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neoninky · 1 year

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TWST Fanfic "Her Ivory Crown": Chapter 16 (FINALE)

This is the final chapter of 'Her Ivory Crown'

Any new readers, I hope you've enjoyed it as much as I have revisiting it. I will be posting the second part of the Sacred Crown Chronicles along with the One Shot stories that tie into the sequel as well.

Ch. 16: Their Royal Majesties

The evening was coming to an early close thanks to the Headmistress' earlier curfew ruling. The girls didn't like it one bit but they had already caused enough ruckus for the week as is so each of the Sacred Crown students remaining in the Monstro Lounge bid their new and old friends goodbye and made their way back to the dorm. Reine and Riddle started to leave as well when Reine saw Cowrie still sitting alone at the bar poking at the pasta on her plate. She was back in her SC uniform, worn in her signature casual style compared to her sister who wore it exactly to code always: the powder blue blazer was tied around her waist like a sweater, her white blouse's top two buttons were undone, the sleeves rolled up to her elbows, and left untucked from her pleated skirt, her dark pink bow tie nowhere to be seen, and the black ribbon choker she always wore was around her neck. The Cerulamare azure blue vest was buttoned properly but that was the only piece of her uniform she ever wore properly. The cherry on top was the Octavinelle fedora still on her head. A few other girls from the Cerulamare dorm were grouped nearby, throwing dubious looks in the free-spirited eelmaid's direction. Reine knew those looks well and frowned.

"Riddle, you can go on without me. I'm going to wait for Cowrie and walk her back," she said to her beau with a soft smile before kissing his cheek, "thank you for everything, love."

The red-head followed his princess' gaze to the scene and picked up on the energy immediately. If there was anything he had learned today is that Reine could and would handle herself in any situation she deemed worthy of her attention. Some gossiping schoolgirls were nothing he needed to concern himself with so he returned a shy kiss on Reine's cheek, not used to public displays of affection just yet, before bidding her goodnight.

Cowrie could definitely hear the remarks her dormmates were making while looking at her back. If the girls were actually trying to be sneaky, they were dumber than Cowrie originally thought. The first year knew it was only a matter of time before word would spread but did they really have to bring it up here?

"Do you really think Dorm Leader Coralette will choose her? They're awfully close...but what a joke right?" the second-year girl said not nearly as quietly as she should have, making the other three girls giggle wickedly.

"Wouldn't it be a little unfair? Talk about nepotism. She'd only be choosing her because she's Vice Dorm Leader Luna's sister..."

Next year both Elise and Luna would be fourth-year seniors and both girls would be spending most of the year off-campus in different internships elsewhere. Therefore, Elise would need to choose a new dorm leader, and given their friendship, rumors were already flying that it would be Cowrie Cerith. This was already garnering a polarized response from the rest of the dorm members that would be left behind: most shared the opinions of the mouthy second year leading the gossip ring at that exact moment but a few underdogs thought Cowrie was the best choice. Cowrie was already an odd duckling being not only one of the top three students in the entire school while seeming like one of the most carefree, if not laziest students in school, but also her grades and test results were so good that she was already planning on skipping a year and starting the next semester as a third year. This was, of course, supposed to be private information but word spread quickly amongst the Sacred Crown girls regardless. Said information just stirred the pot further, making others even more envious.

"I heard she's skipping right over her second year too? Ugh, what a showoff...there's no way she hasn't been cheating this whole time!"

Cowrie didn't react. She just stared blankly down at her plate as if these ugly-talking bitches weren't coughing up shade literally behind her back and bounced her sneaker-wearing feet on her stool's footrest. It wasn't until Jade quietly set another drink in front of her did Cowrie meet his gaze with her baby blue eyes. He was cleaning glasses on the other side of the bar, giving her a soft grin as he did so. He too ignored the other girls as they continued pseudo-whispering. But his presence only added to their unnecessary chatter.

"Did you see her ask that upperclassmen out earlier? She got right up in his face and everything...how desperate can you be? He probably agreed out of pity. Or fear."

"You sure about that? I heard he was a creepy eel too-"

Jade set another glass down more aggressively than he had with the previous one, making the girls jump. At the last comment, both Jade and Cowrie both turned sharp gazes to the now nervous cluster of girls. 'Creepy eel' huh? How surprisingly bold and rude these girls are, Jade thought silently as he broke eye contact to watch Cowrie stare into them. He and his twin had always been feared on Night Raven's campus but it would seem the students of Sacred Crown were more maliciously passive-aggressive. Jade wasn't all that surprised. Teenage girls were more terrifying in their savage packs than boys in most cases.

"Girls, curfew is in twenty minutes," Reine's firm tone made the girls jump again as she suddenly appeared behind them, looking less friendly than usual. The princess' reputation had rapidly evolved since the recent events that had happened both that day and the previous one. Not that Reine minded. A little bit of intimidation felt pretty nice actually.

"Y-Yes Dorm Leader Castilene. We were just leaving," the second year that started the rabble in the first place skittishly said.

"Leave more swiftly and quietly if you please," Reine gave them a smile that didn't reach her eyes as she passed them to approach the bar. The girls fled the area like scared mice. Cowrie gave the princess a low whistle as she sat down next to her.

"I like this new side of you, Reiny-senpai~"

Reine gave the freshman a genuine smile, "Thank you. I do too...pay them no mind though, Cowrie."

The mermaid scoffed and took a sip of the drink Jade gave her, "Let them talk. I don't care."

"You are quite cavalier about this, Miss Cowrie," Jade chuckled as he continued to clean up, "How admirable...scaring them seems easy enough though. Just a thought."

"Just Cowrie. I ain't that formal," Cowrie said to the tall boy before taking another sip, "Besides...when Ellie-senpai passes the dorm leadership to me, they'll have to follow my rules or walk themselves out the door. Hehehe~"

Reine sighed as the freshman giggled, "I'm just disappointed they ruined the surprise. Elise was so excited to make a formal announcement once we got back on campus. Oh well. Since we're ruining secrets, is it also true that you're skipping right to being a third-year?"

"Yup," Cowrie casually stated before shoving another piece of shrimp into her mouth, "the faster I can graduate, the faster I can be free to live as I please. And maybe catch up to Ellie-senpai and Luna."

Reine's smile stayed in place but as she watched Cowrie's distant expression, she felt like there was more hiding behind her meaning than the mermaid had let on, "What do you mean by that, Cowrie?"

Jade didn't say anything but if you were paying attention it did seem like his ears perked ever so slightly even though his eyes were down and his hands were busy. Cowrie just turned to Reine with a laidback smile.

"Meh. Nuthin. Just daydreaming...hey maybe we'll get to be classmates next year, Reiny-senpai!"

"Ooh that would be fun," Reine laughed lightheartedly before her tone turned a bit more serious, "Actually, since we have a moment...I wanted to talk to you about what you and your sister did to Zehn."

Cowrie's eyes suddenly shifted off to the side, looking like she had been caught in the act right then and there, all over again. Jade again said nothing but his grin widened still. He and Floyd had heard about the girls' 'interrogation' of one Zehn Cavalier and both were equally impressed and disappointed that they couldn't witness it firsthand.

Reine sighed and continued, "Granted I was very out of it at the time but still. As a dorm leader, I cannot condone your actions. But...as a friend, I am very grateful," Reine's smile returned as she gently wrapped her arms around the younger girl, "Thank you, Cowrie. I'll definitely ask that you be my escort when I come to visit Riddle in the future. I wouldn't feel nearly as safe with anyone else."

Cowrie giggled cutely and nuzzled against Reine's cheek very much like Che'nya often did. Reine learned long ago that apparently eels also did this to show trust and endearment towards - as the sisters put it - 'their humans.' In a more romantic context, this gesture would also be extended to potential mates. Reine just took it for what it was: a sign of friendship and platonic affection.

"Now finish your plate. We need to head back soon and I don't want you getting in trouble on my behalf again. Especially if you're going to be my fellow dorm leader next year...I refuse to let you ascend with a tarnished record." Reine gave the younger girl a playful grin.

Cowrie pouted like a child being asked to leave a theme park early before scarfing down the rest of the seafood pasta on her plate. She in turn chugged the rest of her drink before neatly stacking her dishes and handing them to Jade with a bright smile, "Thanks, Jay Jay. See you tomorrow~ ...and tell Floy Floy not to ditch or else Luna's gonna be pissed."

Jade chuckled as he took the dishes from her much smaller hands and set them aside, "I'm sure my brother won't disappoint Miss Luna. He seems awfully motivated, after all."

It honestly had been a record number of days that Floyd had been in not only a decent mood but a proactive one at that. A school of wild killer whales probably couldn't keep Floyd from showing up at this rate. Though he was still grumpy that Azul made him stay in the kitchen for most of the evening...

Reine felt like she had been transported back to the day before the music contest all over again once she and Cowrie returned to the dorm. The other girls were all in a tizzy over the dresses they all received either from their families' personal tailors or that they had made arrangements for before the festival even started. Reine was waiting for her in her room no doubt but she was so thoroughly spent that all she wanted to do was just sit in the lounge and enjoy the excitement all around her. The perfectly normal, school event induced excitement. No more dread or drama involving her royal family, rejected suitors, or life-and-death Overblot situations. Just a bunch of high school girls excited for a dance with a bunch of handsome boys. Refreshingly normal and Great Seven above did it feel good after the crazy week they all had. Reine just sighed contently, leaning back on the sofa, watching her fellow dorm leaders and their girls all admire and compliment each other on their gowns that none of them could wait until the actual event to try on. Just in case last-minute adjustments were needed but mostly due to unbridled excitement.

Luna looked absolutely stunning in a shimmery, not to mention form-fitting, black strapless mermaid-style gown that just barely met the dress code and sleek elbow gloves to match. She looked less like a high school student and more like a sexy lounge singer. She was currently zipping up Cowrie into her aquamarine cocktail dress that had an illusion neckline with coral-like patterns dotted with tiny pearls and a short, flowy a-line skirt that stopped a couple of inches above her knees...again, just barely passing the dress code. How the sisters got away with it, no one knew or asked. The boys certainly weren't going to complain.

Manari and Jinnah, both wore dresses very close to their homeland's style of formal wear: heavily embellished in gold beading that matched their jewelry, bright colors on fine silk materials, and the flashier the higher status it meant they held. Manari's attire was a deep purple with accents of gold with a sheer train decorated in peacock feather designs that fell around flared out pants instead of an actual skirt. Jinnah's was a gown that was rich sapphire blue as the main color and accents of the famous peacock green with more elaborate gold trims running along the bodice and had a longer, veiled train that fluttered around her skirt, adding more movement to the overall garment, making her look like royalty. The other dorm leaders and their second-in-commands each had gorgeous dresses that were made just for them in every detail, down to the very last stitch. It was quite a sight.

"And what is our guest of honor doing lumped up on the sofa? Aside from getting wrinkles in her uniform?"

Reine snickered as Elise stood before her, looking glorious in her lavender off-the-shoulder number despite the crossed look on her face. Reine ignored her best friend's comment as she admired the elegant dress with its fitted, sleek, pearl-beaded bust and delicately layered ruffle skirt that made her look like she was floating across the floor.

"How on earth do you look like an absolute dream in that dress and yet you do not have a date, Elise Coralette?"

Elise rolled her eyes, "Well excuse me, Your Majesty, some of us were very busy trying to make all the arrangements for this dance to worry about procuring one single dance partner, you know..." It was true that Elise was in charge of all the planning that went into the actual dance and it was her expert attention to details that made sure everything went off without a hitch. But her response was also a cover for the fact that since Prince Rielle ditched the festival, Elise hadn't really sought out nor desired any other boy to be her date. This was clearly backed by the cynical glances the Cerith sisters were currently giving their stubborn dorm leader.

"Besides. I've had plenty of offers from the Octavinelle dorm so I will have my fair share of boys to choose from during the dance anyway," Elise declared smugly. The eel-maid sisters shared a look before giving matching looks of mischief to Reine from behind their dorm leader. The princess read their minds without question.

"Oh is that so? I'm sure Azul will be waiting with bells on," Reine chimed innocently, "that is if he doesn't already have a date himself, of course. I'd be shocked if he didn't, honestly."

Elise blinked curiously, "Mr. Ashengrotto? I'm...not sure actually. He never even mentioned going at all." Cue the mischievous sisters slinking up along either side of Elise.

"Well of course Azul-kun will be there, he is a dorm leader after all," Luna said cooly as she slowly circled Elise and stopping beside the sofa Reine was sitting on, "I can just imagine how handsome he'll be, dressed to the nines as always. He's always so stylish, isn't he, Cowrie?" she purred with a sly grin.

"Oh yeah. I bet Azuzu will look even better than he does in his Octavinelle suit, " Cowrie mirrored her sister's movement and settled on the other side of the sofa with an impish grin on her face, "Imagine...he'll probably wear extra nice cologne too. He'll smell like heaven while looking good as hell. If he hasn't been snatched up already, a smart girl would definitely pounce when given the chance..."

Elise had in fact indulged in Azul's alluring cologne'd presence on a regular day more times than she'd like to admit. And now her brain was mapping out an elaborate vision of him as the sisters mused on and on about how appealing Azul Ashengrotto would inevitably be tomorrow. That, however, Elise would be taking to her grave.

"Yes, yes, Mr. Ashengrotto is - along with over half the students at Night Raven, let's be honest - very attractive indeed. I think we can all agree on that," Elise cleared her throat, determined to get back on track, "HOWEVER! You cannot distract me from the most important problem we are currently facing! Reine, why aren't you trying on your gown?!"

The eel sisters snickered as their dorm leader tried to save face and helped Reine off the sofa as she rolled her eyes, "Alright, alright. I will go try on my dress. Here I go."

While the girls were both eager and seasoned when it came to formal dances and the like, it became swiftly apparent that not all the boys of Night Raven were in the same camp. At Heartslabyul, there was a myriad of mixed energies all around. Riddle was fortunate in that his future father-in-law gifted him the very same suit his tailors had made for him to wear to the dance and his date was also his future wife. So he was all set as far as he was concerned. Cater and Trey had gotten dates without any issue and if they were suffering any nerves at all, it didn't show in the slightest. Cater being Cater, of course, had a very stylish suit in his closet at the ready. A sleek white tux with black lapels, a dark pink vest, and a bright salmon pink bowtie because pops of color were both charming and always trendy on Magicam. Trey was a bit more classic and subtle in his style: a dark green suit, white shirt, black tie, and shoes. Nice and simple. The first years and any other students that did not have a suit already prepared fortunately had Sam ready to lend a hand. Once the shop owner caught word that a big dance was happening, he took the opportunity to stock up on appropriate attire and accessories for the whole lot of nervous and/or excited young men on campus.

Deuce was looking himself up and down in the mirror in the suit that Sam had provided for him at a reasonable price. The suit was a nice shade of deep blue with a black floral print dress shirt and white tie and it was a perfect fit. He liked it and felt like it looked really good on him but he was still an absolute jittery mess of nerves. He managed to ask Alyssa to the dance and succeeded but at what humiliating cost?! Well, the answer to that...had Ace laughing his ass off.

"I can't believe you completely skipped the first and most simple step and just went straight to asking her to be your girlfriend!!"

Yup. That totally happened. By some miracle Alyssa Ledell, the sweet sunflower angel that she was, said yes to both being his date for the dance and his girlfriend without a hint of hesitation. Deuce was both overjoyed and horribly embarrassed once the word spread across campus like wildfire. Don't even get him started on the fact that he had never been a boyfriend before! Where did he even begin in being one now?!

Deuce just huffed as his face glowed bright pink, "S-She still said yes! You're just bitter because almost every girl you asked said no! Epel and Jack both got a yes from the first girls they asked. Hell, even Sebek got a girl to go with him without being rejected! So what does that say about you, huh?!" Deuce's past thuggish persona shone through towards the end a bit.

Ace immediately stopped laughing and glared at his classmate as his bruised ego flared, "Shut the hell up! Psh, I turned down more girls than the girls who told me no!"

The two freshmen began to argue making Riddle burst into the room with an annoyed expression. Cater and Trey just found the scene adorably amusing. The two freshmen immediately froze up as Riddle snipped at them to quiet down.

"Aww our cute little freshmen, daring to face the perils of wooing the fairer sex. Well, some more successfully than others, eh Deuce?" Cater winked and playfully put his arm around Deuce's shoulders, the attention making him blush even more, "Way to win the cutie's heart! Of course, I think we can all agree that the true triumph goes to our legendary dorm leader and our glorious new Heartslabyul queen! So are you going to be 'Mr. Riddle Castilene' or 'Mr. Reine Rosehearts?' "

Riddle rolled his eyes as the group of boys all laughed at the notion, "Ha. Ha. Hilarious..." Reine had already informed him that she would be taking his name and that he would in fact be His Royal Majesty, Mr. Reine Rosehearts which he was perfectly fine with but he would never admit it to these fools. He would admit, however, the boys referring to Reine as their new queen filled him with an embarrassing amount of pride. The kind of pride that made him want to shout from the rooftops that she was going to be his wife to anyone that would listen and to everyone that would even think about trying to put the moves on her. But again...he would never admit any of that part out loud. Instead, he just let relief and even a bit of warm happiness wash over him as he took in the simple levity filling up the Heartslabyul dorm and no doubt all of the dorms across campus. Like Reine, he truly enjoyed how at ease he felt now that everything had fallen into place and now everyone's biggest worry was whether or not they'd be completely overtaken by butterflies in their stomach come tomorrow night. Not any looming threat or life-altering dilemmas. Just simple, everyday high school level awkwardness and excitement.

Riddle took a moment while his dormmates bantered back and forth to send a quick message to Reine on his phone. He was sure that she was fine now but there was no harm in checking right?

Back at the girl's dorm, Reine smiled when she heard Riddle's assigned chime ring from her phone as she was helping Alyssa into her silver-blue gown. Reine knew Elise and the others were awaiting the two of them downstairs but the girls could wait for a second longer as she quickly sent a sweet message back to her beau. Alyssa was bubbling over with excitement as she was telling her dorm leader about Deuce's adorable albeit clumsy confession. Reine was pretty impressed: first, she got a fiancee, now her second-in-command got a boyfriend. Rosabyrine girls had a reputation of not wasting time on fruitless endeavors but damn this had to be a record!

"He was so sweet," Alyssa cooed as Reine cinched up the laces on the back of her dress, "And nervous. I knew he wanted to ask me out but I didn't expect that!"

"Sounds like he didn't either, to be honest," the princess laughed, "Poor Deuce. Thank goodness you said yes."

"Of course! Deuce is wonderful! He's so cute and earnest..." Alyssa practically had stardust in her eyes as she swooned over her new sweetheart, "I just wish we didn't have to leave after tomorrow..."

Ah yes. The elephant in the room was finally addressed. It didn't seem fair, did it? Everything had worked out so well and now that it had? The girls had to return to their island the day after the dance. Reine guided Alyssa to the full-length mirror with a warm smile, "Let's not get ahead of ourselves just yet, hmm? Tomorrow is still going to be a day to remember and look how lovely you are."

Alyssa had already looked like a little doll on most days but now she looked even more charming, like a breath of fresh air. Her dress had beading and silk cut butterflies all along the scoop neckline and gave way to a flowy tulle-layered skirt that reached the floor. Reine's heart squeezed with adoration, "Oh, you look like a little fae princess."

Alyssa was beaming pure sunshine as she swayed back and forth in the mirror, "Ooh, you think? Not that anyone is going to be looking at me once they see you."

Reine had put on her gown as well and in light of the rapid evolution she had undergone, she decided to change it up and depart from the usual silver and white gowns she had worn in the past. Instead, Reine's dress was a crimson ball gown with rose appliques over the sheer Queen Anne style neckline and down the see-through sleeves that hugged her pale arms, giving the impression that the flowers were blooming on her skin. The rose patterns wound their way down the neckline and bust and tapered off the black tulle that covered her belled-out skirt. It was nothing less than gorgeous and made Reine absolutely show-stopping. Naturally, she was the guest of honor so it was to be expected. Even so, Reine couldn't help the shy blush on her face.

"Riddle's a very lucky guy," the blonde gave the princess a cheeky grin, "His rose garden has nothing on you."

"Alyssa, don't be cruel. How could I compare to those immaculate blooms he cares for so tenderly?" Reine pouted teasingly.

"Well he doesn't swoon over the roses like he does you, that's for sure..."

Reine would never get over the notion that the proud Heartslabyul prefect couldn't hide his affection for her from others even when he tried his hardest to. Nor would she ever get over her feelings of embarrassment when she was reminded how oblivious she had been up until recently...

"Reeeeine! Are you done yet? Elise is going to have a cow down here if you don't hurry up!"

Manari's voice brought the princess back to reality. She shook her head at her best friend's impatience as she linked arms with Alyssa, "Shall we?"

Tomorrow came and passed fairly quickly into the evening hours peacefully. The dire situations that shocked the campus before were forgotten to most of the students, visiting or otherwise by now. Reine couldn't be happier to completely forget her dreadful experiences with the now exiled Zehn Cavalier and her defeated mother. Jasper had to, unfortunately, return home to begin his studies under the current Queen's advisor so he would be fully prepared when Reine ascended the throne but her cousin made sure to send her all the congratulations he could muster over a slew of texts. Also, a fresh batch of her new signature red roses and black ribbon to wear in her hair for the dance. "A queen must always be properly styled! ;) " was his final message and she could hear his snark from miles away. Well waste not, Reine thought as she put the final touches on her hair and make-up. She could already hear the bursts of excitement downstairs as some of the girls' dates decided to meet them at the dorm and walk them to the ballroom instead of waiting for them there. Rook Hunt's poetic declarations and Kalim's excited outbursts could probably be heard across the entire campus. Reine wasn't even in the room but she could feel their dates' shy reactions from where she sat. The princess just giggled as she heard Vil and Jamil's annoyed tones, shuffling the exuberant boys out the door, before going to check on Alyssa.

Alyssa was dressed and ready but also looking rather panicked as she paced back and forth. Unknown to Reine, Riddle and his seniors were in a similar situation back at Heartslabyul with a very nervous Deuce. Reine just sighed in amusement and stopped her vice leader before she wore a trail into the wooden floor, "Alyssa, you're not getting cold feet are you?"

"NO! Er no, of course not! I'm just a little...concerned. That's all," the blonde giggled nervously, "I look ok, right? RIGHT??"

"Alyssa. You look like perfection standing here right now and your boyfriend loses all sense of reason just at the sight of you on a bad day," Reine laughed. Goodness, is this how she sounded not that long ago about Riddle? She inwardly cringed at the thought...

Reine escorted the blonde freshman downstairs before she could argue, "Trust me. You have nothing to worry about whatsoever. Just breathe and continue to be your sweet little self."

The Leech brothers were the next callers to arrive to pick up the Cerith sisters. An uneasy Azul was hiding-er-standing behind them, looking as if the twins had dragged him there by force. Which they basically did. The trio had always looked rather dapper in their Octavinelle suits but they certainly out-did themselves for the occasion. Azul wore a similar style of suit as his dorm one but this one was silver-grey with a black dress shirt and smart, purple pocket square and matching tie, and shiny black shoes. Despite his nervous energy, he cleaned up very nicely. The twins wore matching charcoal grey suits and black gloves but the difference was in the details: Jade, clean cut and sharp as usual, wore a black collared shirt with a light grey vest and bright aqua blue tie that matched the blue poppy flower in Cowrie's boutonniere, and black shoes while his twin wore a more colorful teal shirt with the first few buttons undone like always with a black pinstriped vest, and black and white shoes similar to his Octavinelle ones. Luna's amber-gold calla lily boutonniere was attached to his lapel, giving his look even more color.

Reine and Alyssa greeted them as they waited. "You three look so nice!" Reine smiled brightly. The tweels grinned down at the princess, happy to receive such sweet praise, while Azul seemed to grow a bit flustered. Reine heard Cowrie prance into the room with the same amount of praise at the ready, though a bit more forward per usual Cowrie fashion.

"Ooooh! You guys look hot!" Her usual sleepy-looking baby blues widened and even sparkled a bit. Or maybe that was her darker blue eyeshadow, "Hey hey, Azuzu! Why are you hiding?? You look so good, come out!" Cowrie kept trying to get a better look at him by darting around the twins like a curious little kitten following a laser pointer. Azul looked like he was about to phase through the floor from all the sudden female attention, something he was very not used to at all. Jade smiled as he looked his energetic date up and down in her flirty little dress and delicate pearl accessories pinned in her sleek dark hair. Floyd just giggled as Cowrie kept trying to draw the octopus boy out, "Cowrie-chan, you look like a cute lil' jellyfishie~"

This distracted the younger sister momentarily, "Ooh think so? You like it, Jay Jay?"

The more reserved twin's smile grew some more as Cowrie swished her short skirt back and forth, awaiting his approval, "Oh yes...very cute, Cowrie," he said softly. The moment Luna entered the room, Floyd's jaw practically detached from his face. The finishing blow aside from her unapologetically sexy outfit was her rich smokey eyeshadow that made her golden orbs practically glow and the classic string of pearls hanging from her neck that completed the look. Jade helped his smitten brother out by silently pushing his mouth closed for him. The elder sister floated up to her date with that deadly flirtatious giggle of hers, not even bothering to address the other two boys next to him, successfully buttering up Floyd's ego.

"My, my Floyd~ Aren't you so very handsome? Lucky me." She batted her eyes up at him like a professional, placing her hands on his shoulders and smiling as she felt them tense under her touch.

Had Floyd been in his eel form, his tail would have been wagging at breakneck speed. If he wasn't already, Floyd Leech was definitely hooked now. Cowrie just snickered as she latched onto Jade's arm, "Too bad, Ellie-senpai isn't here to see you guys. She left earlier with some other Octavinelle boys."

Luna sighed teasingly, "A pity really. But we should get going then we can catch up with her. Maybe Azul-kun could sneak in a dance or two with her as well before the rest of his dorm whisks her away for the night," before he could answer, Luna turned to Reine and Alyssa, "Reine could use an escort, yes?"

The princess smiled, silently entertained by the sisters' antics, "Yes, I'm meeting Riddle at the ballroom. Perhaps I could walk with you, Azul? If you don't mind, of course."

Azul snapped back into his usual charming veneer, the very same he always had at the ready when it was time to entertain customers, "Ah but of course, Your Highness, it would be my honor naturally."

Reine linked her arm with his and gave him a playful smile, "Don't worry, I won't force a dance out of you, Mr. Ashengrotto." The other girls giggled as poor Azul's face glowed pink. Jade offered his other arm to Alyssa and followed Azul and his brother out the door with the two much shorter girls on either side of him.

The ballroom looked as if springtime had exploded inside. Instead of letting Kalim's barrage of flowers go to waste, Elise's quick thinking utilized every single one to decorate the room and used just enough magic to keep each flower pristine. Several students had already gathered inside and were excitedly mingling about. Elise was flitting about making sure everything was ready before finally settling in the middle of a small group of attentive Octavinelle students, all ready to soak up her girlish attention. Their hopes were swiftly dashed as soon as Azul and the twins arrived with the very attractive Cerith sisters at their sides. One look from Floyd and Jade made the boys quickly distance themselves as the trio approached. The poor boys took extra care not to stare at the lovely mermaid sisters lest they get themselves into even more trouble. Elise barely noticed as her eyes lit up at the sight of the sharp-looking boys.

"Well you three clean up nice, don't you!"

Floyd's expression turned friendly as he looked Elise up and down, "Oooh Star Fishie, you look so pretty..."

Jade hummed in agreement before smirking at Azul, "Very fetching indeed. You think so too, right Azul?"

"Ahh, but of course. Your Highness' beauty is undeniable," Azul retained his oozing charm without letting his nerves get the better of him. For now.

With both sets of mischievous eels surrounding them like vultures, there was no way Azul and Elise were getting out of this without being thoroughly teased. The octopus tried his best to not lose his cool under the twins' taunting gazes or Elise's adoring one. The princess practically glowed as she looked him up and down, "Oh Mr. Ashengrotto, you're too sweet. But...where is your date?"

Azul wouldn't be surprised if the eels had somehow manifested popcorn into their hands with the way all four of them were watching his exchange with the princess, "A-ah, I'm afraid I am without one. It's been a terribly busy week and all. Surely you understand, Your Highness."

Elise ignored the snickering coming from both Luna and Cowrie as Azul all but quoted Elise's excuses from earlier, "O-oh yes, of course, completely understandable!" She laughed lightheartedly. The way Luna tilted her head in Azul's direction while giving her dorm leader a sly grin didn't escape Elise's notice. She could take a hint and the poor boy seemed to need a swift rescue.

"Well in that case, perhaps you'll allow me to keep you company then, Mr. Ashengrotto!" Elise took the boy's hand and quickly pulled him away from the teasing presence of their four retainers. She threw the sisters a sharp look over her shoulder as she heard Luna whistle suggestively and Cowrie throw some kissing noises her way. Azul wasn't sure if he felt relieved or like he was about to have a panic attack.

Riddle took a deep breath as he searched the room. He fidgeted with his gloves and straightened his already perfect suit for the millionth time making Trey laugh.

"Nervous are we?"

"Hush..." Riddle's tone had no teeth to it as his cheeks flushed light pink, "aren't you supposed to be paying attention to your date, Trey?"

Trey's date was currently in the middle of taking selfies with her fellow dormmates and their dates. And, of course, Cater. Trey just chuckled as the girl waved cutely over to him.

"I decided to take a breather from the Magicam marathon for a second."

Riddle was too distracted by all the electricity permeating the air around him to respond. Alyssa and Deuce had found each other in a bubble of adorable giddiness. Kalim was excitedly hyping up Jinnah to his dormmates and anyone would listen, really making her feel both flattered and embarrassed. Both he and Rook Hunt were absolutely gushing in the most humble yet extra ways about their dates while Jamil and Vil stood off to the side looking exasperated with the whole scene. Manari was just enjoying every second of the free entertainment, not noticing how Jamil's face began to flush as she took his arm. The whole room was buzzing in one form or another until finally, Riddle heard the sweet voice he had been waiting for.

"Looking for me?"

He turned and nearly melted into the floor under the radiant vision that was Reine Castilene. She smiled and giggled lightly at his shocked face, "Sorry to keep you waiting, love."

He couldn't feel his legs. In fact, what were legs?? Riddle's brain short-circuited and turned to gooey butter. It wasn't until Trey gave him a light push before heading back to his own date did Riddle come back to Earth.

"Yes. Always. You're so gorgeous, I don't know how I missed you," Riddle was getting better at expressing his feelings in confidence but his face still struggled to keep its literal cool when faced with his beautiful princess. Her shy gaze made his heart flutter as she closed the distance between them, taking his gloved hands in hers.

"Why thank you, Mr. Rosehearts, you charming sir."

Their moment of intimacy was quickly interrupted once they realized that they were suddenly the center of attention. The entire room was looking their way once the announcer addressed the room and drew everyone's attention to Reine, the guest of honor. She handled it like a champ and gave the room a curtsy as the other students applauded, cheered, and even whistled for her. Riddle applauded his queen as well with a proud smile on his face. Reine leaned in to whisper a soft apology to him, "I'm afraid you're going to be in the spotlight with me for a bit, darling."

Riddle did feel a bit awkward with all the pairs of eyes suddenly watching them but the boy just took Reine's hand in his and kept his gaze on her, "I've been in far worse places. Besides, I doubt anyone is going to be looking at me tonight anyway. You're way too enchanting."

When did this boy get so smooth? She thought as they got into position to open the dance with a waltz, thankfully a dance they could both handle. They were soon joined by other couples on the floor but neither of them noticed anyone else. They could have been dancing just the two of them for all they knew. The first three dances blurred together as Reine and Riddle kept gliding across the dance floor. No one bothered trying to cut in to pull the princess away from him for even a second. With the way they were stuck in each other's gazes, anyone interested knew they didn't stand a chance. It wasn't until the dances became more lively - thanks to the joint efforts of Scarabia and Almascaber mostly - that the royal couple decided to take a break. Riddle stepped aside and let Reine mingle with those who wished to congratulate her and maybe sneak in a quick dance while they had the chance. Riddle just let himself watch his princess radiate grace and contentment from afar, where he thought he was safe...he was incorrect.

"Riddle!"

The boy was suddenly surrounded by the other Sacred Crown dorm leaders who all had looks of mischief in their eyes. He quickly felt like a scared fox cornered by a pack of hounds and Manari was leading the pack.

"Heeey Riddle, congratulations on becoming Reine's Rosabyrine king! We wanted to celebrate you and welcome you into our family properly before you could dash off," Manari had a sneaky grin on her face that only added to Riddle's inner panic. The other girls giggled lightly as they formed a circle around him. "Also, I have to say just how happy we all are that it was you and not Zehn Whatshisface. Let's just make that clear right now," Manari continued as the other girls all chimed their agreement, "So with that said...Your Crimson Rosy-Highness!" Manari gave Riddle a deep bow setting off a chain reaction throughout the circle as each girl gave him an elaborate title and curtsy/bow as well.

"Your Majestic Tea-Time Excellency!"

"Your Honorable Hedgehog Highness!"

And so on until Riddle couldn't help but laugh at their ridiculous displays until finally the ring was complete and the girls all gave a cheer as they showered him in white and red rose petals. Across the floor, Reine smiled and secretly hoped her fellow dorm prefects weren't harassing her fiancé too much. She was about to go to his rescue when a familiar figure caught her eye as he entered the room with his crew. Reine's eyes lit up as she caught Malleus Draconia's bright green gaze. She didn't hesitate to go right up to him and wrap her arms around him in another affectionate hug.

"You came!"

The Diasomnia prefect smiled warmly down at his friend as he returned her embrace, "Indeed...though I suppose we are late."

Reine just brushed off his concern, ignoring all the odd stares their little group was currently getting, "Oh not at all. You arrived just in time and you all look so dashing in your suits!"

Malleus was in an all-black tailored suit with a subtle sheen to the fabric and dress shirt with silver lapel pins shaped like tiny gargoyle heads. Very fitting. Lilia wore his oversized, dark green suit jacket over his shoulders in his usual fashion, leaving his white shirt, black vest, and pants in perfect view. Sebek had already zipped away to find his date that had been patiently awaiting him and, very loudly, apologized for his tardiness but from Reine could tell, his suit was eerily similar to Malleus'. Silver was fiddling with the green chrysanthemum boutonniere that Petra had given him, trying to properly re-pin it to his sage green suit jacket. His father frowned in disapproval at the fact that Silver's matching vest wasn't buttoned correctly and his hunter green tie was too loose. Honestly, you'd think someone else taught this boy how to dress! Reine giggled affectionately and stepped forward to help the poor boy out.

"Here, Silver, let me," she offered affectionately before pinning the flowers straight, gently cinching up his tie, and straightening up his vest for him, "There. Much better." She saved him just in time for Petra to come running up to him.

"There you are! I thought maybe you passed out somewhere again!" the other princess laughed before dragging the bashful boy onto the dance floor. Lilia took his leave as well, disappearing to join in the lively dancing. Reine smiled up at Malleus and extended her hand to him.

"This kind of dance isn't exactly my forte but I do recall promising a certain prince a dance and I always keep my promises."

The tall, dark fae accepted her hand and let her guide him onto the floor. At first, other couples that noticed the two started to draw away in surprise but once they reached the center where Manari and Jinnah were showing Riddle and Elise how to follow along with their dance properly, Malleus was the center of curiosity in a whole new way. Azul was also doing his best to imitate the movements, ignoring the eels and their teasing, but was glad for the sudden distraction.

"Girls, may I introduce my friend Lord Malleus Draconia?"

The girls all looked up, like way up, at Malleus with wide eyes. At first, he wasn't sure if he scared them or made them uncomfortable but they soon proves his worries unnecessary.

"Wow...you are TALL." Manari said bluntly, "Good thing we didn't try to make Reine that tall at the music contest, she would've twisted both of her ankles!" she and Jinnah suddenly laughed, lightening the mood. Reine didn't appreciate the jab at her clumsiness but let it slide anyway. Soon enough the other dorm leaders nearby took notice of the new face and also clamored up to him curiously. Charlaine in particular was amazed by his sheer towering figure alone.

"See, I told you he was real, Charlaine!!" Petra yelled over the music as she and Silver were dancing not too far away.

Malleus was very amused and surprised by them all. Clearly, Reine wasn't the only fearless one of the bunch. He was promptly invited to join in the impromptu dance lesson which he agreed to without question. It was a great change of pace to be included so readily. He smiled as he and Reine mirrored each movement until finally, they were dancing together. His heart warmed when he noticed that she was wearing the briar rose around her neck and how happy she would gaze at Riddle whenever their dancing brought them closer to each other.

"You found your King, little rose. I am happy for you."

Reine's laughter bubbled out of her like a happy fountain, perfectly reflecting her true feelings, "Thank you so much, Lord Draconia. I cannot wait to congratulate you when you find your queen someday."

Ah, what a nice thought...he would like that very much.

The night continued in a spiraling reverie amongst friends, old and new, binding them all to each other in one way or another whether they realized it or not. Reine didn't want it to end. Why were the best days always the shortest? The night air felt nice as she and Riddle finally broke away from all the excitement and found the one balcony that didn't have any other couples getting cozy on it. Riddle let out a long sigh as he hugged Reine from behind and rested his head on her shoulder.

"Aww did my girls tire you out, my darling?" the princess cooed and stroked his wine-red hair.

"Shh, just let me enjoy this before anything else happens..." he murmured tiredly, making her giggle. They enjoyed the far-off sound of the music mixed with the soft chirping of crickets in their little haven. Riddle had tried to avoid thinking of it all night but the sad realization finally caught up to him as he felt his chest start to ache a bit.

"I finally have you next to me and now I have to say goodbye tomorrow..." his voice sounded like a fragile bubble about to break. Reine pressed a soft kiss into his silky hair and sighed.

"Only for a little while...we'll see each other again soon enough. Remember, you can come see me if you miss me too much. Then I can entertain you in my dorm's rose gardens. Maybe I'll even adopt some hedgehogs so I feel less lonely in-between time."

Riddle smiled into her soft shoulder at the thought, "You say soon but...ah, I'm sorry. I sound like a child, whining and moping. Don't you dare tell my dormmates about this."

The princess chuckled lightly, "Never. I find your vulnerability so cute. I want to be selfish keep it all to myself."

"You are an angel," Riddle relished in her giggles as he pressed kisses into her pale neck, "...I suppose I can be patient."

He intertwined their ring hands together and gazed fondly at the red gem ring on her hand. Riddle was ready to be entirely devoted to her, hell he already was in many ways, and he had no more doubts that Reine felt the same for him. She showed it in every little look, little touch, every sweet word she gifted him. What was a week...a month...a year or so to wait until they wouldn't have to say goodbye anymore?

"I'm yours, Riddle Rosehearts. I'm not going anywhere." Reine promised in earnest before turning to press her lips to his.

And that was enough to keep his heart chained to hers. Always.

The next week on Night Raven's campus passed by at a painfully slow pace. Everything seemed far too quiet for the boys. Nothing out of the ordinary happened, for once. No magical upsets or sudden supernatural invaders. Just the usual state of affairs: class, club activities, study sessions for upcoming exams...normal, boring school life. Some of the boys were more affected than others. Kalim seemed more distracted and glum in his classes so much that Jamil had to scold him more often than not. Jamil seemed pretty much the same but did take to wandering off on his own to get some space more often now. Kalim's spirits would brighten whenever he received a message from Jinnah or Manari. Even more so when he received a package from the girls full of homemade snacks. Jamil, of course, insisted on checking them first...and not because some of them were made especially for him. Totally not the case at all. Azul was his usual business-oriented self, though he did admit to missing the refreshing charm the girls had brightened Monstro Lounge up with during their visit. Not to mention their generously plump wallets. Jade seemed completely unchanged as if the festival never happened. Floyd was a totally different story: he was a fussy, grumpy dark cloud that his dorm mates wisely stayed away from. He didn't bother trying to hide or curb it whatsoever whether he was in class, at basketball practice, or even working in the lounge. But every once in a while, his phone would chime and the dark aura would turn into sunshine for a few minutes of bliss as he dropped everything to respond to the messages the Cerith sisters - Luna especially - sent him. Both Jade and Azul were relieved that the sisters had given their numbers before leaving as it had become a lifeline of sorts. Jade was a bit more stealthy about responding to Cowrie's texts, making sure no one could catch his candid smiles at all the messages and photos she would send him about her day-to-day activities and her bug collection.

As for Riddle, his reputation as Heartslabyul's tyrant king increased ten-fold once the other students heard about his and Reine's 'execution' of Zehn Cavalier. He went from being an uptight, strict dorm leader to being a resolute force of nature to be respected without question. Not that he minded at all. If anything the Heartslabyul students' attitudes went from fearing him to greatly admiring him almost overnight. He took pride in that and the excitement the other boys showed whenever Reine came to the campus for a visit. They already adored her before but now she always brought them little presents, solidifying her place as their dorm's beloved 'queen'. And she always made sure to deliver Alyssa's handwritten letters directly to Deuce and in return, take his letters back to Alyssa. Yes, the two sweethearts had each other's phone numbers but this was just too cute to not help orchestrate.

Time passed in these bittersweet cycles as the seasons changed and as everyone grew older. There were other festivals, other sporting events, other events that kept them all connected even after they all graduated and settled into their adult lives. The biggest event that brought them all back together face to face was one of the happiest days in Riddle and Reine's life...

- Years Later... -

"Your Majesty, the guests will be arriving soon...shall I fetch the King for you?"

Chamberlain Jasper Elfern, now fully grown into his role in the royal council and his role as both husband and father, smiled up at Reine as she dismissed the remaining council from her throne room. Queen Reine Rosehearts smiled at her cousin, "No need, Jasper, I could use the fresh air."

The royal gardens were abuzz with a flurry of activity. Her trusted staff of servants bustled about making sure everything was in place like clockwork, only pausing to bow respectfully to their queen as she made her way to the more secluded corner she knew her husband favored. Reine stopped to observe the handy work of one particular gardener and gave her praise to the older gentleman.

"The roses look absolutely gorgeous as always, Mr. Cavalier. Well done."

Mr. Cavalier Sr. bowed graciously to his generous queen. While his son was still banned from the royal grounds to this day, Reine found that his father was still a decent and kind man who deserved compassion. His wife and son had left him to relocate to another city entirely, doing what no one knew nor cared. Though the father had originally been a member of her mother's court, Reine remembered from long ago that he had shared his passion for gardening with her before and even offered a few tips to her and the royal family's gardeners at the time. Now he was allowed the joy and freedom of tending to Reine's multicolored rose gardens to his heart's content with no worries or want for anything. Speaking of fathers, Reine continued her walk deeper into the garden as she followed the sound of her own father's booming laugh. She smiled as she found her family under the same gazebo where she and Riddle officially began their courtship so long ago.

Revon Castilene regained his former name and title as Duke Revon Elfern now that his son-in-law took his place as the Rose King. He and Alva divorced once their daughter became queen and Alva Castilene retired to the countryside without a single word of affection for her ex-husband or daughter. The two of them accepted it without a fuss and Reine asked her father to remain in the castle, nearby so he could help Riddle in his early years grow into a fine ruler and also so he could be near his grandchildren. Riddle and Reine's eldest ran to his mother as soon as he saw her. The four-year-old boy was the spitting image of his mother and looked as if he were made from fresh snow with his fluffy, white-blonde hair and his father's dark grey eyes. The little prince called 'mama, mama', reaching up to her with his little arms.

"Hello, my darling," Reine softly cooed as she pulled her little angel into her arms. After all this time, Riddle Rosehearts - now King Rosehearts - still looked absolutely smitten as he watched his wife dote on their little boy. He had grown to be quite the handsome man in time. He was thrilled when he hit a growth spurt right before his third year at Night Raven College. He never reached the NRC giant levels of tallness, but he did stand at a proud 5'8 by the time he graduated and now with a slightly deeper voice. But all that paled in comparison to the pride he felt when his daughter was born. The now two-year-old princess lay curled up and napping in his arms as he sat across from his father-in-law. The baby girl looked like a tiny, more vibrant version of her father with bright strawberry red hair and lavender eyes. And yes, she even inherited Riddle's heart-shaped hairs that seemed to stick up whenever she had a hissy fit. Her outbursts were cute now but the King and Queen had a feeling their little one also inherited her father's temper from his younger days.

"It's almost time, love," Reine whispered as she gazed lovingly at her pair of beloved redheads, "I almost hate to wake her up but everyone's been waiting to meet her for a while now."

Normally, the crown princess would be presented and celebrated soon after being born but the royal parents decided to wait until she was a bit older for a few reasons: 1) the birth had been difficult and there was fear that the baby princess was born with a more fragile immune system than her brother, fortunately, this was found to be incorrect later and 2) Reine enjoyed seeing all of her 'nieces and nephews' and wanted them to be able to meet her little one once all of them were able to travel with their parents. So today was the day and it promised to be just as wild as any day where all of the Night Raven and Sacred Crown alumni got together. Time, marriage, and families didn't seem to change that whatsoever.

The tiny princess' curious eyes charmed everyone who gazed into them as soon as they were in her presence. It didn't matter how stoic or expressive the person was. Her godmother, Elise, was absolutely in love with her.

"Oh, darling angel! How sweet you are!" Elise cooed in delight, giggling at the tiny girl's serious expression. Another thing she inherited from her father, "Riddle, she looks just like you! What a face~"

"She is already quite vigilant," Riddle grinned smugly as his baby girl kept a careful fist clinging to his suit coat even as she looked around the garden at all the people.

The only time the little girl's face changed is when faced with the Leech brothers and their curious little ones. Perhaps it was the fact that the twins had somehow gotten even more monstrously tall before they even graduated school and after or perhaps it was because this was the princess' first time seeing people with sharp teeth. Either way, her lavender eyes were as wide as saucers. Riddle had promised his wife that he'd be on his best behavior but even so, he frowned and held his daughter a bit more tightly as Floyd Leech bent down to coo at her.

"Hiiiii baby goldfishie-chaaan~ You're so tiny and cuuuute, heheheeeeh~"

Even as a grown man who was a husband and father, Floyd's personality barely changed from his school days. If anything, his wife kept him a bit more even-keel. Floyd's son was the same age as Riddle's eldest and the small boy shyly tried to look up at the princess from behind his father's long legs before eventually wandering off with the young prince and the small herd that consisted of Jinnah and Manari's very boisterous children. Riddle had fully expected his daughter to burst into tears out of fear but instead she just garbled some broken words up at Floyd as she gently tugged on his long dark strand of hair.

"Aww, she likes meee~"

Jade and Floyd shared similar bright smiles that eventually made the tiny girl giggle and Riddle breathe a sigh of relief. His daughter didn't seem quite as impressed with Azul but was curious about the octopus' little one that seemed just as curious in return.

Reine was making the rounds, thrilled to see each of her friends and their families again. Playing catch up was starting to make her head spin, however. She couldn't believe her eyes once she saw that Jinnah was once again pregnant and yet somehow still stunning as ever. Both Reine and Manari joked that the poor woman needed a vacation. The woman just shook her head with a sly grin, "Yeah try telling that to my husband..."

The queen had almost greeted everyone in the garden when Jasper announced the arrival of another guest. She smiled warmly once she saw King Malleus Draconia enter with his gorgeous queen at his side and young daughter in his arms. She made her way over to the fae family and curtsied to them all before welcoming them with open arms.

"Hello, old friend. I'm so happy you could make it."

Malleus might as well had been frozen in time. He barely changed at all save for a more defined physique and facial features that only got better with age. His daughter was his little twin, horns and all, and a year younger than Reine's son. The little girl immediately recognized her 'auntie' and reached for her. Reine wrapped the little dragon fae in her arms with such warmth that Malleus nearly melted at the sight.

"Hello, my little dragon queen! Oh, you're getting so big, aren't you? Would you like to meet your newest cousin?"

As if on cue, Riddle joined them with the curious princess in his arms. The two little girls locked eyes as their parents talked with each other. It wasn't long until Reine's son realized his favorite playmate had arrived and rushed over to retrieve her from his mother's arms. The two skittered off to rejoin the pack as Reine took her little princess in her arms to introduce to Malleus properly.

"This is one of Mommy's dearest friends, my little rosebud," Reine said sweetly. Her daughter locked eyes with Malleus as if she completely understood and was sizing him up as he bent down to look her in her bright eyes. The dragon king chuckled as her tiny hands reached for his horns.

"You're as bold as your mother, little rose queen..."

The nickname he once gave Reine stuck as the tiny princess giggled in delight upon hearing it. The old system of the Rose Queendom's next ruler had been done away with, much to the relief of Reine's cousins who wished for a more normal and free life for their own daughters. Reine's daughter was the one and only crown princess, uncontested. With that in mind, Malleus' nickname for her served as a blessing for the little one's future. It couldn't have been a more perfect day, Reine realized as she looked out into the garden and let her heart be warmed by the presence of all her friends and family. Some were friends who had become family even. Trey had found love in the form of Jasper's sister, Scarlet Elfern now Scarlet Clover. It was love at first sight as soon as she stumbled into his family's cake shop to become an apprentice and the millisecond she fed Trey some of her homemade treats. It sealed the deal once he saw how endearing she was with his younger siblings as well.

Deuce and Alyssa stayed together all through their school years but did end up breaking up after graduating simply because Alyssa wanted to focus on becoming the next royal librarian which called for intense continued study, which ended up putting a strain on their relationship. Instead of giving up, however, Deuce focused all of his energy on joining the police force within the Rose Queendom. After a couple of years and a few promotions, Lieutenant Deuce Spade paid a visit to the royal library asking to speak with the head librarian, and asked Alyssa right then and there to take him back. They were expecting their first child as husband and wife within the next couple of months.

Cater broke into fashion design alongside his sisters for a few years before breaking out on his own. He found love during his many travels: an androgynously beautiful male model he met during a fashion show in the Land of Hot Sands a couple of years ago. The two swiftly became quite the power couple on and off Magicam. Reine waved to each couple from across the garden, happy to see them all again.

Ace Trappola, unfortunately, couldn't make it but sent a bounty of presents for Riddle's little ones and even more affirmations of congrats. During his time at Night Raven, Ace had gotten really good at Magift and then quickly drew the attention of recruiters at future events. Before he even graduated, Ace had offers from professional teams ready to scout him as soon as he was out the gate. He lept at the chance without ever looking back and could honestly say it was the best decision of his life.

All in all, everyone had settled into their lives very comfortably...

Riddle and Reine tucked their babies into their beds before turning down the nursery lights. The evening was soft and quiet as they returned to the gardens for a bit of privacy before retiring themselves. The Queen and her King had a nightly tradition that began once they both moved into the castle and continued every day since.

"Are you ready to lose, my love?"

Riddle chuckled as he opened the cage to pick up his red hedgehog companion before calling the matching flamingo over to him, "You say that every time, my queen, and yet I remain undefeated."

Reine sighed dramatically as she gently held the blue hedgehog in her hands, "Yes well it took me years to convince you to ignore the 'no playing croquet after 5:00 rule' and I eventually succeeded. So it stands to reason that I too will succeed in defeating you as well...someday. I will wear you down yet."

Riddle gave his wife a boyishly smitten smile as she readied her blue flamingo. Seven above, he loved this woman. She playfully scolded him for trying to distract her, "Don't you give me that look."

Her husband just laughed and stepped aside so she could take the first shot.

"Yes, my queen."

- the end -

----------------------------

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@iscarlettappel @foxwitchaine @aiimee9 @1ndigowitch @nuitthegoddess @victoria1676 @feldya @wysteriadelights @evieyouknow @espada188

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neoninky · 1 year

Text

TWST Fanfic "Her Ivory Crown": Chapter 14

Ch. 14: A World of Our Own

The Queen's advisor had been kind enough to allow Riddle to escort the princess to her home in the Rose Queendom. At least he thought it was out of mere kindness. The truth was a bit more unexpected...

"His Majesty, the White King, has requested your presence, Riddle Rosehearts. He wishes to meet the young man who aided the princess in her time of need."

...Riddle kept playing those words over and over in his mind as he leaned against the plush seat in the carriage. Reine was next to him, holding his hand with their fingers laced together, and staring out the window as the royal city passed them by. Jasper was sitting across from the couple, doing the same. All three of them hadn't said a word since they arrived. Riddle glanced down at the bandages remaining on Reine's arms and legs. The nurse was able to lessen the pain and the wounds to the best of their ability but some of the gashes remained and needed to be covered. Jasper assured Riddle that his aunt had the best healers at her disposal and that Reine would be good as new as soon she set foot back in the castle. Riddle was worried about the damage he couldn't see, however. Reine was brilliantly resilient and didn't complain one bit about having to travel even though it was clear that she was still in a lot of pain and exhausted beyond reason. Reine caught Riddle's worried gaze and gave him a small smile before scooting closer to rest her head on his shoulder. He said nothing as he let go of her hand only to gently wrap his arm around her waist so he could hold her closer. Jasper smiled at the soft display of affection but said nothing. It was as if he wasn't there and who was he to interrupt the lovebirds' quiet moment?

The castle loomed over them as the carriage passed through the ivory gates covered in white rose emblems. It was a sleek, imposing structure that was built to perfection and it told Riddle everything he needed to know about Her Majesty within the first few seconds. The same white rabbit advisor met them in the courtyard along with rows of servants behind him who quickly set to work as soon as the three students were properly greeted.

"Your Highness, Lord Elfern, and Mr. Rosehearts, welcome. Her Majesty is waiting for you in the throne room, Princess. His Majesty will receive you in the west garden, Mr. Rosehearts, and Lord Elfern-"

"Jasper will be coming with me," Reine's voice was calm but firm, "I wish to have my future chamberlain by my side when I speak with my mother." The white rabbit beastman and the servants looked worried but all of them knew there was no room for argument.

"Y-Yes, of course, Your Highness," the rabbit advisor turned to the servants, "Take Her Highness and Lord Elfern to be properly dressed and healed before they enter the throne room."

Reine gave Riddle a reassuring look before she whispered in his ear, "I will come back unharmed this time, I promise." and then she and Jasper were whisked away.

"Follow me, if you please, Mr. Rosehearts," the advisor gave him a quick bow before leading him to meet the King. Riddle suddenly felt extremely self-conscious in his scuffed-up uniform but fortunately for him, the rabbit advisor was a step ahead already. Riddle was first taken to what looked like a giant, room-sized closet where he was quickly fitted for a proper suit without question.

"His Majesty recommended something in red. Hopefully, that is to your liking, Mr. Rosehearts."

After years of lessons and grooming in etiquette, Riddle knew not to argue. The King could order him to don a rainbow patchwork monstrosity and he would wear it gladly without even a hint of displeasure. Though he had to admit that the fact the 'White' King wished him to wear red in his presence was very curious. Riddle found himself in a perfectly fitted red suit within minutes as two royal tailors (a cat and mouse beastman of all people) looked him up and down, swiftly making any necessary adjustments as Riddle stood in front of three large mirrors. As expected, he did look very sharp: a deep red tailcoat, crisp white shirt with a double-breasted vest in a darker shade of red with gold damask patterns, black tie with a rose pin, black pants, shoes, and gloves. The advisor and tailors all nodded in approval, "Excellent. His Majesty's tailors will see that your uniform is cleaned and repaired as well. This way, please."

The west garden put the Heartslabyul gardens to shame in the vast amount of signature roses that filled the area in perfectly trimmed hedges. Each one was perfect in snow white color, form, and shape as if they were hand-crafted works of art and not actual flowers. Riddle was both impressed and unnerved at the same time. Of course, all was forgotten once he reached the large white marble gazebo in the center and found himself face to face with an older, distinguished man having tea alone save for the two almost identical men serving him.

"Presenting Mr. Riddle Rosehearts to His Royal Majesty." The rabbit beastman announced Riddle with a graceful bow which Riddle did the same as the king rose to greet him. Riddle didn't dare raise his head until the King permitted him to approach.

"Ah, at last. The valiant young man I've heard so much about lately," the King's voice was surprisingly gentle and warm, it reminded Riddle of someone, "Please, come. Sit, son."

Once Riddle raised his head he saw that the king had the same kind eyes as Reine and even the same smile. Suddenly the warmth of his tone made sense. Riddle carefully appraised his features as he took a seat across from the king. While it wasn't always indicative of one's mother-court, certain features were the tell-all of whether a person originated from the White Court vs the Red Court. For example, Reine's alabaster skin and platinum hair color were definite signatures of the White Court whereas members of the other side of the family tended to have darker hair and eyes much like Jasper with his dark brown hair and wine-red eye color. The King himself had identical deep violet eyes that his daughter clearly inherited and jet black hair.

"I look a bit like a fish out of water here, don't I?" His Majesty chuckled. Riddle prepared to immediately apologize for his staring but the king held up a hand to stop him, "No need to fret, son, I'm not offended. Not many outside the royal family know this but I was born from the Red Court thus my unusual appearance. My Queen is determined to keep the crown in the White Court and therefore keeping her legacy pure...so you can imagine, our marriage isn't exactly an open topic of discussion normally."

Riddle had so many questions and yet everything seemed to suddenly click together. The Rose Queendom knew they had a king, of course, but his lack of presence in the public eye always seemed kind of odd. Now, it made sense.

"Your Majesty, may I ask..."

The King grinned at the boy's hesitation, "Of course, my boy. Ask away. I don't get company very often. Especially the son of my old schoolmates."

Wait WHAT?! Riddle's face burst with confusion making the King give a hearty laugh, "Goodness me, your mother and father never mentioned attending healer lessons with Duke Elfern? I shouldn't be surprised. Madam Rosehearts, especially, has always been a bit stand-offish."

Riddle did recall some mention but... "I-I'm sorry, Your Majesty, my mother did mention a Duke before, I just never realized she meant you. Wait...your name is also Elfern??"

"It was. Once I married Her Majesty, I took her name, Castilene. Before that, yes, I was a nobleman in the Red Court, Duke Revon Elfern. You go to school with my nephew, Jasper, don't you? A good lad, my sister's son. She was allowed to keep the family name once my royal engagement was secured."

Riddle wasn't sure what was more shocking, all of this new information or the fact that His Majesty was so open and friendly. On the other hand, since he was so open to speaking with Riddle...

"Your Majesty, sir. Again, if I may ask, from what I do know regarding Her Majesty...why did she choose someone from the opposite court as her suitor? Not that there's anything wrong with that! It just seems...highly unusual."

The king chuckled, "Highly unusual is a good way to describe it, yes. My queen actually did not choose me. It was her mother, the former queen who made the arrangement. She too was a White Court Queen but knowing our homeland's history, she wished to end the divide between the two courts by setting up a political marriage between them. Alva Castilene, Her Majesty at the present, abhorred me but saw my aptitude for magic and 'aesthetically pleasing genes' and decided to marry me anyway in hopes of producing a perfect heir to one day take her place," the King's smile didn't reach his eyes, "I agreed because...well what choice did I have? The current and future queens commanded it. So we were engaged and quickly married."

"I see. That sounds..." Riddle hesitated to finish the sentence.

"Awful? Yes, yes it was," Riddle was absolutely gobsmacked by His Majesty's bluntness mixed with his jolly laughter, "Alva and I coexist peacefully at best. At worst, well I'm just dismissed to the nearest corner. However, despite our strained relationship, I have been blessed with my precious Reine..." the love in his voice and eyes was unquestionable, "which is why I asked for you to meet me today, my boy."

Riddle straightened up in his seat with a start. He did it so quickly he wouldn't be surprised if the heart-shaped hairs on his head stood straight up as well. The King merely stood and gave him a short bow with a grateful smile on his face, "My boy, I must thank you. I have been informed of how you aided my darling daughter in her dark hour and nothing in this world can properly express how thankful for you I truly am."

Riddle's brain completely short-circuited. Why was he just sitting there when the actual KING was bowing to HIM and unnecessarily showering him with so much praise?! He suddenly jumped out of his seat and nearly fell flat on his face trying to bow even lower to Reine's father, "Your Majesty, please! This is most u-uncalled for!"

Another booming laugh, "Nonsense, boy! You would deny your king the honor of thanking the savior of his precious flower?" He didn't give Riddle the chance to answer, "Of course not! Stand up straight, young Rosehearts. My praise is warranted I assure you. Thank you, my boy, for protecting my sweet girl from that unsavory Cavalier scoundrel..."

The King's friendly demeanor suddenly turned bitter at the mention of Zehn Cavalier, "Honestly, I can forgive most things but the fact that Alva favored him so much to push him onto our daughter, our homeland's future Queen...hmph, that I cannot."

Riddle followed the king's motion to once again sit as the man sat with a grunt himself, his mood definitely souring, "Well. That brute will be dealt with soon enough. In the meantime, I hope that my wife is being somewhat reasonable with Reine..."

Reine and Jasper stood still as statues before Her Majesty and the attending council members within the throne room. A few higher-up members of the court were in attendance as well, scattered about the edges of the room, whispering amongst themselves, ready for the show. Reine's injuries were indeed healed to perfection before she was fitted into her proper monochrome attire: a full, light silver gown adorned with white rose and diamond-shaped emblems along the panels of the belled out skirt and sheer silvery off-the-shoulder long sleeves, her proper silver crown on top of her head. It was a lesser version of the pure white gown and regalia her mother wore as the Queen proper. Jasper wore his own court's emblems of red roses and black and red heart motifs in his fitted suit with gold buttons and other embellishments. The Queen's ice-cold gaze at his presence didn't go unnoticed.

"Why was this interloper allowed into my throne room?" She stated bluntly. The question was posed to her advisor but Reine answered in his stead.

"Lord Elfern is to be my chamberlain once I am queen, as part of my official request which you approved of, Mother."

Her mother's eyes narrowed, "Approved as long as certain conditions were met..."

Reine didn't back down but remained serene, "Yes, but surely Your Majesty has been informed of my recent assault. In light of the circumstance, your conditions are unfit for me, Mother...Jasper stays."

The court members could be visibly seen giving each other anxious looks as Reine took Jasper's hand in hers, waiting to for the queen's response. The Queen merely gave a soft sigh but remained seated on her throne, "I was informed of Zehn Cavalier's recent actions, yes...and I must admit my deep disappointment. However, that is not why I have called you here today, Reine. It is your actions that must be discussed."

The tension in the air was stifling but Reine and Jasper remained facing forward even as their fingers intertwined in silent solidarity. Some members of the council shifted uncomfortably where they stood facing the two alongside their disapproving queen. She continued in a tone that dripped in superiority, addressing the entire room as if Reine wasn't standing right there.

"As my chosen heir, the princess should be well aware of what is expected of her to become my Queendom's shepherdess. She has indeed proven herself up until this point...however, I cannot overlook this heinous outburst that has taken place. You not only endangered yourself, your reputation as well as mine but your subjects as well."

Reine's brow furrowed as she spat, "My subjects who stood by as Zehn Cavalier attacked me and completely disregarded my command-"

"Your command?" The Queen's tone began to bristle, "Your command has no power unless I say so, or have you forgotten? You have no place in this hierarchy unless I give it. Without my word, my approval, you are simply a girl in a pretty dress...know your place, my dear. My point still stands. You have overstepped and now your future in this house is in danger."

Reine took a deep breath to try and subdue her temper she felt rising in her gut, "Mother. I made one mistake. Have I not proved myself in every other endeavor? To you and your court and council?"

"One mistake? Reine, you caused great harm-"

"Because I myself was greatly harmed! I was pushed to my absolute limit! Not just by him but by you! And you lied to me!"

The queen placed a hand on her chest as if she had been stabbed, "And what exactly are you accusing your queen of?"

Reine's dark eyes narrowed in a quiet rage that was about to burst, "The rule that states my full autonomy once I turn eighteen next month. You never told me this and yet it's common knowledge, allegedly, amongst all other candidates in the royal family. You didn't tell me and you continued to push your goals and desires onto me without considering mine even for a second. I accuse you of lying because it's true and you know it. You did this so everything could be decided to your liking before I was eighteen and could establish everything to my liking, taking control from your hands. The only question is if the council is aware of this as well?"

There wasn't a straight face in the entire room save for Reine and Jasper's. The confused murmurs spread amongst court and council members alike. Evidently, Her Majesty may have skipped over some details in their past congresses. The princess steeled herself and pushed onward, refusing to back down after everything, "It is my right, Mother. You may be queen but generations before have honored this rule. A rule that has remained in place for years-"

"It is MY right as queen and as your mother to make these choices for you just as my mother and queen did for me!" Her mother was now standing, glaring down at her agitated eyes, "How dare you accuse me of such treachery!"

"With all due respect, Your Majesty..." the Queen spun around to glare at her now very nervous advisor, "Princess Reine makes a fair point. We proceeded to move forward at an earlier pace regarding her courtship and assignments for her council under the impression that we had her full and knowing consent..."

"And she gave it. What is your point?" the queen snapped.

"Your Majesty, if the princess wasn't made aware of the aforementioned rule, then her consent is well...not entirely in good faith. We weren't even made aware that she wished for an entirely different council than your own until recently. This was the first you had informed any of us of the princess' intentions or desires-"

The queen stepped down from her throne, making the rabbit beastman and the rest of her court cower under her shrewd gaze, "How dare you! What exactly are you insinuating?!"

"Your Majesty...if I may..."

This was the first time Jasper spoke and judging by the withering look his aunt was giving him, he needed to choose his next words very carefully, "I was the one who made my cousin aware of the rule of royal autonomy. Seeing as how she is our next queen, I thought it was right for her to know. Clearly, there is more at hand than I thought..."

The queen gave a hollow chuckle, "Of course it was you. A chaos-obsessed, Queen of Hearts worshipping pup. Need I remind you whose rule you are under, Lord Elfern? You are my husband's nephew but that doesn't make you an exception. Mind your tongue before it lands you in jail for treason."

Jasper remained poker-faced, "Not at all, Your Majesty. But I must say how ironic I find it...you have always sneered at the Red Court's legacy, saying we're a bunch of barbaric simpletons that only know how to follow a bunch of foolish rules that serve no purpose. And how you have always strived to part yourself and your court away from such 'hazardous' influences..."

The Queen's lips were pulled together in a tight line as she stared pinpointed venom straight at the boy. Jasper's lips merely pulled upward into a smirk as Reine finished his point for him, "You have done the one thing my cousin's beloved ancestor never would...you've bent and broken your own rules just to manipulate your heir's path to suit your own selfish desires! You have disregarded your oath to do what's best for the Rose Queendom and its people!"

"ENOUGH!" Reine's mother shouted, "Such insolence won't go unpunished, you ungrateful brats!"

"Am I wrong?" Reine's voice cut through the tension to address not just the queen but the entire room, "Is that not exactly what you have done, Mother? Can you really stand there and ignore that and the fact that your own daughter was attacked and harmed by the man you handpicked for her to be her king?"

The entire room fell silent as they looked to the queen, waiting for her answer. Her face was contorted in an ill mix of frustration and rage. But what could she say...? That is exactly what had happened. A more honest, humble person would probably admit it...but a more honest, humble person wasn't sitting on the throne. The queen instead took a breath and sat down with a deadly composure.

"I am the queen. I will always do what I must for the future of my queendom. I will admit my mistake of putting my faith in Zehn Cavalier and making the mistake of choosing you as my heir, Reine. Clearly, you cannot handle the weight of my crown without spiraling into ruin...that mistake, however, can be easily remedied."

Reine's chest tightened in pain at the queen's words. Her mother might as well as run her through with a blade of ice. The queen showed no remorse as she waved to the guards to open the doors at the back of the hall. Four other girls, ranging in age from their early twenties to the youngest who couldn't have been older than fourteen, in white court finery, entered looking solemn. Three were sisters. All were cousins to Reine and her rivals for the throne. Reine's mother wore her cold poker face once more as she addressed the room.

"Your queen has decided. My unfortunate daughter is unfit to take my place. Fortunately for me, there are other fine girls worth continuing the White Court's legacy." Jasper couldn't believe what he was hearing. He felt Reine's grasp tighten on his hand as her lips trembled, trying to hold back a cry. After everything, after all of her hard work, was it really just going to be taken away from her like this?! Her cousins lined up in front of her, facing the queen, their backs turned to Reine as they stood tall and perfectly poised.

"Now then, all four of you have already proven yourselves during my trials this past winter. So which one of you will step forward?"

There was a heavy silent pause that hung in the air as the four girls looked at each other and the youngest looked back at Reine. The current crown princess was hanging on by a thread as she awaited their answer. She had forgotten the most important rule of all: All ways were the Queen's ways and no one had ever said no to Her Majesty...

The eldest of the three sisters stepped forward, "Your Majesty, my sisters and I have been told of the situation at hand and we have decided amongst ourselves...our dear cousin, Reine, is the only proper choice. We will not challenge her position when she has already proven herself countless times over. This 'upset' we were told about; we see it as merely a moment of humanity and an act of self-defense by our cousin. She was protecting our homeland's most precious commodity: herself." The three sisters then turned to the youngest cousin who also refused simply by shaking her head 'no'.

...until today.

Reine let out a happy, relieved breath. The eldest of the girls gave her a reassuring smile over her shoulder to which Reine mouthed a silent 'thank you'. The queen wasn't so pleased. She once again rose in hurry, staring the girls down but they remained quietly resolute. The eldest continued to speak in the same even, regal tone.

"If Her Majesty still wishes for a different heiress, perhaps she should consult our other dear cousin...Lady Scarlet Elfern. She was the second most promising candidate aside from Reine after all."

The queen looked dumbfounded. She turned to her council for answers and the head member cleared his throat nervously before answering, "We cannot force any of the candidates, no matter how promising, to accept the crown if they are not willing, Your Majesty. However, Lady Scarlet is indeed the next best option and she has yet to be contacted regarding this matter..."

Jasper's grin was the very definition of smug, "Ah yes, my sister would make a wonderful queen! She is quite a gifted visionary, but of course, that would mean...that the crown would be passed back into the Red Court." He gave Reine a playful wink and her grin matched his own.

"Indeed it would, Jasper. Well, I'm sure Auntie will be absolutely thrilled. That is, of course, if Mother does concede to giving away her precious heritage that my grandmother, great grandmother, and great-great-grandmother have worked so hard to maintain..."

All eyes were on the flabbergasted queen. With all of her confidence, careful planning, and yes, manipulating...she had unwittingly found herself back into a corner. Her only options were now to either let her unruly daughter continue on her path towards ascension or let some little Red Court bitch destroy everything she and her direct family line had built! Either way, Alva Castilene felt a cold rush of fear pierce her heart. She felt trapped. Looking directly into her daughter's sharp eyes, the same eyes of that damned husband of hers, the queen knew she had been beaten.

The same councilman that had spoken up before was now whispering something to the rabbit advisor. The beastman cleared his throat and addressed the room, "The council has requested a recess to discuss what must be done properly. Your Majesty?"

The queen gave a passive wave of her hand to signal everyone else to promptly leave, "Out. All of you." The skittish court members didn't hesitate. Lord Cavalier, Zehn's father, was one of the last to leave. He had been hiding this entire time in silence but he gave Reine a look of deep remorse before leaving with the others. Her four cousins curtsied to her and Jasper before leaving themselves.

"Princess. Lord Elfern."

Reine and Jasper looked back to the head councilman who stepped forward to address them. He was a proud, elderly man who stood tall in their presence, looking them in the eye without any doubt or contempt, "Your Highness, in light of these newfound circumstances...I can say without any uncertainty that the rest of the council and myself are in agreement: should you remain our future queen, you shall be granted full autonomy over all decisions in regards to your council, your court, and your suitor without having to wait until your eighteenth birthday. We hope you consider letting us continue to serve you, Your Highness." He bowed his silver-haired head to Reine, ignoring the noise of protest coming from the current queen, "As for your continued status of being the heir, we ask that you allow us to discuss this in private with your mother."

Reine was full to the brim with joy as she gave the gentleman a slight bow, "Of course, gentlemen. Thank you all."

Reine and Jasper turned and left the throne room, trying to contain themselves as her mother's indignant squawks followed them out. They barely made it outside before they both completely burst with laughter.

"I cannot believe it, Jasper!!"

"I was right next to you and I'm still reeling! You were magnificent!!" Jasper dropped down to one knee and dramatically took her hand in his, "My lady queen! What an honor it is and will be to serve you as you lay waste to every fool who dares question your authority!"

Reine giggle-snorted without shame as she smacked her cousin's arm, failing to stop him from dramatically kissing her hand like the foolish rogue he was, "Oh you. Stop it. Though you are correct, it will be your honor to serve me, cousin."

"Oooo! You know aside from the whole life-threatening aspect of it, I think Overblotting has served you well, dear princess! I like this new sassy side of you!" Jasper crowed as he hopped back up.

Reine just smiled before taking his arm once more, "Well that makes two of us. Let's find my father and Riddle before Mother tries to have us executed."

Riddle's ear perked once he heard Reine's familiar laughter float through the air behind him, getting closer by the second. He nearly fell out of his chair once she came into view, stealing his breath away just when he thought she couldn't be any more beautiful. The brightest smile she had ever given him was the final straw the broke him entirely. The King quickly stood and rushed to give his darling girl a warm hug, all formality - if any - went right out the window.

"My darling Reine! I thought they'd never let this old fool see you!" her father turned into an absolute teddy bear once he had her in his arms again, "I'm so happy that you are alright, my dear child..."

Jasper joined Riddle at the table with a contented sigh as the father and daughter reconnected. His senior looked him up and down with a sly smirk, "Well Rosehearts, don't you clean up nice! How's it been with Uncle, hm? He's a real character isn't he?" the boy just laughed that same light-hearted chuckle the King had. They really were related after all.

The four of them soon had a much more relaxed and happy atmosphere established in the garden, worlds away from the scene Reine and Jasper had just left. The King let out another booming laugh as his nephew retold the tell of Reine's assured victory, leaving her to shake her head at his dramatics.

"That's my girl! Fire in the blood just like your grandmother. My mother was a force to reckon with, bless her soul."

"Thank you, Father." Reine was practically glowing.

Riddle found himself just quietly experiencing the three family members' interaction, relishing in their lively, warm energy as if he were sitting by a campfire. It was so different than what he normally experienced when he was home. He never would had thought them to be royals at all if it weren't for their fine clothes and the crowns adorning Reine and her father's heads. The fact that he was allowed into their world at all felt like a dream...one he didn't want to end. Riddle had almost forgotten about the festival happening back at school entirely. He almost forgot about the years of harsh supervision heaped onto him by his strict mother and the solitude that often came with it. Jasper and the King continued to banter back and forth as Riddle felt Reine take his hand underneath the table. She wasn't looking at him but somehow he knew that smile of hers was still for him, keeping him anchored with her in that happy moment. He suddenly wished the other two weren't there as Riddle felt the urge to kiss the princess right then and there. The boy quickly dismissed the thought before his face could betray him, however. The revelry was soon interrupted by the arrival of the queen's advisor, "Pardon my intrusion, Your Majesty, I have news for Her Highness."

The King merely sipped his tea before beckoning the rabbit into their space, "Out with it then, my daughter is in trusted company," he gave Jasper and Riddle both a wink.

"Of course, Your Majesty!" The rabbit turned to bow to the expectant princess, "Princess Reine, I am so very pleased to inform you that the council and Her Majesty have come to an agreement: you shall remain our crown princess and glorious future queen. Your Majesty!" the rabbit beastman couldn't contain his glee as he bowed once more to Reine, even more deeply this time.

Jasper didn't bother with formality as he let out a cheer and applauded his cousin, "Oh darn. Scarlet will be so disappointed. Or not. She's already neck-deep in her kingdom-to-kingdom tour of studying under the local pastry chefs or whatever it is that she's doing. I'm sure she'll be fine."

Reine thanked the white rabbit for the wonderful news and patted her 'disappointed' cousin on his shoulder, "Do send her my condolences when you get the chance, my dear chamberlain."

"Wonderful. Everything is as it should be! Though...I imagine your mother is in quite a foul mood. A shame really," his expression seemed to disagree with his words, "However, now nothing is stopping me from tying up one loose end. Or rather having you do it for me, my dear Reine."

The princess shared a curious look with Riddle as her father removed a sealed envelope from his suit coat. He handed it over to Reine and began to explain, "As the King, I don't hold much sway over the happenings in our homeland, however, I do control who is and who isn't allowed in your mother's court. I'm also allowed to see that justice is done in the queen's stead when necessary. I have already issued a sentence for Mr. Zehn Cavalier for his heinous crimes against our crown princess and future queen...however, you, my dear girl, are the victim here and it only seems right that you deliver his verdict in my place."

Reine's eyes widened at her father's words. Suddenly the envelope in her hands felt so very heavy yet delicate. She set it down on the table before her and gave the king a determined look, "Yes Father. It will be my honor."

"That's my girl," the King's heart swelled with pride. He cleared his throat before rising from his seat, "Jasper, walk with me. I'd like to talk of many important things with you, my dear boy."

Jasper quickly followed suit after seeing Reine's eyes excitedly flick over to Riddle and then back to him. Riddle seemed utterly lost as the two of them swiftly departed, leaving him and Reine alone. The princess let out a relieved sigh that made her deflate a bit, "What a day..."

Riddle turned to face her properly, also feeling a great bit of relief wash over him, "Congratulations Reine on successfully standing your ground. You are extraordinary."

His sincere smile made her face flush a warm pink. Oh, damn him and that smile. Now wasn't the time for her nerves to get all jumpy!

"Thank you, Riddle. Now that everything has been settled...finally...I also want to talk to you about something very important."

Riddle noticed that her calm, confident air suddenly vanished and transformed Reine back into the nervous, girlish princess she was back at school. Her hands fidgeted a bit as she cleared her throat, which was still sore after all this ridiculous drama.

"I turned Zehn down. You know before I..." Reine made a gesture with her hands that made it look like her head exploded, making Riddle snicker a bit, "And so. He's not my suitor. If I'm being really honest - something I'm actively trying to do now - I never wanted him to be my suitor...there's someone else I want. But before I can make such a request, I need to know something, Riddle. Rather, I need you to know something."

The boy's heart hiccuped in his chest as he watched her pull the ring box from her dress's hidden pocket. Her expression was a mixture of pink flushed giddiness and tremors of fear, "Riddle. I want my king, my future husband, to be you. With that said...I-I realize just how big and how sudden of a commitment this is and the last thing I want is for you to feel obligated to say yes to me. I felt it for years with Zehn and it was horrible...also, I want to know what you want, first."

Riddle's wide eyes blinked at her incredulously, "W-What I want...?"

"Yes. Is it really such an unusual question?" Reine giggled, "What do you want out of life for yourself? You're such a hard worker and a top student in a prestigious school. Surely you had something in mind before we even met, yes?"

Did he though? Riddle gave it some thought. His entire life had been planned down to the minute so it would make sense to have some ultimate goal in place. But was that really the same as what he wanted? His voice sounded distant as his thoughts started piecing themselves together.

"My mother...she always had everything planned, perfectly formulated out for me ever since I can remember. From what I've heard, it sounds like you can relate," Reine nodded with a sad smile but didn't interrupt him, "I suppose if I were to continue as I have been, I'd become a healer like my parents. Carry on the Rosehearts name in that way. As meticulous as my mother is, I have no doubt she'd eventually find me a 'proper' bride as well."

Reine hummed in thought before asking sweetly, "Do you think Madam Rosehearts would approve of me, Riddle?" she batted her long lashes for added effect.

Riddle barked out a genuine laugh, "Oh my dear princess, I can't think of anyone else who could meet let alone surpass her incredibly high expectations!"

Her sweet giggle made his heart flutter but he continued, "With that said...what I want? I'm not sure if that correlates with what I imagine my mother would want for me. What I do want to know is this: what kind of life would you and I have together as wife and husband, queen and king?"

Oh ho, the tables turned on Reine with a dreamy rush of adrenaline as she began to imagine it for him, "Well...we wouldn't marry for a few years. At school, you'd have special permission to visit me on Sacred Crown's campus so we could spend time together. As long as it didn't disrupt our studies, of course."

"Naturally. I'd see if I could get the same special permission for you to visit me as well. The hedgehogs would love to see you again, I'm sure." Riddle playfully intertwined their fingers again with a soft smile on his face. Reine continued with a matching smile.

"After graduation, I'd ascend the throne in about two or so years. If we felt ready, we could marry around the same time. After that, you'll be by my side all the time. So much that you'll probably get tired of me," she sighed teasingly.

"Doubtful," he scoffed, "but continue."

"You will, like my father before you, will have power over our court members and have a direct connection to my council to aid in decision making regarding our Queendom's development and outreach to our allies. Jasper would aid you in such affairs as well. My mother has kept my father away from having such power but with you as my king, I believe I and my people can only benefit. Plus you will be entrusted to punish any lawbreakers that I cannot personally deal with. I will be a very busy queen, after all."

"I like the sound of that. Go on." If Riddle had a tail, it would definitely be wagging right now.

"And of course, again when you and I are ready...we will have children." Reine gave the now blushing boy a coy smile. He felt silly for getting flustered over such an obvious expectation but just the thought of starting a family with this wonderful girl in front of him sent his heart racing.

"I know daughters are preferable, naturally, but our daughters will be incredibly talented and beautiful. They will need at least one brother to protect them from any scoundrels lurking about. When I'm not around, of course....and after that?"

Reine laughed lightly, "Of course...and after that...well you and I will just live our lives, together, hopefully for many, many years to come. Watching our children grow up, carry on our legacy, helping our home thrive for us and our people. A 'happily ever after' I suppose. With all the happiness, frustration, and real-life struggles that even royals must face that comes with it."

Riddle had to catch his breath before responding, which he could still barely do, "That sounds like...a more perfect life than I could ever imagine." His eyes landed on the box still in her free hand, "...yes."

Reine froze, blinking her wide eyes a beat or two before the realization hit her, "You...yes? You mean..."

Riddle nodded with a wide smile, "Yes. I accept. Happily, eagerly even. I know now that there's nothing I could want more than to spend my life at your side, loving you, protecting you, and giving you my very best, Reine."

Reine let out a delighted squeal as she leaped to her feet and threw her arms around her suitor, "Oh Riddle! You've already given me so much! Even your vow was absolutely perfect!"

Riddle's brain skid to a halt, "W-Wait, was I supposed to have vows prepared?!" The princess just laughed and kissed him on the lips before kneeling before him, the ring box in hand. Riddle felt very shy as she opened the box up to him.

"I-Is this normally how it's done?" he laughed a bit nervously.

"Not really but it just felt right," Reine beamed up at him, thrilled to the bones, as she presented the gold band to him, "Riddle Rosehearts, I choose and accept you as my suitor, my future husband and king, and my beloved. I promise to love you and devote myself entirely to you from now until the end of our days together." Her words shook him to the core. She had never looked nor sounded more sure about anything. She took his left hand and slid the band onto his ring finger. The ring began to change as soon as it settled on him: it resized itself to fit perfectly and the band morphed into a more elaborate design consisting of winding rose thorns holding a single white jewel in its center, held in place by a rose-shaped mounting. Riddle admired its form before taking the second, already shaped ring and sliding it onto his future bride's left hand. The preset jewels flickered and changed from white to a deep red once it was on her finger. The couple smiled down at their bands, admiring just how perfect they looked together.

"Normally, tradition dictates that we hold a large ceremony where we say our vows to each other in front of a bunch of important people but...I like this much better," Reine said softly as she pressed her forehead against his as he leaned down. Riddle lifted her off the ground and pressed his lips to hers in adamant agreement. This was...perfect. He had never looked forward to anything more in his life. Reine giggled and deepened the kiss as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Her sweet, excited suitor didn't argue as his hands gently gripped her slender waist, pulling it into him. Normally, he'd be anxious about her father suddenly returning to the gazebo but his excitement overruled any sense of reason. Reine broke the kiss but the touch starved boy just moved on to her neck, making her voice come out in a small gasp as her fingers tangled into his hair. Riddle loved it so much he feared he might break apart.

"Riddle, darling," she softly purred into his ear, sending a shiver down his spine, "I adore how affectionate you've become, I don't want you to stop...however, there is one more thing I need you to do for me, my love." Great Seven, her unexpected pet names felt so good that Riddle nearly melted in her arms.

"Yes, my queen?" he held the gaze of a lovesick puppy without any signs of regret.

Reine reached back to retrieve the envelope her father passed on to her, "I need you to help me punish that unforgivable beast who attacked and hurt me, my king..." her pouty lips sent him over the moon. This was now the second most exciting thing he looked forward to in his life.

"Yes, my queen."

It was late afternoon when Elise's phone lit up on the bar counter. She didn't catch it at first as she helped Jade clean glasses in the Monstro Lounge. It was Luna and Cowrie who were being punished with detention but since Elise did technically have a hand in their 'crimes', it only seemed right to help out as well. She had easily convinced Azul to suggest the girls help around the Lounge for the day in place of an enforced study hall. Or enforced boot camp with Coach Vargas. Luna didn't seem to mind and took to being a stand-in waitress quite smoothly. Cowrie was also having fun but suspected that Elise's true motive was just to see the sisters in Octavinelle suits once again. This was confirmed with the human princess squealing in delight and taking several pictures as soon as they entered the room. This time they were in pants instead of skirts to avoid distracting the other employees. Namely Floyd...granted he was also put on kitchen duty to keep him away from Luna and beating up any customers who got too close to Luna. The elder sister just took it as his own form of affection. Weird, slightly possessive affection but affection nonetheless.

"Miss Elise? You seem to have a missed call," Jade stated in his usual calm voice.

"Oh?...OH!!" She gave the twin an apologetic look as she nearly dropped the glass when she saw Reine's name on the screen. Elise quickly dialed the number back and fired questions off at rapid speed as soon as Reine picked up before she could find a more isolated spot to have her verbal inquisition.

"Are you alright? You're sure? Reine....ok....alright, yes I believe you. Riddle is with you? Oh good....good, yes, ok....right....ok in that case," Elise suddenly burst into low-key hysterics once she finally found a secluded corner, "Don't. You. Ever. EVER EVER DO THAT AGAIN, REINE CASTILENE! I was so worried about you!!" Fat tears were welling up in Elise's eyes as her best friend's soft voice consoled and apologized to her over the phone, "I know it couldn't be helped really b-but still! You...you could have said something?! You could have asked someone to go with you-WHY did you go alone?!" She wasn't yelling loudly enough to disturb the rest of the lounge but Jade had casually and quietly made his way over to the distressed princess to offer her a handkerchief and a glass of water without a single question before returning to his station. "O-Oh thank you, Jade. What? Yes, I'm in the Monstro Lounge. Again. ...hush that's not important! I'm still upset with you!" Reine couldn't see her friend's face but she knew she was pouting. After another apology, Reine offered her fellow princess some good news to hopefully get back in her good graces. Elise did an immediate 180 and gasped in extreme delight.

"You and Riddle?! Really?! FINALLY! ....You are absolutely right I'm the first one that should know! I would have never forgiven you otherwise! ...Yes, yes you know me too well," Elise sniffled the rest of her tears away before giggling. And then Reine gave her even better news, making her gasp even more.

"Ooooh, how wonderful. Yes, yes I will see you soon. I will definitely pass this along to the other girls...oh I'm looking forward to this just as much as you two are, I'm sure." Elise giggled wickedly before rushing back onto the floor. Azul was discussing something with Jade when the princess returned to her station in much better spirits. The eel and octopus both tilted their heads in curiosity, nearly blinded by the princess' sparkling aura.

"Jade, thank you again, you sweet boy," she patted his arm making him default back into his usual smile, hiding his internal confusion at the sudden affection, before turning to Azul, "Mr. Ashengrotto thank you so much for coming to our rescue yet again! But I'm afraid I must return to my dorm right away."

Luna and Cowrie both overheard this as they passed the bar. Cowrie in particular seemed interested, "Eh? We're leaving??"

"No no, you two still have thirty minutes left of 'detention'. I'm leaving because something very important has come up and I must inform the other dorm leaders at once!"

Cowrie pouted but Luna eyed the princess' gleeful expression suspiciously. Before either sister could question her, Elise was on the other side of the bar and pulling both of them into a sudden hug, "Ooh! You know, at first, I was regretting not having Luna break Zehn Cavalier's legs but now everything is working out so well, I'm glad I didn't!"

"Ellie-senpai, you're being weird..." Cowrie groaned. Luna just blinked in confusion at her dorm leader's strange behavior as did Azul and Jade.

Elise let the two sisters go, still smiling as if this was all completely normal, "Oh Cowrie, you're so funny! I'll come back to pick you two up in thirty minutes~" aaaand she was off.

The Cerith sisters looked at each other and then back at Azul and Jade before looking back to the exit where they just watched Elise flitter away.

"What is that girl up to now...?" Luna mused.

"Nothing good, probably...at least not for Dirt Face Cavalier." Cowrie hummed.

The sisters shared another look before grinning wickedly and giggling in unison.

-----------------------------------------------

Tagging:

@foxwitchaine @iscarlettappel @1ndigowitch @nuitthegoddess @evieyouknow @wysteriadelights @aiimee9 @espada188 @feldya

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neoninky · 1 year

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TWST Fic "Her Ivory Crown": Chapter 6

Aaand we're back~

Any newcomers to this story, be prepared...for immense fluff lol

You can find this and all other chapters on my Masterlist or read the completed stories on my AO3 page. Likes, shares, and comments are welcome!

Ch. 6: First Signs of Spring

No one except them and the Rosabyrine vice dorm leader knew what had happened. Given Reine's position, it was standard procedure that any 'incidents' like these were kept under wraps. That didn't keep Elise or Manari from wearing their worry on their faces, however. The two girls had been camped outside of Night Raven's infirmary for over an hour when the Headmistress finally exited into the hallway, her face as calm as ever.

"Miss Castilene is alright," the girls exhaled in relief, "she'll return to her room to continue resting after the nurse finishes a few healing spells, just for extra precaution. She is not to leave the dorm for the rest of the evening, understood? I will escort her back myself. You two should return to the festival for now."

The sun was sinking in the sky, casting a soft glow across the festival grounds that normally would have made Elise feel absolutely dreamy but this was the first time since they arrived that she and Manari had been so somber. Most of the other students wandering about through the rows of booths didn't notice but a certain cat sniffed out their distress the second he spotted the girls. Che'nya came around the corner to meet the two of them, his smile not quite as bright as usual.

"Why so glum, girls? You look as if the dormouse ate your favorrrite tarts..."

Elise mustered up a small grin and gave Che'nya a gentle head scratch between his ears, making him purr, "Hello Che'nya, sorry to show such a face. It's just...we're a bit worried about Reine."

The princess knew that it was highly frowned upon to talk about this with someone outside of Sacred Crown or even the Rosabyrine dorm but Reine and Che'nya had always been very fond of one another so surely she wouldn't mind Elise letting him know, right? The boy's ears twitched at hearing his friends' name and for once his face didn't hold a smile.

"Did something happen to RRReine??"

The trio left the main road and found a more secluded place to fill Che'nya in. His ears drooped ever so slightly at the news and even more so at Elise's distressed expression.

"I don't know what happened. When we were walking back from the game, she said she was tired but she still seemed fine..."

Manari folded her arms and scowled, "You mean after she had that talk with Zehn?" She didn't bother hiding the venom in her tone, "Something always seemed off with him, even more so since we all got here! I don't like him. I don't think Reine does either. Seriously, he's gotta go."

"Manari..."

"Elise! You KNOW I'm right!" the fiery girl gave her friend a look, basically challenging her to prove her wrong. Elise just signed in frustration.

"Manari, you don't understand how complicated this truly is for someone in Reine's position...technically neither do I. While I am also a princess, I'm not the heir to the throne like she is. I have older siblings in line before me so the pressure on me is far less. Still...when you are the next in line, everything matters tenfold. Every last detail. Especially in terms of courtship and marriage."

Manari knew Elise was right but she didn't like it, "I get it. I'm not a princess and I doubt I ever will be but...but ugh! We have to do something!"

Elise gently grabbed her friend's hand, "It's not our place to interfere. It'll only make things harder for her in the end. I understand your frustration, I do. Reine and I have known each other since elementary school. I don't know every detail but I've seen her struggle towards her goals for years. I don't want her to struggle unnecessarily anymore. Even if I'm not fond of him either, if she chooses him as her future groom then that's that."

The exotic dorm leader groaned in frustration but finally conceded, "Alright...damn you and your cool head, Elise Coralette," she laughed wryly.

Che'nya's tail swished back and forth as he hummed to himself, taking in the girls' words, "Manyari has a point though~" he continued his thoughts when the girls turned to him with confused looks, "Zehn has never been too frrriendly, not to me or really anyone outside his little entourage...but something about these Night RRRaven boys really burns him up, hmm hmm~" his amusement shone through once again on that last thought.

"I think it's gross," Manari said bluntly, getting a small laugh from Elise finally.

"I stand by what I said, it's not our place to interfere...buuuut as her best friends, I think something to put her at ease is in order."

"Definitely. Last time I checked, this is supposed to be a fun event to build camaraderie between our schools...granted the 'friendly' competitive spirit between the boys is pretty entertaining, not going to lie." Che'nya chuckled in agreement with that before going wide-eyed.

"Ooooh~ I know what would make RRReine feel much better!"

Riddle sat with an annoyed expression, trying to ignore Floyd's teasing and stupid 'goldfish-chan' name-calling, as he and Azul were going over the current records of their standing in the sales portion of the festival at one of the more private tables in the mini cafe. It was an unofficial contest between the three schools over the course of the week: whoever brought in the highest amount of profit by the festival's end would not only be helping out their own school but they would also receive quite the boon in future events - first in line for the best Magift equipment, top-notch materials for stage building and the like at next year's official VDC, etc. Not to mention all the bragging rights one could imagine. And so far...

"Royal Sword is still ahead of the rest of us," the octopus gave a disgruntled sigh, "Sacred Crown is doing quite well but our lead over them is pretty far, putting us right in second."

Riddle looked over the graphs and calculations Azul had put together on paper. It was unnerving how detailed they were, down to every decimal for every individual booth's profit and the demographic of patrons. Riddle couldn't help but notice that Azul's extension of the Monstro Lounge was doing very well and the majority of the credit went to female patrons.

"You seem to be doing quite well, Ashengrotto..."

Azul's charming smile quickly returned as the twins snickered behind him, "Ahh yes, such lovely, generous hearts these Sacred Crown girls have. I can hardly keep them away as soon as we open. Not that I would ever think of it. What a monster I would be to deny those precious pearls what they desire."

The octopus was practically swooning over his patrons' "generosity" but Riddle's unimpressed expression judged him down to the bones. Something definitely reeked of suspicion but as long as it wasn't illegal (technically or otherwise), Riddle couldn't do a thing about it even though he was the executive chair of the event's committee.

"Excuse me?" a sweet voice interrupted, sending Floyd into a spell of giddy energy.

"Star fishiiiiie~" the taller twin zipped over to Elise and wrapped her in a hug before either Jade or Azul could stop him this time, "Heheh did you and Tiger Barbie change your minds? You want me to squeeze that guy until his head pops off? Heeehh~?"

Elise, ever the good sport, patted the eel's long arms affectionately and tried not to squeak as Floyd held her tightly, "No no, Floyd, we actually came to speak to Riddle if he could spare a moment?"

"Tempting offer though..." Manari muttered as Azul stormed over to the twin and started fussing at him for his rudeness. After some whining and childish insults thrown Azul's way, Floyd gently set the princess back down and shuffled away to find a good place for a nap.

"Forgive my brother's enthusiasm, ladies," Jade had already procured extra chairs for the girls at the table, "he gets very excited about those he is fond of. It's quite adorable don't you think?" he said with a toothy smile. Riddle snorted at the notion of anything about Floyd being adorable and stood to properly greet the two girls.

"You were looking for me?"

Elise turned to him, with a shy grin, "Yes, we need your help with something. I'm so sorry to interrupt your and Mr. Ashengrotto's meeting though."

"Don't be, we were just finishing up this boring talk regarding sales figures and such," Azul ignored the eyebrow raised look Riddle was sending his way, knowing full well that Azul was blowing smoke, "Please, sit down, can we fetch you anything? Anything at all~?"

Manari didn't even need a menu at this point, "Oooh! Yeah yeah! I'm just three points away from the next prize level!" the seashell embossed points card was already in Manari's hand as she rattled off her order, Elise doing the same. Azul and Jade both quickly set to work, grinning like cats who caught the canary. Riddle just rolled his eyes and turned back to Elise.

"Anyway...how may I be of service to you?"

"Thank you, Riddle. It's about Reine actually..."

The girl's absence didn't go unnoticed by Heartslabyul's prefect but now it caused him a bit of worry. Elise explained further without going into graphic detail about what had happened in a hushed voice as more and more students came and went from the cafe.

"She isn't feeling too good right now and roses have always brightened her day. We figured if there was anyone who could help us with this, it would be you, Riddle."

Riddle didn't hesitate, "I'll gather Heartslabyul's best roses for her room, to help her rest easier. Trey is also making delicious tarts for our tea party tomorrow. I'm sure he'd be more than happy to send some for all of you to enjoy once she is feeling better." His voice and gaze were so sure even though he felt a pang of anxiety in his chest. What could have made the princess suddenly fall ill? Maybe she wasn't getting enough rest? Was she comfortable on their campus or was this whole event just making her feel uneasy and she was too polite to say?

A spark lit in Manari's eyes as she watched Riddle, "Wow Riddle, you are such a sweetheart, you know?"

He smiled at the girl's praise, "Thank you, Miss Manari. Not only am I a dorm prefect but also one of Night Raven College's top students. So naturally, I want our guests' first experience on our campus to be as enjoyable and pleasant as possible. Anything less is unacceptable."

"A regular gentleman," the grin on Manari's face grew, "Say...you know what would really make Reine feel better? You should go get those roses and bring them to her at our dorm tonight!"

Both Riddle and Elise's faces lept in surprise. Che'nya had suggested asking for Riddle's help but a personal visit was a whole nother story. Riddle quickly turned a bit flustered, "I-I'm not sure that is appropriate, a male student coming into the designated girls' dormitory, especially at night. Surely your Headmistress would be against it."

"Oh, I'm sure it would be fine! Not like we're sneaking you in after curfew. Plus Elise is a third-year, your senior. Chaperoning a quick visit from one dorm leader to check up on another shouldn't be a problem!"

Elise gave her friend a skeptical side look out of Riddle's view. Technically...Manari wasn't wrong. The rules were very clear and VERY strict when it came to boys visiting the girls' dorms whenever their brother school had visited their campus in the past so naturally, the same rules would apply here. One of which was as the girl said: 'a male student could visit a female student in her dormitory so long as a senior student was present.' So it would stand to reason that Riddle could in fact pay a visit under Elise's supervision. Plus Riddle seemed to be the very last boy on the planet that would ever have ulterior motives and the flowers alone would certainly make Reine feel a lot better.

"Red roses are her favorite. She doesn't have a favorite tea but she does drink mint tea when she's feeling particularly stressed. Just so you know," Elise smiled at the flustered boy, basically confirming what Manari said to be true and giving him permission, "and don't worry about the dress code. Your regular uniform is perfectly fine."

As soon as they were done eating, the girls excused themselves and bid Riddle farewell, but not before exchanging contact info and cashing in their Monstro points for the next level of prizes. Elise was on cloud nine when presented with a seashell necklace that matched the hairpin that she was still wearing. Manari was just happy to get a ticket for a free side dish upon her next visit.

"Byyye Riddllllee~ We'll message you once Reine is back and settled in, ok?" Manari was quite pleased with herself. That is until Elise was staring her down once they were out of earshot of the boys.

"What???"

"I know you and I know when you're up. to. something."

The teasing girl just shrugged off her friend's suspicion, "I have no idea what you could possibly mean, your highness. Should I feel bad for helping out our sweet rosebud?"

"Do you not remember our conversation from earlier, Manari?"

"It's not interfering. I simply recognized how distressed poor Riddle was when he heard how the fair maiden had fallen ill. You saw his face. Are you really going to deny him the opportunity to console his dear princess in her time of need?!" she laid the showmanship on thick with an over-the-top gasp, "Really Elise...I never thought I would see the day when you became so cold-hearted!"

"Oh stop it," Elise tried and failed to keep a serious face on while she playfully shoved Manari, "it's a wonder you're not in drama club....alright fine, you win this one. But I stand by what I said before. No interfering in Reine's personal affairs or relationships...stop laughing, Manari, I mean it!"

The sun had set once Reine crawled out of her covers and looked at her tired face in the mirror. Taking a bath had helped but she still felt like her brain was marinating in bog juice. She was thankful that the other girls were simply told that Reine was tired and just needed to rest it off in place of what actually happened. The Headmistress had left the princess to her own endeavors about an hour ago right as Manari and Elise had returned to the dorm and helped her up to her room. She could hear a few distant voices down the halls but it seemed that most of the Sacred Crown girls were still out enjoying the last couple of hours of the day. She frowned a bit down at the already wilting flowers she left on the fireplace mantel earlier, kicking herself for not setting them in water at least. The soft feeling of the petals underneath her fingertips soothed her mind a bit before Reine remembered what happened before she collapsed. The room felt too stifling all of a sudden and Reine decided she felt decent enough to go downstairs for some water at least. What she didn't expect was someone waiting for her in the lounge as she reached the bottom step.

"Oh Reine, you're up! Good, look who's here to see you," Elise said lightly with a hint of surprise as she gestured to a now shy Riddle sitting across from her, a perfectly crafted bouquet of rich red roses in his hands. The boys of Heartslabyul thought their perfect had lost his mind when they found him in the gardens, cutting roses from the already manicured bushes - that he explicitly said were to NOT be touched earlier - with a look on his face that spelled doom to anyone who said a word about his hypocritical behavior. He practically could feel Ace and Cater mocking him behind his back as he nervously sat there.

Reine felt like leaping into the sea once she realized two things very quickly: that yes, Riddle really was in her dorm right now and that she was standing in front of him in her white, thankfully modest, nightgown, no make up, and her hair a mess of waves, clumsily tied back in an unruly low ponytail as if she never combed it. Manari was behind this and no one could change her mind about that or the fact that her best friend was going to get an ear full about this later.

"R-Riddle! What brings you...here?" oh how she wanted to die right on the spot. Could this day get any worse?! Riddle stood and greeted her as he normally did, albeit a bit more skittishly, trying not to notice just how her skin was more exposed than usual. Or how nice and slender her bare legs were. Trying very, very hard.

"Miss Reine, I'm glad to see you're alright. I..I brought these for you," he extended the flowers to her with a bow of his head, "Miss Elise said red was your favorite. I brought them from Heartslabyul's own gardens. I-I hope they're to your liking!"

The girl's heart melted at the sight of the perfectly chosen flowers and completely forgot about her embarrassment as she took them from him, "They're gorgeous...thank you so much, Riddle." Elise couldn't help but smile at the sparkle in her friend's eyes.

"Reine, sit here. I'll go take care of these beautiful roses and make some tea. Riddle was also kind enough to bring us some from his collection." And with that, the two of them were left alone momentarily. They sat in a bashful silence across from each other, completely unaware of the pairs of excited eyes spying on them from around the corner. Elise hushed the other girls as she entered the kitchen. If they were going to be so nosy, they could at least be subtle about it!

This wasn't the first time they had been alone and yet it felt so...strange this time around. The boy's eyes cautiously wandered up to the girl in front of him. His brain knew that she was the future queen of his home and deserved every ounce of respect he had to offer. But his eyes saw a very lovely girl wrapped in a pure white dress with delicate lace patterns and that hung loosely, comfortingly around her slender frame as her platinum waves gently cascaded over her exposed shoulders. A very lovely girl that seemed openly sheepish as she fiddled with the ruffled hem of said dress, not sure where exactly to direct her deep violet-colored eyes at that moment. Something about this picture just made his heart thump and his brain flail about to regain his senses. Riddle cleared his throat and took initiative before his nerves got the better of him.

"How are you feeling, Miss Reine? Were you hurt at all?"

He sounded so sincere, it was actually pretty cute. She just nodded and put on her usual serene smile to the best of her ability, "Yes I'm fine. I promise. I think I just got a bit overwhelmed. But I've been wanting to ask you, were you hurt at all from when you fell?"

Riddle had almost forgotten about that moment from the game but confirmed in confidence that he was perfectly fine, "it was you who caught me wasn't it? I'm safe and sound because of you, Miss Reine."

"I'm glad," her face flushed a light pink, "I just...didn't want anything bad to happen."

"If you don't mind me asking, is that your Unique Magic?"

The girl nodded, feeling a sense of pride warm her chest, "Yes it is. I've worked on mastering it ever since I was in middle school. It takes a lot of concentration and precision. 'Bow to the Queen' is a trapping spell meant to disarm my target and keep them from attacking me or anyone else. The branches have thorns if I wish them to. If my target is pricked by them, they are temporarily paralyzed. But without the thorns, the branches be used as safety net like it was today."

"That's incredible..." Riddle's eyes were full of admiration, his shyness completely forgotten, "you cast it so effortlessly and quickly. It's no wonder you won the throne."

Reine's smile turned somber, "Yes, it was hard but I managed to win over both my parents' court and my cousins' court as well. My cousins in the Red Court are very talented as well so I am a bit surprised."

Riddle felt a pinch of guilt; it seemed like the subject wasn't entirely a happy one. He started to apologize for overstepping but the princess just shook her head, "You have nothing to apologize for. The life of royals is complicated, to say the least."

Riddle knew from his history lessons that in years past, the trials of the Rose Queendom heirs used to be much more violent but over time, the trials had became geared more towards gauging the wit and skill level of their contenders over just pitting them against each other in duels and whoever came out unscathed was the determined victor. Often, or so he heard, those who wished to become the Queen-to-be's suitor would also take part in their own trials and were then ranked on how favorable they were based on the results. Unlike the princess and other ladies aiming for the throne, the young men competing for her hand didn't shy away from dueling on top of the rigorous trials. The losers suffering permanent damage was not unheard of. Frankly, Riddle thought it was barbaric and an insult to their future queens' efforts...and he could see the strain such things had put on Reine herself. The redhead swiftly reminded himself exactly why he was there, to comfort her, and redoubled his effort.

"Miss Reine, tomorrow is a free day with no events on the festival's schedule. Heartslabyul will be having another tea party and croquet match tomorrow since it is the 5th. If you are feeling well, I would like to invite you and the girls of Rosabyrine to join us." Riddle's heart fluttered when he saw the excited look in Reine's eyes, which were now directly locked onto his.

"Really?? Wonderful! We will absolutely be there!" she giggled excitedly before catching herself and clearing her throat, hoping Riddle didn't see the hint of pink flood her face, "Thank you so much, Riddle, you are so kind."

As if on cue, Elise finally returned with a tea tray and setting down cups of what was undoubtedly mint tea.

"Thank you again for your help, Riddle. Reine seemed back to her old self again, if not even better." Elise had walked the boy outside after they bid Reine goodnight. Riddle had a content smile on his face, whether he realized it or not.

"Of course. I'm glad to be of service to new friends."

His eyes managed to find Reine's window where she could be seen holding the vase of roses and talking with another, very excited girl, who was no doubt teasing Reine a bit judging from her demure yet happy expression. He cleared his throat as he felt his heartbeat speed up once again, "Goodnight, Miss Elise."

The senior princess waved him off as he walked to the garden gates before going back inside herself. Riddle made it to the gate and let out a deep breath. What. was. all. that?? He could only pray that he maintained even a fraction of cool during his visit but something in his gut told him otherwise. Riddle quietly groaned as he hid his face in his hand, trying to fight off the unforgiving waves of humiliation crashing over him to no avail. "Get it together!" he harshly whispered to himself as he continued to walk back to the Heartslabyul dorms, "She is the crown princess! She is a guest on your campus and here you are acting a damn lovesick puppy!" The prefect continued to remind himself of the situation at hand with austere clarity...until that last phrase really sunk in.

Lovesick? ....Love?? Oh no. Oh no no no NO. Riddle suddenly felt like the ground would swallow him whole under the pressure of this unbearably heated self-consciousness. He had to stop in the, thankfully empty, courtyard and sit on a bench before he fell over. There was no possible way this was happening. Sure, the princess was pretty-no-beautiful, more than any other girl he had ever met. Then again, how many girls did Riddle really know...? It wasn't like he was allowed an active social life the majority of his life. And the few times he did visit the royal courts in the past with his parents, neither Reine nor any of her royal cousins had been present. That had to be it, he was just starstruck, naturally smitten being in such close proximity with Her Highness. These excitable feelings held no actual gravity to them. It all made sense. He was being nice to her and she to him because it was the right and natural order of things. Riddle's mind came to a rough halt once he remembered the most important fact: she is the crown princess and she already had men, ready and able to be her suitor. Youngmen like Zehn Cavalier who didn't even have to lift a finger to get close to her to win her hand in confidence.

"That's the way it's always been. It's to be expected," Riddle reminded himself...so why did his chest ache and his stomach seemed to sink? Why did it hurt to be reminded of that while also being reminded of the rare moments of seeing Reine's natural self? Her real smile when she felt excited, giddy even. Her modest, pink blush when she felt shy. Her fair skin...and deep eyes....her delicate hands and lips-

Riddle suddenly jumped to his feet with a frustrated groan, "Enough of this foolishness! You're better than this, Rosehearts!!" His face felt hot and his head dizzy. He rushed back to the dorm as fast as possible without stopping. Once he reached the Heartslabyul dorms, he caught his breath and decided some more air would do him good. He needed to calm down so he went into the gardens and sat down in his usual seat at their tea party settings. The night was calm, cool, quiet, everything opposite from how he was feeling. For a moment, Riddle allowed himself to honestly let these confusing feelings play themselves out in his mind while he sat alone in the garden, accompanied only by the sound of crickets and far-off voices of his dormmates, ringing throughout the Heartslabyul grounds.

He imagined what it would be like if he and Reine shared something more than just a budding friendship. How good it would feel to see her as she was naturally all the time, revel in her candid laughter and smiles, be by her side whenever she was sad or feeling unsafe, support her and share a life with her as she took her place as the Rose Queendom's beautiful sovereign ruler...these images made something stir in Riddle's heart, something new. Something absolutely wonderful and terrible all at the same time.

Oh Great Seven....Riddle had a crush on the princess. A big, ridiculous, legitimate crush that he couldn't reason his way out of even if he actually wanted to. There was no rule in existence that could save him now. He covered his scarlet red face in his hands as if he were trying to out run his own shame. It only got worse when he remembered that he invited her and her entire dorm to their tea party tomorrow.

"What was I thinking?!" the poor boy ridiculed himself.

"About what??"

Riddle nearly leaped out of his own skin when Trey's voice came out of nowhere. His vice leader stood a couple of feet away with a very concerned look on his face. The usual calm, confident and domineering Riddle Rosehearts had somehow been replaced with a very disheveled, flustered, and muttering-to-himself boy that now sported the same look as the hedgehogs when they were suddenly cornered.

"Riddle...? Are you feeling alright?"

"O-Of course I am, Trey!! I just needed some fresh air!" he retaliated a bit too quickly. His friend saw right through it.

"Uh huh. Well, I'm glad you're back. Did they like the gift?"

"Wha...what gift?" Riddle was feeling more uneasy by the second and even Trey's calm smile wasn't helping.

"The roses you picked. It's Wednesday. Rule No. 228 specifically forbids any flower picking on Wednesdays so it must have been for a very special reason that you made that bouquet right?"

Riddle's face fell into a look of devastation. Did he seriously break a rule without realizing it?! He of all people should have known but...it made Reine so happy so maybe it was ok this one time-oh NO. It was then Riddle realized just how badly, how deep into this now undeniable crush he was. He was absolutely ruined. Trey's concern only worsened with Riddle's shocked silence. He waited for some sort of outburst from his childhood friend but it never came. This was serious.

"If it's for a good reason, I'm sure it's alright. Especially if it made the person happy, right?"

"She did seem very happy..." the words fell from Riddle's mouth like he was trying to Trey about a dream he didn't fully remember. Trey's eyebrows quirked upwards. Did Riddle give flowers to a girl?

"She??"

Riddle snapped out of it, his mistake fully registering and reigniting his panic until Trey placed a hand on his shoulder with a look of empathy. The redhead felt a small bit of relief wash over him as he began to open up slowly to his trustworthy friend.

"Miss Reine wasn't feeling well. I wanted to..t-to make her feel better, I suppose. Her friends told me how much she loved red roses and it just made sense to give her the very best roses we had grown here. She is my princess, of course, I would give her my best!" Trey smirked at the tiny burst of confidence Riddle displayed towards the end.

"And you invited her to our tea party tomorrow didn't you?" he laughed as the accused look returned to his friend's face, "Don't worry, I made extra tarts just in case. And made sure every single flamingo and hedgehog was taken care of today so they'd be in a good mood tomorrow."

"And the roses? They should be red and white; Rule No. 469-"

"Yes, yes, 'Flowers must be both red and white when you invite over a new acquaintance', Cater saw to it himself. Everything is ready."

"...Trey you are very good but this is uncanny. Who told you I was planning on inviting the Rosabyrine girls to the party tomorrow?"

"Che'nya overheard you tell Miss Elise your intentions," the clover laughed at Riddle's face that flushed a full red for the umpteenth time in the past few minutes.

Elise peered into Reine's room when she noticed the lights were still on but Reine herself was in bed. She quietly walked up to the bedside and smiled at the sight before her: the sleeping princess had placed the vase full of her beautiful roses on the table next to her pocket watch but kept one rose in her hand as she fell asleep. Thankfully, Riddle had thought ahead and removed the thorns from the flowers. Elise tucked her friend under the covers properly before gently taking the single rose and reuniting it with the others. She whispered a soft 'goodnight' to Reine and turned off the lights, silently wishing her sweet dreams.

Outside in the hall, Elise saw Manari leaning against the wall with a satisfied smirk. Elise rolled her eyes at her smug friend, refusing to acknowledge that Manari's scheme had worked. Not that she had to. Manari would tell anyone who would listen what a victory this was if they weren't all asleep already.

"Go to bed before the ghosts tattle to the Headmistress," Elise quietly lectured.

"Only if you promise to tell me everything tomorroooow~" Manari quietly snickered to herself as the older girl smacked her arm and started shepherding her back to her room like a some sort of nanny.

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