~ The Perfect Gift ~

Troubles ensue when Rika struggles to think of the perfect gift for Trey...

~•~

" What should I do?..." Amethyst purple eyes scan the shelf of cookbooks with wonder and curiosity.

" Ah... Why is it always so hard to think of gifts?..." Rika grumbles to herself, shaking her head in disbelief.

She knows that if her friends were to see her like this, they would be baffled. Rika Moriarty, a wise and intelligent young woman, suddenly on her wits' ends trying to think of the perfect gift for her significant other. It's comical, she thinks, so she's thankful that she's just by herself.

" He won't tell me what he wants either... "Anything is fine, don't worry", like that would help me find something for you..."

A groan leaves her lips as she grabs a book to skim through its contents. How she ended up deciding to cook something as a surprise gift was still unknown to her, but it was the best she could think of.

" Oh? Love, what are you doing here?"

" Oh no" Dread flashes in her eyes upon hearing the voice, the girl immediately trying to regain her composure.

" Trey?" The male smiles down at her.

" Are you planning on making something? You know you could've come to me for help" Trey says as he leans down to kiss her forehead.

" Well..." Rika says, smiling at the male as she thinks of an excuse.

" I was helping a friend look for a recipe they can make for themselves. Initially I was just going through beginner levels of recipes but..." Her words trail off as she chuckles shyly.

" You got curious?" The male snickers, amused by his partner's behavior.

" I blame this on you for welcoming me to the culinary world" Rika scoffs, turning away from him playfully.

" Not like there's anything wrong with it" The two share a laugh after Trey's statement.

" Anyway, how about you? What are you doing here?"

" Same as you actually, was planning to browse through some recipes" He hums, eyes scanning over the books displayed before him. Trey turns his gaze to Rika, an idea forming in his head.

" Say, why don't you help me choose, love?"

" O-oh... Um... Sure..." A victorious smirk blooms on his lips, which remains unseen to the girl who seemed too preoccupied with her own thoughts.

" This is why you're difficult to deal with, Trey..."

~•~

" When you said you needed help with groceries, I didn't expect that there'd be a ton" Aster lets out a laugh as he walks alongside Rika.

" If there's one thing you should know about us from the Pearl of the Orient, it's that a big feast is a requirement to every party" She enlightens him.

" And since Trey has been expressing interest in foods from other countries, I thought it'd be the perfect time for him to get a taste of our culture"

" Oh~? That does sound like something he'd very much enjoy" The male mutters.

" You really think so?" Aster turns his gaze back to Rika, taking notice of the pout on her lips.

" What do you mean?"

" Well... I'm just not the best at thinking of gifts, you know" She lets out a sigh of defeat.

" Oho? Don't tell me he got you all hopeless" The male dodges a kick from his junior, snickering at her.

" I'm being for real though, this is one thoughtful gift. He'd be thankful, I promise!"

Hearing that from someone like Aster eased her stress a lot. He was a good judge of character and Rika knew that very well.

" Quite the heavy load you two got there"

" Goddamnit!" Rika mentally screams as her gaze meets with Trey.

" Oh Trey! Hey man, what's up!" Aster greets the male cheerfully, and now all the dread Rika could ever feel piles up.

" This bastard better not spill anything..." She thinks.

" Are you preparing something?" Trey asks curiously.

" Mhmm. Scarabia is having a feast again, and Aster was tasked with the groceries on behalf of Jamil. And well, he decided it was a good time to bully me" Aster eye's twitches upon hearing the girl's lie. He'd admit it was the perfect excuse, but making him a bully? How rude!

" Oi, nobody else I knew was there, you expect me to carry these all by myself?" He jumps in on the lie, figuring out that Rika may have a reason she didn't tell the truth.

" Yes"

" Why you-"

" Settle down you two" Trey chuckles as he stands in between the duo.

" If you want I can help you know" He adds.

" As if I'd let you. You're just going to be all lovey dovey with Rika" Aster huffs, earning him a glare from the girl.

" I'm not going to agree with that..." She grumbles.

" But still, you're probably busy with stuff anyway, we'll be fine" Her demeanor changes, smiling up at Trey who seemed doubtful of her statement.

" You sure?" He questions as he places a hand on her cheek, his thumb caressing her skin.

" Promise. Now go on, wouldn't want to have Riddle off your head" Rika's words elicits a chuckle from Trey.

" Alright then. I'll see you later" A kiss on the forehead before they part makes a shiver run through her spine. Rika waves at the male, watching him walk away before letting out a sigh of relief.

" Ah... Thank goodness he didn't find out..." She weeps.

" You are one heck of an amazing liar..." Aster mutters, to which she responds with a sigh.

" Only when needed..."

Rika definitely owes Aster a favor now.

~•~

" That's so cool!"

Kalim had probably praised Rika's cooking for the hundredth time now. The dorm leader had gotten curious when he found out that the girl was borrowing their kitchen, and he watched her prepare the foods with awe.

" The lumpia is ready to be fried, the pancit is good to go, and the liempo is marinated..." A smile decorates the girl's lips as she looks at her works.

" These all look so good, Rika! I wish I could try some of them for myself" Kalim tells her, to which she replies with a chuckle.

" I'll cook some more for the club soon, don't worry" She assures him.

" Now, can you help me pack this up?"

" Trey's birthday is tomorrow right?" Kalim asks as he approaches the girl who prepares a paper bag.

" Yeah, I just thought it'd be best to get started on preparations early..." Rika explains.

" Now I'll just have the freeze the lumpia and let the liempo chill as it marinates... Then tomorrow I'll fry the lumpia, grill the liempo, and reheat the pancit..." She mutters under her breath as she packs.

" Will you still be using the kitchen tomorrow?" Kalim questions.

" No, I think I'll be fine in Diasomnia. I made sure Lilia would be busy tomorrow" At the mention of Lilia's name, Kalim slumps.

" He... He's always a menace in the kitchen huh?"

" Most definitely"

Kalim decides to accompany Rika back to Diasomnia, much to Jamil's dismay. The two engage in a cheerful conversation, with Kalim's hyper energy affecting Rika's demeanor.

" Oh? We seem to be crossing paths more often now" A familiar laugh rings through the girl's ears.

" Not again!"

" Trey!" Kalim greets him first, his enthusiastic tone still lingering.

" What are you two doing together?" Trey questions the two, eyeing the paper bags they carry.

" Ah! I'm just accompanying Rika-chan back to Diasomnia! She stayed over our dorm to use our kitchen"

" Kalim no!" Rika yells in her head as she tries to take control of the situation.

" Oh?" Now Trey was more curious than ever, suspicious if he was honest.

" Yeah. I had a recipe I wanted to make for my friends but Diasomnia didn't have much spices, so I went to Scarabia. And they were having a feast too so Jamil let me get some of their leftovers" She explains, masking her panic and hoping her boyfriend wouldn't notice.

" Eh?" Kalim mutters, tilting his head to the side out of confusion.

" Ah, is that so? You'll have to teach me that recipe then" Trey smirks, which elicits a giggle from Rika.

" Soon, okay? Just relax for now. Your birthday is tomorrow after all" She reminds him, her hand now holding his as she caresses the back of his hand.

" So you remember? And here I thought you'd forgotten" The male teases, chuckling at the pout that forms on his girlfriend's lips.

" Don't think so lowly of me, Trey. As if I'd let that happen" Rika huffs.

" Anyway, I better get going. I'll probably chat with you later if I have the time. I'll seen you tomorrow!"

" I'm looking forward to it"

Kalim watches as the couple walk away from each other with smiles. He feels happy for them, but he immediately starts to worry when Rika's expression turns to that of panic.

" You don't think he found out, right?" She asks him while holding unto his shoulders.

" Ah, was it supposed to be a surprise?..." He realizes, now feeling bad for almost spoiling it.

" Yes..."

" Rika-chan I'm sorry!"

" It... It's okay Kalim, I'm just glad he still hasn't figured it out yet..."

She hopes he hasn't. But Rika knew that Trey was a smart guy, she wouldn't be surprised if he had connected the dots by now. But she wishes that he'd let her indulge it for once...

~•~

" Happy birthday!" Lilia and Rika greet the birthday boy in unison, both wearing cheerful smiles as they approach him.

" Glad to see you two here" Trey tells the two before his eyes wander over to the dishes they're holding.

" What's that?" He asks.

" Rika-chan made some food for you as a gift" Lilia explains with pride, earning him a chuckle from his junior.

" It's nothing much, but I really hope you like it" Rika tells the male, who only smiles fondly at her.

" I'm sure I would. So long as it's from my sweetheart, then I'd definitely cherish it"

" They're food from the Pearl of the Orient too" The fae adds, which sparks more interest and awe in his green haired friend. Trey turns to Rika, who only grins at him.

" You said you've been curious about foods from my country, so I prepared you my favorites" She tells him.

" There's lumpia over here, and I think you call them spring rolls? Ooh, and this one is grilled liempo. And this one is pancit, make sure to eat lots of it, people in my country believe it brings longevity" Trey listens to her words as they place the food on the table, making the feast more grand than it already was.

" Those are family recipes by the way"

That was the final arrow through the heart and he's gone.

" These look amazing..." Was all Trey can mutter, but from his expression, Rika knew he was more enthusiastic than he could say.

" Don't be shy then, try some" She snickers, watching as Lilia hands him a plate.

A proud smile decorates Rika's lips as she observes Trey, who seems to enjoy himself with the food. The crispy crunch of the lumpia, the savory sauce and taste of the pork, and the unique taste of the pancit made it all so delicious and enjoyable to Trey. Yet to Rika, it's the glimmer in his golden eyes that gets to her and makes her chest swell with pride.

" You... You're gonna have to cook this more often now..." A laugh exits the girl's lips upon hearing her partner's words.

" I'll do you one better, I'll teach you how to make them" Rika says, chuckling as Trey approaches her and wraps her in a warm embrace.

" Perfect" He says, showing his joy through multiple kisses on her cheek.

" H-hey! Stop!"

" Ah, young love~" Lilia muses, letting the two enjoy their moment as he leaves with a grin.

" Geez... A-anyway, I also have another thing for you" Rika mutters, rummaging through her sling back to look for her second gift. Trey's gaze softens, the male now feeling his cheeks getting warm.

" Now you're just spoiling me" He whispers.

" Like you don't spoil me with every chance you get... Here it is" Trey looks down at his hand, only to see a box.

" Perfume?" He opens the box and inspects the bottle. The male then sprays a tiny amount on his wrist, bringing it up to his nose to take a whif of the smell.

" This... I don't know how to explain it, but it feels nostalgic..."

It has a sweet and domestic scent of roses and sweets. Trey can't explain it, but it reminds him of home. It reminds him of the Kingdom of Roses, of the streets filled with flowers and merriment, and especially of the house where he learned his skills.

" Do you like it?" Rika questions, seemingly quite anxious. Trey chuckles and pats her head, smiling at her with undeniable fondness.

" I love it" He tells her.

" But this looks and smells expensive though. Where did you even get this?" He asks as he applies more of the fragrance on himself, satisfied by the scent it gives off. It's not too strong, but not so faint either.

" I have a few friends that owe me some favors, so there's that" Rika hums, stepping closer to the male to take in the scent.

" And I'm glad it suits you perfectly"

A squeak leaves Rika's lips when Trey's arms wrap around her so suddenly. She turns her gaze to the male, who's head now comfortably lies on her shoulder, his hair tickling her neck.

" Thank you..." He whispers against her skin.

" I... Well, I'm glad you like the gifts..." Rika chuckles, hugging him back and playing with his hair.

" I do... But the best gift I could ever have and ask for is you..." She hears him speak. The girl rolls her eyes playfully, pulling away from the male to look into his eyes.

" Well I'm right here, aren't I?" Rika giggles, leaning close to leave a kiss on his cheek. His response was a simple smile, as well as a kiss on the forehead and on the lips.

" I love you"

So genuine as always, Rika thinks to herself. It's something she has yet to get used to, but it's something that always gives her bliss. Trey always makes her happy, and she'd feel more hatred towards herself if she couldn't return the favor.

" I love you too..."

" Are you lovebirds done over there? The party is just starting you know!" Cater calls out to the two, smirking as they pull away from each other shyly.

" We'll be right with you, don't worry" Trey responds to his friend, who only huffs before leaving the two to themselves once more.

" That Cater... Why does he always like to tease me?..." Rika grumbles, crossing her arms over her chests. Trey could only laugh at her reaction as he pats her head.

" That's because you always react so cutely, it's very endearing you know" He tells her, grinning at how her cheeks redden with his words.

" As if... Now what are you standing here for? Go!" The girl exclaims, pushing the male towards the crowd.

" Enjoy your birthday party, alright?"

" I will... Just stay by my side, and it's rest assured that I will enjoy every moment..."

~•~

˖° ࣪⊹ Desperation ⊹ ࣪° ˖

Type: Angst

Character(s): Sebek

Format: Oneshot

Catagory: x reader

!!Warnings!!: Mentions: implied violence, blood

Note: This is a second part to the Oneshot "The Call" that I wrote for @fanlovedlt and @shytastemakerthing

Part 1

It was early the next morning when Sebek awoke, and not his usual awaking at 5am. Groggily turning over as he stirred from his slumber, then the sound of footsteps alerted him of a unwanted presence in his room. Sebek immediately became alert, sitting up in bed. Reaching over to his sheathed sword in the dead of the night. His hand grasped the handle in the sword in a matter of milliseconds, prepared to strike down his foe in seconds before a familiar voice came through the darkness.

"Keep the it sheathed."

He paused at Lilia, wondering what the fae was doing in his room at the ungodly time of two am since the fae had never been in his room without being invited. Especially not when the green haired man was sound asleep.

"Lilia-Sama, what are you doing? Did something happen to Waka-sama-"

Lilia shook his head twords the overprotective teen. Quickly cutting off his line of questioning so that this conversation would be limited to 10 minutes instead of a hour.

"No, they called a meeting. I was just here to leave a note to explain it in case Malleus and I had not returned when you had awoken."

Sebek was surprisingly aware although he had awoken not a few moments ago. This was unusual, the usual didn't have a meeting until at least 8 am unless it was emergency.

"What is it?"

The Vice warden hesated for a few moments. Internally debating whether or not he should inform sebek of the situation, especially since it had to do with the human he had recently grown to be fond of and he didn't know what was to come. Eventually deciding he would figure out anyways and it was best he heard it from a reliable source.

"I am not for certain what is going on, but it involves Grim and prefect."

That was all the confirmation that he needed. Throwing off his comforter and swinging his legs over the edge of his bed. Striding over to his closet and slamming open the door. Throwing his pajama shirt over his head instead of unbuttoning every little button as he usually would. Sliding a random button down shirt over his head before pulling his hoodie on. Changing into his jeans before Sliding on his shoes, grabbing his phone and keys all within a minute before opening the door to his room for Lilia to exit so he may follow close behind...hesitating and looking back at his sword for a moment. Before he swiftly grabbed it before following behind the fae.

Lilia apparently made not objections as they walked through Diasomnia to the mirror and slipping through it to the other side.

The cold air of the cold school hitting his face as soon as he made his way to the other side appearing in the room everyone used as a meeting room for housewarden.

Immediately he was met with the sound of crying, his heart clenching at the context of hid all. Taking a step or two closer to the circle of people gathered around something only to see grim.

"I miss my hench human! You have to bring them home! Please! They wouldn't leave. Not without telling me! They have been gone for hours. I swear I'll be good. Just bring them back."

It was heart-renching to see this usual prideful creature litterally sobing heartbroken on the ground Begging. Pleading. For his friend to return.

Riddle stepped in the center next to the creature , clearing his throat, having a attention direct twords him as he raised his voice to make a announcement.

"The issue has been made clear. Let us waste no more time. Kalim, Vil, Jade, Trey, Leona, Ortho Lilia cover your dorms. Ruggie, Azul, Jamil, rook, Idia, Sebek Search campus. Any questions? No? Let's move."

No on dared ask any questions, this was their prefect. Even if some didn't consider themselves close to the magicless human they at least owed them for all they had done. Sebek ignored everyone else as they scrambled to gather their wits, moving past as he entered the outdoors. Shoving away all his swirling thoughts of what may of happen to his human as he pressed on. Searching through the darkness.

An hour later and he hadn't noticed. The chilly air was in his face making his nose a tad pink. Each and every breath being tainted with condensation making it look like smoke in the frigid air. A distinct crack came from the bushes immediately Sebeks mind went to the worst, his hand flying to his handle, quickly withdrawaling the sword from its sheath. Imaging the worst, huge, magical creature that may have caused you to not return. A snap sound emanated once more as something got closer. Sebek prepared to strike the vile creature where it stood.

Only for a tiny squirl to appear from the bushes. Sebek scoffed at himself for having such a immediate reaction only for it to be futile in the end. Taking a few steps closer to the bush to look a bit closer at the creature only for it to scamper away.

Sheathing his sword about to turn away when a small hint of a dark color in the bushes caught his attention. Taking a few steps closer her drew his wand. Casting a simple light spell to reveal what lay within the darkness.

A dark red substance splattered on the wall as it dripped from the bushes. The smell of metallic hitting him in the face hard. His eyes widening at the sight and darting all over to take in. Every detail.

Then his eyes landed on your skin that was now purple and red in most areas. Immediately kneeling beside you he frantically removed his jacket draping it over you before gently picking you up. His usually gelled hair now down in its natural form and hanging over his eyes. Your skin was as cold as ice to him as he cradled you in his arms. Running his fingers throughout your hair while muttering desperate apologies. Wishing that he could make it all go away. Tears running down his face as he begged your unconscious body not to forgive him, but just to make it.

"I'm so sorry. I failed human. I failed at protecting you. I don't deserve to be called a guard. Please please please don't die. Not now. Not due to my foolishness. I don't want your life cut short."

Take To The Sky

Twisted Wonderland (Wing Au)

Inspired by @tallyanimatez "Twisted wonderland Feather AU". Check out their stories about our winged NRC boys.

Summary: The Celestial Atlas, the high blue heavens above the earth. For the longest time, only the birds could claim the sky. Until one day, some humans and beastmen grew winds and fell to the sky, becoming the Avian People. But as Time went on they soon built a society with them on the top and everyone else is dirt. Yet, Y/n refuses to remain chained to the ground and oppressed.

Part 2 Here

Prologue: Stuck to the Ground

The Celestial Atlus, the high blue heavens above the earth. For the longest time, only the birds could claim the sky. Until one day, some humans and beastmen grew winds and fell to the sky. And the gods were so impressed that they bestowed the gift of magic upon them.

With this new gift, they spread their powers and influence worldwide. Towns were made, kingdoms across oceans were connected, new lands were discovered, and the Avian people had ruled the skies since. At least that’s what Riddle read to me once.

Y/n sighed as they stared out the window, mindlessly sweeping the floors. The young human child was no older than 8, and their mind wandered back to better times. When they would sneak out from the scullery to play with their friends. Trey, Chechnya, and Riddle. Trey and Riddle were both Avians, while Chenya was a cat beastman. 

The four friends would play together and get into all sorts of harmless mischief. Y/n would look forward to escaping the cold boring scullery and playing outside with children their age. 

When one day Riddle’s mother found out and came screaming at “hoodlums” that were tainting her son.

“You… Green one. You are an Avian yourself, you should be studying or training to better yourself. Don’t you have any pride? And you… Beastman, your lucky to even have an ounce of practical magic. If I were you, you should be at home studying to make something of yourself,” Mrs.Roseheart chastised the boys. When she suddenly turned her attention to the poor human child.

She scanned the child, wearing lowly servant attire that was a little big on the kid. Their hands and face were dirty, this was a lowly servant. 

“And you… Stay away from my Son. Unlike you he has a future, so don’t you dare drag him down with you,” She spat as she turned and dragged her sobbing son away.

Y/n could still hear Riddle's cries as he begged his mother to see them again. But of course, that never happened and Mrs.Roseheart informed Y/n’s master of what they were up to. Leading to harsh punishments. Their beautiful (h/c) hair was chopped to ribbons, they worked late into the night, and bruises peppered their skin. 

While looking out the window, they failed to notice an older maid, if only by a couple of years walking into the room.

“You should be more worried about finishing your chores than daydreaming,” Emma sighed as she began sweeping in the room.

“Emma…Do…Do we have a future?” Y/n asked softly.

“Don’t tell me you're still thinking about what that harpy said,” Emma sighed as she kept cleaning. “Yes we have a future, but if you're asking about a bright one or to that harpies standards. The answer is most likely not.”

“Oh,” Y/n said with a tiny whimper.

“There are only 4 possible futures that we can tread. You can either somehow gather enough Madols to run away to Flower City, Become a talent and become famous and marry an Avian. Or Our most likely future, being indentured slaves for the rest of our lives,” Emma explained. “ As for the fourth option, you have to be gifted with a good amount of magic. And Magic isn’t common in humans, strong magic especially.”

“Talent? But if you become famous, why is marrying an avian a part of that?” Y/n asked.

“You become a talent to be potential trophy spouses. Avians are very arrogant creatures. The thought of marrying humans is taboo to them unless said human was exceptional in some way. Like master said, “only the Best,” Emma explained with a scoff. 

“But… Trey’s parents love each other, even if his mom is a human who isn’t a talent,” Y/n pointed out.

“Well, Avians like Mr.Clover are not common. There are far few in between. So in short, either excel in the arts or sports or this is what your life will be,” Emma continued as she gave one last look to her junior. As she left the young one to their thoughts.

“I…I have magic. But it’s not enough,’’ Y/n said with a sniffle. 

As they looked up to the sky, 3 Avain children soared across the sky. Laughing and diving through the clouds with no care in the world. Y/n quickly climbed out the window and sat on the roof as the wind blew through their chopped-up hair. The sunlight warmed their skin as they looked to the sky with fragile hope. 

“I want to fly too,” Y/n said weakly.

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

8 years went by swiftly, and soon I and a few others indentured servitudes to Master Irvin McLachlan was over. Yet we were still not old enough to be considered adults. So NRC reached out and took us in to serve as domestic help till we become adults and proper servants, or were lucky enough to become a talent.

We were all stuffed onto a wagon and shipped off to the grande school. This is just a traditional service the school did for humans. They would bring as many human youths to NRC to train to be worthwhile servants for hire and pick out those who were deemed special.

“Gather around everyone!” The head butler commanded the fresh new faces. “The welcoming ceremony is about to take place. You four finish cleaning the mirror and everyone stands at your stations.”

I quickly wiped the glass until it sparkled as the head butler ordered. Two other youths like me ran over to help. They were twin girls who were named Silk and Cotton, and with the combined help, the mirror was practically shining. We quickly ran to our side by the door and pulled it open for the students and teacher to enter the mirror chamber.

The students quickly flooded in as the others and I bowed our heads and welcomed them in. As Mr. Crowley watched the crowd of students, he noticed a Savanaclaw student obnoxiously chewing his gum.

“You young man spite that gum out this instant!” Crowley scolded.

The student scoffed and turned his head to a nearby human dressed in servant attire, a young boy by the name of Max. The student called him over on ordered him to toss out his gum. Max nodded silently and held out his hand, expecting the student to hand him the gum.  Only for the guy to spite the chewed-up thing in his hand. The fellow youth servants closest to him cringed in disgust as a shiver ran down their spines. 

Sadly Max couldn’t leave the chamber as the waves of students kept filing through the doors. So he had to force a neutral face and return to his position next to the other servants.

Soon everyone was seated, and Mr.Crowley quickly ordered us to close the doors. The chamber was only illuminated by the candles and magic. 

“Ah, my lovely Lord,

The noble and beautiful flower of evil,

You are the most beautiful, number one in this world.

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the most…

For thee, guided by the Mirror of Darkness,

Follow thy heart and take the hand of the one reflected in the mirror.

Flames that turn even stars into ashes,

Ice that imprisons even time,

The great tree that swallows even the sky,

Don’t be afraid of the power of darkness,

Come now, show your power.

Mine, theirs, and yours,

There’s only a little time left for us.

Do not let go of that hand, at all costs.” Mr.Crowley chanted as magic began to swirl around the room.

The Magic mirror sparked to like as a creepy face in the mirror stared out into the crowd. The opening ceremony began with Barnaby the butler unlocking the coffins, to welcome the students inside. 

One by one the freshman were sorted into their dorms for the next 4 years. Many of the students were Avains, a lot of higher-class Beastman, or ones that possess a great amount of magical promise. As the night went on many famous, interesting people were introduced.

I began to space out when a familiar name and voice caught my ears, Trey Clover. I’d recognized that short green hair boy anywhere. Sadly I couldn’t do anything to draw attention to him, less I wanted to get in trouble. So I just stayed quiet till the Ceremony came to an end.

_________

“Man that whole thing was boring as hell,” Max yawned.

“Well, then again it’s a ceremony not for us,” Silk sighed.

“Hopefully you washed your hand after holding on to that gum,” Cotton commented.

Y/n walked quietly as they simply listened to their fellow co-workers. When suddenly a strong gust of wind blew past them. Y/n turned to see where the gust was coming from, to see a pair of green feathered wings. 

“Y/n!” Trey called out, a bright smile on his face.

“Trey? Did you sneak away… to see me?” Y/n gasped as they slowly walked toward their childhood friend.

“I had to hello to my best friend,” Trey greeted as Y/n ran up to him and hugged him.

Sadly before the two could even attempt to catch up, Barnaby the head butler cleared his throat, grabbing the two’s attention.

“Mr.Clover you are an NRC avian student, you have appearances to uphold. And fraternizing with the lowest rank is unbecoming. Please return to your dorm,” The old man said.

“S-sorry sir, umm I hope to see you around Y/n,” Trey said softly as he flew off.

“Y/n please be more mindful of our rankings. We are here to serve the students, not distract them,” Barnaby scolded. “ Know, come all of you. To Ramshackle everyone!” 

It makes me think of Riddle and Alice interact in chapter 1 is that Riddle never like her because she has too much freedom and is bit jealous like you mentioned especially learning a bit about her. They met in the canteen as Alice freely eat some treats around when she stumble upon him. Of course they talk formally despite not liking her and his anger grew when Alice keep calling out on how unfair the rules is which makes their interaction more angrier and meaner towards her especially when Alice grew closer to Trey as friends, something they never had right now.

Alice: You are obeying this ridiculous rules makes it nonsense as you, especially someone who is an idiot to follow this kind of rules.

Riddle: How dare you! Why should I listened to a pathetic and idiotic girl like you who is too carefree to learn the harsh things from this world!? You just munch on this treat from you friend of yours who shouldn't have treated like that.

Trey: Riddle!?

Riddle: You don't even have magic and you have nowhere to go home. Makes you think you and the rest were abandoned by others like crying to your older sister.

Alice: ...

Anna: Hey, that's enough! She's just a kid! You don't need to be mean towards her!

Mirabel: That's right, she has a point that the rules are ridiculous.

Riddle: And now I have to hear this useless magicless girls. I mean how funny that your older sister has ice powers and even a future queen while you are just a magicless ordinary girl who has no future ahead.

Anna: What?

Elsa: Don't you dare insult my sister!

Riddle:But what's more hilarious to see the only magicless person in the family. Learning that you couldn't receive a gift that even your younger cousin said. Are you really part of the family?

Mirabel: I...

Riddle: You and the rest are all useless as that Alice girl who will likely not grow up. Living her useless fantasy-

And we know the punch came from Ace and know the rest with overblot and stuff. I figure Alice will side on Ace on not forgiving him easily.

Imagine Alice starts crying, because she is after all a kid, and being yelled at like this isn't fun for a ten year old. Elsa can feel the frost creeping up her hand, she wants to hit Riddle so badly for talking to Anna like that. Only for Ace to do it for her.

Can I’m have the dorm leaders x male reader who have a rare sickness that let him only eat desserts nothing else headcanons please

Warnings: none :)

Mc goes by he/him pronouns

Kalim:

-Before you both started dating, whenever you would come over with friends to the Scarabia dorm you would only request sweets

-At first, he thought you just liked them, you probably already ate a meal before you came after all!

-But one day walking with him to the Scarabia dorm you said, “I’m starving” 

-Oh I’m sure you would love to eat some of Jamil’s cooking-!

-…you’re eating sweets?

-Once you told him of your illness he felt quite bad for you!

-His poor boyfriend! Damned to eat sweets all his life?

-No matter, wipe away your tears Kalim! Just get your boyfriend the best quality sweets you can!

Riddle:

-Before you two starting dating, at first glance he thought that you were just a picky eater

- As a Child he was taught to never be picky and eat whatever was given to him so the concept of you strictly eating a certain thing was foreign to him

- Once he realized it was a condition he felt incredibly guilty and embarrassed

-I mean he was low key judging you 

- But once you start dating he makes sure to get you a bunch of yummy things from town and Trey :D

Leona:

-Before you started dating he observed from afar your eating habits, and admittedly was judgmental. 

-I mean, what person eats only sweets?

-And in blunt Leona fashion, he just straight up asks when you’re eating with friends

- “Why must you always stuff your face sweets? Can’t you eat something else, herbivore?”

-The whole group went silent and stared at the lion beast man in shock

-What’s the big deal? It’s not like he asked an offensive question-

- “Actually, I have a rare condition that only allows me to eat sweets. I kinda mentioned it in my ‘All About Me’ project in Crewel’s class last week…”

-How could he fuck up this badly? Leona was busy sleeping during the whole period there was no way he could’ve remembered that

-A lot of internal screaming, but once he gets over his shame, Leona brings you a cake as an apology

- “And I wanted to say…I’m sorry,” Leona said extremely quietly

- “Leona, I cant really hear you could you speak up-”

- “I SAID IM SORRY-”

Azul:

-Something was…off about your eating habits

-Of course he must be observant of classmates to seek out potential blackmail and to help with his business! (Most definitely not because he’s in love with you)

-But he thinks of the most brilliant plan, he heard you say your favorite sweet during culinary classes. Yet it’s never in stock at local bakery’s!

-Oh? But what is this? The Monstro Lounge just so happens to be serving it on their menu recently

-All of your friends could sniff out Azul’s plan from miles away, but what exactly did he want with you?

-So once you stayed, got your desert and had an incredibly long but pleasant conversation with Azul you left. But Jade and Floyd were suspicious none the less 

- “How dare you accuse me of having unkind intentions with Mr. L/N. It is only…a kind gesture.”

- “Yeah, a kind gesture in order for you to get a kiss from him. We hear how you talk about him, boss”

- “What are you talking about?! I do no such thing-”

- Jade picks up a letter sitting on the desk “Oh Y/N, if only you belonged to me and only me-”

- “THAT IS ENOUGH YOU PESTS-!”

-Eventually asks you out and brings the most tastiest sweets for you to enjoy :D<3

Vil:

-Before you both started dating, Vil was fascinated with you

-He couldn't believe that his crush for you had grown so strong, and you soon became friends

-In his stages of trying to woo you, he decided to book reservations for one of the most lavish restaurants

-"He could never resist such delicacies, Rook. I'm a genius!"

-Once you get there you only started to order dessert...

- "Y/N my dear, don't you want to order some food?"

-"Oh, I have a condition were I can only eat sweets. I kinda talked about it in class."

-Vil was so humilated and he went home and cried to Rook and Epel about it once your date was done

-"It's so insensitive! I mean who am I to interrogate about something that effects his life so deeply?!"

-Eventually the drama queen relaxes and yall start dating 🙄🖐🏽

Malleus:

-Why, that is quite unfortunate? He's never heard of such a disease before

-He does wonder if it is some type of curse rather than disease

-He does make an effort to start baking more, however Malleus is unfortunately given tips from Lilia

- "Dearest, I made you an apple pie."

- "...Malleus why are there eggshells on the surface-"

-You eventually have a tutor session inorder for him to become a better baker

Idia:

-How interesting…how could a person only survive on sweets?

-Does ALOTTT of research on you, blames it ultimately on his pursuit of knowledge (and not because he liked you)

-Soon becomes very invested in your other quirks and what makes you, you.

-I guess he can’t run from his feelings any longer can he? Ugh emotions are so hard 😔

-Ortho doesn’t have a chef setting for nothing, so he has all of your favorite sweets baked and ready

-And that is the day Idia admitted his feelings on accident by going on a rant about how cool you are

- “I mean you are a pretty unique person…not in a bad way of course! Y-you could never be bad. I…I love you for that, being unafraid to be yourself.”

with you sorting the saiki boys into the twst dorms, could you do the same but like, with your fave characters?? :O

yea!! i've actually had a few in my head that i've been itching to talk about

iruma suzuki

manages to befriend everyone, and i mean everyone. no one is immune to this pure innocent child, not even vil. he's sorted into the ramshackle dorm since he canonically (in both his source material and in this world), has no magic. the mirror in unable to detect the magic stored in his ring since the magic in the ring is from sullivan and isn't his own.

some headcanons:

jamil accidentally uses his unique magic on iruma when he was bored during a game of truth or dare with the other dorm leaders and asks iruma to reveal his darkest truth and iruma just blurted out his trauma caused by his parents, riddle started crying while vil secretly swore to kill his parents

vil didn't know that iruma is skilled in makeup/dressing up from his time as an evidol, so when iruma expertly applied his own makeup, he nearly had a heart attack over how pretty he looked

no matter how little money he has, iruma always makes sure to buy lots of tuna cans for grim

deuce founded the 'protect iruma' club and ace is the president. anyone who isn't in a club of their own is in that one

crowley reminds iruma a lot of sullivan, so he's used to his personality

jade and jamil help tutor iruma

satou kazuma

also sorted in ramshackle, despite having magic. at first he hated the idea of being back at school, but the fact that he managed to escape his dumb as fuck party members was a blessing in disguise. he's only friends with ace, ruggie and floyd, but he's fine with it

some headcanons:

everyone is aware that he's a pervert. everyone. he thought epel was a girl and attempted to flirt, only to get slapped. hard.

if you see kazuma and floyd together, by themselves, RUN. they are, by far, the most chaotic duo the campus has ever seen and everyone is terrified of them together

kazuma refuses to admit it, but he genuinely likes the school and everyone there. it's been a while since he's had actual friends

he has a tiny crush on trey, but don't tell anyone

the only magic he retained from the world he came from was his steal ability. ace thought it was cool and kazuma didn't have the heart to tell him that he used it to steal girl's panties

sloth pair (mahiru shirota + kuro)

mahiru is screaming internally while kuro, in his cat form, is asleep. they're sorted into the heartslabyul dorm and riddle is honestly thrilled. kuro is practically BFFs with idia while mahiru is close friends with riddle, trey, jade and azul.

some headcanons:

mahiru....is pretty mixed on NRC. while he thinks it's nice, he has no time to be here since he has urgent matters to tend to back home

kuro joins the board game club the second he heard about it. there's where he met idia

both kuro and mahiru noticed that they're able to bypass their contract here, meaning that they can be as far from each other as possible and not deal with the side effects

ace thinks that mahiru is a hardass but once he saw him fight, he was practically on his knees begging mahiru to teach him his moves

before he got his spear, mahiru had a broom as a weapon, so he's basically an expert on flying and passes the flight class with ease

kuro and grim get into cat fights a lot

izuku midoriya

is sorted into the scarabia dorm despite having no magic (quirk[s] not counting). easily becomes one of the highest scoring students the school has seen due to his intellect and adaptability. people thought he was cheating, but nah. he just be like that. is best friends with nearly everyone

some headcanons:

is practically attached to the hip with kalim and malleus. considers them his closest friends

helps tutor ace and deuce, with some assistance from trey

whenever izuku smiles, people have to shield their eyes from his brightness (like, actual light shines behind him when he smiles)

accidentally called sebek 'aniki' once (since he reminds him of iida) and for the next 3 hours, sebek was seen crying bc no one called him that before

just like back home, he keeps a detailed notebook of everyone and their magic (he still calls them quirks out of habit)

deuce was extremely confused when izuku said that he was 'what a fusion between kacchan and iida would look like'

regularly goes to vargas for training bc he needs to keep up with his daily training regimen

shuichi saihara

tbh it's hard to say for shuichi; the best dorms for him would either be diasomnia or octavinelle. pre-game shuichi would be friends with lilia, floyd and rook while post-game shuichi would be friends with trey, jack and jamil

some headcanons:

pre-game shuichi is still a bit shy, but he's incredibly enthusiastic. loves wondering what everyone's ultimate would be, but he keeps it to himself. post-game shuichi just prays that everyone here isn't thrown into a killing game. he doesn't want them to suffer like he did

doesn't matter how small/inconvenient the problem is, he will solve it

he's a stubborn motherfucker, so if you have an issue, he will get to the bottom of it. trey is banging on his door to go get some sleep, but he needs to do this trey!

he once relapsed and thought he was back in the killing game. jamil resorted to using his unique magic on shuichi to get him to calm down (kamil had to go console jamil bc shuichi called him both kokichi and korekiyo with this broken, tearful look)

pit

he's in the savanaclaw dorm and is besties with ruggie, floyd, ace, deuce, ortho, kalim and lilia

some headcanons:

he literally has no idea what the fuck he's doing, at any time of day

dumbass (affectionate)

floyd loves giving him headpats since pit loves physical affection. he also lets floyd touch his wings but kicked his ass when he tried to pull out some feathers

"i died once. i got better though" cue the confused, concerned and terrified looks

if it weren't for trey and jade's tutoring, he would've been kicked out for his abysmal grades

hates using a broom for flight but has no other choice since lady palutena can't gift him the power of flight

lilia is the only one who knows and believes pit when he says he's an angel and the captain of an army

pit and ace cause chaos on a daily basis

sorey

again, a hard choice for sorey. i wanna say savanaclaw due to his love of exploring ruins and how much fighting he does, but i also wanna say pomefiore from his magic abilities. fuck it. savanaclaw. he's friends with practically everyone except for idia, jamil and vil.

some headcanons:

no one really knows what his unique magic is. sorey doesn't keep it a secret either, he keeps calling himself a shepherd and that he can bond with seraphim

whenever he talks about mikleo, he gets this look on his face that makes ace tease him. "so when's the wedding?"

mikleo, laliah and edna are actually there at school with him! just no one else can see them. but weirdly enough, they can hear them. so whenever people see sorey talking to nothing, they know he's talking to one of them

ace had his bi awakening when he saw sorey fuse with laliah

❝ 𝘛𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘭𝘢 𝘈 – 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐁𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐝𝐚𝐲!!! ❞

“love is just a pain! i also want to get better at using magic. right now, i’m sure i’m no match against either the dorm head or even the other seniors but, one of these days, i’ll show off my real abilities! and in order to do that… i think i’d have to study a bit more seriously before focusing on love…”

ghost marriage ssr card translation by hannah on youtube

His fingers diligently move on the screen. The clock ticking audibly as he stayed under his blanket, the light of his phone illuminated his dark room in a manner to keep him awake. 12:55 was what’s written on the clock. Too concentrated on the conversation he was having on his phone, the young first year’s lips stretched out into a wide toothless smile.

    Shouldn’t you be asleep?

There it is again. The freshman let out a silent chuckle, his fingers moving to respond back to the message. He was starting to grow sleepy, however, he couldn’t leave the enjoyment of conversing with her. He licked his lips and yawned. Different time zones really are difficult, no? Yet he is there to prove that distance and time as nothing to do to ruin a friendship/relationship. Says the one who kept his distance before.

    Ace, go to bed.

    It’s late.

He slammed the pillow on his face as he grinned. Was he shaking? Giggling? Who knows? His whole body was shaking while he left his phone on his side. Seemingly lovestruck, he looked up at his canopy as he sighed dreamily. Deuce and his two other roommates are asleep by now, unaware of Ace’s awakeness. Neither do they know this girl he’s talking to. 

Or so he thought.

Ace picked up his phone again, his smile never leaving his face before he responded back. Maybe he should go to bed, there weren’t any classes tomorrow. Was he forgetting something? Oh, yes. He was turning seventeen. 

I don’t have classes tomorrow! It’s fine!

Three bouncing dots immediately popped up three seconds after he sent the message. He does hope she would be the first one to greet him. Would she even know? She’s in a different timezone so it’s probably hours behind in her area. He wanted to call her so badly and yet Ace knew he couldn’t keep quiet. He doesn’t want to wake up his roommates. Most especially, Deuce.

His phone began to beep more, receiving messages from his family greeting him happy birthday. Ah, how his smile softened. Ace doesn’t know what he honestly wanted for his birthday. Something expensive? Some new shoes? Who knows, all he wanted was to be free from rules, eat cherry pie, and just skip school.

Unbeknownst to him, Deuce’s half-open eyes stared at him from under the blanket. As far as his eyes could see, he noted that Ace was briefly talking to his father. Quietly, the other freshman pulled his phone out and texted the dorm leader.

“Ace.”

“Mngh…”

“Ace.”

“What?!” Ace dragged as he revealed his head from under the duvets. His hair dishevelled and his eyelashes had crusts littered all over it. Unsightly, but that’s what you get for getting only 6 hours of sleep. It was already 9 in the morning. Are birthday boys exempted from the rules? Probably not, hopefully, Riddle is more lenient. Deuce pulled the duvets away from his friend and huffed. “Are you going to sleep your birthday away?” he grumbled. Teeth grinding against each other, he saw how Ace simply rolled over to his back and began to close his eyes again.

“Ace!” 

“I’m up!” grumbled the other teen as he sat up and stretched. Deuce was one to easily get impatient and he doesn’t want the preparation to go to waste just because of this jackass being lazy. Besides, it was Riddle’s command to wake him up.

“Hurry up! Everyone is down there waiting for you.”

“For what?” he whined, his brain still sleeping just like how he’ll drop to the bed any second.

Time to get physical, Deuce. He cracked his knuckles and grabbed both his hands before pulling him up abruptly. “Deuce you fucking–!” 

“The dorm leader’s going to chop our heads off if you don’t get up!” he argued back as he shoved Ace inside the bathroom. 

“Even on my birthday, he’s still going to chop my head off?!” 

“He doesn’t care! Rules are rules! Get your ass out there once you’re done!”

So loud early in the morning. Ace grumbled yet deep in his mind, he was grateful for the preparation Heartslabyul did for him. Even the devil of a dorm leader made an effort to fix Heartslabyul for the day of his birth. As he was getting naked, Deuce suddenly opened the door – a shrill leaving Ace’s lips – and shoved some clothes into his hands. “Wear that. Dorm leader’s orders.”

“Why do I have to wear this?”

“Dunno. Just wear it. I have to fetch y/– your cake!” Deuce nearly punched himself for nearly spilling something that shouldn’t be spilt. Furrowed red eyes met blues ones as Ace placed the clothes on the sink and faced his classmate with hands on his hips. “Oi, Deuce.”

“You’re obviously hiding something. Tell me since it’s my birthday.” Ace smirked and leaned closer. Deuce cringed, taking a foot away from him before slamming the door on his face. “Hurry up and get dressed!”

“Geez, you’re such a dickhead!”

While the celebrant prepared himself; downstairs, Riddle continued to give out orders to his dorm mates as Cater busied himself on the phone. “Cater,” Riddle called and looked at his senior with worried eyes. “Did she make it?”

“She just got to the airport!” cheered Cater as he ended the call. “She texted me her terminal number and she’s ready to be fetched.” He looked over at the panting first-year who just arrived. 

“Good! While he’s distracted, let’s go and fetch her Deucey.”

“You have fifteen minutes to fetch her. I’m sure that’s enough time for the three of you to prepare. If you’re late, it’s off with your head.”

Nodding, the two headed off to the mirror chamber. They have their duties to fulfill. It’s time they surprise their reckless first-year celebrant.

“Riddle,” called the vice dorm leader while he pie the cake on the table. “What’s the plan?" 

"Leave it to me.”

Fifteen minutes, they have fifteen minutes to complete everything. The party is set up, she’s coming, and all that’s left to do is distract Ace. “Woah!”

Damn.

Peering up, Riddle nearly had a heart attack. How thankful he is to have SOME attentive dorm mates to block Ace from going to the lobby. It’s too soon, she isn’t here yet. Riddle made eye contact with the young teens, signalling them to keep him distracted. Cater, Deuce. Hurry up.

“Trey, he’s already coming down. Is everything prepared?" 

Trey nodded and clapped his hands to signify everyone to get ready. Ten minutes left. "Hey, what gives, man?” came Ace as he crossed his arms. “What surprise do you have down there, huh?” He smirked and tried to peer down from the balcony. He couldn’t see anything. The great temptation to jump from the third floor and down to the first floor was strong. If only he wouldn’t break his bones would he have done it sooner.

“Argh!” He glared at the two blockers before grinning. “Aight, since it’s my birthday, you’ll be moving out of my way and let me through!”

“We’re still following dorm leader Riddle’s orders! Birthday or not we’re not letting you through!”

“Looks like I have to do it the hard way.” Ace huffed before swiftly pushing past the two and running downstairs. Proceeding to skip steps and even slide down the railings to get away from the two students. Surprisingly, no one even dared to chase or stop Ace. There wasn’t anyone in the hallways at all. Yet Ace stayed attentive. Who knows what surprise is awaiting his way?

It was a surprise he never expected at all.

He nearly slipped. Having to hold unto the wall to keep his balance. His big grin quickly dropped once he looked up. Still panting, his eyes grew wide, speechless, is he. Riddle had a smirk on his face, Cater had his phone on record as he waved at him, and Trey and Deuce were grinning themselves.

In the middle of all these students, stood you.

“Happy birthday Ace!” they all cheered.

He couldn’t comprehend what was going on. You were standing there, physically present. Not a hallucination, not a monogram, it was really you. Your contagious smile painted your face while Ace slowly walked over to you. “H-How…?” For the first time, the whole Heartslabyul saw Ace speechless.

They were all grinning. Ace Trappola, the annoying yet reliable first-year student, dumbfounded and looked like he was on the verge of tears. “Happy birthday,” you giggled and brought your hand up to show a paper bag. Ace bit his lower lip and closed his eyes, looking down as he stopped his tears from falling. Instead of accepting the gift, he pulled on your arm and hugged you tightly. 

He couldn’t help it. Surely, the young Trappola is seen to be cheeky, arrogant, and even a dumbass. Teens will be teens. Ace never felt so in love before. Something his previous girlfriend didn’t give. You actually made an effort to come home and surprise him. Is this why you didn’t greet him last night? Either way, he was thankful to have you in his arms.

“Ace, are you crying?” you giggled just as he pulled away and wiped his tears with his sleeves.

“No I’m not!” he declined despite his red cheeks saying otherwise.

You smiled and pulled his arm down. “I’ll be back in the Rose Kingdom next month.”

“W-Wait do you mean—?”

“I’m not going back to the Land of Pyroxene..”

“I’m home Ace.”

Happy Birthday Ace Trappola…

"The Truth Untold" - Chapter 1

[Malleus Draconia x Female Idol!Reader]. After arriving in Twisted Wonderland with practically no money or anything to her name, [Name] decides to bravely enter Azul Ashengrotto's singing competition in hopes of winning a contract-free wish from him and saving herself and Grim from future poverty. Once she wins the competition and Azul grants her wish, [Name] has a strong determination to become Twisted Wonderland's next celebrity idol. However, she soon faces an uphill battle to fame and discovers that the idol life is not as easy as it seems. As she carefully treads into the idol world, [Name] also finds herself in a dilemma of falling in love with the Valley of Thorns' royal heir, Malleus Draconia. Will she ever be able to pursue a dreamy romance with the dark fae prince or will her idol life completely stand in her way? This is her truth untold.

“Hurry up, you guys! Mostro Lounge’s 1st Singing Above Sea Competition is about to start!” Grim exclaimed as he urged the first-year group to shuffle into the crowded Mostro Lounge on a Friday night.

“Jeez Grim, you’re awfully excited for a lame singing competition. What exactly was the prize again?” Ace asked with a yawn.

“Octavinelle’s dorm leader will grant the winner a single wish if they win SASC! No strings attached! [Name]’s gonna win and wish an endless supply of tuna cans for me!” Grim replied with a grin.

“That doesn’t sound so promising. Ashengrotto probably has something up his sleeve and the winner wouldn’t even know it.” Jack commented with a frown.

“Let’s not get too ahead of ourselves, Grim. I don’t even know if I’ll win,” [Name] muttered with a distressed sigh.

Ever since [Name] arrived at Night Raven College, madols were tough to come by. Headmaster Crowley had provided [Name] with the bare necessities, but it was evident that [Name] and Grim would need their own funds if they were to stay here while Crowley tried to find a way home for them. Well, that was if he would ever decide to make it a priority, in the first place.

“Don’t worry, [Name]. It’s just a singing competition. It’s not going to be the end of the world if you don’t win. You’ll be fine.” Deuce reminded as he patted [Name]’s shoulder.

[Name] smiled at Deuce and nodded. “You’re right, I’ll try to enjoy myself. After all, it’s a Friday night with my friends! I do need a break from school too.”

As the first-year group found a table facing the glamorous and expensive stage in front of the glass aquarium, they suddenly heard a loud booming voice coming from the entrance of Mostro Lounge.

“Make way for Young Master Malleus Draconia! Stand aside, humans!” Sebek yelled out as the infamous Diasomnia quartet made its way across the threshold.

All eyes suddenly darted towards the imposing Diasomnia group, but Azul Ashengrotto quickly headed over to welcome them to his event. It was only after Azul showed them to a table did everyone resume their conversations or picked at their food once more.

“Ah, Diasomnia also came to this event? I never thought I would see them here.” Epel whispered as everyone’s eyes locked onto Malleus and his companions at their table.

“Right?! I can’t believe Tsunotarou is here! Now I’m even more nervous!” [Name] exclaimed with surprise. She didn’t think the dark dragon fae would ever come out to lively events such as this. And it didn’t help that she had a major crush on him and would now have to perform in front of him!

“I think all the dorm leaders were specially invited to this event. Ruggie-senpai said he would show up later with Leona-senpai. Apparently, Ashengrotto had promised them free appetizers.” Jack explained.

“That explains why Sebek rejected our initial invitation to come with us earlier. He wanted to escort his dear young master.” Ace mocked with a snicker.

“Vil-senpai and Rook-senpai are also here. I see them sitting at the corner table with Riddle-senpai and Trey-senpai. It seems as though they’re being greeted by the Leech twins.” Epel commented.

It was no use. This was going to be a very big event that everyone would talk about for days. But [Name] couldn’t shake off her nerves. Grabbing a glass of water on the table, [Name] chugged it down while accidentally spilling some of the liquid on Deuce’s lap.

“Oi, [Name]! Calm down! What are you doing?!” Deuce shouted as he reached for napkins to soak up the water on his pants.

“Fnah! The competition hasn’t even started yet and you’re already this nervous?!” Grim asked with shock as he jumped away and landed on Epel’s lap.

“Oya oya, is everything alright over here? Shall I bring extra towels for this little accident?” a smooth voice asked with a teasing tone.

Letting out unintentional gasps and screams, the first years were suddenly spooked by the Leech twins. Azul’s dynamic and threatening duo of eels had appeared out of nowhere, but they still held amused grins and gleaming eyes on their faces at the sight of the first years trembling before them.

“Ehehehe! Koebi-chan* looks so cute when she’s nervous! Are you signing up for the singing competition too? How about we do a duet? It’ll be fun~” Floyd airily voiced out as he leaned across the table to get a better look at [Name]’s petrified face.

“I think our precious Prefect has already signed up for the singing competition since yesterday, Floyd. See? Her name is on the list right here.” Jade pointed out as he showed the list to Floyd.

“Oho, Koebi-chan! You have a lot of competitors, ya know? Do ya think you’ll win? What are you gonna do if you win? What do ya want to ask from Azul?” Floyd questioned with a lopsided smile.

[Name] wasn’t sure when she was suddenly bombarded with Floyd’s pressing questions. Hypothetically, if she did win, what would she ask for from Azul? What could he grant her that would solve most of her problems here in Twisted Wonderland but wouldn’t backfire on her, as well? It was difficult to say at the moment when she didn’t even know if she would win the competition at the end of the night.

“I don’t know, Floyd-senpai. I haven’t thought about it yet. If you’ll excuse me, I need to run to the restroom.” [Name] said as she slipped away from the table and ran off from her friends and the Leech twins.

“Oh my, it seems you’ve scared off one of our daring competitors, Floyd.” Jade chastised lightly.

Floyd burst into a fit of laughter before turning to the first-year group. “Koebi-chan is sooo interesting~. I can’t wait to see what she’ll sing tonight! Right, Jade?”

“Yes, Floyd,” Jade replied with a chuckle before walking away from the stunned first-year group with his twin brother. They still had much work to do before the start of the competition.

Meanwhile, as [Name] tried to find her way to the restrooms, she was lost in her thoughts and felt a little queasy. She felt so much pressure to perform well for her sake as well as Grim’s. They were desperate for a wish from Azul that wouldn’t bind them to one of his greedy contracts.

“What am I going to do? Am I even ready for this?” [Name] said to herself before she bumped into something tall and firm.

Rubbing her forehead from the pain and gaining back her senses, [Name] glanced up and gasped when she realized that she had bumped into Malleus. The Diasomnia dorm leader gazed at her with a small frown before gently putting a hand on her shoulder and using his other free hand to tilt her chin up to examine her forehead properly. [Name] froze as she locked eyes with Malleus and felt her heart beat faster. Of all people to encounter at this time, why did it have to be the Draconia Prince?

“My apologies, Child of Man. I should have called out to you, but I didn’t realize you were lost in your own thoughts. Are you hurt anywhere?” the dark fae questioned warmly.

“O-Oh! I’m fine, thanks! I was trying to find the restroom but I think I’m a little lost.” [Name] admitted with a flustered smile. She was embarrassed that Malleus had to see her in her current state. It was rare of him to ever witness her as such a mess.

“The restrooms are just around the corner from here. You seem worried about other things though. Would you like to share your troubles with me?” Malleus asked as he let go of [Name].

[Name] inhaled deeply and carefully thought of what to say. “I’m just very nervous about the singing competition. I didn’t think of it as a big deal at first, but now I’m starting to worry about not winning it. It would mean a lot to Grim and me if I won the competition tonight. I don’t know what I would ask from Azul-senpai yet, but all I know is that I want to win no matter what.”

Hearing this, Malleus chuckled before brushing [Name]’s hair behind her ear. “You will be fantastic, Child of Man. If you want to win, you must first be your biggest advocate in order to have everyone else believe in your capabilities. I trust that you will succeed if you put more faith in your skills and believe more in yourself. Fear not, Child of Man. You are more than worthy and capable of winning Ashengrotto’s little competition. I strongly believe in you.”

With these simple words of encouragement touching her heart, [Name] suddenly felt calm and reassured. Malleus was right. She had to believe in herself first and not psyche herself out so fast before the competition even started. Feeling herself relax, [Name] took a deep breath before reaching out for Malleus’ hand.

“Thank you, Tsunotarou. I needed to hear that.”

“You are welcome, Child of Man. I shall return to my table now, but I look forward to your performance.” he cooed before walking away from [Name].

As [Name] watched the elegant dark fae prince leave, she gripped her arms and let out another sigh. The competition would be soon and there was no time to waste. She had to get a firm grip on herself in order to do well. If Malleus believed strongly in her, then there was no reason for her to give up.

After Azul introduced the competition and competitors came throughout the night to entertain the audience, it was finally time for [Name] to take the stage. She was the last contestant of the night and still felt a hint of anxiety, but was reassured when she heard her friends rooting for her. Amongst the crowd, she also saw Malleus smiling quietly at her from his table. He supported her from a distance and would patiently wait for her to perform.

“Now then, the music will start as soon as you glance at me. After that, the stage is yours, [Name]-san.” Jade instructed as he fixed the earpiece for [Name] and secured it.

“Thank you, Jade-senpai.” [Name] muttered as she fidgeted with her school uniform. She should have worn something else for this performance, but it was too late to change. Oh well, this was an all-or-nothing performance now.

“With pleasure. Please enter the stage when you are ready.” Jade replied as he left to take his position as the stage manager.

As [Name] left the backstage area to enter the shining stage with bright lights, she nervously smiled at the audience when she heard them clapping for her. Positioning herself in front of the microphone, she was surprised to see Azul smirk at her from the onyx-colored grand piano to her left. She hadn’t expected him to lead her song’s performance nor did she rehearse with him beforehand. Perhaps he knew the song already? Well, it didn’t matter now. She was here and ready to give the entirety of Night Raven College an unforgettable performance.

With one last deep breath, [Name] zoned herself into complete focus, and when she was ready, she glanced over at Jade who gave Azul a special cue to start playing the song on the piano. Azul granted [Name] a smooth and jazz-like beginning on the piano, and Mostro Lounge was completely bought with silence and awe.

Loving you was a pure mistake,

I’ll erase you with all the memories I once held on tightly to.

Goodbye, my dear, this is the end.

Let’s meet again, in another life where we can be more than just mere friends.

In the middle of [Name]’s performance, Malleus discreetly waved his magic pen at [Name] and transformed her black school uniform into a sparkling floor-length silver dress with matching heels and jewelry. Her hair was also stylishly pinned back and curled into a high ponytail, and her makeup looked like it had been done by none other than Pomefiore’s dorm leader, Vil Schoenheit.

“Oh! Très bien! She looks lovely in that dress thanks to Roi du Dragon! Isn’t she a beautiful sight, Vil?” Rook praised as he clutched his chest and listened to [Name]’s ballad.

“I guess the stage is where Ramshackle’s Potato shines the most. Who would have thought that this would be her element?” Vil replied solemnly.

The crowd hollered and shouted at the sudden outfit change, and [Name] gained confidence as she sang out the rest of her ballad with pure emotions and tones of sadness. She looked out towards Malleus and silently thanked him with her eyes as she sang the night away and ended her song by the piano with Azul.

With one final bow to the audience, [Name] waved goodbye and left towards the backstage area where she was greeted by the Leech twins and given assistance for removing her equipment.

“Koebi-chan, you were so pretty up there! I can’t believe you stole the show like that when you were such a nervous wreck earlier! It was like you had a twin fill in for ya instead!” Floyd commented with a cackle.

“Yes, you were quite remarkable, [Name]-san. It was an unexpected surprise from you, but you did charm the audience with your lovely ballad. I would say it was even moving for some,” Jade remarked with a chuckle as he helped remove the earpiece from [Name]’s ear.

“I’ll take ya back to your table, Koebi-chan. Give me your arm,” Floyd insisted as he helped [Name] climb down the stairs of the stage.

[Name] hesitantly took the eel’s arm, wary of his sudden offer, but it seemed genuine for now as Floyd guided her back to her table.

“[Name], you looked so awesome up there! How did you get that octopus bastard to play your song for you?!” Ace asked.

“Y-You were really beautiful up there! I didn’t know you planned for an outfit change during your performance!” Deuce complimented with a faint blush on his face.

“I caught the whole thing on video if ya wanna look at it later, [Name]!” Epel remarked happily.

“You were amazing, [Name]. I would be surprised if you didn’t win this competition.” Jack said with a proud smirk.

Grim jumped into [Name]’s arms out of glee and playfully climbed onto her chest to face her. “You looked like a real star! An idol! It was crazy to think it was you! But of course, I was the one who knew that already.”

[Name] shook her head and laughed as she took a seat with her friends. She admittedly had fun and had completely forgotten her nerves. She would have to properly thank Malleus later for the sudden outfit change, but she figured she would enjoy the rest of the night with her friends.

After half an hour had passed, Azul stepped onto the stage with a sealed golden envelope in his hand, followed by Jade and Floyd standing behind him on both sides. With a smirk, Azul waved his dorm scepter and brought the stage lights on him to call for everyone’s attention.

“Good evening, Mostro Lounge’s esteemed guests! Did you all enjoy your Friday evening? It was quite a dazzling sight, wasn’t it?” Azul began as he received several rounds of applause and shouts.

“Ah, here comes the announcement,” Jack remarked.

“I’d like to thank everyone for coming to support Mostro Lounge’s 1st Singing Above Sea Competition. Since it received so much praise and positive outcomes, we hope to hold more events like this in the future. We had three special guest judges from different entertainment companies attend tonight’s big event and a winner has been chosen for the 1st Singing Above Sea Competition. Mostro Lounge would like to formally congratulate [Name] of Ramshackle Dorm for being the first crowned winner of our singing competition. Congratulations, [Name]! Please make your way to the stage to receive your prize.”

As bursts of cheering and clapping filled [Name]’s ears, she was stunned and couldn’t believe she had won. When the spotlight turned and landed on her, [Name] was pushed by Ace and Deuce to leave the table and go towards the stage.

Stumbling a bit from her seat, [Name] slightly lifted her dress up from the floor and made her way towards the Octavinelle trio on the stage. Once she climbed the last stair step, Jade offered her a hand and she took it as she faced Azul and graciously accepted a bouquet of flowers, a silk sash, and a golden crown encrusted with pearls and seashells.

“Now my dear, have you thought of a wish that you would like me to grant? I’m sure the audience would love to hear what your deepest desire is, as well.” Azul stated with a charming smile.

[Name] looked back into the crowd at Grim, knowing that he would want her to ask for an endless supply of tuna cans. But with everything that happened tonight and the nonexistent chance of returning home anytime soon, [Name] wondered if the wish she had in mind could come true. Maybe this wish would be her ticket to success and establishment in Twisted Wonderland if Headmaster Crowley hadn’t found a way to send her home. Surely Azul’s magic wouldn’t be strong enough to send her back home, as well. There was only one fathomable idea left.

“Thank you for crowning me as your winner for the competition tonight, Azul-senpai. For my wish, I wish for you to make me Twisted Wonderland’s next biggest idol!” [Name] declared with a determined look on her face.

Taken aback by the wish, Azul glanced at the twins and was met with sinister grins from them. It was another unexpected surprise from the magicless prefect of Ramshackle Dorm, but they were happy to accept her answer. Azul could practically smell another potential business idea from [Name]’s wish, and he was elated to have a taste of it.

“Well that is quite a big wish, but it’s nothing that I can’t grant,” Azul answered as he put out his hand for [Name] to take and shake.

“Go on, shake his hand,” Jade advised with a dark smile from behind.

“Pleasure to make business with ya!” Floyd commented as he locked eyes with [Name].

Deciding that there was nothing to lose, [Name] took Azul’s hand and shook it.

“Congratulations, [Name]. It’s a deal!” Azul announced proudly.

[Name] saw a violet glow envelop around her as she held onto Azul’s gloved hand. There was no doubt that this act would seal the final deal and jumpstart [Name]’s wish to become a legendary idol of Twisted Wonderland. And although she didn’t physically sign a contract with Azul, a part of her felt like she did so anyway.

As the crowd cheered on for [Name] and her granted wish, the Diasomnia dorm students felt an unusual burning sensation running through the chilled atmosphere of Mostro Lounge.

Lilia, who was never afraid to face Malleus head-on, quietly shot a glance at the young dark fae prince and saw a look of displeasure on Malleus’ usual stoic face.

“My, my, Malleus. We can practically feel you fuming with fire throughout the vicinity.” Lilia teased.

Hearing Lilia’s comment, Malleus visibly relaxed his tensed body and sighed. “It’s nothing, Lilia.”

Lilia knew better than to press Malleus on for answers. From everything that had transpired tonight, it was clear that Malleus was not entirely thrilled to see [Name] enter a boundless contract with Azul Ashengrotto. The thought of it was almost dangerous, and Malleus couldn’t help but worry for his beloved friend.

Multiple thoughts ran through Malleus' mind as he watched [Name] leave the stage and hug her friends as they congratulated her once more. What exactly could Ashengrotto plan to do to fulfill [Name]’s wish? What did he take from her in exchange for him to grant her wish? Malleus recalled sensing a large quantity of magic being used once [Name] had sealed the deal with Azul, but the results of the wish would remain a mystery to him until the future. Biting his lip, he loathed the idea that he would have to wait and see how things played out.

Standing up from his seat, Malleus declared to his group that it was time to head back to the dorms of Diasomnia. The night was over and he wanted to return to his dorm early. Perhaps if he was lucky enough, he would have a chance to take a night stroll around his favorite place and privately encounter the winner of tonight’s memorable competition.

“Leaving so soon already? Surely you’ll stay for the after-party?” Azul had caught Malleus and the others at the door, smiling with confidence and hoping to convince them to stay.

“Thank you for the invitation, but I’ll have to decline. Have a good evening, Ashengrotto.” Malleus responded nonchalantly, surprising the Octavinelle dorm leader as the Diasomnia students strode past him.

Watching them leave Mostro Lounge, Azul couldn’t help but smirk at the thought that he had unfortunately ruffled a few of Malleus’ scales.

“And here I thought you would be her first biggest fan. I guess [Name] and I will have to work harder from now on to prove that she will succeed on her own as an idol. After all, my magic can only go so far.” Azul quietly remarked to himself before turning away to tend to other tasks for the night.

The idol life was still far from reality for [Name], but it would soon become her truth untold.

End of Chapter 1.

Thank you so much for reading "The Truth Untold!" This is my first time writing for the Twisted Wonderland fandom, and I hope to complete this series properly. I've had this plot in my head for such a long time and now it's finally being written out. Please look forward to future chapters and thank you once again for your support! Comments/feedback are always welcomed and appreciated. :) -Yukari.

*Koebi-chan is Floyd Leech's little nickname for MC. It translates roughly to "Little Shrimp/Shrimpy!"

A Different Kind Of Story - Dance and Grace

It was time for some music and refinement. After some business talk with a scammy octopus lady, Yuko decided to show a small feast she once was invited to, arranged by her friends from Scarabia, and some day-to-day life at the ever so gorgeous Pomefiore.

A Different Kind of Story: Chapter 4

Yuko hasn't even been a solid 5 minutes in the Scarabia dorm, but they already were melting. The afternoon sun was brutal on her skin. Grim wasn't doing any better.

"Are you ok, Yuko? Should I get you something to drink?" Yuko turned her head two face two worried, red eyes.

"Is that a yes or a no? You know what? It doesn't matter. I'll get you one," Kalim said as she patted Yuko on the shoulder before getting up. The brunette tried to stop her, but Kalim didn't listen and quickly came back with some drinks.

"You really shouldn't have to..." Yuko said but took the drinks regardless. "You don't have to be so polite! You two are our guests! A drink or two should be the least!" Yuko could have sworn she needed sunglasses with how bright Kalim was. It gave her a warm feeling of familiarity.

All of a sudden, a sweet and flavourful smell filled the lively lounge of Scarabia. A brunette with long hair and a hood came into the room. She carried multiple plates with different foods, which vary from perfectly sweet to super spicey.

"Wow! These smell amazing, Jamil-senpai," The Prefect of Ramshackle praised, clapping their hands together with sparkles in their eyes. Jamil didn't pay her or her compliment any mind and just placed the dishes on the table.

"You can compliment me if it tastes as good as it smells.", the second-year commented blankly.

"Fnyaaa, why can't you take the compliment! She's at least trying to be nice to you, even after what you did, you snake!" Yuko looked down at Grim and smiled fondly while giving Grim some head pats. Jamil just turned around with an angry huff and leaving the room to get more food.

"Seriously, why are you trying to be so friendly with her? It's obvious she doesn't give a damn about everyone but herself."

"That sounds like everyone at this school, to be honest. People deserve a second chance, and I think I'm not the only one who knows this." The first-year turned to Kalim, who looked kind of sad. Yuko knew that Kalim still concerned herself with many things. Yuko didn't know why or what those things were, but they also felt like it wasn't their place to ask questions.

Yuko's train of thought was interrupted by the other members of the dorm, who all decided to dig in and enjoy the sweet and spicy dishes their vice leader made.

-

The feast came along significantly.

Cheerful chattering filled the room. It had accompanied by entertaining music, played by some students who had already finished their meal.

The two guests from Ramshackle were having a small conversation with the ever so joyful host of the party. Mostly Grim was talking with her. Yuko just sat there, enjoying her meal while her furry companion on her lap was having a good time.

The young Crowley roamed the filled room with attentive eyes. She saw students eating and praising the food, telling stories (some real, some not), or were merely telling jokes and were having a good time. Among those students, there was a brunette standing on the sides, watching them. An idea then popped into the first-year's head.

Yuko excused herself politely from the second-year who so kindly invited them. They then proceeded to walk to the vice to start a little chat for herself.

"Hello Jamil-senpai," Yuko greeted. "The dishes were astounding. The sweets felt like they were melting in my mouth! There also was a hint of apple in there, or am I incorrect? Either way, would you mind if I asked for the recipe itself?" Startled, Jamil turned around to face her junior.

"Uhm, of course? I did not know you'd enjoy it that much that you would ask for the recipe. It's a common sweet in my family" Jamil seemed taking back by Yuko's sudden request. Yet only an innocent smile painted their face while listening to their senior reciting the recipe.

-

"You seem to be enjoying yourself there, Yuko," Ace mocked with a sly smile.

"What could you possibly mean, Ace?"

"Don't act this innocent. If you are an alternate version of our buddy Yuu here, then you are just trying to annoy her, aren't you? Also, you and Kalim there are disgustingly sweet, I have to say." The ace of Heartslabyul said. Yuko gasped in offence and put one of her gloved hands on her chest gem.

"Oh, how could be so mean! I just tried to have a nice conversation with my upperclassmen", the girl wailed. "And, ohh, I am sorry that I am just having some fun with Kalim. I didn't know being nice to others is actually 'disgusting'" Ace smirk swiftly was erased from his face. Some of the first years even snickered a bit about the answer to the boy's comment.

"It is just," the girl in the mirror continued. "I like talking to her since she gives up a sense of comfort. She is like the older sister I never had," Yuko said fondly.

Kalim was also beaming with joy and pride. It seemed knowing that someone, who isn't related to him, thought of him as an older sibling figure made him happy. Even though not directly meant.

"A-ah! Let's not get distracted, shall we? Next is Pomefiore," the girl in the mirror announced.

"Of course not. Although, before we start, let me say that it is very nice to hear that you think that way, young one." Lilia was heart warmed. Father instincts, Yuko silently assumed before fading from the other sight.

-

After Yuko got the recipe for the dish Jamila made, they said their goodbyes to her friends and made her way to Pomefiore.

The old castle was as beautiful and graceful as ever. The afternoon wind made it seem even more like it was from a fairytale.

As soon as Yuko entered the big walls of Pomefiore, she got greeted by a petit-looking first-year. The student's long lavender hair swayed behind them as they approached Yuko as if a breeze was flowing through the dormitory.

"Yuko! Perfect timing! Please save me from Vil! She's trying to put me in one of those disgusting, frilly dresses!" the smaller girl whined. She clutched against Yuko's arm as if it would have helped convince Yuko of her need for help. "Epel, please, I can't hide you every time. I also am starting to think that Vil might know our hideouts by now" Yuko kindly smiled as Epel continued to beg for her help. Yet to no avail.

Moreover, Vil appeared. Her long gowns were perfectly put on, with no faults whatsoever. They flowed behind her while she walked down the hall towards the first years.

It was like looking at a goddess.

But alas, this beauty was angry.

Behind her followed NRC's huntress, Rook. Her heavy boots' steps and Vil's high heels clicking echoed through the empty and silent hall, Epel's begging long died out.

"Epel! How dare you try to run away again! You'll never learn how to use those natural looks correctly. Don't get me started on how to treat them right!" Vil pinched Epel's cheek, ignoring the junior's complaints.

"Oh my, oh my! The Trickster has arrived! How splended~ Your little companion is at your side, as well."

Yuko smiled politely and started holding Grim a little tighter in her arms, in case Grim would try to flee from the huntress.

"I am also very delighted to make your acquaintance again, Rook-senpai. How is it currently going?" The senior started beaming at the question with a bright smile. Her hands flew up to her head. "Oh Trickster, how happy I am that you asked! Reine de Poison was only trying to show our little apple how to put on more voluminous dresses, but the little one didn't seem to like the idea, which is a loss, to be honest. Just imagine Mademoiselle Cherry Apple in one! She'd look like an innocent angel~."

Yuko couldn't hide their chuckle at the thought of Epel wearing something like that. Now they sure knew why Epel was so desperate for help.

-

They all made their way to the lounge for some tea, the argument between Vil and Epel never-ending during the short walk.

At this point, the Ramshackle Prefect was holding Grim's mouth shut, knowing that Grim would spit some non-polite comment. Either at Rook or Vil. Which both wouldn't end well for them.

Vil, Epel, Yuko and Grim seated themselves on the beautiful couches of Pomefiore. Rook made her way into the kitchen to prepare the tea. For Yuko's and Grim's ears pleasure, Vil's and Epel's bickering had stopped.

"So tell me, little potato," Vil started, "have you finally renovated your old dorm by now? I am confident that this hideous place could look better," Harsh as ever, Yuko thought.

Nonetheless, the dorm leader was right. It was old and rotten, and it already was hard work to get it into the condition it is now.

"The renovations are coming along, Vil-senpai, yet I highly doubt I will get it finished any time soon. Nonetheless, I am happy to say that I acquired some donations from Azul. For furniture for the interior, as well for the outer parts. Maybe I'll even have to ask someone to help me with the gardens soon if this all keeps going at this pace. But first, the rooms and all should be looking presentable, of course." Yuko explained. Her senior hummed understanding.

Rook re-enters the lounge with a trey, which has some tea and snacks on it. "Oh la la, what did I miss? Where are you talking about the Ramshackle dormitory?" Room asked as she put the trey downs on the table. How did she know that? Until now, she was in another room!

"Yes, we were discussing the Ramshackle dormitory, Rook. The renovations, to be exact," Vil said as she sipped her tea.

"Epel, you were awfully quiet until now. Does the topic of your friend's home not interest you?"

As if being ripped out of a daydream, Epel quickly looked up. "N-no, this isn't the reason! I didn't want to interrupt yall- I mean you all."

Vil inspected her as if trying to figure out if she was lying or not. After 20 seconds of starring, Vil accepted the explanation as genuine and let out a small sigh.

"Epel, at least sit straight and look me in the eyes while talking. The cup goes up to your head, not your head to the cup!" Vil pinched Epel's cheek once again, ignoring Epel's whines. It all ended in another argument.

-

Leona put one of his hands on his temple in annoyance. He just witnessed two arguments, one in full length and the other one's just started. "Is this also like this here?"

"Yep, totally," said all the first-years in unison, except for Epel, who had a feeling of betrayal in his eyes.

"How could you all fall into my back like that?!"

"Epel, you know that they are sadly telling the truth. We, rather often, have different opinions on things," Vil kindly reminded the student he took under his wing. Like a father

"Nevertheless, Leona, you should know how hard it can be to look after your first years. Oh wait, on second thought, you probably don't, since you push all your responsibilities onto Ruggie,"

Leona only growled, knowing that starting a fight with the fellow third-year would be pointless.

Everyone in the room went quiet. Even Rook didn't say anything. After a minute of awkward silence and Vil and Leona starring at each other, Yuko cleared her throat, getting all of the male's attention.

"How about we move on to our last two dorms. Then we'll call it for today? It's been a long day with a lot of new things to process," Yuko clapped their hands together while talking. They were just happy that there weren't any nasty comments on any of her friends.

{to be continued}

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[A/n: Sorry for any grammatical or spelling errors, English is not my first language!]

Her Old Home: A Visitor

Here we see Sweetie when she lived with her first owner. Sorry if you were looking forward to some Michelle nastiness. Pretty fucking angsty (see warnings) but uh. Sweetie makes a friend.

This was supposed to be posted hours ago but I think my iron is low so I slept all day and then my pig (yes you read that right, no I do not live on a farm) threw a tantrum that would put any two-year-old to shame and I had to make him happy and then I had to do exposure therapy. Now watch Sweetie make her pig happy.

Also I misspelled bruschetta so many different ways in my first draft.

Thank you @moose-teeth for the Guard Dog concept.

Tagging @more-miserables @haro-whumps @albino-whumpee @eatyourdamnpears @broken-horn @whumpsblog (If anyone wants to be added to the taglist, just say and I'll write you down for next time! Same goes for wanting to be removed.)

Warning for institutionalized slavery, dehumanization, ableist language (brief), implied dub/noncon, unwanted pregnancy, pregnancy in general, physical and emotional abuse, self-harm, self-deprecation, thoughts of abuse toward a minor, creepy caretaking (kinda?), suppression of stimming (very brief).

The pet stared with wide eyes as her owner took the good clothes out of the closet. Excitement bubbled inside her and the previously forgotten emition nearly knocked her off her feet.

"Mister Trey," she said quietly, daring to speak up. "Are we going out?"

He sneered at her. "Of course not. Are you retarded? Wretches like you stay in the house."

"Yes, Mister Trey. I'm very sorry." What a fool she was to have such absurd hopes, but the curiosity piped up within her brain, begging for answers.

"You don't need to know my reasons; all you need to do is what you're told. Now get fucking dressed," the man growled.

As he stalked out of the room, smoothing his greying hair, the pet dropped her sheer nightgown.

The nice clothes seldom came out of the closet, so how did they smell like Mister Trey's ashtray? She wrinkled her nose. The red skirt slid down her hips and she had to fasten its button with an elastic band. The shirt was so tight around her stomach too, and she couldn't even hide how she'd fastened her skirt.

She couldn't help shuffling into the bathroom to see the mess she was in the mirror. Her reflection's face contorted hideously and gripped its bulging stomach. The pink shirt was taut against the growth and showed a slip of pale skin below her navel as she fought to pull it down. She looked uglier than ever.

A little girl with her father's beautiful blue eyes and thick hair so unlike her mother's in the way it doesn't escape her pigtails prances around in a fabulous blue dress. Mister Trey spends so much money showering their daughter with gifts of clothes and toys but he doesn't complain. The kitchen smells of savory spices when she runs in and tugs on the wild-haired woman's conservative dress.

"Mama, Mama!" the girl exclaims in her squeaky voice. "Come play!"

The woman looks down and smiles. Her neck is bare. Bad thought, you're a pet. Her collar is stylish and comfortable. She holds a spoon to the child's lips. "Blow on it, baby, and tell me how it tastes."

The little girl blows so hard some broth splashes out, but her mother only laughs. She takes a noisy slurp and beams. "Mmm!"

"Good?" the woman asks, and the little girl nods emphatically. "Okay, I'll leave the soup simmering while we play."

The woman allows the little girl to take her hand and pull her right along into a different scene.

"Mama, Mama!" the child yells, and the woman scrubbing smokey baseboards in a translucent nightie fights the urge to cover her ears.

"Not now! Mama's busy," she says harshly. Her hands are red and raw but she scrubs and scrubs, nightgown wet after the day's cleaning and chafing her skin.

"Mama, I wanna play!" the child whines. Though its mother makes sure to keep it clean and fed, it's dressed in rags and covered in bruises.

The woman suddenly spins around and grips the child by its fragile shoulders. She forces herself to look into its eyes and gates the way she sees its father in them. Shut up, you love your owner. "Look, baby, I know you're bored but you'll have to just deal with it. We both know what your father will do if the house isn't clean when he gets home."

The woman releases the child's shoulders and turns her back. She doesn't want to see the tears pooling in its eyes.

The woman pet, younger now, stroking a black cat in the garden. A faint smile plays on her lips as she is warmed by the sun.

An infant's shrill cry pierces through her peace. The stupid brat always ruins her peace, what little time she has to herself. It was all she could do to not yank it out of its crib and shake it until it's quiet.

The pet whined a little, face crumpling in the mirror. She was awful, wretched, terrible. She seized her hairbrush and started beating her stomach with it. "I hate you! I don't want you! I don't want you!"

"Shut the fuck up!" Mister Trey screamed downstairs. "What's taking so long? Hurry up!"

The pet huffed and puffed, stomach and chest heaving so much her shirt threatened to burst. The slender fingers gripping her her hairbrush were white against the black handle. She slammed the brush down on the counter and pressed the heels of her hands against her eyes in an effort to keep the tears in.

"Bitch! Hurry up!" Mister Trey boomed.

The pet placed a hand on her stomach. It stung from each blow but now she stroked the growth as tenderly as a newborn kitten. "I don't really hate you, baby... This world isn't right for you. And I'm a pet, not a mother."

"I don't want kids, Mama. I don't want a husband either. No one can tie me down!"

Confusion replaced misery. Where did those words come from? Had she uttered them? Who was Mama?

Stupid. Of course she had a mother at one point. As a pet, though, she has long since given away her right to have parents. She was a simple pet that was meant to serve. Her only family was her owner, and she loved him so, so much.

Her owner, who was waiting impatiently. Her blood turned icy. She tried to run from the bathroom but a sharp, white-hot pain knocked her to the ground. She cried out, convulsing as the pain radiated from her neck throughout her body.

Feet thundering up the stairs. All she could see were the tiles (did she already need to mop again?) and Mister Trey's shoes. With the click of a button, the pain stopped and she was able to be pleased that she had polished his shoes so well that her agonized face was reflected on one toe.

Still twitching, her hand moved to wipe away the drool that had trickled down her chin. A big hand grabbed hank of light brown hair and yanked her up. Her legs scrabbled achieve balance as her scalp screamed.

"When I say to hurry up, you fucking hurry up!" he roared, face twisted and nearly purple with rage. "What are you playing at, Bitch?"

"'M shurry..." Had her tongue grown thicker? Ugh, she sounded horrible. This wouldn't do.

"Come downstairs now!" He let go of her hair without warning and she dropped, chin hitting the floor so hard that for a moment she worried her teeth might break. Her tongue ran over the backs. Safe.

He stomped out of the room as she pushed herself up. He said to hurry but he'd be even angrier of she came downstairs with her hair sticking up and tangled. She raked the brush through it and sighed at the amount of hair that came back between the bristles when she pulled it away.

She ran down the stairs so fast she almost fell, stumbling on the last step. Mister Trey caught her by her arm, finger going wag-wag in her face like she was a naughty puppy.

"Clumsy girl! You be careful with my heir," he barked.

"I'm very sorry, Mister Trey," the pet said hastily, moving to kneel before he stopped her.

"I'm expecting company. Get started on negroni and something to eat."

She hurried off to the kitchen. She didn't know how much time she had to prepare so she had to come up with something that could be made quickly but wouldn't stale or turn to mush if this visitor took a while to arrive.

She had just drizzles the last of the balsamic vinegar when the doorbell rang. She picked up the tray and hurried to greet the visitor, but not so fast that the drinks would slosh.

There wasn't one visitor, but two. The shock collar around the stocky, taller one's neck quickly told the pet why Mister Troyer only mentioned one visitor; the second wasn't even a person.

"Right on time. Oh, look wgat she has for us!" Mister Trey's teeth gleamed in his perfect smile.

"Isn't she a Romantic?" asked the other owner.

He was less handsome than both his pet and Mister Trey, heavyset and balding with a pinched face, but he seemed... genuine. No, horrible pet, your owner is the most genuine man alive!

"She is," Mister Trey said. "Isn't she lovely?"

"Your romantic cooks and serves you on a platter?" asked the other owner, eyebrows raised.

Mister Trey took away the tray and wrapped an arm around his pet, pressing a kiss to the side of her head. "She's perfect. Now, show some respect for Mister Brighten. Position five."

Both pets dropped to their knees, palms down and foreheads pressing to the floor. Mister Brighten sighed. "Come on, Ajax. You don't have to do that. Get up."

His pet, Ajax, was upright in an instant, right by his owner's side. His expression was hard as stone. "Yes Sir, sorry Sir."

"Tell your girl she can get up, Kyle," demanded Mister Brighten. The girl was shocked to hear someone bossing her owner around.

"Get up," Mister Trey barked, and she did so. As Mister Brighten tirned his attention to regard the female pet, he frowned, squinting at her stomach as it stuck out over the waist of her skirt. This early on, he couldn't tell if she just carried extra wait in her midsection, or if Mister Trey actually...

"You should buy your pet clothes that fit," Mister Brighten scoffed, and heat rushed to the pet's face.

No, don't blush! Embarrassment insults the owner! But it was hard not to feel embarrassed as she regarded herself in her socks and ill-fitting clothes, with her hair that refused to cooperate, and then looked at the others. Mister Trey in his smart suit and shiny patent shoes, hair nice and gelled. Mister Brighten with his suit as well. Even Ajax looked nice, fantastic curly hair in a neat ponytail and a button-down tucked into his slacks.

But Mister Brighten softened as he looked at the girl. "What's your name, honey?"

She opened her mouth. "Bi-"

Mister Trey cut in. "That doesn't matter. This is Ajax?" He reached toward his slick black hair, hand retracting when the boy snarled. "My God! Discipline your pet, Will."

Mister Brighten's ever-present frown deepened. "He's a Guard Dog. He's meant to be wary of people other than his owner."

"I'm a friend of your owner, Ajax. You treat me with respect, you hear me? Now, let's not let this food go to waste."

"I hope you made enough for Ajax," Mister Brighten murmured, sitting across from Mister Trey. The other owner snorted.

"Does he need it in a dog bowl?" he joked.

"You know he's still human, right?" Mister Brighten asked dryly. "How about the pets take their plates and leave us owners to talk business?"

Ajax gave a nod. The girl looked ro her owner for approval, and he waved dismissively. She took four pieces of bruschetta to split between two small plates, and did an awkward curtsey.

"Enjoy your bruschetta and negronis, sirs," she said, though it felt very belated. She turned to Ajax, murmuring, "Shall I show you the garden?"

Ajax looked to his owner. His owner nodded. "Go ahead, Ajax. She's safe."

Ajax nodded and followed the other pet. She led him to the back garden and he patiently listened while she showed him all her plants" "This here, my tomato plant, is my favorite. I grew the tomatoes on our bruschetta myself. I used to have an eggplant bush but Mister Trey said he doesn't like eggplants and it's an eyesore so I had to dig it up, which was a great idea from him. I don't know what this cactus is, but I really, really like it. And this..."

Once she had introduced every plant, the pets lapsed into silence. Ajax took a tentative sniff of his bruschetta before taking a bite. He really was like a dog, but at least he chewed with his mouth closed.

The girl didn't think she had ever interacted with a Guard Dog. She hadn't interacted with many pets at all; Romantics were dirty sluts and the orher trainees rightfully kept their distance.

"What does your owner call you?" Ajax asked at one point, surprising her. "He wouldn't let you say."

"I don't think he wants people to know," she replied.

Silence again. Then he spoke up. "May I ask a question? It might be rude."

She frowned a bit. She, a pet, was being asked for her approval? And who was this other pet to speak so casually?

"All right," she agreed.

"Are you pregnant?"

The girl pulled on a lock of her hair, moving it toward her face. She stopped herself from putting it in her mouth. Bad, Bitch! No chewing. She nodded.

"Pets aren't supposed to get pregnant," Ajax pointed out.

"Mister Trey wants an heir," she informed him.

"What does that even mean?"

"It means..." She paused, frowning again. "I don't actually know, but it's very important to Mister Trey, and I want him to be happy."

"As you should. I strive to keep Will- Mister Brighten happy."

"I'm happy if Mister Trey is happy," the girl went on. "So, so happy. And very grateful for all he's done for me."

Ajax nodded. He swallowed the last bite of his bruschetta while the other pet's sat untouched.

— && guests may mistake me as ( halsey ), but really i am ( amalia 'mal' lawson + cis female + she/her ) and my DOB is ( 8/6/1995 ). i am applying for the ( maintenance manager ) position as part of the EHP and would like to live in suite ( 202 ). i should be hired because i am ( + passionate, charismatic, thorough ), but i can also be ( - prideful, dramatic, argumentative ) at times. personally, i like to ( creating street art, volunteer community work, organizing protests ) when off the clock, but that won’t interfere with work. thank you for your consideration!

aaaand here we come with our favorite revamped heathen! mal hasn’t had quite as much changed - just a nice lil face lift and we love that for her.

before we get super into it: we have a stats page and a pinterest for your viewing pleasure.

going a little heavy on the triggers just because i want to be sure to cover all my bases!! most everything is just a mention, but we gotta be safe kids! take care of yourselves and remember ilysm.

( pregnancy tw, miscarriage tw, police brutality mentions tw, substance abuse tw )

- amalia raelle lawson was born august 6th, 1995 to marshal and cherisse lawson in oakland, california.

- marshal owned a local bbq restaurant and cherisse was an er nurse. both grew up in rough neighborhoods with rough childhoods, but vowed to make their kids’ lives better than their own.

- three years after mal came into their lives, they had a son; jayden.

- from that day on, mal had a best friend and confidant that she’d go to the ends of the earth to keep by her side.

- their childhoods weren’t easy in the way most kids are - their mom worked long hours and their dad spent most of his days at the restaurant. when their parents were home though (if cherisse wasn’t sleeping off a shift change), they spent their time with their community - be it at the restaurant or at block parties - trying to better it in any way they could manage.

- police brutality mention tw despite their efforts, their community was still plagued by all the injustices every other predominantly black community faces. from a young age, mal learned that the justice system wasn’t built to serve her or the people she considered family.

- police brutality mention tw she was six the first time she heard about a family friend being a victim of excessive force; nine when she saw it. for years after that, she saw mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, and cousins coming to mourn their loved ones - either locked up or taken from them too soon.

- instead of becoming numb to these tragedies, a fire was lit in amalia to change the system - even if she had to dismantle it one piece at a time.

- in the mean time, mal found an outlet for her emotions in art - specifically painting. she started with watercolors and crayolas, but once her parents realized her abilities were beyond what they should have been for a kind her age, they put whatever extra they could manage into mal and her passion for art.

- she was fourteen when she was introduced to street art - graffiti, if you want to get technical. his name was trey and amalia was instantly enamored by him. trey ran with a rougher crowd than mal was used to, but he softened around her.

- pregnancy tw they were young, in love, and reckless. she was fifteen when mal found out she was pregnant. while she wasn’t thrilled about becoming another statistic, she was thrilled about the idea of having a child.

- not entirely pleased with the situation, but always willing to support their children, mal’s parents welcomed trey into the family with open arms and began planning what was sure to be a life full of love for the newest addition to the lawson family.

- miscarriage tw three months into the pregnancy, amalia started to experience cramping and spotting. worried it may be something serious, she had her mom take her to the hospital. it was there they confirmed that mal was experiencing a miscarriage.

- everything changed after that. amalia was no longer the girl who wanted to fight the world’s injustices - she was just a girl who wanted to fight the world. she was angry and bitter at everyone and everything.

- substance abuse tw her relationship with trey quickly began to deteriorate and she turned, for the first time, to the rougher crew he hung out with. booze and drugs quickly became a way for mal to cope with the pain she carried around. she started small - cigarettes and pot - before graduating to the harder stuff, like coke and prescription pills.

- substance abuse tw skipping school to get loaded became a regular occurrence and when the truancy officers showed up at the lawson’s front door, her parents sat mal down for an at home intervention. for as much as they yelled and cried and offered treatment, amalia wasn’t hearing any of it. it wasn’t until jayden snuck into her room late one night to ask if he was going to lose mal like one of his friends had lost his older brother that mal realized her actions weren’t only effecting her life.

- miscarriage tw just before her junior year - with the help of her parents - mal decided it was best for her to leave public school and finish the rest of her schooling online. the same time she started online schooling, amalia started painting again. something she hadn’t done since she found out she’d miscarried.

- being able to stay home meant mal had the space and time to heal in her own ways. when she wasn’t doing school work, amalia was painting to help clear her head. it took some time, but she was finally able to tell her parents what she was going through, both mentally and physically.

- miscarriage tw after she miscarried, mal started to suffer from chronic period and pelvic pain, as well as painful intercourse. she’d also been suffering from symptoms of depression, all of which help lead her down the destructive path she’d gone down.

- several doctor trips later, mal was diagnosed with endometriosis and depression and quickly began treatments for both. despite starting treatments for her endometriosis, doctors told mal the likelihood of her conceiving again was highly unlikely. 

- mal hadn’t expected to hear at 16 that biological children may never be in her future and she was devastated, but she had her support system and their love and willingness to do whatever they could for her helped her cope in a much healthier way.

- by seventeen, amalia was feeling like her life was back on track, though drastically different than she’d imagined. she finished her diploma early and began working for her dad in the restaurant; serving, cooking, even helping fix things when they broke down. slowly but surely, mal mended her relationship with her parents and earned back their trust.

- one day, after some kids had vandalized the restaurant, marshal asked mal if she’d help cover the graffiti. jumping at the chance, amalia spent three days finishing her first big piece - which is still her favorite to this day - a portrait of her family and the community that kept the restaurant going. abstract and colorful, full of life and vibrancy, mal’s piece drew a lot of attention and several offers for her to commission other pieces.

- for the next three years, mal worked at the restaurant and took commissions when she could. life seemed normal again. she even reconnected with trey, mending the relationship that had been broken.

- the day trey proposed was the happiest day of mal’s life. she’d been beyond thrilled! after everything they’d been through, he still wanted to be with her. unfortunately, the bliss didn’t last. their engagement abruptly ended and mal decided it was best if she get away for a while, so as to not slip back into destructive patterns.

- a quick google search brought amalia to the malnati website and their employee housing program. applying was a no brainer and a month later she and jayden were packing their bags and moving to chicago.

- she started as a maid and, in the four years she’s been there, has moved up to the maintenance manager position.

hcs!

- when she’s not working, mal’s usually painting in her suite or sketching at one of the many parks in chicago during the day. at night, you’ll find her taking full advantage of chicago’s nightlife. night’s in for mal lawson are few and far between.

- drugs tw she skates a fine line when it comes to sobriety. she’s careful to drink or use just enough to be sure she’ll have a good time, but it’s a slippery slope. in the four years she’s been in chicago, mal’s slowly started doing more and more, telling herself she’s got a handle on it. truth be told, she’s teetering on the edge of a full blown problem again. 

- super into video games, but partial to anything involving zombies. mal loves a zombie - don’t ask me why. she’s usually down to play among us, valorant, fortnight, and is always down for a little animal crossing when she needs something more chill.

- 90′s hip hop & r&b are mal’s shiiiiiit. she’s at her happiest when she’s got a little tupac on in the background.

- also don’t you dare try to tell her he’s not alive in cuba somewhere living his best life. she ain’t havin’ it.

- when she’s angsty/sad/angry her go to playlist is a lot of punk, rock, grunge. especially of the 90′s persuasion. she stays on brand. her favorites are the offspring, nirvana, the foo fighters, soundgarden, stone temple pilots, the smashing pumpkins, sonic youth, and pixies.

- she’s gluten intolerant and vegetarian.

- mal is a cult classic movie kind of gal. donnie darko, pulp fiction, rocky horror are all on her list of favorites. she’s never going to turn down a good horror/thriller marathon, either.

- she plays a little piano and a little guitar. she picked them up after she started online schooling. she finds both relaxing. she’s by no means going to make a career out of it, but it’s fun!

- hella resting bitch face, but she really is super friendly! she just doesn’t always look it.

- don’t test her, though. she’s got attitude for days and she isn’t afraid to let you know what she thinks or how she feels about you. we ain’t got no time for games, okay?! okay.

- amalia has also very much immersed herself in community work since moving to chicago, especially on the south side. if her parents taught her anything growing up, it’s that she should give back the her community as much as she’s able.

- a lot of her street art celebrates women of color and their beauty. 

- not a fan of cops, still. soz pals.

- when it comes to work, she does her best to make the malnati a decent place to work. she’s all about positive reinforcement and making sure she takes care of her employees. she’s not gonna shy away from telling you ya fucked up, though. she’ll say it with love, though, while also calling you a giant pain in her ass. but with love. okay?! okay.

wanted connections!

- hook ups! : mal is a RAGING bisexual and is not at all afraid to make her appreciation for someone’s physical appearance known. just don’t expect to stay the night. once the deed is done you’ve got about thirty seconds to vacate mal’s suite.

- softies! : make. her. soft. give me someone who makes her break her no sleep over rule, pls and thank. she’s a stubborn, pain in the ass, and sassy af but someone who can make her melt? and act like a teenager in love again? all gooey and gross? yuh. pls.

- good influence! : someone she doesn’t have to drink and party with to have a good time! remind her that she misses things when she’s not sober - that the world is still beautiful and inspiring even when she’s not in a drug induced haze.

- chill baes! : drugs tw people mal just ~ v I b E s ~ with! probs smokin’ a decent amount of weed together. 

- protest pals! : people who are also involved in the community and social justice movements. they happily bail each other out of jail (or, more likely, sit in the back of a squad car together) and attend protests together. bc the buddy system. overthrow the government safely ty.

- rivals! : mal’s got a big mouth and some seriously controversial opinions. she’s not afraid to call people out for being ‘wrong’ and calling them...creative names. she’s bound to have a giant list of people who aren’t her biggest fans.

- bad girl’s club : need i say more? give. me. the girl gang. constantly partying and constantly getting into some kind of mischief and leaving a trail of broken hearts as they go. 

if you made it this far, you deserve SEVERAL high fives and literally all my love. ily all v much and uh, yuh. let’s plot pals. :)

It was Always You, Red Crackle childhood friends au chapter 1

Summary: AU Carmen and Graham had been best friends since that moment she punched Sheena in the face for pushing Graham in the sandbox. She was younger, but she'd always be there to protect her best friend from bullies!

"C-Can I marry you s-someday?" Graham stuttered, his cheeks and even the tips of his ears turning pink. Carmen let out a laugh, flicking his forehead. "Ouch!"

"You're silly! That would only happen if you became cool!" Carmen joked.

Flash forward to college--Graham and Carmen are reunited and Graham isn't the same boy who needed Carmen to beat up his bullies anymore. Now he's super handsome, charming, and did he just wink at her???

"Graham?" Carmen choked.

"Actually it's Gray now." Gray smirked

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

Carmen remembers her first day of daycare at V.I.L.E—Valued Interest in Lengthened Education—in the Canary Islands. She was clinging to her adoptive father Suhara like he was her lifeline. Suhara was accepted to be a professor for the prestigious school from daycare to graduate school institution, and with that came Carmen’s free ride into V.I.L.E Academy. Suhara would never have to worry about his little girl getting a poor education and Suhara was guaranteed his position with tons of benefits and job security.

However, a new home and a new school was quite scary for little Carmen, and she expressed displeasure at the move.

“I don’t wanna go, Papa!” Three-year-old Carmen protested. “New places are scary! Japan is better!”

Suhara gave her a soft smile and patted her head.

“New places are only scary if you let them be.” Suhara told her. Carmen pouted but saw his point.

“You’ll be there?” Carmen asked.

“Yes. We’ll be together.” Suhara promised her. This swayed little Carmen, and she hugged her father tightly.

Now it was the big day. Today she would be meeting kids her own age who would be learning new stuff like her. She wondered if any of the kids would be lonely. Unlike her, none of their parents were allowed on the island. It was the price to pay for their little ones to gain the best education.

“What if no one likes me?” Carmen worried. Suhara grinned.

“They’d have low intelligence then.” Suhara simply stated. Carmen giggled and allowed Suhara to hand her off to Miss Cookie Booker, the daycare to elementary director. Cookie cooed at the little girl. Suhara watched Carmen be taken away, inwardly wincing at the handful his daughter was. He hoped Miss Booker was used to mischievous children…

------

“Here we are, sweetheart!” Miss Booker opened the door to the daycare center and Carmen’s eyes widened at the vast amount of kids and play equipment there was. There were also multiple tables for drawing and coloring and tons of toys to play with! Carmen didn’t know what she wanted to do first!

Cookie put her down on the floor and left to attend to other duties. Carmen noticed a man with a hat staring at a picture lovingly, not at all paying attention to the kids running around. Carmen was alone. She shifted nervously before deciding to just roll with it and start playing. She hurried to the slide, racing up it and twisting herself over the bar to slide down.

“Hey there!” a voice with an accent called out. Carmen stopped flipping herself over the slide to see two orange haired kids staring at her in glee. The boy climbed up the small slide and moved beside her. “Did you try this?” he asked, using the overhead of the slide to roll himself backwards in a flip, slipping down the slide backwards. Carmen was excited. She copied the boy, her smaller size allowing her to be more graceful than him.

“Now you should try this one!” the girl joined them and proceeded to roll forward down the small slide. The boy and Carmen clapped in approval.

“Name’s Ivy! This is my brother Zack!” Ivy introduced themselves.

“I’m Carmen!” Carmen grinned, happy she met fellow kids her age.

“Stick with us, Carm! We’ll show you the ropes!” Zack says.

“Me and Zack are always doing tricks cause Mr. Haber is too busy making kissy faces at Miss Cleo!” Ivy added.

“Kissy faces?” Carmen tilted her face. Zack and Ivy grimaced together.

“Yeah! He ain’t normal! Girls have cooties!” Zack shuddered. Ivy looked insulted.

“Excuse me?” Ivy put her little hands on her hips. Zack sweated a bit.

“Well I mean, you and Carm don’t have cooties! You’re awesome!” Zack amended. Ivy appeared satisfied. While they were bickering, Carmen’s attention was drawn to the windows leading to the outside. Her eyes immediately locked onto the larger playground equipment where kids bigger than them were playing. Her heart longed to be out there—imagine all the tricks she could do!

“Oh! Yeah, we can’t go out to the big kid playground yet.” Ivy noticed where she was looking, also looking bummed out.

“Yeah! It stinks! The big kids get to go out there all the time! Unfair!” Zack gave off a pout, crossing his arms. “I could push Trey into a sandbox!”

Carmen continued to watch all the bigger kids playing outside. There were so many! However, her eyes caught a certain boy who looked fearful. He was older than her and looked nervous at the surrounding kids. Carmen’s eyes narrowed when she saw a blonde-haired girl push the brown-haired boy into the sandbox, the other kids laughing.

Anger seized her, and before she thought about it, she was already running towards the windows, trying to unlock them. Zack and Ivy followed her, wondering what she was doing.

“It’s okay, Carm! We’ll get out there someday.” Ivy tried to reassure her.

“There’s a kid being pushed! We gotta help him!” Carmen told them, pointing to the scene. Zack and Ivy saw one of the kids kick some sand into the lanky brown-haired boy’s face. The injustice of it caused them to race to the window and try to help their newfound friend. They were all too familiar with Trey picking on Zack to know what bullying looked like.

“Ow!” Zack exclaimed after punching the glass, nothing happening. He put his fist in his mouth to try and soothe it.

“We can’t break it!” Ivy was frustrated. Carmen glanced up and saw a lock, her eyes glinting with an idea.

“Give me a boost!” Carmen urged them. Zack and Ivy allowed Carmen to climb their shoulders and she immediately grabbed the lock, unlatching it, the window creaking open enough for a little kid to slip through. “Yes!”

With that, she used Ivy and Zack to climb out the window, tumbling into the bushes. Not wasting any time, the three-year-old rolled to her feet and raced towards the sandbox. The brown-haired boy was rubbing his eyes to rid himself of sand, trying in vain not to cry as the kids laughed at him, and Carmen vaulted herself towards the blonde-haired girl as she was about to shove the boy again.

“Wha—” the girl cried as Carmen tackled her to the ground, sitting on her stomach and flinging her fists rapidly into the girl’s face. The girl was screaming, drawing the attention of everyone on the playground. Her friends tried to help her, reaching for Carmen, but it appeared Zack and Ivy were able to escape as well because the twins gave a war cry, shoving themselves into the two other boys. Soon there were tons of kids in the elementary division coming over to witness the three daycare kids wail on some of the kindergartners.

“What in the world?!” A voice exclaimed. Someone was running towards them quickly and soon Carmen was lifted from the older girl, being restrained. “Stop this at once!” the stern voice ordered.

It was Miss Cookie Booker, looking furious and flabbergasted at how three of the daycare kids got out of the daycare room. Two other attendants scooped up Zack and Ivy as well, who struggled greatly in their arms.

“Let me at ‘em!” Zack gave a shout, wiggling.

“We’ll break their nose!” Ivy added.

“The twins…” Cookie Booker groaned in dismay. She looked down at Carmen who gave her a glare back. How dare this lady forbid her from beating up the bullies! Cookie’s eyes narrowed. “How on earth did you three get out?”

“Ma’am! The window is wide open!” one of the attendants pointed. Sure enough, Miss Booker could see where Carmen, Zack and Ivy crawled out of. She paled.

“Where was Dash Haber? Those windows should remain locked!” Cookie exclaimed. Her eyes then narrowed. “He better not have been looking at pictures of Miss Cleo again or so help me—”

“I’ll have you know I did no such thing!” Mr. Haber made himself known, his cheeks flushed, clearly indicating he was doing just that. He sighed when he saw the culprits of this fight. “Zack, Ivy, not you two again!”

“They had an accomplice this time.” Cookie held up Carmen, who looked annoyed with being displayed to the faculty.

“She bwoke my wose!” the blonde-haired girl cried, blood coming from her nostrils. Her two friends looked worse for wear as well.

“Don’t push people then!” Carmen fired back. The blonde-haired girl looked furious.

“Why you—”

“Sheena, you’re picking on the other kids again?! I’ll have to add that to your progress report to your parents! You too, Antonio and Jean Paul!” Miss Cookie barked. The three children protested, but Miss Booker was firm. She handed Carmen to Dash and ushered the three delinquents to the nurse’s office. Dash eyed Carmen suspiciously and Carmen raised a brow back, daring him to say something. He sighed, signaling to the other attendants to follow him with Zack and Ivy. They were soon returned to the daycare center with the window being latched shut, Zack and Ivy praising her for her sick moves against Sheena.

“That was so cool! Think you can do that to Trey?” Zack asked her happily. Carmen grinned, glad Zack and Ivy still thought she was awesome.

“I hope that kid’s okay.” Carmen fretted, her mind still on the boy. Ivy patted her shoulder.

“I’m sure he’s fine! He got a hero to save him!” Ivy pumped her fist. Carmen let herself be at ease and soon the three were back doing cool tricks on the play equipment. It wasn’t until designated nap time that Carmen was reminded of her earlier battle.

Mr. Haber was currently out of the room, assisting with other duties during the kids’ nap time. Carmen was woken up by a tiny knock on the window. Curious, she crept closer, finding the window slightly ajar. Mr. Haber must not have latched it shut all the way.

“Psst! You in there?” a boy’s voice whispered. His face peaked up and Carmen saw it was the brown-haired boy from before. She stood on her tip toes to face him. Seeing her grey eyes locking with his brown ones, an elated grin erupted on his face. “It’s you!” he spoke with a heavy accent, different from Zack and Ivy’s but it wasn’t unpleasant.

“It’s you too!” Carmen whispered, her voice drifting through the gap. The boy looked positively ecstatic she remembered him. She nudged closer to the glass, attempting to get closer to him. He did the same, their breaths both coated their side of the glass.

“J-Just wanted to say thanks—you’re a tough sheila!” the boy’s meek tone traveled through the window. Carmen didn’t know what a Sheila was, but found his stutter cute.

“You’re welcome! My Papa says to always be like the samuwai! Samuwai are heroes!” Carmen told him, thinking back to Suhara and his stories about Japan.

“W-what’s your name?” he was eager to know, despite his shyness. Carmen could see the bushes hid him well. No one was the wiser to him coming to the window and conversing with her.

“I’m Carmen! What’s yours?” Carmen grinned. Her first day and she already was making even more friends! Papa will be so proud!

“I’m G—” here he squeaked, blushing heavily, before clearing his throat, continuing “I’m Graham.” He tried to sound deeper, more confident. Carmen giggled and a delighted smile spread across his features. She placed her hand on the window glass, with Graham matching her.

“Nice to meet ya, Graham!” she whispered happily.

It was the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Lonely Eyes Part 2

So...That little thing I was working on has another part to it....AAAND I’ve been sitting on it for awhile, because I love/hate it. I really don’t think I captured Hudson well, at all. I tried to make it funny and I was hyped up on too much Monster. So, there’s that. I just really think Wren and Rowan are chaotic dumbasses together sometimes, and it really shows here. Anyway! Here’s the thing with the stuff. @chazz-anova you seriously helped in convincing me to do this lol

“You set her up with who?!” Hudson asked, completely flabbergasted. She groaned as she shook her head, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Of all fucking people, Rowan.”

I chuckled under my breath as I took a bite of the yogurt I was working on. Rowan had stopped by to eat a late breakfast with me and Hudson. Of course, she immediately demanded I tell her what happened. I shrugged, giving her just the bare minimum. I was still embarrassed for how everything had turned out, and I had gone home with the smell of sandalwood in my hair. I did not need them knowing about John Seed, especially since Hudson seemed to work closely with him a lot of the time.

“Eli fishes with him sometimes. I don’t know him well, but I thought it would be worth a shot! He’s friends with Pratt—”

“That should have been your first flag, Ro.” Hudson snorted before popping a piece of her bagel in her mouth. I laughed fully as I leaned back against my chair. “I mean, you’re with Jacob Seed all the time. You couldn’t have set her up with—”

“I am not with Jacob all the time!” Rowan gasped out, becoming defensive. “We just hunt sometimes.”

Hudson raised her brow as she stared at Rowan. “You hunt all the time, liar. Just do it, man. Seriously. It’s so obvious you two are into each other.”

“It’s true, dear!” Nancy chimed in from the next room and we laughed as Rowan’s face burned red. One of the disadvantages of having such a small office. Everyone heard everything if you weren’t careful. “Bye, girls! You have a good one!”

We turned to see two women walk out, one blonde and the other a darker, almost a dirty blonde. They both smiled at Nancy as they made their way to the exit. The oldest had honey brown eyes, her long hair pinned back and framing her face. She had a yellow sundress that reminded me of a warm summer day. The youngest had flowers printed on her white dress. They exchanged looks, both smiling with a secret hiding behind their bright eyes. They waved at us as the made their way outside.

“Who are they?” I asked.

“Oh, that’s Whitney and Faith Seed. They stop by here and there for Whitehorse, you know, to help with organizing community benefit stuff with their church. They’re probably here about the county fair. Faith is the baby sister and Whitney is married to one of the brothers.”

“Which one?” I blurted out without thinking. Rowan and Joey eyed me, and I tried to recover. “I mean, how many brothers are there? There’s two, right?”

“Three.” Hudson corrected with a laugh. “Whitney is married to the middle brother, Joseph, and they have a couple of kids together. He’s a pastor at the church further North.”

“Oh.” I replied.

“So, what did you say? When the guy came back from the bathroom?” Rowan asked, folding her hands together as they supported her chin. I just sighed and smirked, twirling my spoon in the cup of yogurt.

“Told him off for being rude and disrespectful, you know? Then said that girls love to go mudding.”

“Hell yeah we do.” Hudson chimed in, taking a sip from her coffee.

“I may or may not have told him that girls didn’t like guys with small dicks who use their dad’s money to buy trucks they can’t drive.”

“Deputy Blake!” Nancy cried as we lost it.

“Sorry Nancy!” I called back as we began crying from laughing so hard.

“You—you should have seen his face!” I gasped out. “Oh my god!”

“What did he say?!” Rowan gasped through her fits of laughter.

“He called me a bitch and a fucking tease, then left saying he couldn’t handle my crazy shit.” I replied with a shrug, calming down a bit.

“Wow. What an ass. I’m gonna get him the next time I pull him over for drinking and driving. John won’t protect his ass this time.” Hudson scoffed with a smug smile on her face, a mischievous glint in her dark eyes.

I frowned as I gave Hudson a look. “What do you mean?”

“Meh, Trey’s dad would hire John to defend his son every time he got in trouble. He used to have some sway here in Hope County. Used to be mayor before Virgil. Anyway, John got tired of it, defending this guy over and over for him to just end up repeating the same shit. So, he told him the next time his son gets caught, find another attorney, and pray it’s a good one.”

“John said that?” I breathed out as Rowan eyed me.

“Fuck yeah he did. Well, he would have to pull someone from Missoula and even then, with John’s reputation? There’s no fucking way. Big time Atlanta lawyer? There was no way he wasn’t making waves showing up here. Whitehorse was thankful, you know? For once he had someone that wasn’t afraid to cross that damn family. He knows his shit, man.” She threw me a smirk at me. “Oh, does he know his shit. You wanna get set up with someone? John Seed, sweetie. Ride that train.”

“I thought you said you hated him.” I wanted to ignore her comment, but I couldn’t ignore the fluttering in my stomach as I looked back down at my cup of yogurt.

“No, I said I can’t stand him half the time. And that’s when he’s defending someone I’m trying to put away.” A door open and closed, and we could hear Nancy’s low voice talking from the next room over, deeper voices answering her in return. “Don’t get me wrong, he can be a bit arrogant and cocky —”

“He can be sweet, too.” Rowan interjected in his defense as she threw Hudson a look. But Hudson just kept going.

“—But the guy can back it. Fucker knows he’s good looking, too. Knows he has a certain affect on people, good or bad. I swear he can read people like the back of his hand.” Hudson sighed as she tore another piece of her bagel. “Either way, don’t listen to Rowan the next time she thinks you’ll hit it off with someone. Come to me before she sets you up. I’ll save you, Rook.” She smiled as she popped the piece in her mouth.

Rowan threw her hands up and rolled her eyes. I just shook my head and took another bite of my yogurt. I decided right then that it was a good call on my part to keep the details about what happened with him under wraps. I could only imagine the lash back for that. We heard deep laughter then, pulling our attention to the next room. Whitehorse and Pratt were standing near the front, laughing and talking with none other than John Seed. He laughed at something Whitehorse said as the Sheriff shook his head. Briefly, just briefly, his blue eyes met mine. In that second, my heart seized as panic filled my veins. I didn’t know just a glance could hold so much weight, it was practically unbearable as I recalled the utter humiliation that resulted from our last run in. I look away immediately, all the liquid courage I had last night was no longer there to help me out of my shell. I fought the urge to run and hide, but I was at work for fuck’s sake, I needed to get over it. The embarrassment would go away…eventually. Then I would be able to show my face around him without a threat of a blush or the memory of his breath fanning across my skin. I gave an involuntary shiver at the thought.

“Deputy Hudson, Deputy Blake—" I jump clean out of my skin before Hudson and I both turn to see Whitehorse approaching us, just in time for him to catch sight of Rowan. My eyes widened a bit as his face twisted in confusion. “Palmer? What the hell--? What are you doin’ here?” Rowan and I shared a quick look, trying to figure out the excuse we were gonna use this time. We both turned, word vomiting in front of everyone at the same time.

“We’re long lost fraternal twins—”

“Ride along.”

Whitehorse’s brows furrowed as I took in what Rowan had said. I place my fist against my mouth as I shot her a look. You’ve got to be kidding me. Rowan’s mouth is a straight line, her eyes wide as realization dawned on her. Snapping her fingers and then pointing at me, she gives Whitehorse a smile.

“Ride along.” I shook my head slowly in disbelief as I stared at her, my fingertips pressing into my temple for support. I couldn’t meet anyone’s eyes at this point. How the hell was this person becoming my best friend? “Just like Wren said. I’m, uhm…riding along for the day.”

Whitehorse crossed his arms as Pratt snickered next to John as they stood behind Earl. “Rowan Palmer, I’ve known you almost all your life. Not once have you shown an interest in law enforcement. Even after you came back from the military.”

“People change, Sheriff.” Rowan insisted. He cocked a brow at her, and Hudson chuckled before chiming in.

“Wren and I were just taking Rowan’s statement. There was a bad run in with a park ranger last night, and it was Rowan’s fault.”

“That’s the third time you’ve changed your story in the past five minutes.” His honey voice rang out, a light amusement in his tone. I didn’t dare look at him, but I knew his blue eyes would be full of amusement with a smirk on his lips. “Even I wouldn’t want to defend you if you were on trial, Hudson.”

She glared at him, immediately taking the bait. “Nobody asked you, Seed. Besides, Rowan would be the one on trial. You know, for setting her up with Trey fucking Kohrs—”

“Hey!” Pratt cried out as Whitehorse let out a sigh. “That’s my best friend you’re talking about!”

“Well, fuck—” Hudson caught the way I crinkled my nose and she held her hand up. “I stand corrected. Non-fuck your best friend. It’s Rowan’s fault for setting them up, and he should be put on trial for how he treated my partner. Do your fucking job, Mr. Hotshot Attorney. He’s a fucking cu—”

“Deputy Hudson!” Nancy shrieked in horror from the next room. I turned slowly and stared at Hudson, completely mortified. I realized quickly that I was wrong, oh so wrong. I told them about how the person next to me had heard everything and made a snide comment at the end, but that was it. Maybe if I had told them from the beginning, this wouldn’t be happening. I tried to avoid trouble, tried to avoid it turning into something else or maybe escaped some teasing I knew Hudson would’ve thrown my way. But I underestimated how much damage these two could do when kept in the dark. Hudson smirked at me as I glared at her. Rowan whipped her had around so fast, I wasn’t sure how she didn’t snap her damn neck.

“Shut up, Joey!” She hissed. “That was so not my fault! Trey—"

“Alright.” Whitehorse cut in, raising his hands in a calming fashion before giving Rowan a look. “You know what I’m gonna say—”

“We’re in a polyamorous relationship, so I’m visiting my wife and mistress at work. It’s important for our communication and love life, Sheriff. Happy wife, happy life.” Hudson and I both look at Rowan as Pratt loses it, bent over and clutching his stomach as he leans against a desk for support. Whitehorse’s face goes red, and in the corner of my eye, I can see Nancy peeking around the corner. I didn’t dare look up to meet the blue eyes I felt burning a hole in my face. I wanted nothing more than for a black hole to appear and swallow me whole.

“Are you serious?” I asked, finally breaking my silence as my hands come up in absolute horror at the turn of events. “You couldn’t stick with ride along? You had to go that far—"

“What the fuck?” Hudson asked as she stares Rowan down.

“Number four.” Pratt muttered as he elbowed John.

“Shut up, I panicked!” Rowan replied, getting defensive. She looked at Whitehorse while pointing at me. “That’s my wife and you can’t destroy our love.”

“But I’m not gay—"

“Why is she the wife?” Hudson’s voice rising in pitch as she glared at Rowan incredulously. “I’ve known you way longer.” Rowan threw Hudson a smirk, her eyes full of wrath.

“That’s the point.”

My eyes widened as Hudson slumped back with a scoff. “Fine. Neither of you are my type, anyway.”

“Wren is wifey material, Joey. Total babe.” Rowan shrugged then, making a show of examining her nails. “Besides, she’s a silver-tongued devil, you know? Comes in handy.”

“No. Please just stop.” I beg as I rest my face in my hands in pure embarrassment from the sexual innuendo. This was my best friend. This person in front of me. “For the love of God, please stop.” I could hear Nancy choking on her coffee in the next room, the Sheriff shuffling uncomfortably. Pratt just laughed harder. Rowan wasn’t usually one to pull something like this, from what I had known of her, but she always became flustered when nervous or caught doing something she wasn’t supposed to.

“You’re married to your long-lost fraternal twin, and you’re here for a ride along with her and the mistress in your relationship?” Pratt wheezed out. All I wanted in this moment was for it to end. This was too much.

Rowan hesitated for a second. “Yes…?”

I sighed out as I looked back at the Sheriff and he just shook his head. “Palmer, I need you to leave. And hun, you gotta stop sneaking into my station.”

Rowan groaned and agreed as Sheriff finished giving Hudson and I orders. We hummed in agreement before him and Pratt walked off, and it was then that I noticed that John had already gone. My shoulders slumped a bit, but I was mainly relieved. How the hell was I always embarrassing myself around that guy? I grabbed Rowan’s arm, pulling her to the side with Hudson. I gave a quick look around to make sure we were in private for the most part as they gave me weird looks.

“You know how I told you just a bit about the guy that was sitting next to Trey and I last night?” They both nodded and I took a deep breath. “Yeah, well, I may have left out the fact that the man was John Seed. And that maybe, maybe, there’s bit more to the story than I had originally led on.”

It takes just a second for it to hit them before they’re eyes are widening. “Oh shit…so, my little comment about the park ranger—”

“Yeah,” I said, cutting Hudson off with sarcasm dripping heavily off my tongue. “Thanks for all that, by the way. None of that was embarrassing at all.”

“Hey, I didn’t know!”

“Wait.” Rowan chimed in as she put her hand up. “So, what happened then? What didn’t you tell us?”

I sighed, biting my lip before I go more into detail as I recalled everything that had happened last night, not leaving anything out. They hang onto every word as I relive the worst date of my life. It was awkward, and my face burned bright red the whole time. And then I came to the end, taking note of every move he had made, reciting him word for word. When I finished, Hudson was smirking at me and Rowan just gapped at me.

“And then what?” Rowan breathed out.

“Nothing. I checked outside for him and he was just…gone.” I shrugged as she sighed in disappointment.

“So, he bought all your drinks? Without you even knowing? God, that’s such a John move.” Hudson scoffed and shook her head before looking back at me, crossing her arms. “Makes all those comments I made about him doing his job so much sweeter, though. Totally worth it. So then, when are you going out?”

“Uhm…what?”

She furrowed her brow and cocked her head to the side. “When you are you guys going out? Like, you stopped him when he was here, right? To ask him out? You know, follow up about showing you around and being a legit gentle—did you seriously not talk to him?”

“No!” I rushed out as I motioned to the next room. “I had no fucking clue he was even here!”

“No idea—Wren, he’s always fucking here since you started.”

I froze and stared at her. “I mean, he’s supposed to be, right?”

“Are you kidd—okay.” She put her hand up, stopping me as she pinched the bridge of her nose with her other hand. “I’m surrounded by idiots. Seriously, the both of you. I don’t know how you two survive being this blind. I’m setting this straight right now, or else I’m going to scream.” She sighed as she looked at Rowan. “Jacob is into you. You’re doing things with him and his daughter all the fucking time. He literally only hunts with you or his brothers. He’s only ever hunted with Eli a few once or twice. Ask him out, I’m tired of you not getting plowed by that fucking lumberjack soldier guy.” She turned to me and I gulped. “And you, partner of mine, need to get your head out of your ass. We’re in the 21st century. Know what that means? We have cell phones and email. You think John needs to be here all the fucking time? Does he look like someone who really belongs in this damn station day after day? No, he doesn’t. In fact, before your pretty ass showed up, he was hardly ever here. Now he’s always here, and Whitehorse isn’t complaining. He likes doing things face to face, he’s very old fashioned that way. Pratt doesn’t notice shit like that, but Nancy and me? Oh, we noticed.” She scoffed, looking at her boots with a shake of her head before she gave me a curious look. “He was in Alaska with Jacob for a hunting trip when you showed up, did you know that?”

“I remember that.” Rowan muttered. “Lucky bastards.”

Hudson ignored her as she continued, placing her hands on her hips. “He comes back, sees you, asks Nancy, Pratt, and I about you. Because he was gone a fucking week and all of a sudden, we have a shiny new deputy. A deputy with long dark hair and pretty eyes, who, for some stupid reason, can’t seem to stop fucking smiling at everyone. So, dumbass, when we’re done with our shift, you’re gonna go home. You’re gonna put on jeans, boots, and a flannel with a tank top. Maybe a t-shirt. You’re not going to dress up for this. Now, don’t get me wrong, you probably looked great last night. But he called you on your shit, so going back like that again is gonna be the wrong thing to do. You’re going to be 100% you. So, you’re gonna braid that fucking hair of yours, skip the makeup—you don’t fucking need it, and walk your ass into that fucking bar. You’re gonna sit next to him and buy that guy a fucking drink.”

We stared at Hudson in shock, not sure how to respond to her. Nancy walks past us to grab something from the copier. “Blue, darling.”

“What?” I asked, turning to her. She looked up at me, her red lips turning into a smile.

“Wear blue. Trust me.”

 Hudson groaned again as we made another pass on the main street. The fair was in full swing this late afternoon, the sun high with no clouds in sight. It was hot with our uniforms and I thought for sure Hudson was going to drop dead beside me. We were just here to cover our bases. Apparently, that was what the two Seed women were doing this morning at the station. Making sure they had some security for the people of Hope County. Despite the heat, it was a good day. Cotton candy, popcorn, and fresh straw hung heavily in the air. Kids ran by giggling and screaming in excitement to the next ride, their faces painted. I smiled as I took it all in, it had been so long since I had gone to one of these. It was a nice change in pace.

“Won’t be too much longer before Pratt shows and we take a drive around the county to make sure everything is all good.” Hudson said as she watched the Ferris wheel, her hand shielding her eyes as she looked up. I had to fight the laughter that threatened to escape. She immediately threw a cussing fit when she realized her aviators were still at the station. She threw me glares here and there as she studied mine. I had offered to buy her a kids’ pair, all pink and covered in flowers. That only led to her flipping me off in return.

“Think he can handle it?” I asked with a scoff. She laughed and shook her head.

“Poor guy—”

“Excuse me, Miss Police Officer Lady?” a small voice called. I turned to see a little girl staring up at me with wide eyes, tears threatening to fall any second. “I can’t find my daddy.”

I knelt down, pushing my glasses up as I smiled. “That’s okay, I can help you. What’s your name?”

“Luna.”

“Hi there, Luna. My name is Deputy Blake, but you can just call me Wren.” I held my hand out to her. I watched as she clutched her plane toy close with one hand as she reached out and shook mine.

“Like the birdie, right?” Her bright blue eyes were glistening, with her red hair pulled back in a French braid. “My daddy knows a lot about animals.”

“Just like the bird. I can’t fly though.” She laughed at my lame joke and I smiled brighter. “You know,” I pulled at my necklace, bringing the plane pendent out of hiding. “Even though I can’t fly, I like planes. I really like your toy. I have a necklace just like that.”

“Oh, cool!” She smiled, stepping closer to look at it. “It’s pretty.”

“How about we do this? We’re gonna look for your dad. I’m gonna put you on my shoulders and let you wear my glasses, so it’ll be like you’re flying. How does that sound?” She nodded enthusiastically and I stood. I handed her my glasses before I picked her up and placed her on my shoulders. “See? Safe and sound, and you can see almost the whole world.”

“I’m so tall!” She giggled. I turned to Hudson as we began to search the crowd.

“That’s Luna Seed.” Hudson muttered to me and I gave her a look. “Jacob’s little girl. We just gotta find one of the brothers, or Whitney. They should be around here somewhere.”

Hudson stopped to ask people if they had seen the family, and while she did so, I made airplane noises to keep the poor girl distracted. Anything to keep her from feeling as scared as she was when she approached us. It only took us about 15 minutes to spot the frantic family. My eyes first caught onto the two familiar figures. I laughed as Hudson shook her head.

“Hey wifey! You lose something?” I called and Rowan whipped around. Spotting me, her face broke out into a huge smile and I could see her visibly relax. A blonde from this morning waved behind her and Hudson threw her a thumbs up.

“My best friend and better half, I love you.” Rowan laughed as I approached her. Luna greeted her with a wave as the blonde, Whitney, reached for her. “Seriously, thank you.”

“Of course. Never a problem.”

“I’m glad I caught you. Come say hi.” Rowan motioned for us to follow her. Sharing a glance, we followed. We were trailing behind, laughing here and there. I froze immediately once I saw where she was taking us. Nancy was chatting away with a group of people by a few pickup trucks, and by the looks of it, they were grilling out. I swallowed as I took in a tall man, his long hair in a bun with yellow aviators covering his eyes. He was playing with a pair of twins, one boy and one girl. Whitney approached a tall, broad shouldered man with the same hair as Luna. Jacob. Whitney handed Luna to Jacob, a stern look on his face before holding her close.

Luna giggled as she turned pointing to us. Jacob and Nancy both turned, and I couldn’t help but return the smile. Nancy waved us forward, wrapping me in a hug once I got close.

“It’s good to see my favorite deputies out and about.” She said as she rubbed my arm, turning to the strangers. One by one, she introduced me to John’s family. Joseph was pleasant and polite, his wife a total sweetheart. Jacob shook my hand, thanking me before he gave Rowan a soft smile. I looked down with a smile on my face at the interaction.

We laughed and talked as I slowly got to know the rest of the Seed family. Whitney, who turned out to be Nancy’s niece, was an art teacher and helped out at Joseph’s church whenever she was able. Joseph talked a little bit about his work, even inviting me to come watch on Sunday. Jacob was a man of few words, but I could tell he felt strongly for his family. I also took note of how he couldn’t seem to take his eyes off Rowan when she wasn’t looking. Luna beamed at me, asking me to fly her around again, just like her Uncle John would. I almost died as Hudson burst out laughing. Jacob just chuckled and pulled her away, distracting her with a kite he had for her instead.

“We should get going, our shift is almost over.” Hudson said after a while, and I gave her a quick nod.

“Yeah, that sounds good. It was a pleasure meeting all of you.” We all said our goodbyes, exchanging pleasantries before Hudson and I were off to finish what we had came here to do.

 I found myself sitting in my jeep, glaring at the Spread Eagle. After work, Hudson had pointed at me, reminding me what she had said. I had gone home then, took a shower, and did exactly what she had told me. I even found a blue flannel, which wasn’t too hard. It was my favorite color, in all honesty. I wondered if that was why Nancy had suggested it.

I was desperately trying to work up the courage for this. I wasn’t sure what would happen, being bold wasn’t something I was normally good at doing. I opened the door, my boots hitting the gravel. It was like déjà vu, and I prayed that maybe tonight would end differently. I crossed the road with my hands in my back pockets. Before I set a foot on the porch, I turned back around with a curse under my breath. What was I going to say? Hi, remember me? Yeah, so you were totally right and I’m sorry?

I scoffed to myself. Did he really want me to call him? Did he mean that or was that a way to make a point? Maybe he wanted some sort of sick gratification for being right. Guys like him weren’t usually interested in girls like me. He was rich, if the watch on his wrist or the shiny black mustang in the parking lot, with JSEED on the license plate, said anything. He was so out of my league. And yet…I looked over my shoulder, eyeing the entrance. He had sounded so genuine, and he had been right. I knew that, I wasn’t a total idiot. He had even bought my drinks without asking for anything in return. I exhaled heavily in frustration. This whole situation was so new to me, I wasn’t used to someone being so straightforward with me without ulterior motives. The doubt was eating me up on the inside, he hadn’t said a word to me this morning. It was like it never even happened.

I sighed as I turned on my heel, making my way to the entrance. I opened the door and was immediately greeted with the rumble of a loud crowd. The fair had the people super excited, so it was more crowded than usual. It made it almost impossible for me to scan the bar for him. Getting bumped into here and there, I tried to squeeze through. I stopped, spotting him in the same seat he had sat in the night before, the one next to him just as empty. I breathed out at the irony, a light chuckle escaping from the back of my throat. He wore a white button up with a black waistcoat. Black slacks fit him tightly, showing off the muscles in his legs. I immediately felt my face flush. Maybe I should have worn something else. I felt too dressed down to even sit next to him, assuming the seat was even available. What if he was saving it for someone else? I bit my lip and approached the seat cautiously.

I caught Mary May’s eye and she glanced between him and I before smiling at me, sending me a wink. I returned the smile, her encouragement boosting my confidence just a bit. I hopped up on the seat and leaned forward on my arms. Mary May approached with a smile.

“Well, look at you. Blue is definitely your color. That dress was super cute and all. Gotta admit though, I’m sucker for a woman in flannel.” She teased and I laughed at her.

“I’ll be sure to tell Joey.” I replied with a wink. She blushed, looked at me in shock for just a second before recovering.

“You do that.” She smirked, her eyes shining a bit more brightly. “Wine?”

“Bourbon, actually.”

Her brows raised. “Oooh, nice choice. I knew I liked you.”

She quickly turned away and I pulled out my phone to check my notifications. Just a text from Rowan asking me if I was at the bar, a meme from Hudson, and a couple of junk emails. The glass was set in front of me, and I gave her a genuine, beaming smile with a thank you. I was…lighter. I was here on my terms, no ties that kept me here. No expectations, no obligations. Just me and whatever I wanted to do. It was so…freeing.

I take a sip, and revel in the strong taste. I hummed lightly to myself as it burned all the way down. My body was already buzzing from the adrenaline, my heart pounding loudly to the beat of the music. I was ready to combust, and I willed the alcohol to calm me, but I didn’t see it happening anytime soon. I ran my fingers through my long bangs, gathering them and any loose strands of hair that had escaped the braid, and tucked them behind my ear. I took a deep breath, and I dared a glance to my left.

He was rubbing his finger lightly over the lip of his glass, leaning back like he had been the night before. But the second my eyes landed on him, his eyes shot up to mine, meeting my gaze head on. My breath got caught in my throat at the intensity, and he just continued to play with his glass without a word. I tried to swallow but was having a difficult time with just that simple task. I turned back to take another sip, immediately regretting stepping foot in this place. I should have stayed home in my pajamas to watch Netflix or read. This was so stupid. I couldn’t bring myself to even say hi.

The question hung in the air between us. I knew he wanted to know; he had asked me to inquire as a favor to him. He wanted follow through. My pride wasn’t letting me though. What would that really prove? That is was a waste of my time? Maybe that was all he was in for. Just a little game, another boost to his large ego, the one Hudson claimed he had. I suppose it would give him something he could muse over and laugh at later. I took a deep breath, settling my nerves as I began to trace the vine tattoo snaking its way down the side my wrist, from the top and all the way down to my thumb. The leaves branched out a bit, covering some of the back of my hand. One on each wrist, one with a bloomed flower, the other with just the buds. They seemed interesting suddenly, as I fixed my attention to the ink on my skin.

That’s not what you really want. His words, so confident and sure. Luring, even, and something told he hadn’t even been trying. The longer I sat there, the more I could smell his cologne as I slowly circled the small flower buds on my right hand with my middle finger. I licked my lips again, trying to scramble to find something, anything to say. All I could do was replay his words. He probably thought I was crazy. I glanced at him again, and to my mortification, found him still staring. The serious look in his eyes was gone, replaced with a light amusement and it dawns on me that he’s actually waiting for me to speak, to make the first move to show that I want to engage him. That this was on my terms. A fluttering in my stomach makes me squeeze my glass a bit. I rolled my shoulders lightly, forcing myself to relax, and suddenly I was word vomiting before I could even think.

“Oklahoma.” I sighed as spun my glass slowly, my other hand pulling away. “I’m from Oklahoma.” Daring to meet his eyes once more, I see his smile spread across his face.  

Waiting In Vain: Chapter 2

Why Not Trey?

This was Marleys second day in a row waking up in Trey’s bed. She fidgeted in his sheets , his huge hands caressed the side of her butt. It soothed her as she slowly drifted back into a slumber . Once she was still , he went back to rolling his backwood.

Trey smoked a blunt every morning , along with a bottle of alkaline water . Marley suggested he drink that a while back , he felt the change in his body and never tuned back. His friends made fun of him, called it “white people water”. Marley exposed him to a lot of things . Like exfoliating his skin and saving for his future . “I know you don’t care now , but one day you gon’ get old and who wants to work when their old “ Marley helped him open up an account for retirement the day after that conversation.

He used a lighter to spark the blunt . His phone rang , it was Amber, the mother of his one year old son. He wouldn’t dare answer the phone in the presence of Marley . Not only did she not know he had a kid, he was also having sex with her too . Amber called again and he didn’t answer . The buzzing woke Marley up again . Quickly she covered her exposed upper body , still feeling insecure about those indirect weight comments from days ago.

“It’s not like I haven’t seen everything before “ Trey chuckled and went to pull the sheets down , instead he began coughing from his smoke . She turned to him, still covering her body . “What’s up with you ?” He cleared his throat by taking a sip of water . She debated on whether to tell him what Erik said to her , but that would be all bad . Trey loved two things , Marley and violence . God forbid one had anything to do with the other .

“I said what’s up with you ?” He repeated himself .

“Nothing...I gotta get home so I can work” she raised up and sat upright. Trey handed her his blunt , she took a quick puff and gave it back .

“You coming back tonight ?” He questioned .

“Three nights in a row? You know we don’t do good when we together too long “ she laughed , Trey only laughed because she did .

“You right “

She placed two tender kisses on his chiseled shoulder and got up . Fully naked she began to get dressed . Trey admired her body and continued to stare at it . She blushed slightly. He was the only man she had ever allowed to see her in that vulnerable state . But as soon as she got fully dressed, she left.

Marley always had her laptop with her , sometimes she’d work in random places . This time she wanted to go back home and take a long shower . That’s exactly what she did . Then after that, worked six hours and crashed again. That’s all her life had become . Work and sleep , then the occasional slip up with Trey.

Her phone was on fire with constant calls from Becky from the bar . The sports bar that Marley sometimes worked waiting shifts when she needed the extra money . The same bar that she agreed to work at tonight , two weeks ago. It was an hour past the shifts start. Marley was able to get ready with the speed of light and dash straight to the bar .

“You told me you could work when I needed you !” Becky shouted as soon as she got a view of Marley walking through the bar doors .

“I’m so sorry , I totally forgot “ Marley admitted , it was the truth . Her brain had been focused on so many things lately, it slipped her mind . Marley was relieved that there was just a baseball game showing , that meant tonight would be mellow . When football was playing , that’s when it got rowdy but she got the most tips . Basketball games , those brought in the black crowd . A whole bunch of men hitting on her and not tipping .

After apologizing a little more , Becky forgave her and put her to work . She made a few drinks after following table orders . Then tended to whatever other customers needed . She took a break three hours in , it was around Ten now . Tiana had sent her a message , from what she could see on her phone.

Can you do my hair on set tomorrow, I got a shoot

Your shoots last all day , I need to work tomorrow .

Tiana was a model , not a real one that was represented by an agency . She had a career that branched through social media . With over a million followers on Instagram, Tiana was a hot commodity . Marley wasn’t unattractive by any means, she just wasn’t her cousin .

“You’re the smart one , keep studying. Tianas just gonna marry a rich man to take care of her. You’re gonna ‘ take care of yourself” her aunt said those words to her , when she was just ten years old . Marley was always weirded out at how their family categorized the two of them . Marley did all the schooling while Tiana took pictures. And made in a day what Marley made a week. The family was wrong .

Tiana kept going on about how her hairdresser couldn’t make the shoot tomorrow and she was desperate . Marley apologetically told her no again . Then she trolled her about how she wouldn’t buy her anymore clothes using her fashion nova stipend. Marley laughed out loud , she didn’t care about that . Situations like these, she would reach out to Trey and joke about how needy Tiana was. He hated her and vice versa . Tiana thought Trey was a hoodrat and he thought she was stuck up. So he enjoyed bashing her to make Marley feel better . But they were broken up , and she had to learn how to cope with things without him . She knew she had pushed it when she spent the night twice that week .

So , you’re really not going to help me ?

Marley didn’t even text her back . She slid her phone in her pocket and went back to work . As she waited tables and mingled with customers , she thought about how she never went out and did things like this . The few friendships she had , had no substance . In college she made friends , but when she moved back home Marley grew apart from them . Then she met Trey and totally isolated herself from everybody. Then came Tiana , who was arrogant and self centered . But actually the only person she had .

I’ll do your hair tomorrow, but don’t expect me to stay at the shoot .

Marley gave in , like she always did . Putting the needs of others first instead of her own. Tiana responded with a kissy face emoji . Then warned her that Erik would be staying over tonight . Marley cashed out at around 1am. Taking home almost three hundred in tips . She made it to the apartment about a quarter past .

The welcoming sex sounds made her feel right at home , since it was a normal thing now . Marley made it through the hall way and stopped at Tianas door . Where she could clearly hear the act of bodies slapping against eachother . She put her ear to the door , her favorite thing to do was listen to the off the wall things Erik would say . Tiana was yelping loudly, then she sounded to be gasping for air .

“Talk to me bitch , speak the fuck up !”

Marley felt her body shift weakly at his words. He was different from Trey , he wasn’t a talker . But she didn’t mind it , in fact Marley took a liking to the talking .

“Tell me this pussy mine !”

“Erik! This is your pussy!”

Marley backed away and allowed them their privacy . For the most part because she could still hear them in her room , in the bathroom , in the shower and in her bed .

Tiana is fucking this dude so loud that I can’t even sleep.

She sent a text to Trey.

Want me to come over and make it a competition?

Marley considered it , but then considered the fact that she was allowing him to get too close for comfort . It was like opening Pandora’s box .

Right before she moved in with Tiana , she and Trey were happy . So she thought . Marley had a scare , she missed her period . And Marley never missed a period . Trey was sitting at the end of her bed, she didn’t want to push the issue that she could possibly be pregnant . She was afraid , Marley wasn’t ready to be a mother. She moved , Trey looked back at her and smiled . It was early morning and he already had a mouth full of gold teeth . She laughed before she broke the news .

“Trey , I missed my period “ it was like a weight was released from her chest. Trey’s smile faded instantly. He made a face , one that she would never forget . It was as if she was trash on the street . Not the love of his life like he claimed she was .

“I don’t want a baby with you...”

It’s okay , they stopped . GN

Burning Memories... Part 2

Troy’s POV:

I was out of breathe by the time I had reach the tree line to the woods... I looked back to see the village, though it was so far away, it could still be seen, i couldn’t help but shake for a moment...This was it...I looked inside the woods, my fear all of a sudden rising, I swallowed down my rising fear and slowly entered the woods...

I had already lost track of time as I collected what I needed, flowers, herbs, mushrooms, so on, I smiled to myself, I hopefully still had enough time to get back home, then I froze...How...How far was I even in the woods!? I picked up my bag and began to ran back the way I came, or the way I think I came, but all of a sudden stopped as I heared...Voices...?

Oh god...My heart began to pound after it froze for a whole second, my shaking starting again, the voices were close, it was already knocking me sick, but... What if...They were lost, or needed help...My concern had quickly beaten my fear with ease, I needed to know what those voices were, who they belonged to...I quietly crept to were the voices came from, leading to small opening in the trees, I gulped and quickly hid behind one of the trees close by...I slowly peered from behind it, and once again, my body froze completely solid, my blood growing cold once more, my shaking becoming worse as I saw who the voices belong to...Ashton and William stood there...Speaking to there gang members...

I quickly covered my mouth and hid behind the tree, my shaking becoming, so violent now, knocking me sick...Ashton and William had been banished, after they had threated me to leave the village, Oaklee had gotten completely sick of them,it didn’t help how both Ashton and William were using black magic, it’s what gave them this punishment...I looked around...I needed to leave, right now! I slowly began to walk away, knowing if I ran, I’d be dead for sure, I wasn’t ready for any new scars on my body, Ashton had put plenty on me last time- my thoughts were cut off as I felt someone tightly grab my neck, forbidding me to scream, or call for help, I so desperately wanted to..I was lifted off of the ground by my neck, the pain sinking in as whoever this was, grasp got tighter, slowly choking me...My hands darted to the stranger’s hand, trying to pry open his fingers with all my strength, which only made him squeeze my neck tighter.

“Boss! Look what I found~!”

I was all of a sudden thrown against the tree hard, making me yelp in pain, and hug my body tightly as I shaked more...My eyes started to glow, but once I took a small glance up, my eyes widened, my fear cosuming me completely, a horrible feeling of dread swirled in my stomach...Ashton and William smiled down at me...

Before I could even speak, Ashton had already kicked me hard in the stomach, knocking the air out of me and I grabbed it tightly in pain, falling on to my side. I felt him grab my hair tightly as he yanked me off of the ground, I began to whimper, I couldn’t help it, I started into Ashton’s eyes, not a single peice of empathy, sympathy, just pure joy from the pain I was in, he grinned, making me flinch..

“Aww, what’s the matter Troy~? It’s not like you didn’t deserve that, or this~”

Once again, I didn’t have enough time to react, my head was slammed hard against the ground, making me yell in pain, Ashton carefully put his three claws on my cheek...I looked at him, completely terriefied, knowing full well what he was going to do, he simply smiled back at me...I began to scream, as Ashton slowly, painfully dug and dragged his claw across the side of my face, fresh blood leaking from the wounds.Tears were running down my face as he finished, I was whimpering quietly, my shaking never once leaving... I was once again yanked upwards by my hair, looking again into Ashton’s eyes...

“I think it’s time we have a little fun, don’t you~? Teach you a lesson for even Breathing, Troy!!”

...What happened...It was a complete blurr, all my defening screams were ignored as Ashton began to break me in every way, my struggle, my thrashes, my desperate pleas...Ignored completely...I had blacked out from either the pain I was in, or the blood loss...As my eyes slowly began to open, I was greeted with sharp pain inside my body, which could only mean some...Or most of my bones were broken, I couldn’t move, I couldn’t speak, the state I was in, hell I questioned how I was still alive...All I knew is that I was...Slowly dieing, my vision fading in and out, I could feel someone dragging me by my ankle across the ground...I was...Terrified, horrified, I honestly thought this was going to be it, Ashton had just confirmed my fear from this moring...I felt tears running down my face, stinging all the open wounds it sank into...My family...Friends...Would that be the last time I saw them again? That question had broke me, I wanted to go home, I wanted to be in my momma’s warm embrace, as Travis and Trey played with Iris on the floor nerby...I wanted to be with my family, I wanted to live... It’s ashame I didn’t have a say in the matter at all, I could feel my heart break, along with a few other bones...

All of a sudden my leg fell to the ground, as that someone had let go, not like I could of gotten up, my legs stung, some parts of my body were numb..Yeah.. There was no chance in running, I would of laugh if I could from the thought of it...Voices, William’s voice could be heared first...

“Ok, this should be far enough...Are you sure this is best, I mean, we should of just killed him-”

“William~ You worry too much, trust me, this will be perfect, he’ll end up just like his dad~!”

Then footsteps, I could hear them walking away from me, I shaked, making my body’s pain worse, they just...Left me to die...I looked up at the sky...Stars... It was night already...My eyes slowly began to close...I hated this, I hated the fact I didn’t even get to say goodbye to my family, no, all I just did was lie and-... I deserve this...I could feel the anger die and the sadness grow inside me, thinking how much this was all my fault, new tears running down my face... My eyes opened wide as I felt the ground rumble and shake...I listened more, as the ground continued to shake...Footsteps, huge, booming footsteps, I froze... No...No...NO! I tried to get myself back up, I knew exactly what those footsteps belong to, and I wasn’t ready to meet them face to face...Tears had formed from the new pain of trying to get my broken body to move, falling back to the ground...The footsteps got closer, making me completely sick, I just...laid there, I couldn’t do anthing else!!

Voices in my head were screaming, the footsteps coming closer, my fear filling my body like poison, my shaking making me dizzy, I tried once more to get up, but stopped...I froze, staying completely still, not even daring to breathe anymore...The footsteps had stopped, silence filling the air...And a huge shadow loomed over me...

To Be Continued...

Lucky Luke is owned by Morris Morning had soon arrived in the desert and slowly enveloped the land with its warm light. It slowly crept over the four separate territories waking up its inhabitants. Luke slowly began to stir awake. His head felt groggy and his body felt weak from the effects of the tranquilizer. He struggled to sit up straight but finally managed to do so. "Ugh. What was in that dart?" Luke asked himself as he rubbed the temples of his forehead. He started to remember bits and pieces of what had happened last night. Luke recalled that he was on his way to talk to the eldest Kingery sibling before he ran into the Daltons. The Daltons, that word quickly brought back Luke's memories. He was just about to tie up Averell when the other managed to fire off a blow gun which had been mistaken for a flute. Luke had been hit by the tranquilizer dart that was inside before passing out. Out of instinct Luke quickly jumped to his feet readying himself for a brawl with the Dalton brothers. He soon regretted it as dizziness took over causing Luke to drop to his knees. Luke took a moment to let the dizziness subside before getting back to his feet this time slowly. Luke observed the room around him noticing it was to nice of a place for the Daltons to use as a hideout. "They didn't tie me up either that's strange". Luke said to himself. Luke saw a chair in the corner of the room that had his holster and revolver as well as his hat. Luke found that really odd. If the Daltons had taken him hostage why would they leave him his revolver. Luke scratched his head in confusion before he heard the door behind him click open. Luke quickly rushed over to his revolver before a female voice spoke out. "Don't you dare grab that gun cowboy". The voice demanded. Luke froze as the door opened reveling Renee who had a trey of food in her hands. "Don't worry I mean you no harm, just thought I bring you some breakfast". Renee said. Luke looked at the woman with suspicion. "Who are you and how did I end up here"? Luke asked. "My name is Renee I'm a friend of Mrs. Kingery's. You were brought here last night by the Daltons". Renee replied. Luke gave a look of surprise. "Wait the Daltons brought me here? What would make them do such a thing"? More importantly why haven't you guys locked them up yet"? Luke asked. "We were going to lock them up but the short Dalton managed to strike a deal with Mrs. Robin". Renee said. Luke remembered Jack and William mentioning that they made a deal with Robin in order to get out of trouble. "Joe told me that they were trying to stop the feud by helping Robin find her kid but I don't see how that has anything to do with....me". Luke trailed off. "Wait don't tell me that the Daltons think I'm Robin's kid"? Luke asked. Renee nodded her head as Luke finally pieced it together. "Wow I never realized how desperate the Daltons were to escape to make themselves believe that I am the son of the woman who is promising their freedom". Luke chuckled. Renee however did not find this funny. "Mr. Luke although the Daltons did make the deal out of desperation you are the closest man I have ever seen that resembles Robin's son". Renee said. Luke looked at her with surprise. "You're kidding right? You actually believe I'm Robin's son"? Luke asked. "Appearance wise yes, but other than that I can not say for certain". Renee said. Luke took his hat from the chair and placed it on his head. "Well I'm sorry to disappoint you and Mrs. Robin, but I'm pretty certain I'm not the guy you folks are looking for". Luke said as he put on his boots. Luke was about to leave the room before Renee spoke up. "How can you be so certain"? She asked. Luke turned around at the door to face Renee. "Do you have parents waiting for you at home"? Renee asked. "Um..No I'm an orphan". Luke responded. "Did you even know your parents"? Renee asked. "Well no". Luke replied. "Then how can you be certain that Robin isn't your mother"? Renee questioned the cowboy. "I just ... it just seems impossible". Luke said. "Nothing in this world is impossible Mr. Luke. Just look at yourself you can shoot faster then your own shadow, that would be considered impossible yet here you are". Renee said. Luke fell silent at Renee's words. Renee could see the confusion and uncertainty in Luke's eyes. Her face became one of understanding as Renee sympathized with Luke knowing very well that today his whole world could change. She placed the trey on the table. "Why don't you sit down and have some breakfast? You missed dinner while you were out so I bet you'rr pretty hungry right about now. As for the son thing don't worry about that we'll talk about it later". Renee said. "Thank you". Luke said. Renee left the room leaving Luke alone with his thoughts. Luke was able to keep the thoughts of possibly being Robin's son at bay by thinking on how to handle the current situation with the Daltons and the feud between the four Kingery's. But those thoughts about Robin didn't stay away for long though as Luke knew in the end he would need her to help stop the feud and to try to convince Robin to deny the Daltons sanctuary. Once Luke was done with his meal he finished getting ready for the day before heading downstairs mentally preparing himself for the what lie ahead. Luke soon found himself in front of Robin who had her back to him unaware of the cowboy's presence. He tried to get the words out to say hello but Luke was finding it quite difficult. Luke could feel the words get caught in his throat as a bead of sweat rolled off his brow. Just as Luke finally managed to open his mouth Robin had turned around with a look of surprise taking over her face as she spotted the cowboy. "Oh, Luke I didn't see you there, did you sleep well last night"? Robin asked. "Yes mam I slept like a bab..log I slept like a log". Luke said hastily. "I bet you did, that tranquilizer sure had you out for quite some time". Robin said.   The two stood in an awkward silence before Luke managed to speak up. "Where are the Daltons"? Luke asked. "Their in the guest house still sleeping. Why do you ask"? Robin questioned. "I wanted to talk to you about denying them sanctuary". Luke said. Robin looked at Luke her eyes softening and showing regret. "I can't let you take them unfortunately at least not yet". Robin said. "I know Renee told me about the deal". Luke said. "Luke I understand that this must be very confusing and frustrating for you but I'm just trying to find my son". Robin said. "How can you be sure its me though"? Luke asked. " I don't know and that's what's frustrating. My heart keeps telling me your the one but I have to be realistic with the chance that you could not be my son". Robin said. "Well we need to figure out something. I can't just let the Daltons run around freely to do whatever they please". Luke said. A nearby father clock chimed grabbing the attention of Robin and Luke. "I think I might have an idea". Robin said. Moments later Robin and Luke were back upstairs each with a few pieces of paper, quill, and bottle of ink in their position. "Renee told me about you being an orphan. I don't know if you wanted that information out but I thought that we could write down parts of our lives. For me I'll write down the day I lost my baby". Robin said. "And I write the day I was found"? Luke asked. "Correct, with our stories we can determine if they match up or not thus proving whether or not your my son". Robin answered. "And we'll be in separate rooms so nobody cheats". Luke said. "Yes, Renee will read our stories after we're finished". Robin said. And with that the two entered their respected rooms and began writing. Downstairs the Daltons had joined Renee in waiting to see if they had truly found Robin's son. Even Rantanplan and Jolly Jumper came along though Jolly could only observe through an opened window. An hour or so passed before Luke came downstairs. He handed his paper to Renee before sitting down on a wooden stool next to the window Jolly Jumper was viewing from. "He's more shaky than a bald cat in winter". Jolly said concerned for his human friend. "Cat where"? Asked Rantanplan. A few moments later Robin came downstairs handing her paper to Renee. Soon the Daltons, Lucky Luke, and Robin found themselves sitting around Renee eager to hear the results. " I hope she's gonna read us a fairy tale I always like those". Averell said. "Shh, she's starting". William said hushing his brother. Renee grabbed Robin's paper first and began reading. Robin and Renee were traveling with a small caravan on its way to California. Two months prior Robin had given birth to her son and her relatives living in San Francisco were eager to see the newest member of the Kingery family. The path they were on was very bumpy from the many rocks that laid about. This in turn woke up Robin's infant son who had previously been sleeping. Robin did her best to calm down her baby eventually managing to do so though the peace didn't last for long as the wagon she was in ran over another bump in the road. "Are you sure there isn't another path we can take? This path seems a tad to bumpy". Robin said. "Sorry Mrs. Kingery but this is the only path that can get us safely past the Indian territories". Said the Wagon driver. "Well are there at least any towns nearby? The baby really needs his nap plus he's probably getting hungry". Robin said. Renee sat next to Robin as she brought out the map. "Strange, there doesn't appear to be any settlements on or around the path we're on. Are you sure this map your brother gave you is legitimate"? Renee asked. "It should be he's taken this path many times to map out the plans for his next project". Robin said. They continued down the path. Along the way one of the two accompanying caravan guards noted the high number of coyotes in the area. "Better pull out your pistols boys these coyotes might be a problem if they start getting to close". The driver said as he readied his weapon. The small group kept their eyes peeled as they continued on ready to scare off any varmint that thought to go after their group. However the wildlife wasn't their only problem as a band of men mounted on horseback started racing towards them from the back. The caravan driver pulled to the side thinking that the group behind them just wanted to get by. Unfortunately that wasn't the case as the group began opening fire on the caravan. "Bandits take cover quick"! Shouted the second guard. The driver quickly handed the reigns  to Renee before jumping off. "You need to get you, your friend, and the baby to safety. Just keep following the road and whatever you do don't stop for anything"! The driver commanded. Renee gave a firm nod on agreement before ordering the horse to continue on. The wagon jolted up and down as they made their raced down the path. Robin clung to her baby for dear life while also grabbing the side of the covered wagon in order to prevent themselves from being thrown about the wagon. The bandits were soon catching up again though it appeared that there were fewer of them this time. "Robin try tossing some of the stuff back there maybe we can try slowing those varmints down". Renee said. Robin did just that as she managed to push out a large wooden chest that exploded into pieces as it made contact with the grown. Robin managed to toss out smaller items before the bandits began opening fire. The baby wailed as Robin took cover. One of the bandits pulled out a bow and arrow. They sit the tip of the arrow on fire before launching it. The flaming arrow hit the back of the wagon setting the covered part a blaze. Robin quickly made her way to the front of the wagon as the flames made their way forward. Renee hopped onto the horse pulling the wagon. "Robin over here quickly"! Renee called out. Robin reached the outer front of the wagon. Renee reached her hand out to help her friend and the baby onto the horse. Maintaining her balanced Robin reached out her one free hand towards Renee. Then the wagon ran over a huge rock and Robin was sent flying. Time seemed to slow down as Robin was airborne. She held her son close to her chest and tightened herself into a ball to protect her baby from the impact. Time sped up again as Robin violently slammed into the ground. The force caused Robin to bounce off and be airborne once more but this time for not as long. The back of Robin's head impacted with the ground and she lost conscious right then and there. "H..Hey I think she's waking up"! Came a voice. Light began to enter robin's vision as she slowly gained conscious. Blurry figures soon became recognizable faces as the images began to clear. The first person Robin could make out was the wagon driver followed by Renee and the two guards who were badly beaten up. Renee rushed to her friend's side. "Robin stay still your hurt bad". Renee said. Robin looked up to the sky, the sun was no longer in its place instead the moon rose over head signaling nighttime. As she became more focused Robin noticed that they were one bundle short. "W... Where is the baby"? Robin asked weakly. Renee and the others looked to each other in hesitation. "Renee where is my baby"? Robin said in a demanding tone that was very unlike her. The driver spoke up first. "I'm sorry Mrs. Kingery but we only managed to find you the others looked around but they couldn't find anything". The drives said regretfully. "No"! Robin shouted as she fought to stand up. "Mrs. Kingery please lay back down"! The driver cried out. Robin got to her feet limping towards the horse. "Robin I know your worried but please stop you're to injured to go off searching"! Renee pleaded as she placed her hand on Robin's shoulder. Robin pushed the hand  of her dear friend away as she mounted the horse. "My son could still be out there I can't just leave him to who knows what. I have to find him even at the cost of my own life". Robin said before signaling the horse to take off. Robin could here Renee call out her name but the voice faded as Robin galloped into the night. Robin's side burned as she followed the path of where she last saw the wagon. She pushed the pain down as she focused more on finding her son. When she finally found the wagon it was a wreck, the clothes and other items laid strewn about  the path leading up to the half burnt out wagon. Several coyotes circled around the husk. Robin pulled out her firearm and shot into the sky successfully scaring off the wild beast. Robin immediately jumped off the horse and began searching through the wreckage. She turned over every rock and looked into every nook and cranny. Some how Robin even managed to push the wagon in order to see if her son had somehow ended up underneath but nothing. She looked around the surrounding area for any signs of tracks thinking that maybe someone took her boy but any tracks that passed by were completely erased by the wind. Pain quickly gripped Robin as she let out a cry of pain while holding her side. She fell to her hands and knees. Robin listened in to her surroundings hoping, praying to hear the cry of a baby but all she could hear was the chirping of crickets. Robin soon fell onto her back looking up into a beautiful starry sky which seemed to mock her with its beauty and stars clustered into their own little families. Hoof steps could be heard as Renee rode up to the wreckage. She spotted her friend sitting on a crate crying. Renee quickly ran up to her friend embracing the other in a hug.  "I'm sorry, Robin I'm so sorry". Renee said now joining Robin in the tears. Robin cried out more and louder then before, but not from her physical injuries. No there was a pain that hurt much more and ran deeper then any physical wound could ever do.  Robin had lost her baby. Back in the current time Renee finished reading Robin's story. The Daltons sat by crying as Renee finished Robin's peice. "Th..That's just so sad"! Averell cried. "She just lost her kid just like that"! Joe bawled. Robin wiped a tear from her eye as memories of that day played in her head. Renee looked up to Luke. Luke sat there pale as a ghost. "Mr. Luke are you alright"? Renee asked. Renee approached Luke who did not respond. As Renee got closer she noticed Luke mouthing something. "R-E-A-D I-T". Seemed to be what Luke was saying. Renee returned to the desk grabbing Luke's paper. In his head Luke read what he had written down his thoughts following Renee's lips as she began to read. "I was found by a cowboy named Sam outside the town of Nothing Gulch sometime during the day. He found me not far from a burnt out wagon. Luckily Sam found me at the nick of time as the wagon was being eyed by hungry coyotes". The room became nothing but an echo of gasp as the realization of Luke's story sunk into their heads. The stories matched.