Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Perched on a windowsill on the second floor of the castle, you let silent tears slip down your cheeks. 

Four overblots and counting. A near-death experience. After everything, still no hope of coming home. Not a hint.

A fall from this height wouldn’t be deadly. Intrusive ideas of climbing up to higher floors were quickly squashed, though. As bad as things were, there still are things left to live for—like Trey’s tarts, Ace and Deuce’s shenanigans, Grim’s warmth, and the ever-mysterious Hornton’s visits. 

Under you was a view of Night Raven College’s empty snow-covered courtyard. Winter break will soon be over—better savor the peace now before the students return and fill the halls with noise again. You took a shaky inhale, let the bitter chill penetrate your every cell, and exhaled. 

'I should stop crying,' you told yourself, holding your knees to your chest. But the lump in your throat had chosen to remain, as well as that stinging behind your eyes.

“Oi, hench-human!” 

You jumped at Grim’s voice. Sniffling, you kept your face hidden as you wiped your tears with a quick hand. 

“You good?” he asked, bounding towards you and leaping onto the windowsill. 

“Oh, you know,” you said, shrugging. “Just really fucking pissed.” 

Again, your vision blurred. Giving in, you closed your eyes and let new tears fall. Grim had definitely seen them now—there was no more hiding, especially from your one and only dormmate.

Not much for words of comfort, he started rubbing his head against your leg. 

“You know, you really should stop agreeing to everything the old crow tells you to do. We’re a package deal—it affects me too, you know!”

“I know,” you said. “Sucks that he’s my best bet for a way home.”

Grim's response was a blank stare. “You know damn well he isn’t doing anything.” 

And Grim’s right. Thinking of Headmage Crowley’s promises all over again and recalling how dismissive he’d been of your concerns when you asked for help while trapped in Scarabia awakened a new wave of anger within you. 

“Bastard,” you muttered under your breath. 

“I’m bein’ honest here…” said Grim. “I’m not lookin’ forward to you leaving, but there has to be someone else who can help!”

Someone else. 

You've considered it countless times, but fooloed yourself over and over again thinking that Crowley might actually do what he promises someday. There had to be someone else who could help. Could you reach out to the government without Crowley knowing? Who even was the government? If the overblots continue, and Crowley continues to pass on responsibility after responsibility to you and other students, then shouldn’t he be held accountable? His neglectful behavior has to have consequences.

“If not the Headmage, then who will help?” you said, voice quivering. “I’m hopeless.” 

Grim didn’t know the answer either. 

You considered your options—run away to Foothill Town, hope to be taken in by a kind family, or go beyond Foothill Town and…

Hold on.

Night Raven College wasn’t the only magical school on the island. 

“Grim,” you said. “There’s another magical school on Sage’s Island, right? Royal Sword Academy?” 

“That school?” he said, making a face. “The one Leona said was filled with prissy, spoiled princes?”

“Leona might be an unreliable narrator here,” you said, staring off into the distance. “But I swear—if that school ends up being another NRC, I will lose my faith in Twisted Wonderland humanity.”

Grim observed you not without some unease, which was understandable. “What are you thinking, hench-human?”

“It’s just an idea,” you told him. “If our Headmage can’t help me, then maybe another school’s Headmage can and will.” 

Grim’s ears drooped. “You’re not… thinking of running away to RSA, are you?”

“Ha, running away? That’s a little extreme, don't you think?” you said, shaking your head. “I don't do extreme.”

“I think taunting an overblotted guy and catching blot venom is pretty extreme—”

“Shh…” you put a finger over his mouth. “Do you really think I’ll just up and leave you all? I'm still a student here, and half of you at that! There are other ways to reach RSA’s Headmage.” 

If you could get a letter out there to the right person, you might receive the help you need. If things could be that easy, there would be no need for running away. You almost voiced this but stopped yourself, as Grim was looking sadder and sadder by the minute. Thankfully, you knew when to drop a subject. 

He would deny his feelings—you were sure, but you knew him well enough. As it stands, you two were two halves of one student. If you were sent home without a way to return to Twisted Wonderland, what would happen to Grim’s education at Night Raven College? 

There’s one thing you must ensure before leaving this world; Grim must be able to continue his education without you. 

With a smile, you reached out and ruffled his fur. Inside, you played with a thought: if all efforts to find a way home failed, would leaving NRC to find people who could better help be an option? 

‘You help so many, but who helps you?’ whispered some part of you. 

Something in your chest ached at the thought of goodbyes. How could you even do that to Grim? To Ace and Deuce? Right now, it seemed too painful to do, but you had a life too. What of your loved ones left behind? 

If worst comes to worst, a time will come wherein you will have to choose yourself. And if that entailed running away, then so be it. 

Grim was more correct than you’d admit. Your hand found the patch under your uniform—the spot where the venom had burned through. 

The truth is, you’d do extreme if the situation called for it.

Upon returning to the meeting room to hopefully discuss your employment contract with Azul, you found a different scene. Kalim and Jamil were long gone, and Georgina Leech was in the middle of saying goodbye to her sons. She spoke to both boys in what sounded like Italian, ensuring that her words were only understood by those they were intended for. 

Azul, for some reason, had suspiciously started a nonsensical conversation with you about limited Mostro Lounge menu item ideas, pinching your sleeve with eyes that pleaded for help. You noticed that he positioned himself behind you as if hiding. Amused, you turned to him.

“Well, aren’t you awfully close to me?” you whispered, extra softly. “Are you alright?” 

“Of course! Why would I not be?” he replied, though the tremor in his voice told a different story. You looked at the three Leeches, then back at Azul, a smile slowly spreading on your face. 

“Are you scared of her or something?” you asked, pointing in Georgina’s direction with your thumb. “I mean, I get it.”

As if sensing that you were talking about her, the woman turned just in time to eye the two of you. She grinned wide. Nodding your head in polite acknowledgement, you felt a shudder run down your spine—an effect that her sons were also perfectly capable of giving you. 

“It’s not that.” Azul returned her smile too—a poor attempt, for it looked more like a grimace. “She’s quite… difficult to deal with.” 

Only a terrifying, difficult-to-deal-with woman could raise Jade and Floyd Leech. You can’t even imagine what their father is like.

“Certainly feels like it,” you said, looking to the door. “Why don’t we just leave?”

“We’ll draw her attention,” he replied, eyes darting to her. “She’ll smell our fear and toy with us.”

You’d never seen Azul look so terrified since his post-overblot mindscape. It was almost funny. “And if she does? What, then?”

“I don’t know, but you can never predict her next moves. I’m quite sure we both will not like it.” 

Discussing a terrifying woman who was in the same room as you was not the best idea, so you decided not to probe further. 

It turned out that Georgina, unfortunately, had last messages for the both of you too. 

“Azul, Prefect.”

She was now walking towards you. You tried not to panic—and judging by Azul’s sharp intake of breath, he probably was trying to hold it together, too. 

“Azul!” Georgina said, before sweeping Azul into a bone-crushing hug. 

“Mmmrp!” 

Georgina tutted. “My, still so thin and bony,” she remarked. “Your mother has heard the news and was beside herself with worry, I know, but I shall pay her a visit and let her know you are doing well.”

“Th-thank you,” Azul choked out. “But I am in contact with Mama, and she knows perfectly well how I am.” 

No—this wasn’t a hug. It was a squeeze. There was no question where Floyd inherited his love for squeezing. You half-expected to hear some bones cracking, though there were thankfully none or the infirmary would have gained a new patient. 

She finally released him, leaving his glasses crooked. You almost laughed—well, right before Georgina turned her attention on you. 

“Prefect,” she said warmly, pulling you closer by the shoulders and kissing you on both cheeks before sweeping you into the same tight embrace. It was so tight that colors swam in your vision, which you think might have been the beginning of that phenomenon where your life flashes before your eyes as you’re dying. 

“M-madame—” you tried to say, flailing. 

“Hm? Madame is too formal, dear. You may call me Georgina—or perhaps someday... Mamma.”

“Wh-what?”

“I am just kidding, of course,” Georgina giggled into your ear. “...Or am I?” 

She released you just in time for you to see Azul suppress a laugh behind a handkerchief. You glared at him. 

“Do expect my gifts, seashell,” Georgina said, smiling as she smoothed down your hair and fixed your collar. “Jade’s sweetheart deserves only the best.”

Jade’s sweetheart?  She still thinks…

You watched her walk away, mouth open in disbelief. 

“Jade’s sweetheart?” Azul asked with a smirk. “It appears you already have the mother-in-law's favor.” 

“Oh my god. No!” 

“Hmm, I do wonder what made her think that was the case?” said Azul, looking to where Jade and Floyd were standing. Your gaze met with Jade’s for a second. To your surprise, he didn’t smile his usual smile. His eyes widened before he abruptly broke eye contact.

For once, you were the one left staring.

You watched as he and Floyd began to escort their mother out of the meeting room, probably to the Hall of Mirrors. 

Before they could leave through the door, Floyd clapped Jade on the back so hard that his hat fell off his head. The display earned a smirk from you.

It played back all over again—everything he did at the infirmary. Seriously… trying to treat you like a child, spilling juice all over you, and getting caught in that position at the exact moment his mother decided to walk in. Ha! The bastard’s probably still embarrassed, as he should be.

Once the door closed, you recounted to Azul what happened at the infirmary. 

He burst out laughing. 

“Pardon?” Azul said, amused and scandalized. “My, my. Jade must have been so embarrassed. I would have paid to see it.” 

“Hey! It was humiliating for me too,” you pouted. “Anyway, can someone explain to her that I’m not Jade’s sweetheart?” 

“Perhaps Jade will,” replied Azul. “Or he might want to leave things as they are. We never really know with him.” 

“Well, I don’t like the idea of anyone thinking that I’m his sweetheart,” you said firmly, crossing your arms to prove a point. “Maybe I should talk to her.” 

“I wish you luck trying to convince her against something she has already chosen to believe,” he said. “She could believe you, but still tease you until you’re tired of trying to explain. Whatever you do, Prefect, will not give you the outcome you desire.” 

“She really is their mother," you said. "Well, nothing more I can do, I suppose. 

Just as you were about to see yourself out, you remembered something and pivoted back to Azul. 

“Wait—you said ‘he might like to leave things as they are.’ What did you mean by that?” 

“Oh, did I say that?” said Azul, a mysterious smile on his face. “My, I wonder what that means.”

Your mouth opened and closed. Much like a fish. “What… is going on…?”

But Azul was already making his way out of the meeting room. “I’ll see you around, Prefect! I still must work on your employment contract for the Mostro Lounge. Be sure to expect it soon!”

It was the second time today that someone had walked out on you before you were done speaking to them, which was annoying.

But one thing was for certain—there was something up with Jade Leech concerning you. 

Whatever it was, you needed to stay alert. 

There was nothing quite like a good old Scarabia party to take one's mind off their problems. Out of the goodness of your heart, you had volunteered to help with the preparations. This privilege enabled you to subtly pluck “samples” from the dishes before serving them. 

Grim had been banned from the kitchens, which sucked for him. It was, however, fortunate that the Scarabia students trusted you enough to let you run along unchecked. Little did they know that ever since recovering, your appetite had been ravenous.

You reached out to a plate of spicy cheese-stuffed peppers, pinched yourself a piece, and popped the whole thing into your mouth. 

Oh! That's godly. And hot. Tears filled your eyes as you fought for your life chewing. 

When you turned around, you came face-to-face with Jamil. 

With just one look, you knew that he could tell. Your full cheeks and teary eyes were surely a dead giveaway. He folded his arms over his chest, eyebrows raised in question.

You gave him a sheepish smile when you finally swallowed it all. 

“I took just one,” you said, licking your teeth. “Promise.”

You expected him to say something snarky in that same old dry tone he used with you. However, it never came. Instead, it seemed as if he could barely look you in the eye. 

“I'm not going to tell you off for sampling my cooking,” he said quietly. “So… how is it?”

“What?”

He glanced at the plate you just took from. “How are the pepper appetizers?” 

You breathed in relief. “Oh, delicious! Burning hot, but in a good way.” 

Jamil leaned forward, and you resisted the urge to shrink back. He’s not gonna Snake Charmer me. We’re past that. “And? Tell me more.”  

“Uh…” you said. “Exploding with flavor! The pepper is cooked nicely, the cheese is… chees-y…”

Yeah, you didn't exactly know how to critique food properly.

“Hm,” he pulled back with an amused smile. “I suppose that's sufficient.” 

You wished you had a wider food vocabulary—you really did—especially at this moment. But why did you? Surely you weren't intent on wanting to impress Jamil Viper—who you were still mad at, by the way—of all people. 

“What, are you gonna start asking for praise now?” you said, trying to recover from embarrassment. “You're changing.” 

“Oh?” he said, still smiling. “That’s because I was given some great advice recently. Would you like to hear it?”

“Sure.”

Jamil's grey eyes seemed to sparkle with an unusual humor and excitement. “Stop downplaying yourself. Take compliments. Show off when you have the chance.”

The words sent your heart into helpless palpitation. He remembered that? 

“That sounds like great advice,” you replied, trying to seem nonchalant. “Who gave it to you?”

For a moment, he watched you in silence—waiting for a crack in your pretense, for you to admit it was you, probably. But that should be impossible. 

No one ever remembered their post-overblot mindscapes, did they? 

“After I was… defeated, I was plunged into this long dream, where I was trapped in a realm that I could only leave by following a… little bird.”

A long dream. Little bird? No way. Surely, he couldn't mean… 

“Interesting,” you asked, trying not to sound too invested. 

Did he remember you as you were, or did he genuinely remember you as a little bird? You had the sneaking suspicion that it was the former. Jamil was playing a game, trying to get you to admit you had entered his mind. What would he do then, if you directly admitted to it? If you admitted to seeing all of those memories? You’d be deader than a Ramshackle ghost!

Maybe it was wiser to play this game. Allude to the truth, but never state it directly. Dangle it back in his face, like he was doing to you. 

He continued to observe you with those beautiful grey eyes. For a moment, you wondered if you were about to fall under spell again. Despite that concern, you were unable to look away. Jamil was naturally hypnotic. 

“While the little bird was quite annoying at times, I decided they were quite wise and might have a point…”

Hey! 

“Annoying, huh…” you mumbled.

“Mhm,” he hummed. “But I wouldn't have woken without their help.”

“You really should be grateful to that annoying little bird, then.”

“Oh, believe me,” he replied. “I am.”

“Good.”

His gaze drifted to your shoulder. “I must be honest. There are things I cannot feel sorry for. But one thing is for sure—I regret having hurt the little bird.” 

You were speechless. “Oh…” 

So much for acting like this had nothing to do with you.

“I'm glad your wound is healing well, Prefect,” he said. “I heard you almost died from it.” 

“I'm still alive, and that's all that matters,” you said. “You weren’t in your right mind. It's alright.” 

Jamil looked as if he wanted to say more. It seems as if it pained him just to form the words, so they were doomed to die in his throat—never to be given voice. 

So, you took over. 

"You know what's really angering, though?" you said. "Getting kidnapped to be used for a scheme. Getting hypnotized twice or more times!"

"Eh?"

Jamil looked as if he just experienced a whole spectrum of emotions. (He was surprisingly expressive, you noted.) Fear. Anger. Guilt. In such a short conversation, which one reigns? 

“I wanted to say that I’m sorry for lying to you, but to be completely honest…” you said, giving him what you hoped looked like a good-natured smile. “... you deserved it, you scheming asshole!”

Jamil's disbelief turned into laughter. And Seven help you, the sound was beautiful. 

"Do you want me to apologize for that?" he asked, smirking. "Too bad—there will not be one." 

You gasped. "Then consider my apology withheld. Forever!"

"Fair," he replied with a shrug. "Let us agree to hold grudges against each other."

"Deal."

Jamil's once tense shoulders relaxed. “This is giving me deja-vu. I could’ve sworn we've already had this conversation.” 

“Did we?” you replied. “You must have dreamt it.”

He nodded slowly, a knowing look in his eyes. “You’re right. It must have happened in a dream.”

“I’m sorry to hear that the little bird had been such an annoyance, though. Hopefully, it at least made for a cute, feathery companion?”

He smiled. “It was.”

“Huh?”

“It was a cute little bird.” 

With a lingering look at your face, Jamil took the tray of pepper appetizers and handed it to you. 

“Off you go,” he said, voice low. “This is a dorm favorite. They’d be happy to see it leave the kitchen.”  

“Of course,” you said, before darting off with the tray.

Your face felt strangely hot. It must be the Scarabian sun. 

The parade left your tongue parched. Twilight was approaching, and so everybody had now returned to the dorm lounge. The joyfulness of Scarabia students were something to be admired. They partied as if no overblot happened. Who knows? Maybe just like their Housewarden, this was how they coped.

Jamil was nowhere to be seen after the parade, which was understandable given how his dormmates currently felt about him. 

Floyd, Jade, and Azul were resting, too—blazers off, engaged in deep conversation. Octavinelle was on drinks duty today, you remembered, as you poured yourself a cup of juice. You tried to pay them no mind, but you could see from the corner of your eye that all three of them were throwing glances your way.

Facing an overblot together would bring the worst of enemies closer, and such was the case with you and the Octavinelle boys. But despite the undeniable changes in your relationships, your brain was unfortunately still wired to think their… interest was bad news.

Who were you kidding? It probably was. 

Azul waved in greeting. Floyd grinned and nudged Jade, who sent his usual close-lipped smile in your direction. Skin crawling, you sent them a polite nod. 

Where was Grim, by the way?

“Prefect!”

You turned in the direction of Kalim’s voice. There he was, waving you over to a towering caramel fountain.

Flanking him were two familiar figures—one red-haired, one blue-haired.

Ace and Deuce!

“These guys were just looking for you!” said Kalim, and judging by the way the two other boys’ mouths were already filled with food, you concluded that Ace and Deuce already experienced Kalim’s generosity. “They say they’re friends of yours!” 

Before any of them could say a word, you were already running over. 

“Ace! Deuce!”

Ace spoke through a mouthful of food, making his words barely discernible. 

“There you are!” he said, cheeks full. “We’ve been looking all over for you!”

“This is so touching!” Kalim’s smile was cheerful as he watched your little reunion. “I’ll leave you to it, Prefect and friends! Enjoy the rest of the party!” 

With a pat farewell pat on both Ace and Deuce’s backs, the Scarabia housewarden walked away and immediately found another student to start a chat with. 

Grim, who had just reappeared, scampered towards the three of you, leapt onto a table, and then onto Ace’s shoulder. He proceeded to deliver two equally strong smacks to both of their heads with the full strength of his direbeast paws. 

Deuce clutched his head. “Ow! What in the Seven was that for?”

“I knew you guys wouldn’t be much help, and here you are, showin’ up after everything’s already solved!” 

Ace was defensive. “What?! Look, the mirror gate wasn’t open, so we couldn’t warp back with magic. Did you know we had to take public transpo—” 

Without even letting him finish his sentence, you pulled all your boys into a three-way hug. It didn’t matter that they were all sweaty—you were just so happy to have them all with you again. It was a joy so overwhelming that you had started sobbing in their arms.

“Hey—wait, you’re crying!” said a panicking Deuce. “What’s wrong?” 

“Well thanks for pointing it out, Captain Obvious!” Ace, who looked just as panicked, turned to you. “You’re not normally a crybaby. What happened…?”

Their questions only made you sob harder. 

“Ace, Deuce…” you said again, before dissolving again into a fit of unrestrained sobs. It felt as if your limbs were melting. Thankfully, your friends were there to hold you up.

“Did anyone hurt you?” Deuce asked, anger seeping into his tone. “Who did it? I’ll beat—I mean, have a talk with them!” 

You couldn’t answer any of their questions. Already, you could tell that your sobbing was attracting attention. But to hell with whoever was watching—all you could do was cry. 

What was wrong? Everything. The last week had been too much. Way too much.

“What are you two doing here?” you sobbed. “You’re supposed to be home with your f-families!” 

The thought of Ace and Deuce leaving their families behind on winter break out of worry for you heightened your emotions further, sending a fresh new wave of tears into your eyes. 

“W-we were! But we came rushing back when you sent that SOS,” answered Deuce, rubbing your back. “Your text said ‘Trapped in Scarabia’ and then we couldn’t get through to you anymore. How could we not be worried?”

“That’s because—” You cut yourself off, remembering Azul’s deal with Crowley. 

The offer he made in exchange for Ramshackle’s renovations was to have every witness sign a contract forbidding them to speak of what happened to anyone. 

Unless you found a loophole, the story would have to remain secret even to Ace and Deuce.

“You know what, let's not think about that for now. Look, there's so much food to try. Go crazy!”

They exchanged uncertain looks. 

“Since when do you hide things from us?” Ace’s eyes narrowed. 

“It's not my choice,” you replied, wringing your hands. “I can't tell you anything… for now.” 

“Don’t pressure them, Ace!” said Deuce. “Besides, it looks like everyone’s having a good time. Whatever it is, it's already been solved.” 

“Hold on,” Ace said, his voice significantly lowered. “...Why are those Octavinelle guys coming over here?” 

You groaned. 

“Of course they are,” you said, wiping your face clean as fast as you could. “Isn't that just great—”

“Greetings, my dear underclassmen!” said Azul, his jovial tone floating above the party music. “Cutting your winter break short? I was not expecting you back at NRC so soon!” 

“Don’t look so cranky to see us, Crabby!” Floyd said, slinging an arm over Ace’s shoulders. “We’ve been takin’ really good care of Shrimpy while you were gone, ya know?”

The confused looks that Ace and Deuce sent your way were almost hilarious. 

“You didn’t sign another contract, did you?” Ace whispered.

“Well—not yet, but I’ll be starting my Mostro Lounge job soon.”

The identical looks of horror on their faces effectively halted your tears. You understood why, of course—Ace and Deuce were no strangers to the experience of having Azul as a boss. 

You sighed. “Don’t look at me like that.”

“It is true,” Jade said, slipping into the conversation with a drink in hand. “We’ve realized that the Prefect is a valuable asset whom we’d all benefit from keeping close. ” 

He handed you the drink—a bubbling blue concoction. It was a Mostro Lounge blend, no doubt—it definitely looked like one of the drinks that NRC students would post on Magicam. 

You hesitated. You were quite thirsty, but the drink was from Jade. What were they planning this time? Why weren’t they offering Ace and Deuce a cup as well? 

Something smells fishy. This could be a prank.

But was this even the right time to be on guard? Maybe it was brought on by your emotions, but everyone seemed to be in good spirits, far removed from their usual scheming selves—you felt that Octavinelle was no exception. Grudges and mind games aside, Jade had been much help. If it was true that he was the one who called Madame Leech to bring in a Magical Venoms and Poisons Specialist to save you, then didn’t that mean you owed him your life?

Maybe it wouldn't hurt to be cordial—just this once. 

You accepted the drink. 

“Thanks,” you said, giving him a polite smile as you silently made plans to pour the drink down a drain once you’re out of their sight. 

“Of course,” said Jade, sounding completely earnest. “You deserve nothing less, after all you’ve done.” 

What a kind thing to say. He was probably just being polite, of course. Or trying to lull you into a false sense of security. 

“Right!” Floyd said. “Little Shrimpy’s our hero.”

“Okay, okay, you’ve got to tell us what happened!” said Ace. “You’re killing me with suspense here!”

“Yeah,” Deuce said, glancing warily at Octavinelle. “Something big must have gone down to bring you all together.” 

“Sorry, boys,” said Azul. “That is information we are not allowed to disclose.”

He glanced at you. “You’d best remember that, Prefect.” 

Truthfully, you feared what kind of hell might break loose if Ace and Deuce found out about what happened. Maybe this was for the best. 

“Hah, we’ll just have to keep you guys guessing,” you said, sniffling. “For now, let’s enjoy the party! Go, go, get yourself some drinks!” you said, gently pushing them in the opposite direction and frantically mouthing at them to get far away. 

Ace and Deuce eyed the Octavinelle boys warily, before you pushed them again, less gently, in the direction of the appetizers spread. You were about to follow them to remove yourself from Octavinelle’s presence, but Azul’s voice stopped you. 

“Prefect, wait!” he said. “That drink you’re holding is a special blend that might soon be added to the Mostro Lounge menu. We’d love to see you sample it and hear your thoughts!” 

Ugh.

You gestured for Ace and Deuce to go on without you and turned back around with a tight smile. 

“Okay…” 

You lifted the glass to your mouth and took a sip. A zesty flavor blanketed your tongue, searing it with a satisfying fizz that travelled down your throat. Like an energizing jolt of electricity. Your body felt awake—not out of fear, but more out of something like excitement. No adverse effects. So far. 

It was good! 

“You just sampled Kiss of Life,” explained Azul. “It’s a new blend Jade has concocted, inspired by the  electrifying power of—well—the electric eel.” 

You turned to Jade. He can have a compliment. Just this once. “Well, it’s… really good! Great… job.”

Jade's eyes widened in genuine surprise. “Thank you, Prefect. I’m glad to hear that.”

Floyd whooped. “Way to go, Jade!” 

Azul hit Floyd very gently with his cane.

“Jade’s drinks are nothing short of amazing, Prefect,” said Azul. “Every concoction of his is a work of art! You really should try more of his drinks at the Mostro Lounge!”

“Yeah, and if you date him, you can have ‘em free of charge!” added Floyd, grinning.

Here they go with the dating thing again. What kind of sick joke is this? 

You did not have time for this nonsense. An awkward silence ensued as you stared Floyd down, trying to figure out what was up with him. 

“Apologies, Prefect,” Jade cleared his throat, pulling a concerned face. “I truly do not know where my brother is pulling these ideas of… dating from!”

“Right,” Azul coughed. “You’ll have to excuse him—as I have discovered, Floyd has developed a liking for human romance films lately.”

Your eyebrows shot up. “That's… unexpected.”

Floyd was flabbergasted. “Hey! I don't watch that stuff!”

“My, my,” said Jade, patting Floyd’s back. “This is something even I did not expect. I never thought my brother could be such a romantic. How interesting—I learn something new about him everyday!”

“I’m not—” 

“And he’s in denial about it!” added Azul. “How adorable, Floyd—truly!”

“If anyone’s a romantic here, it's not me!” protested Floyd. “I'm not the one sportin’ a big, fat crush on—”

“That's enough, Floyd,” said Azul. “I assure you—there is nothing to be ashamed of! It's perfectly acceptable for teenage boys like ourselves to be invested in the idea of love and romance.” 

“Indeed,” replied Jade, nodding. “There is no shame in seeing the beauty of love.”

“You guys suck,” said Floyd, shoulders slumping. “Whatever—I’m gonna go bother Crabby and Macky instead.” 

You watched him walk away, chuckling. Shady as they might be, the Octavinelle boys made for pretty decent entertainment. Working at the Mostro Lounge might have its positives after all. 

The festivities extended until the late evening hours, but Jade didn’t mind tolerating the Scarabian heat a little bit longer. 

For the rest of the party, the Octavinelle group had successfully mixed with the Prefect’s group without them trying to get away. It was partly thanks to Floyd’s, erm, friendship with the freshman Ace Trappola, whom he shared a club with. The two were quite loud together, and it would have posed a greater annoyance if the Prefect’s company were not a benefit. 

Their group, along with Kalim and Jamil, had moved into a game room in Scarabia. Azul and Jamil, engaged in an intense card game, sat on opposite sides of a round table while the rest pulled up their own chairs to spectate. The plates of snacks only served as clutter on the gaming table as both players were too absorbed in their game to touch them. Ace and Floyd oversaw the match, egging each player on to annihilate the other. 

Jade, meanwhile, had busied himself with working on another cup of Kiss of Life. It was a complex and sensitive recipe that required one’s full concentration, meant to impress from the start. ‘A little progress goes a long way,’ Azul had whispered to him earlier. Since the Prefect had greatly enjoyed something he had created, he must make it again.

Not all spectators paid much attention to the match. Grim, already full, was fast asleep on the Prefect’s lap. Jade had noticed that the Prefect was growing tired as well. Their head was swaying from side to side, movements growing sluggish. Perfect. They would need his Kiss of Life all the more. He had to stop himself from giggling—how cleverly he had named it!

With the finished drink in hand, Jade managed to slip into the space between the Prefect and Ace. The Prefect and Deuce paused their conversation so suddenly. 

(Little did they know that there was no need to pause! Jade had been listening the whole time and now knew the Prefect's favorite spot at the library.)

“Care for another cup, Prefect?” Jade asked with a smile, handing them the newly-concocted drink. 

“Sure,” they said, taking the drink without question.

How easily it was accepted! 

“No, you don’t get it,” said the Prefect, sleepiness apparent in the way their words dragged. “Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli are completely different types of rocks. They might look similar, but the composition is entirely different. You see…”

Jade inserted himself into the conversation. “Oh? Have you two moved on to discussing rocks, Prefect?”

Their special interest in rocks and minerals was something had been noted as important information. In fact, the precious gold-streaked black rock Jade had found in the sands was stored in his pocket, ready to be handed to the Prefect anytime. 

The Prefect turned to him. “Yes. And you would already know, since you've been eavesdroping all this time.”

How observant! Jade laughed. “Ah, you caught me. I must admit that you've roused my interest in rocks since our discussion that one night."

"Right," said the Prefect, turning away to continue their conversation with Deuce. But Jade wouldn't allow it too soon. 

"I recognized those names. It is common to name children after precious rocks in the Coral Sea," Jade said, pulling their attention back to him. 

“No,” they replied. “But that's unsurprising. You're named after one, Jade.”

The Prefect suddenly yawned, not bothering to cover their mouth. “... Sodalite is a strange name choice, though.”

Jade tore his gaze away, suddenly minding the game between Azul and Jamil as his stomach fluttered and his face burned. It was nothing more than an instinctual response. To do that in front of him! He would think them brazen, but he knew better. The Prefect was a land-dweller from another world, and likely knew nothing about Moray mating habits. 

“You’re tired, Prefect,” Deuce said. “Do you want to go back to Ramshackle yet? I’ll walk with you back.” 

“No, no,” the Prefect said, shaking their head and finally taking a sip of the drink. “I’ll stay for as long as you guys want to stay.” 

Setting the drink down, the Prefect stretched their arms, humming in satisfaction before resting their head against Deuce’s shoulder. 

Jade was not pleased. 

He couldn’t help but imagine himself being in that freshman’s place instead. That, at least, was a happier thought. It made him smile. 

How the mighty have fallen. There was no denying these feelings any longer—if only Azul and Floyd would stop tormenting him so! It was, of course, completely normal for a soul to at one point long for romance. Azul and Floyd may tease him now, but soon their time would come. Someday, he too would revel in their suffering. 

Crush. A beautiful feeling—it gave him the pleasant, fluttering sensation that land-dwellers called butterflies, after the beautiful bug. It gave him this exciting quickening of the heartbeat, warming his neck and ears. It gave him this euphoric, exhilarating rush that no hunt had ever yielded before. 

There is only one way to go from here. If he wanted someone to be his romantic companion, then the answer is simple, no?

He must court the Prefect. A grin—almost involuntary—spread across his face. 

You might keep running from me. You might hold hurt and crying boys in your arms. You might be resting on someone else’s shoulder right now. But things will soon change. Soon, you will be mine. 

“Ha!” Jamil exclaimed, smug as he finished another match. “I win again.”

“Unbelievable,” Azul said, tossing away a single card as he tried to mask his frustration. “I knew you had the skills, but this is just…” 

“Amazing!” Kalim filled in, clapping Jamil on the back. “Jamil really is something special!” 

“Six wins in a row…” Ace whistled, nudging Jamil.  “Dude, you should challenge our best player in Heartslabyul.”

Jamil no longer faked humility like he used to. He absorbed all the praise, glowing with pride. 

“Hm. Let this be a reminder that there will be no more holding back for me,” he said. “Not against Kalim, or the rest of you, or anyone.”

“Well, he speaks more freely now.” The Prefect leaned forward in interest. “We should all look forward to this new Jamil—or should I say the real Jamil.”

Jamil glanced at the Prefect’s way with a smile, and of course the ever-observant Jade noticed. An invisible, incomprehensible connecting thread seemed to have formed between the two. How this thread came about, nor why it was there, was beyond his understanding. 

The Prefect should be wary of Jamil Viper, especially after all he had done. But why not? What wasn’t he aware of? 

Azul, meanwhile, was unrelenting in his quest to have Jamil join their fold. 

“We’d make really good use of someone like you in Octavinelle,” he remarked. “You could join forces with me and make a name for yourself.” 

“I think I will be perfectly content being far away from you, Azul,” Jamil deadpanned. 

Some dreams just weren't meant to reach fruition. Jade wondered whether Azul would ever give up on this endeavor. 

“Goodness,” said Jade. “That’s a rather stinging rebuke.”

“Shush, Jade. It doesn't matter,” said Azul, waving a dismissive hand. “My theories about Jamil have been confirmed either way.”

Azul smiled as if unaffected by yet another rejection. If anything, he was probably already planning to persuade Jamil away from his dorm of choice—if there was one. “If not Octavinelle, then where? Have you decided yet?” 

Jamil took time to answer. “...It’s none of your business.”

“Savanaclaw and Ignihyde don't have vice housewardens,” suggested the Prefect. “Though I don't think Leona’s open to having a Vice Housewarden, so there’s Ignihyde for you if you’re looking to fill the same role.”

“I had been interested in Ignihyde,” Jamil replied. “But sands, that gloom and darkness would take some getting used to.”

He says that his dorm of choice is none of Azul’s business, yet seems perfectly open speaking to the Prefect about it. How interesting. 

And how absolutely irritating. 

“I’m guessing Diasomnia is not among the top choices, then,” said the Prefect. “Shame, I could ask my Diasmonia friend all you’ll need to know about the dorm.”

“You have a friend in Diasomnia?!” Deuce asked. The Prefect nodded, and Jade took note. 

Hmm. Even the Prefect’s closest do not seem to know the identity of this friend. I must figure this out…

“Nobody’s explained why you’re transferring dorms, so I’m kinda lost here,” said Ace. “But what about Heartslabyul?”

Jamil appeared to consider it for a while, but then made a face. “No offense, but your rulebook might just drive me mad.”

“That leaves Pomefiore,” said the Prefect. “I heard from a little octopus that you’re hiding some mad potions skills. How about that?”

“Oooh, now that’s interesting!” said Kalim. “Maybe you’ll come out of Pomefiore knowing how to identify poisoned food just by looking at it!”

The Prefect nodded enthusiastically. “He can go from testing for poison to learning how to make it.”

Truthfully, Jade didn’t like how invested the Prefect was in Jamil’s affairs. The conversation must shift somewhat—the viper was already growing too smug for his liking.

He cleared his throat. 

“Our friend has already exhibited a knack for the latter, I would say,” said Jade, glancing at the Prefect’s shoulder. 

Jamil didn’t miss the jibe and turned to Jade. “You give me too much credit. When it comes to clever use of magical plants, I wouldn’t consider myself anywhere near your proficiency, Jade.” 

Jade laughed. “I wasn't aware you knew much about my proficiencies, Jamil.” 

“How could I not?” Jamil smirked. “Drugging the Prefect with magical mushroom essence was incredibly impressive. I would have to take notes.” 

The entire game room went dead silent. For the first time since watching blot venom take effect on the Prefect’s body, Jade felt genuine horror. 

Well. This is not good.

“HAH?” Ace and Deuce’s voices rang out in unison. The loud sound woke Grim, who sprang up from the Prefect’s lap. 

“Wha—what’s going on?” 

The Prefect turned—very slowly—towards Jade, then back at Jamil. “...He did what?”

“Oh, you don’t know?” Jamil asked, feigning surprise. “They didn’t tell you that Jade had drugged you to snap you out of my signature spell?”

The Prefect swallowed, their expression unreadable. “No. They did not.” 

“Is that so?” Jamil said, sighing as if he regretted ever speaking. “With how loud Floyd was being about it, I had assumed it was not meant to be a secret. Very sorry.” 

“He’s right. You guys weren't exactly discreet,” Kalim said with a grimace, eyeing Jade with what seemed like caution. “I thought the Prefect would be aware…”

“SO THAT WAS WHY MY HENCH-HUMAN WAS IN DEEP SLEEP?”

Floyd gave Jade a sheepish smile in apology. Of course—Jamil must have overheard their conversation during that feast before he overblotted, and must have done some investigations. With everything going on, he unfortunately hadn't been careful enough. 

The Prefect put down their half-empty glass of Kiss of Life on the table with a shaky hand, watching it as if it were a bomb about to detonate. "Jade. Is this true?"

"Yes, Prefect," he replied, swallowing. "It had to be done, or you would have followed through with Jamil's commands." 

"You didn't think to inform me after I woke up?" the Prefect asked. "You could have at least let me know, but you didn't."

Jade kept his voice steady, despite the fact that he was suddenly feeling a weight settle onto his chest. "I didn't see the need to."

The Prefect laughed, but there was not a hint of humor in their voice. Even Ace and Deuce wore looks of concern as they looked back and forth between him and the Prefect.

"Oh, I know why. You planned to keep it secret so you can do it again in a future scenario!" They suddenly turned and grabbed him by the collar, forcing him to face them. Gasps resounded from around the table. 

Oh, my. The Prefect is pulling me close! 

His eyes wandered to their mouth, before settling on their eyes, which blazed with an anger he had never quite seen before. 

"If you think I'm going to let myself be your plaything just because I'm a magicless human, then you're wrong!" they said. "I don't know what you're trying to pull with me, Jade Leech, but know this—I'm onto you and I will not be intimidated!" 

My, was the Prefect always this... passionate? 

"Prefect, please calm down and release Jade," said Azul, trying to come to his defense. Little did he know that Jade did not need it. Jade was exactly where he wanted to be.

"Do consider the good intentions behind the actions—"

“Good intentions don't make it any less creepier!” said an enraged Ace, who had already stood up. “Look, drugging is going way too far no matter how you spin it!” 

"Don't tell me to calm down, Azul," said the Prefect, keeping their eyes on Jade. "Your vice housewarden needs to know that I refuse to be toyed with any longer!" 

The Prefect's voice, roughened by anger, is music to the ears. 

He couldn't stop himself. Jade giggled, his face growing warm.

The Prefect froze at the sound. 

"How... dare you laugh in my face?!" they exclaimed. "Do you want to end this once and for all? I'm going to—"

Ace and Deuce finally sprang into action, each one grabbing hold of the Prefect's shoulders.

"Oookay, that's enough," said Ace, pulling them away. "You're digging yourself a deeper grave here."

“Don't waste any more time on him,” Deuce interjected, glaring at Jade. “He's not worth it.”

“Hmph!” Grim said, leaping onto the Prefect's shoulder. “Let’s go, hench-human!” 

The two Heartslabyul freshmen managed to make the Prefect release Jade, which was unfortunate. Together, they ushered Grim and the Prefect out of the game room. Deuce Spade had even turned back around just to give Jade a scathing glare and a two-finger gesture that he had come to know meant “I’m watching you.”

Alas, he was left with nothing to do but touch the collar of his shirt where their hand had once been, and longingly gaze at the spot they vacated.

The Prefect had been so close. So close...

"Oh, Prefect," he sighed wistfully. 

"You're hopeless. Down bad," Floyd said, looking at him with disappointment. "It's disgusting."

Kalim’s laugh was uncomfortable. “Well, this is awkward. I’m guessing that ends game night.”

Azul agreed. “Yes, I think it’s time we all went to bed.” 

Before leaving with Azul and Floyd, Jade caught Jamil’s gaze one last time. The other boy smirked in his direction, raising his eyebrows in challenge. 

Jade was no fool—as it appeared, he was now the target of a vengeful viper. 

Stupid Jade and his stupid mushrooms and his stupid drink. You tossed and turned in bed, still reeling from the night’s events. 

You had just lost your temper and grabbed and threatened Jade Leech.

He had laughed in your face, like you were nothing. A mere shrimp. 

Oh, you were so dead. Maybe you should make a run for it as early as now. Maybe you should beg Crowley to let you enter into some protection program.

Ace and Deuce had escorted you back to Ramshackle from Scarabia. After making sure that you were alright and that Kiss of Life was not harmful in any way, the both of them each picked a couch to sleep on for the night. 

Sleep almost came to you a few hours after midnight—right until you heard a rhythmic tapping against Ramshackle’s front door. The first time, you’d dismissed it as nothing. The second time, you had started thinking that someone from Octavinelle (hopefully not Jade Leech) had wanted to talk, so you chose to ignore it. The third knocking, however, was accompanied by a voice. 

“Anyone there?” it seemed to say. Grim was fast asleep, snoring softly and occasionally sleep-talking about tuna. There were no other sounds of creaking footsteps outside your room, so it was safe to assume that Ace and Deuce were both sleeping soundly as well. 

Looks like you’d have to deal with this by yourself. 

Again, you hoped it wasn't a vengeful Leech twin.

Wrapping yourself in a blanket, you took careful steps to the door so as to not make any unnecessarily loud creaks.

When you reached the door, you took a deep breath to calm yourself. 

You opened it. There was no one. 

Annoyance flared within you. Really? You would've thought the ghosts were past these little pranks. They’ve long since stopped doing this, so why start again now? 

Unless… it wasn't the ghosts you knew making that sound? 

“Boo!”

A dark shadow fell upon you from above, and you opened your mouth to scream. You would’ve woken the entire school if a hand hadn’t clamped over your mouth. 

“Shh! Be calm, child! It's just little old me!” 

Your eyes narrowed, focusing upon the features of the one who had scared you—short black and hot pink hair, pointed ears, crimson eyes, and skin pale as moonlight. 

Diasomnia's vice housewarden, Lilia Vanrouge. Now hanging upside down from your front door. The night sure was dark and full of surprises. 

“It’s a little too late for Halloween tricks, don't you think?” you whispered. These Diasomnia folks sure loved to suddenly pop up at night. Take your Hornton, for example. 

“Khee hee hee. Never, I’d say!” he replied. “With a reaction like that, I could make a habit out of spooking you.” 

With a whimsical grace, Lilia dropped down from above and landed on his feet in a polite curtsy. “I came to deliver a holiday greeting card from a certain somebody.” 

“Oh?” you said. “It has to be—”

You stopped yourself before you could tell Lilia what nickname you called his dormmate. 

Lilia’s eyes seemed to sparkle, making you suspect he knew more than he let on.

“You already know who it is, hm? He’s a bit peeved that nobody invited him to any festivities this year…” he said, handing you the card, which featured an image of a foreboding castle in what you believed was Briar Valley with the text 'Happy Holidays!' written over it in a gothic font. You must confess—it looked quite funny. 

“So, if you happen to hold any parties with your friends, it’d be nice if you extended him an invitation too.”

Oh, Hornton. You must've been so lonely.

You hold the card to your chest. “I'll keep that in mind.” 

Lilia smiled, a hint of a fang peeking out from between his lips. “Great! Anyway, that’s all I came for.” He gave another polite curtsy. “I bid you a pleasant holiday.”

Then, erupting in a shower of sparks, he was gone. 

You smiled down at the greeting card, a warm and fuzzy feeling coming over you.

It was signed M.D. 

So these are Hornton’s initials. Every day, you come a little closer to learning his true name. 

Perhaps you could use your Prefectly duties to find a record of every student currently enrolled in NRC and find Mr. M.D. of Diasomnia that way. Then, the next time Hornton visited, you’d call him by his real name. You pictured the shock on his face when he thinks: “How could this Child of Man have figured me out?” 

Despite everything, the imagined scenario made you smile.