak sauce. So I'm just going to come out and say it, and you had better not lie to me Lany. You got a thing for Batroc don't cha?"
Lany blushed, and she started to stutter a denial, but one look at Luz's intense gaze made her reconsider as she whispered, "Yah, but now he hates me. What am I going to do?" Lany let a couple tears escape.
Luz sighed, and gave her a half-hug, "What your going to do is walk with me to Bump, and tell him what's been going on. You tell Bump who else has been tagging my crew, and I'll help you with Batroc. Sound good?" With a small smile Lany nodded her head.
After explaining the situation to Bump, Lany was let go, but before Luz could join her Bump called her back. "Luz I appreciate you handling this in a civil way, but now I'm in a tough spot. You just admitted to mixing magic right to my face, and I hate this, but I'm going to have to put you in detention for the rest of the day. I'll let Prof. Stone know. I'm sorry, but.."
"If you don't follow the rules, how can you enforce them?" Luz scoffed, but smiled at Bump. "I don't like it, but I get it. No hard feelings, but in the future you're the one in charge. If you don't agree with a rule, change it. Isn't it our responsibility to make sure our rules are fair. Food for thought Princy B. Now lead me to my cell, Boss. If I'm not getting lunch I might as well get a nap."
When they arrived at the temporary detention room, apparently the detention beast was sick at the moment, Luz saw a familiar face. Luz gave Viney a small wave, but said nothing. This wasn't her first trip to detention, just her first one at Hexside. Within minutes of Bump leaving the teacher in charge of detention fell back asleep, and Luz watched as Viney indicated for Luz to join her while drawing a door on the chalkboard. After both of them crawled through the door that appeared in the board Luz found herself being hugged by the older teen.
"What did they get you on, Luz? I doubt you got in a fight because I didn't hear about any deaths this morning," Viney joked. "On that thought, congratulations. I heard about you and 'Ice Queen' Amity Blight."
Luz suddenly went stiff, and gave Viney a hard look, "I made a potion to help end the tagging problem in my track, but Viney… I like you, but I will fight anyone who talks guano about my lady love, and from your earlier statement we both know I fight to win." Viney paled making Luz snort, "Am I really that intimidating? Relax Viney. I could never hurt a friend. What got you thrown in here?"
Viney sighed, "I tried to mix healing and beastkeeping, but in her defense Puddles was being a good assistant. Speaking of which, come on out Barcus, Jerbo. I got a friend to introduce you to."
"And how do we know we can trust her?" asked a lanky male witch. "What do you think, Barcus?" Jerbo tried to ask the dog-like demon, but found him suddenly shaking as he stared at Luz. "Woe, what's wrong Barcus? What do you see?"
Luz tilted her head and knelt down, "Barcus, it's ok. I promise whatever you see I won't hurt you. I'm guessing you're an oracle. I'm sorry, for some reason your magic gets wonky around me and my sister. Barcus let out a few whines, and small barks.
Jerbo listens carefully before asking, "You sure bud." Barcus gave a confident bark. "Ok, so Barcus says your aura is unbelievably dense and heavy with power. He sees a mighty horned beast awash with thousands of stars and a crown of gold upon its head when he looks at you," states Jerbo.
Luz gave Barcus a kind smile, "That sounds… kinda beautiful actually. I doubt you meant it that way, but I have a girlfriend so I'm unavailable. You seem like a great guy though. Why are you in detention?"
Jerbo stated flatly, "I was caught mixing plant and abomination magic. The same for Barcus except he mixed oracles and potions. Why can't we just learn both?"
Luz sat back with a smile, "Actually my sister and I are working on something for that. We intend to set up a little after school project, and you guys are more than invited to join. As a matter of fact I was hoping Viney would agree to be our beastkeeping tutor."
Jerbo scoffed, "Who would be willing to help do that?"
Luz laughed, "Can you keep a secret?" The three detention trackers nodded. "Kim and I live with Eda 'The Owl Lady' and she's kind of our mentor, and because of that we were banned from joining the potions track. Between her and us we have enough potions knowledge to outshine even old Flasky. Beyond that, basically all of my friends are a part of it. Even those that aren't interested in learning other tracks can still use the concepts to bolster their knowledge. Like who else but a potions master can make a better abomination goo, or an oracle to give it a bit more will and life. Jerbo you better then anyone understands how much adding even the most basic plant skeleton can strengthen an abomination, but why not take it a step further. Using beastkeeping you can create a more varied army with more unique attributes."
The three looked at Luz like she was blowing their minds at all the possibilities out there, but then Viney asked sheepishly, "But isn't that Wild Magic at that point?"
Luz scoffed, "Of all people I thought you three would understand how stupid that title is, and congrats you all already study more than one, so wild or mixing what's the difference? All magic is wild until you direct it or give it purpose. I get it if you don't want in, but I only ask that we keep each other's secrets." Luz snicked, "Just let me know, or look me up on pinsta i'm Luzura. In the meantime my friends probably think I'm bored out of my mind being locked in that room all day, unable to even breathe without permission."
Luz looked around for a bit until Viney asked, "What are you looking for?"
"Just the door to the cafeteria before lunch ends. I need to give my girl a kiss or she might not have the energy to make it through the rest of the day," said Luz dismissively until she found the right door. "Jackpot. Frunce los labios hermosa, tu luz está llegando. (Pucker up gorgeous, your Luz is coming.)" Luckily the door Luz found was by the trash monsters so when Amity came over, looking disappointed, to throw away her garbage she found herself being pulled inside. At first she was going to struggle, but then she heard her favorite person say, "Well hey there hermosa. Did you miss me?"
Amity pulled Luz into a tender kiss before saying, "Answer your question. Where were you? I heard from some guy named Batroc you would be late, but… who are they?"
Luz giggled, "There was a small problem in my class. I got it dealt with peacefully, but I kinda… got myself put in detention for the rest of the day. It's not a big deal, but I just thought I should let my awesome girlfriend know I'm ok. Did I miss anything?"
Amity sighed, "There is a surprise inspector from the Emperor's coven here. Me and some of the others are going to have to put on a demonstration for her in about twenty minutes. Beyond that not much. I think Boscha is looking for you though so… please don't break her before I can. I'm guessing she wants to fight, but I can't say for sure."
Luz gave Amity a kiss on her nose, "You just can't help being adorable can you, but if that's what mi novia wants I will try. I'll also try to find the door to the auditorium so I can watch you wow this inspector mi amor. So go break a leg… maybe Bosca's, and I'll see you later." Carefully Luz helped Amity back out of the door before closing it behind her. When she looked back she saw three very swoony teens looking at her. "What?"
"You two are so adorable," cooed Viney, and Barcus let out a few barks.
"Barcus says your aura seems to glow when your together, and even I'll admit you two do seem cute together," said Jerbo.
Luz smiled, "She's my one and only. Anyway we have a show to watch. Anyone know where the Auditorium door is?"
Fifteen minutes later Barcus, Jerbo, Viney, and Luz were sitting by an open door that lead to the ceiling of the Auditorium with snacks from out of Luz's bag, and Luz was using the time to teach Barcus and Jerbo a bit about one of the potions she came up with that could be useful both as an added component in Jerbo's abomination's, but also as a booster to Barcus's brews. Viney just watched on as her best friends quickly grew to appreciate Luz the same way she did. It might have started with Kim, but Viney couldn't help feeling like the Noceda twins had become dear to her. She wondered if this is what it felt like to be an older sister, but that's when she heard the shift in the scene below, and she quickly waved the others over.
The show began with Boscha and her dazzling demonstration as she used four cauldrons to mix, and create thousands of multicolored bubbles that contained small bits of elemental magic within. As the bubbles collided or popped they further mixed or released small spatteres of magic like fire and ice combining to create flashes of lightning and thunder or bursts of multicolored steam. With her performance done Boscha bowed, and pulled her cauldrons off stage shooting Willow a nasty look.
Next was Willow and to the surprise of everyone she came out with only a standard flower pot no bigger than a bread box. After setting it down she drew a green spell circle, and a single violet came to life before shrinking back in apparent fear, a Shrinking Violet. As Willow began to take a bow much to Bump's horror the pot suddenly shook as a massive plant golem sprang from the pot, and placed the violet in Willow's hair as a second flower popped up in her pot, a red carnation. After a moment another plant golem rose and did as its predecessor did before joining it behind the pot. Lastly a black rose appeared, but instead of rising it seemed to pull in all of the previous plants until the pot shook and shattered, and a plant dragon took form with an eye made of a violet and the other a red carnation. It was covered in black rose's as scales and thorns for fangs and claws. Once it was done flexing and dazzling its audience as it scattered wafting fragrances of beauty it approached Willow, and wrapped her in its wings before bursting to reveal Willow with a crown of flowers with the three flowers prominent like jewels and a cape of verdant vines and ivy. As Willow took her real bow she caught sight of Luz, and with a small smirk and spell a purple rose appeared in Luz's hair.
Unlike Boscha's performance, which Barcus had declared interesting but soul-less, four out of the five spectators found Willow's a beautiful spectacle, especially Jerbo, leading Luz to laugh, "Of course it was. She's my best friend, our resident Queen of Green, and our plant master." They watched as Celine Cutburn got ready to go on next, but as Willow walked past they saw her smile, and make a small circle of flowers appear around her horn that didn't have a ribbon much to Celine's delight.
Celine's performance proved entertaining as she used her magic to show events from Bumps past, present, and a potential future in the forms of a young Bump standing victoriously over the remains of Fibula Academy, and then the current Principle Bump with arms outstretched and inviting as a new year of learning begins. Finally she showed a grand statue standing in the main atrium of Hexside with a small plaque beneath it reading 'He guided us through growing into our best selves, and gave us a safe place to find ourselves. May he forever inspire us all to have his courage. Thank you Hieronymus Bump'. As Celine bowed they saw Bump wipe his eyes for a moment before returning to his neutral position. Barcus gave her a proud smile, but said nothing.
Next up was Gus, but instead of going loud and showy he simply drew a circle that caused a flash of light. Once everyone could see they saw the stage empty, but as they watched the room began to twist and warp. The chairs came alive, and began to come together as an ever growing monstrosity of bent metal and plastic armor. Soon it came stomping toward Bump and the Inspector, and to their surprise they could feel the ground shudder beneath it, and its hot breath on their faces. Suddenly, Gus reappeared before them, and with a clap the illusion broke. Taking a deep bow Gus departed, but on his way out he gave Kim a high five.
In the ceiling the three detention tracker's sat stunned at how real that Illusion had felt, but Luz just let out a small chuckle, "Honestly, that's nothing. I've seen Gus go bigger, but I guess that was the best he could do on such short notice. I couldn't pick a better person to be our Illusions master." When the three heard that they were stunned by both parts of what Luz said.
When Kim walked out, the trackers saw both twins look a bit nervous until their eyes met, and then with a smile Kim drew a small spell circle that made her arm glow before Kim drew another, and made her finger glow. Without the slightest pause Kim drew a line down her arm with her glowing finger flaying it open in one surgical cut, but it did not bleed. After a moment the glowing moved to encompass bother her pointer and middle fingers as she reversed the motion healing her arm without causing any sign that it had ever occurred. With a snap the Healing professor and the nurse each brought out a bed with a pair of injured students on them. After exchanging a few words, Kim drew a pair of circles, and repaired one's broken wing and the other's broken leg at the same time. As Kim took a bow the adults led the pair off stage, and back to class.
Luz could barely contain her pride at her sister's display of skill, and the detention tracker's could almost feel it radiating off her. Viney said, "Kimmmy's come a long way since the shy girl I meet. Too bad she's got a girlfriend." Luz looked at Viney harshly until she saw the smile on the older girl's face, but then she saw an unexpected face as Kim gave Matt a fist bump on her way through.
When Matt walked out he said, "I'd like to dedicate this to my Boss and friend Luz." The instructor gave Bump a confused look, but Bump ignored it with a bead of sweat on his brow. Matt created walls on towers of stone with intricate designs of monsters, before using his magic to condense them into three huge stone blocks. With the flick of his finger the right one exploded, and once the dust cleared it showed a perfect rendition of Luz standing strong and protecting him from being crushed, the day they met. Another flick, and the left one exploded to show a different side as Luz apparently led others using a blueprint in her hand. Finally the last exploded revealing Luz in a commanding stance that depicted power while the smile on her face belied the kindness within. Matt stood before his creations and bowed first to them, and then his spectators.
The other detention track kids gave Luz an odd look making her laugh, "What can I say. Matt's devoted. Every boss needs an assistant, and I'm happy he's mine. Gonna have to make him some Maduros after that display though… I just hope Amity doesn't get jealous… Poor Matt. Cut down by the only thing I can't protect him from."
The next person came out, and when Viney saw them her eyes seemed to go catlike as she hissed, "D'esplora," with more contempt than any of them had ever seen from her before. Little Dorthy was a darker skinned witch, but as soon as she began her display Luz saw why Viney was so angry. Dorthy first made a circle, and summoned four blink hound puppies and a small red whip. She made the foursome perform a number of tricks and feats, but even Luz could see them tremble slightly at the sight of the whip. By the time she took her bow, Viney and Luz just shared a look, and agreed to deal with her later.
As soon as Luz saw Skara though her face cracked, and she chuckled, "Time for a palate cleanser from my sister's adorable girlfriend." Skara saw Luz, and gave her a cheeky grin, "I'm going to play my own rendition of a friend's song. I hope you enjoy it." As soon as Skara started to play Luz started to tear up. It started, and once more the room seemed to ripple until everyone found themselves looking at a younger Skara, alone and in the dark before a hand reached out, and everyone saw a girl with beautiful golden eyes. As they held hands, stars began to appear in the dark one by one, but none were as radiant as the light coming from the other girl's smile. Together the two of them just laid peacefully hand in hand as stars shot passed it a heavenly display. The song started harshly, but by the end it was warm and so full of love that it caused all who heard it a deep sense of inner peace. With a small bow Skara walked away never bothering to look at Bump or the Inspector, it wasn't for them.
Luz spoke up, "Memory Lane. She taught herself my song." Luz whipped away another tear, but then she saw Amity, and the whole world fell away. Luz saw Skara give Amity a hug, and almost without thought Luz drew a small circle making her rose wither while another appeared in Amity's hair catching both girls by surprise, but then Amity smiled and blew Luz a kiss.
Amity walked proudly onto the stage after that, and drew a large spell circle before adding three smaller ones, and roared RISE. At her call an eight foot behemoth of an abomination took form with a trio of hound-like abominations at its feet. With a flick of her wrist they began to fight as the hounds' teeth tore into the behemoth, and they absorbed more mass. The behemoth struck back slamming and cutting away at the hounds reabsorbing its mass. The fight looked like it would never end until the four collided, and a dome of goo took their place. As they all watched the dome shook until it collapsed revealing a familiar form to Luz. It was a horned beastly version of herself, and as she watched it snuck up on Amity only for Amity to bring it to heel. The two began to perform a combat dance of fist's and blades that got faster and faster until they finally clashed in one final strike of fists, and the monster melted into Luz's smiling face before it disappeared. Clearly winded Amity took her bow, but before she could leave the doors to the Auditorium suddenly flew open.
Through the doors came a humongous serpentine demon much to Bump and the Inspectors surprise, but Luz and Amity knew what it was. A basilisk, older and more powerful than their friend, had attacked Hexside while the inspection had been underway. As it drained the teacher clutched in its clawed hand it hissed, "Such magnificent power. Truly this is the pinnacle of my Island tour. Gandus and Epiderm's magics were tasty, but nothing compared to the spender I have found here." It let out a laugh, and began to siphon magic from the witches before it. In moments Bump and the Inspector were nearly depleted, and fighting to remain conscious. Amity fell to a knee, but she suddenly felt the drain end as diving from out of nowhere, because the others shut the door behind her, came Luz. With her fist extended, and eyes a glow she managed to sucker punch the Basilisk, and force its mouth shut.
With a mighty roar Luz yelled, "Nobody touches my friends, and I'll be damned if you will touch my Amity. Return their magic, or I will make you. Out of respect for Vee I will give you this one chance. Don't waste it.' As Luz stood definitely, Kim and their friends came out to stand with her.
The basilisk chuckled, "So the little failure actually did it? She betrayed us, and joined our torturers. Well… I guess I know what I'm going to do once I consume that fool Belos. The traitor will die just like the rest."
After hearing it say that the air in the room grew heavy with magic as Kim and Luz's eyes lit up, and Kim said, "Leave the snake to us. Gus, get everyone out."
"Willow and Matt, throw up some walls behind you just in case. Be ready to catch in a second Will. I might not be able to do this gentle," stated Luz, as they saw her legs become surrounded by magic. Springing forward Luz jumped at the basilisk's face faking a strong punch, but when it tried to swat her away she instead used it's hand as a springboard to shot down toward the nearly unconscious duo of adults below. Before the basilisk could stop her, Luz grabbed and threw them towards where she knew Willow and surprisingly Boscha where waiting.
After adjusting the adults so that they could be carried easier both girls started heading away backstage to where the others had gone. Only stopping when she noticed Skara and Amity weren't going. "Come on! We gotta go!" yelled Willow.
Amity and Skara just smile, and Skara laughs, "Na, We're going to back up our girl's. Keep the others safe Willow. We got this." With that they rushed to join their girlfriends in beating back the basilisk. Willow groaned, but nodded to Matt as she rushed past to throw up the first wall.
Back with the twins they were fighting as only two people who truly trust and know each other can as they forced the monster to divide its focus. Luz stuck to the floor as she pummeled, and kicked at the basilisk's chest and stomach. While Kim used Scarlet, and occasionally the beast's shoulders to dodge, and combine weaker strikes with healing magic to disorient and distract it until she felt a familiar warmth come over her. Soon Luz and Amity were using combined powerful strikes to upset, and brutalize the monster's stomach. Kim and Skara used their combined magic to bolster them, and confuse the basilisk.
With a furious roar the basilisk swept its tail around it, scattering seats, but more importantly forcing Luz and Amity back long enough for it to scream, "That's enough. Your magic is mine!" After a mighty exhale it tried to suck in every drop of magic in the room, but as soon as the magic started to enter its maw they started to cough and gag as their mouth broke out in blisters and burns. With a rasping voice it cried, "Why-why can't I eat your magic? Why does it burn?" With another roar she screams, "What are you?"
With a nod Skara and Kim took each other's hand as they were enveloped to an aura of rainbow colored energy as they made a combined blast of their magic, and fired it toward the basilisk's gut. At the same time Luz and Amity did the same as they were covered in an aura of deep purple, gold, and lilac as they did a combined uppercut into the beast's jaw. Together they said, "We are the Noceda's. Now eat this sucka." The combined assault proved too much as streaks of magic in a rainbow of colors fountained out of the basilisk's broken jaw, and continued to spew out as it fell back unconscious and started to shrink.
It took a few minutes, but when Willow and the detention track kids led Bump and the Inspector back to the Auditorium they found the basilisk bound in a combination of vines and abomination goo, and with a stone muzzle and cuffs on it. The four girls responsible were nearby either holding hands and chatting in the case of Kim and Skara, or holding each other and giving each other passionate kisses in the case of Luz and Amity.
When they heard Bump clear his throat Luz pulled her face away from Amity's, with a bit of difficulty, and laughed, "Hey there Mr. Bossman. As you can see, situations all taken care of. Got it all wrapped up, and ready for transport too. I'm guessing the Emperor's Coven will want to take possession of it now, am I right?"
Kim then spoke up, "Whatever they're going to do they had better hurry. Given my best estimate they have about twenty to twenty-five minutes to get here. Unless you would like me to attempt a more potent sedative, Ms. Inspector. I do have to warn you though, if I proceed there may be some memory loss or confusion on its part if it is questioned later. Also if it is alright with you Principle Bump, I should probably move to wherever you have set up our triage center so that Skara and I can assist with calming and aiding anyone affected by this thing's draining effect."
The Inspector just looked at the scene before her, and started to laugh before giving permission to sedate it further, and looking at Bump with a small grin, "Honestly Bump, while I enjoyed the performance on stage… This… This right here has truly impressed me. Once Ms. Noceda has finished her work. I will take ownership of the monster, and call for the necessary support, but fear not. I will be sending in a full report of the day's events once that is taken care of, and rest assured Hexside will be getting a very large donation from my superiors. If this is the caliber of students we can expect going forward… Well, you can look forward to many more 'gracious contributions' in the future. Well done." Still chuckling to herself the Inspector moved away from the others to begin her call.
An hour later, after the Inspector and Coven had left, and the affected students had been properly tended to, Bump found himself in an unused classroom with Luz, Amity, Skara, Kim, Willow, Gus, Boscha, Matt, and the detention track trio. Seeing the smirk on Luz's face Bump groaned, "Ok, Ms. Luz. I know that smirk. What are you scheming?"
Luz looked at Bump in faux hurt as she said, "Why Bumpy, you wound me. I was just thinking that maybe, just maybe, since we managed to secure you a very lucrative donation from the Emperor's Coven, and managed to provide you with such a nice bragging right. Maybe you could do something for us. Nothing big obviously, but don't you think that hard work should be rewarded?"
Bump sighed, "Out with it Noceda. You clearly have something in mind."
Luz laughed, "I might have an idea… How's about a new club? Give us free rein to mix magic and teach each other what we know. We could call it the Emperor's Prep-club if that makes it easier, and you can spin it as an exclusive club for the top percent of students as a way to prepare them for potentially joining his coven. We get what we want, and you get a perfectly reasonable excuse for why we are allowed to do it, if anyone finds out. Win-win, and bonus, you won't have to bother with keeping an eye on the detention trio anymore. Clearly Viney and Barcus are top of their class in terms of Beastkeeping and Oracles, and if Willow and Amity weren't such unbelievable powerhouses I'm sure Jerbo would be one too. It's a good deal so what do you say?"
Bump seemed torn, but after a minute his shoulders slumped, and he gave up with a groaning sigh, "Fine, but where will this club be held? Obviously it will have to be somewhere secret, and Titan help me, if there is a single problem I'm pulling the plug. Am I clear?"
"Crystal clear sir. You have our promise, and I already know where we can meet. I'm guessing you don't actually want to know for deniability reasons so I guess that's it," said Luz. Before she realized Boscha was there, and begrudgingly she added while rolling her eyes, "Also if you could restore Boscha's positions… Titan dammit… Let her enjoy her perks again. She earned them," Luz groaned, to everyone's surprise, especially Boscha's.
Bump nodded, "As you wish. Now, I have a number of parents to 'reach out to'. Enjoy your club, and please don't make me regret trusting you." With that Bump left to play damage control. As soon as he was gone there was a cheer from almost everyone else in the room, and the detention trio rushed Luz and practically crushed her with tight hugs.
Before anything else though Boscha strode up to Luz, and gave her a hard glare, "What's your game Luzer? Why help restore me to my throne?"
Luz groaned, "Throne might be a bit of an exaggeration Bosh. This is me trying to extend an olive branch. You could have run like that chicken shit Dorthy, but you didn't. You stuck around to help, and frankly Amity and Skara tell me there might be a decent person under all that toxic crap, and mean girl mask you wear. When you decide to let her out, I'll be here. Until then let's just stay out of each other's lane. You can be top of potions and Grudgeby Captain, and I'll look after my club and play Forman in Constructions. There is no reason we have to get in each other's way."
Boscha just looked at Luz suspiciously, before letting out a small groan, "No, I don't think that will be possible. You and I still have a score to settle, but not today. Until then, enjoy your little victory Luzer, because soon she will be mine." And without another word Boscha stormed off.
Given what happened it was decided that classes that afternoon would be canceled, and everyone started to make their way home except the Noceda's and their girlfriends. While Boscha's response had disappointed them, Skara and Amity still appreciated Luz trying. Just as they were getting ready to leave Amity suddenly locked up, and her eyes showed a hint of pain for a few moments. Luz quickly rushed to see what was wrong, and received a small peck on the cheek, before Amity said, "Mom knows, and she's pissed. I have to go face her, alone, but I promise I'll let you know how it goes my love. Don't worry…" Amity gives Luz a hug, and allows her to wrap her in her arms. "I'll come home soon."
Luz just looked at Amity with a bit of worry in her eyes before she gave her another squeeze, and kissed her head, "You'd better gatita, or so help me I will tear that manor down to the Titan's bones to find you. Te amo mi novia. I love you."
After that the quartet separated to head home, and as Amity stood before Blight manor she took a moment to collect herself as she usually did before entering, but for once she didn't feel scared. With a straight back and confident stride Amity walked in, and found an furious Odalia awaiting her. When Odalia saw Amity she seemed to take a moment to process what she was seeing before she roared, "Amity Blight, how dare you? Do you have any idea of what you've done? You look like a peasant, and you have allowed yourself to be marked? It seems a severe punishment will be needed to correct this little act of rebellion, and once we are done we will sever that disgusting blemish and return you to your proper role. Now get out of my sight. You disgust me. I will up in a moment, and you had better hope I find some mercy before then or so help me you will need more than a concealment stone to cover up what I'm about to do."
Amity just looked at Odalia for a moment without any reaction, but then she couldn't help herself, she began to laugh. Odalia wasn't sure how to react to that at first, but soon she was positively steaming, and almost on instinct she reached up and grasped her oracle stone. With every ounce of her malice Odalia attempted to reach through its link to cause indescribable pain to the insubordinate, detestable, welp before her, but as soon as she did she was blown back as her stone exploded in her hand. When she was finally able to sit up, Odalia saw something she couldn't understand. Amity stood there completely unfazed while around her, and standing protectively over her was a gold construct of magic with distinct horns and wings, but most striking were the hate filled purple eyes that stared her down.
While Amity watched Odalia get blown back she felt her mark grow warm, and she once more felt Luz's reassuring strong arms around her. In that moment Amity put together what Odalia had tried to do, and she knew what she had to do in response. Standing over her, Amity declared, "I think not. This is not a discussion, or a deal you can warp to your fancy. This is what is going to happen. I am going to go up to my room, and pack my things. You will stay right there until I am finished. When I'm done, you can do whatever you like, but I won't be here anymore to be your puppet or prop ever again. I finally found people that love me, and I refuse to allow you to hurt me ever again." Amity let out a mad laugh, "Although from the looks of it, it doesn't seem like I will ever have to worry about that again since it seems you have been rendered impotent before our love. Good bye Odalia. You were never my mother, so you can keep the Blight name. I found a better one."
With that, Amity walked up to her room, and started packing. When she was finished she went to leave, but found Edric and Emira waiting for her. They seemed hesitant at first since the construct was still present, and angrily on watch, but Amity made sure to give both of them an overjoyed hug on her way past.
By the time Amity made it down the stairs Odalia had mostly collected herself, and stared her down with hate in her eyes. As Amity walked past she heard Odalia hiss, "I'll be waiting for your return my daughter. You can deceive yourself all you want, but that is what you are. My blood runs through you, and I have been inside your head enough times to know that at your core… your… just… like… me. So go. Have your fun. Maybe even let them taint your body further, but at the end of the day it will be my voice that you hear in the dark. Every decision you make. Every step you take. I will be there waiting for the moment you show who you really are, and when that day comes, my dear Mittens, I'll be here waiting, ready for you to finally accept the role you were born to play. Until then my dear… see you soon." And with that Odalia walked away with her back turned like Amity wasn't even there.
Author's Notes: Amity is free, and it feels so good. Lol. Anyway on to my thoughts. Mission Reunification has finally begun with the pieces of Fenris. Don't worry, they aren't a focus, but it's another thing they will have to deal with. So tbh I kinda gave this Luz a punk rock/japanese delinquent vibe in terms of her style a while back, and now I'm just gonna lean into it for Lumity's whole wardrobe so expect spikes, chains, and whatnot going forward (purple/lilac hair dye?) So I'm just going to say it, I find 'show' Matt to be kinda boring and a tool for most of the show. We just don't get much with him. Saying that I wanted to fix that problem, especially if I want to make Gatt (gus x matt) a thing later (undecided).
So putting together a healing dementration without causing pain to others was exhausting for me. Since ninety percent of healing magic (in my mind) centers around healing, assessing, or causing injury/illness that makes it a steep track to show off outside of an emergency situation, but besides that I loved every second of coming up with those displays, and I added symbolism or spotlights in all of them.
Given how absolutely terrible people's perception of wild magic is (even worse than the show) there was no way 'mixed tracks' would ever fly so the club idea was realistically as close as they were going to get, and it's still a secret to everyone not in it, and that includes the teachers. The only two outside the club who know are Bump and Boscha, and they both have reasons to stay quiet.
I kid you not, I think I spent the whole time I was writing Amity's speech imagining her flipping Odalia the bird while she did (she didn't, but the image just felt right). With that, Shine on beautiful readers. Shine on.