Chapter 5-11: I Don't Regret It!
Time has passed, everyone is at the college yard where the statue is.
Epel yawns and says, "Oof, I almost overslept… This is where we're all supposed to meet up for the ball. I wonder if everyone's already here."
"You look like you're asleep on your feet, Epel," Riddle says.
"Riddle! Sorry, guess you caught me yawning," Epel says, "After the firelotuses went away, some guys from Noble Bell College helped us to our rooms… I passed right out and slept all day, but I'm still tired."
"I can hardly blame you. All that flying must've left you exhausted," Riddle says, "For my part… I'm not tired in the least, since someone ensured I got PLENTY of sleep."
Epel sheepishly laughs, "Ahaha… Are you, um...mad at me?"
"Am I mad, you ask? I should think so!" Riddle says, still pretty mad, "You used your signature spell to put me to sleep and then handled the fight by yourself. That was far too dangerous! One misstep and you could've lost your magic! How could you do something so rash?!"
Epel quickly apologizes, "I'm sorry, Riddle!" Then says, "I apologize for using Crimson Slumber on you. But from where I was standing, it was the only way out of that mess. So I don't regret it!"
"Really, now…" Riddle responds, "To think that you, a freshman, would save me. I know they took me by surprise, but I'm still beyond mortified," and soon smiles, "You did well, Epel. Thank you."
"Heh heh heh…" Epel sheepishly giggles.
Soon, Deuce and Rook walk over.
"Hello, Housewarden!" Deuce says.
"Greetings, Epel. I hear you deserve a standing ovation," Rook says.
"Deuce!" Epel says and rushes to Deuce, "I heard you twisted your ankle. Are you okay now?"
"Yeah. I ate a ton and slept a bunch, and now I'm right as rain!" Deuce says.
"I don't think it's quite that simple. The first aid you received here probably deserves most of the credit," Riddle says, "And Deuce—I heard you performed just as admirably as Epel did."
"Indeed he did!" Rook says, "Would that you could've seen it, Roi des Roses. He let out the most heroic roar… And the way he stood boldly in the face of our foes—it was like a card soldier from legends!"
"Gosh, now you're making me blush," Deuce says.
Then Riddle says, "Azul also told me how he used your signature spell at a critical juncture. You showed courage in rescuing Idia, and made a quick, crucial decision to trust Azul with your most valuable spell. You've performed admirably. I must hold a tea party in your honor once we get back."
"Huh? A tea party for me?!" Deuce says, flustered, "I'm flattered... But if Ace finds out I got riled up and said all that stuff, he'll make fun of me for days."
And Rook says, "Non, non. There's no cause to fret. I've no doubt that even Ace will sing your praises! After all, you deserve nothing less. Ahhh, your beauty is seared into my mind. The way you shone was an inspiration to me when I nearly lost heart."
"You say that, but… I saw you singing while you were tearing up flowers. You looked pained, but it was like you were still enjoying it. It was like watching a musical," Deuce says, feeling uneasy.
"Eeyup, sounds about right. Bet it threw you for a loop, huh?" Epel says.
And Riddle says, "I never imagined two freshmen would display such heroics. It's surprising, wouldn't you agree, Rook?
"Oh, verily. I was so moved... I…" Rook says, and begins sniffing and tears come down his face.
"Rook? Are you okay?!" Deuce asks.
"Why are you crying?!" Epel asks.
"It just hit me how quickly our little darlings grow up! I shall regale Vil with tales of your exploits. I'm sure his handkerchief will be soaked with tears…" Rook says and continues sobbing.
Then Riddle says, "Well, he's certainly delighted. My apologies, Deuce. I wish I could display such emotion, but I'm afraid Rook has me beat."
"This isn't a competition!" Epel calls out.