Chapter Text
After his conversation with Minajael, Kalim got to thinking about what the older teen said. On one hand, it didn't seem fair to either of his suitors to go on dates with their rival. On the other, he should have just ended things with Ali the last time he saw him. So why didn't he? That was the question Kalim asked himself as he gazed upon the dozens of flowers sent to him over the past few days.
He was confident in his feelings for Jamil, that was a known fact. However, now that Minajael pointed it out to him there was something off. Looking back to when he was reunited with his love,something felt wrong emotionally and physically. Maybe at the time he was too happy to notice, but now in retrospect a lot of things weren't adding up.
Jamil never actually explained to him why his feelings changed. And whenever he would mention things about their childhood, he seemed to have conveniently forgotten. He usually never really thought too much into this, he wasn't at the forefront of remembering things himself. Thinking on it now though, Jamil remembered everything! Even the most minute details about their interactions the brunette would always remind him of. So why all of the sudden was he so forgetful?
There was also the fact that as of recently Jamil has become super affectionate. And as much as Kalim dreamed of this day, it didn't feel right. When he envisioned their inevitable romantic relationship, nothing much really changed between them. Kalim would be his usual sunny self, and Jamil would be his glimmering moon. All of their more intimate moments would be private, and he would constantly tease Jamil playfully. Then Jamil would blush in the way he always did, and 'reluctantly' comply with whatever Kalim begged him to do within reason. That however was not his reality, the Scarabian felt distant despite years of close proximity. And ever since their date, the Viper has been acting even stranger. In their text, the other kept saying how he wanted to kiss him more and hug him for all to see. It was a nice notion in all honesty, but it still wasn't the Jamil he knew.
The icing on top of the cake though, was when they touch it wasn't as magical as it used to be. Ever since they were little, there was always an almost cosmic connection that happened between them when their hands touched. Jamil always thought it was creepy, but for him it was magical. When they were preparing their practice wedding cake, the times they were close he felt nothing...How could a connection that had been around for years be gone with only three month of separation? Yet, there was one person he felt a similar sensation with. For so long he tried not to think much of it, but now he allows the thought to come forth for the first time.
Ali gave him the same feeling of touching Jamil.
And maybe that was the reason he didn't outright reject the suitor like he should have. Their second meeting was unfavorable, but after reflecting on how the other prince acted around him it confused him more. Ali unconsciously displayed attributes of the old Jamil he knew. He fussed over him doing something he deemed as shameful. He played mancala very well, and cooked just as well. And in a sort of way, he was as protective even when he barely knew him. Plus carpet seemed to like him, even following his commands! Carpet only let people he knew do that. So there had to be something more to Prince Ali, right?
Man this was a lot to think about. And with his birthday drawing in closer he was slowly going to lose the leisure of getting to know both candidates more. Or at the very least, tell Ali that he had already made his decision. Going back and forth between each option, Kalim finally comes to his decision. Jumping off of his bed and over to his desk across the way, he began to write a letter. It was his only form of communication with Ali. Once his intentions are on paper, Kalim rushes out of his room and into the adjacent menagerie. While there he searches for one particular monkey who he knows will sneak his way into the NRC for the love of the game.
"Aziz, I need you! Can you help me? Kalim pleads to one mischievous monkey he's been trying to tame. Hearing his name, the small ape comes swinging on a vine landing on the heir's shoulder happily. "Can you take this to Ali at the NRC? I have something I want to tell him. If you do well, I'll give you something from the treasure room." Kalim bargained with the greedy who responded affirmatively upon gaining permission to leave the Menagerie and the prospect of treasure. Snatching the letter, the eccentric ape makes his great escape out of his home and to his next destination. Waving off his new friend, Kalim watches and hopes that he made the right decision.
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"I think it's time you headed back to school and Scarabia don't you think? I can't keep writing you false doctor's notes you know? Eventually they're going to realize I'm not a trained professional." Azul reminds his companion who had not left Octavinelle since entering it. Rolling his eyes in response, the tired Scarabian housewarden turns back to the countless papers in front of him.
"I know! I'll go back today...I just needed to make sure I had my explanation to the others well thought out. I need to make sure I am prepared for any kind of question they would ask. I can't say something that might turn them all against me. It's already hard enough for me as it is. I also haven't received any messages from Kalim! I checked my phone to see if he tried contacting me at all with his thoughts on everything and nothing! What could that idiot be doing? He used to write so diligently to me, but now I'm getting nothing."
"Well isn't that exciting, you now have things you can learn about him. Which would be nice in a scenario were you to, I don't know, go on a date!"
"I know! I've just got a lot going on."
"Oh ok, perhaps I can just tell Mazin-san that he can go ahead and mate Kalim. It seems you're too absorbed in protecting your false identity at the moment. I'm sure Kalim can survive ancient dark magic." Sarcastically puts the silver haired beta while he adjusted his glasses in that knowing way that Jamil despised. He hated how much that action always pissed him off. Even more so when it came to making a stab at him and his situation. Jamil wasn't dumb! He knew what must be done but forgave him for trying to avoid his death.
"I know I have to schedule a date with him so get off my back! But what do you plan for the guy who has all the money and opportunity to do almost everything? I've written dozens on date proposals, but none of them sound right."
"You do realize this is Kalim-san we're talking about. His love languages are gift giving and quality time. So just spend time with him, it doesn't have to be as grand as you make it out to be."
"Yeah, but he loves grand gestures. His life is everything in excess. You should see the things he tries to wear when he styles himself. I never know where to look."
"My Jamil-san what a pervert~!" Azul teases with a side-eyed smirk aimed towards Jamil's direction.
"W-What!? Who are you calling a pervert!? I am not a pervert."
"You literally just admitted to checking out Kalim-san"
"Not like that! I was his retainer; I needed to always make sure his appearance was impeccable. If I was a pervert, I would have entered his room after my first rut."
"And yet at a single whiff of his scent after so long your fangs started to peak out, and you had to cover your mouth."
"That was all instinctual! It has nothing to do with romantic interest at all!"
"You know Jamil-san, I'm hearing a lot of excuses but not enough truth. That's very interesting."
"I could strangle you right now."
"And harm your benefactor, my how your decorum has plummeted."
"Will you shut up already!? If you're not going to say anything useful or important, just leave."
"Calm down for a-," The beta pauses and creates an ire silence between the two. Looking upon his conversation partner in confusion. Taking a moment to try and identify what could have caused Azul to stop being a nuisance. His eyes went from corner to corner of the room they were in. To the best of his human abilities, he could not hear or sense any changes around them. In fact, everything seemed to be exactly the same as when they got here. But Jamil knew that mers had better environmental processing than he did. The beta probably sensed something wrong in the underwater currents of the sea cave.
Whatever the case, he could only eye the still frame of the octomer in front of him awaiting any kind of explanation.
"What could that be?" Finally, Azul speaks. Rolling his eyes at his words, Jamil was about to get up and return to Scarabia when a loud bang occurred. Stunned for a quick moment but locking in a second later as adrenaline pumped through his veins the Burnette armed himself with his pen. Aiming the crown of his magical tool towards the source of the loud sound, he found a small monkey with a hat and a vest on at the center. It looked harmless upon first glance, but Jamil knew better than to let that weaken his guard.
The innocent creature looks between him and his fellow housewarden as if trying to figure out something in its small head. In fidgeting sequences, the ape tilts his head in tiny increments. His ears following this patter as well. In its hands were a myraid of things. But two things stuck out to the wardens: a letter and a potion bottle.
"My potion bottle! You little thief!"
"A letter?"
The two students yelled with one charging at the monkey to regain his stolen item, while the other paused at the mention of the word thief. As the monkey and octomer fell into a comical dance, the small ape seeming to enjoy the distress from Azul the letter falls down from its grasp in the process. Recalling that Kalim did mention once he was trying to tame a mischievous thief of a monkey before Jamil knew immediately upon realization who the letter must be from. But how did he know where to send the letter to?
Ignoring the battle that was happening next to him, Jamil takes his time opening the carefully written letter inside the envelope. His eyes skim across the penned lines, absorbing the information on the paper's surface. A small smile morphs onto his face.
Dear Ali,
I had a lot of fun the other night! I was doing some thinking, and I thought it was really unfair to you that I spent all my time with Mazin. You seem like a really nice alpha, and I want to hang out with you more. Meet me in the veranda in the menagerie after class. I'm kind of land locked to my school until next Monday. Aziz will lead you there. You have to give him something though, he's a greedy little guy. Sorry if he took anything on his way to deliver the letter. Still working on that.
Your friend,
Kalim Al-Asim
"Ha! I knew he was warming up to Ali. See Azul, I didn't even have to do much.I knew he would fall for me again easily!" Boast the Viper who turns back to his partner in crime who was losing his battle. Taking a moment to observe the scene in front of him, Jamil laughs at the tug-o-war happening between an ape and an octopus.
"I'm glad you find my pain amusing Jamil-san. But perhaps given the circumstances you would help me with this dog instead of laughing at me! I need this potion so I don't sprout tentacles! This is supposed to last before the next shipment I get. " Azul's cool persona falters while giving another determined tug at the potion bottle. The monkey screeches in disapproval refusing to loosen his hold.
"First of all, that's a monkey not a dog. Secondly ,you really want him to stop?"
"No I want him to continue, of course I want him to stop! HELP ME GET HIS GRIMEY HANDS OFF OF MY PROPERTY!"
"Fine, serves you right for assuming I had a thing for Kalim. Aziz do you want something even better than that stupid potion? Maybe something shiny to take home? If you deliever my response to Kalim and let got of the slimey man''s bottle gently, then you can take your pick from the treasurey Kalim donated to Scarabia." The prospect of treasure entices the small monkey enough to stop and look towards Jamil. Large Boba eyes stared with hope while his head frantically nodded up and down. Letting go of the potion, Azul goes flying to the floor saving the bottle rather than his glasses or himself. The thud from the resulting action sounded throughout the room. Scrambling to get back up and regain his composure, the beta raised an accusatory finger to both Jamil and Aziz.
"YOU KNOW THIS MONKEY?"
"Not really, Kalim mentioned him once on our last date. He came to deliver a letter to me. I'm honestly surprised he knew where to find me. In this letter he wrote, he says the monkey's name is Aziz." The disguised alpha pointed towards the paper in his hand. Meanwhile, Azul situated his clothes fixing his formerly disheveled look.
"I think it's best you head back to Scarabia now. And take that thing with you. You can inform me on the contents of your letter at a later time." Tiredly regards the deal making student making sure to keep his eyes trained on his new foe.
"Come on Aziz, follow me. I just have to write my response and then you can come back and show me the way after you deliver the letter. I can't go to Dunasmina without formally agreeing to the date. I hope you understood that...I" Jamil gathered his papers and began his trek back to his home dorm. It was time to face reality again and show Mazin that he didn't scare him.
With Aziz filing behind him a good distance away, Jamil greets and bids farewell to the students greeting him. He then finally exits Octavinelle and lands in the hall of mirrors. The Maroon and gold aura of Scarabia beacons him to enter. Pausing, Jamil looks to Aziz who had decided to perch on his shoulder. The fury looks at him curiously as if asking why he wasn't going forward. If Jamil was completely honest, he did have some fear of what Mazin was capable of. If what Rook told him was correct, that man was in a league of his own. He would have to be careful around him, and hopefully once he learns that Jamil was rescued he wouldn't dare try again. If he did, then he would be the number one suspect for those who knew of his earlier predicament.
With one final deep breath of courage, the Viper walks into his dorm with the blazing heat and sun greeting him first. It was almost too much for him after being in the cold dark depths of the pseudo sea that was Octavinelle. Yet, the change in temperature was not unwanted. The warmth felt like home, and the further he walked in the more he got used to the sensation. Walking into the common area, many students began to greet and ask him about his health. Apparently the rumor that Azul started was that he was hospitalized due to an alchemy class accident. Reassuring his dorm mates, he scans the room for one particular figure. His eye landed on the pale prince who was trying his best not to glare in front of their dorm. It was time to face his would-be assassin. The faux alpha, forced a smile onto his lips dismissing his original conversation with a fellow Scarabia student. With open arms, he walks over to greet him.
"Housewarden Ali, I am elated that you have returned to us healthy and in one piece!" The oddly joyful tone Mazin takes unsettles Jamil, but he plays along with the facade. The students didn't need to know more about their rivalry and bad relationship.
"Mazin, I trust that the duties I left you with weren't too much. I'm sorry for my unexpected leave. But I am back, and ready to resume my duties."
"Yes, perhaps we should venture elsewhere so I can give you a rundown on what you missed when you left."
"I would like that, let us meet in the west wing treasure room. I promised this one a prize for a delivery he has made for me."
"I see, well let's depart, there is much to catch up on. It's been almost a week after all." With that, Jamil dismisses himself from the group who had greeted him and readied for the conversation he would have. Following behind Mazin, he takes note of the fact the accursed glove is still worn on his hand. He never gave it much thought since many at this school wear gloves. But now knowing what he knows now, he was watching it like a sword in battle. If he so much as moved to aim at him he would be ready.
Approaching the tall doors of the treasure room, Jamil allows Mazin's entrance before his own. Turning your back to the enemy was the last thing he wanted to do. Noting that the monkey was still perched on his shoulder also gave him a bit of security. If Mazin tried anything and hurt Aziz, it wouldn't fare well with Kalim.
"I thought I left you for dead! Usually I don't bat an eye at a corpse, but you I have issues with. You even brought vermin with you." Mazin begins sneering at Azizs who hisses back. Petting him to calm him down, Jamil points to the treasures allowing the monkey to channel his energy elsewhere.
"I told you people would look for me. You were too stupid to believe me, and now that they know you can't pull anything like that again."
"They?"
"Exactly multiple people, so I suggest not to try anything like that again. After All, you wouldn't want Kalim finding out now would you? I don't think he'd like a suitor who tried to kill someone."
"You'd be surprised, maybe he would."
"Goes to show how much you actually know him."
"I could say the same."
"I've known him most of my life, I doubt someone who has known him for 3 months would know more. Anyways, I don't have time to talk to the likes of you; I have a date."
"What!? Impossible, even if you just got back Kalim doesn't even like you!"
"That's what you think, but he invited me personally to a date. And that monkey you saw delivered the request to me. You can see for yourself; read it and weep." Jamil presents his evidence watching with glee as the black haired male's face morphs into panic and betrayal.
"W-What!?How could he!? I mean, this makes no sense at all. He loves me!"
"In your dreams. I told you I wouldn't let you have Kalim. You were just a momentary obsession. Kalim is the one in love with me."
"No no no! I won't take this!"
"Well you're gonna have to. Aziz, let's go!" Jamil called out to the ape who was nowhere insight. Making a 360 he calls for him again and still gets no reply or sound of little hands and feet approaching him. Shrugging, he takes it as the monkey still looking for his reward. He'll look for him later if he doesn't find him later.
Taking his leave, Jamil made sure to look slightly behind his back as he did so. The trembling seething form of Mazin stays in its place before going around and kicking the treasures from all around. His words of frustration and anger echoes as he leaves. He didn't pay any mind to what the other was saying. He could get the gist of it. Seeing the other man crash out was something that brought great pleasure to him.
By the time he returned to his room, he looked at the clock. There was still a bit of time before his first class started: thank goodness. He then went over to his desk to write down his reply, and plan on what else he could do to make Kalim like Ali more. His recent efforts have been a success! So perhaps he should keep up the princely persona.
Ten minutes passed when he finally finished his letter. Sealing the envelope, once more thinks back to where the capuchin had gone. Pondering on how he could call for him without knowing animal talking magic, he was pleasantly surprised when the ape came barreling in through the glassless windows. In his hand was a velvet satchel no doubt probably filled with jewels and coins.
"I see you got your treasure. I have the letter for you, I know you can't understand me much but here you go." Presenting his reply, the monkey excitedly snatched it out of his hand and took off out the window.
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It had been some time since Kalim had sent his message with Aziz. Although the monkey wasn't super reliable, it was the only mode of communication he had to get to Ali. It would be hard to summon Iman, plus he was given to Ali so it would be wrong to use him without Ali's permission. So the somewhat impatient heir awaits his mischievous friend. The distance between the two schools was a lot for a tiny monkey of Aziz's size. So he knew it would take awhile, but he hoped the capuchin wasn't getting into any trouble. By the time lunch came, he was happy to feel the small tackle of his new animal friends on his arm.
"Oh Aziz, you're back! I was getting worried for a second." Kalim commented as he took the envelope from the monkey's hand. He then noticed the satchel in his other hand and frowned a bit. "You didn't steal that from someone did you?" He asked as he pointed his wand to his neck so he could properly communicate with the small theif.
"No I didn't, Prince Ali said I could have anything in the treasure room." Aziz replied.
"Oh, okay then. Can I see what you got? I'm curious."
"Nuh uh, I got this for Prince Minajael!"
"For Mina-nii?"
"Yup! I wanted to thank him for the bananas the other day! But it's a surprise, and you're no good at secrets!"
"What no way!?I am not! Rielle, Neige, am I bad at secrets?" Kalim requested the aid of his friends across from him on the table. The beret wearing omega who gave an awkward closed eye smile. His scent changed from a red apple to a granny smith. This only happens when he feels awkward or slightly scared.
"Well, you did mention how Jamil would cover your mouth whenever you said things you weren't supposed to. And there was that time we tried to surprise Rielle with his first bonfire day..." Neige remembered while picking at his food a bit.
"Oh or that time where you were trying to find a gift for Minajael-senpai! You told him what you got him before he even opened it!" Rielle innocently recalls causing Kalim shoulders sag in defeat.
"Aww man, I really do suck...I hope Mina-nii shows me it later."
"Maybe, it's wearable so you'll see it! I'm going to give it to him now! I'll also show Ali the way here later." Aziz informs right before taking off to find the housewarden in question.
"That monkey really is something. Are you sure that's not a dog? He fetches things like the ones I've read in books." Rielle reasons while trying to find the best way to use his fork for pasta instead of as a hair brush.
"Very sure, fetching things is no different than a fish doing it under the sea." Neige answered the confused merman while making a move to help teach him how to use his fork visually.
"Ha ha, you'll get the hang of it Rielle. Maybe you can come to Dunasmina again and look at the menagerie. There are a lot of animals there, you could totally come by often to get familiar. I know Mina-nii would let you."
"Of really! I love going to your dorm! The giant lion fish is so cool!"
"Do you mean Rashid? He's a tiger actually, but you were super close."
"Tiger, right!"
"Anyways Neige, have you heard anything regarding the cooking crucible? I've been super busy and almost forgot that it was happening in like 2 weeks! I need your cooking knowledge to judge fairly! I would probably give tens to everyone if I could!" Kalim changes the topic, alerting the fellow omega.
"Oh right. I'm sorry I haven't given much of an update regarding it. So far all we know is that it will be held in the cafeteria of the NRC. All ingredients will be screened beforehand by professionals to ensure there is no poison. It's something I requested for the both of us. Before the main event, we aren't allowed near any of the contestants. So I'm afraid you won't be seeing Mazin or Ali that day."
"What!?No way! How am I supposed to wish them luck!? I have to cheer for them because they're also from Scarabia!!"
"Kalim, you have to be unbiased. If you openly cheer for them, it'll look like it's rigged."
"Eeeh!? But it's not, I won't let them win because they're my suitors. Hmmm, maybe I can cheer them on not as a judge but as a former NRC student! Yeah that's gotta work right?"
"I-I'm afraid it doesn't. Our school is also participating. It'll cause more inter school drama I fear."
"Oh man, then I'll cheer in my head for them! No one can read my mind! It's usually hard to know what I'm thinking about anyways. That way I can still support them!"
"That'll do just fine. What a pleasant idea."
"Man, I wish I could have been a. Judge with you guys!! I want to try all the land food too!" Complained the beta mer with his signature puffy checked pout.
"Aww Rielle, we wish too. But unfortunately there can only be 2 judges from the same school. We can prepare the goods during club time so you don't miss out." Offers Neige with a gentle smile.
"Yay!! That sounds like loads of fun! I'm in! Oh I also wanna cheer people on. Hmm I don't know anybody competing so I'll cheer for you guys!"
"Aww, you're so sweet! Thanks Rielle, because of you I'm sure me and Niege will be able to do our best judging! And our make-up cooking will be so yummy!!"
"It will!! I'm just so filled with excitement just thinking about it! Plus, I can finally meet this new guy you're kind of head over fin for."
"Oh right, now that you mention it. It's been sometime since you've given us an update. How is the courting going? I know you keep saying Mazin is the one, but after seeing Prince Ali's performance I am more interested in how it's going with him."
"Whoa Mina-nii low key said something similar."
"Oh did he?"
"Well I mean not exactly but he does prefer Ali from what I can tell. I don't know why he doesn't like Mazin. But I really value his opinion so I'm giving Ali more of a chance. Like how you said it was unfair of me to only root for them, Mina-nii said the same about favoring Mazin."
"I see, that's very insightful advice. I'd expect nothing less from Minajael-senpai."
"He's so adult! I really wanna just be with Mazin. But after he pointed something's out to me , I decided to give Ali more chances. Though I doubt it'll change my mind. Mazin is the end game for me,."
"Then why go on more dates and lead Ali on? That doesn't sound very nice."
"I...I'm not sure myself either. I do feel something for Ali, and it just feels like I'm drawn to him. He also acts similar to my favorite person. I can't not want him around.Also whenever our hands touch, it's almost like-...."
"Almost like what?"
"L-like someone I miss a lot. Ever since we were little when we touched it was electric. It never happened with anyone else until now."
"Hmmm, I've never really heard of that happening to anyone before. Does it hurt?"
"Oh no! It's exciting! It feels like a surge of excitement-no pain."
"I see, well that is something to note. I don't envy your situation, but I am a bit confused on where you stand now."
"Yeah me too. In all honesty, I think I'm taking this date as more of a hang out with Ali. Then at the end of it I'll decide whether I want to be friends or not. It'll also make it seem like I thought long and hard about it to Baba so he doesn't think I'm just picking just anyone. I honestly feel so selfish about the whole situation."
"To be fair, it wasn't something you wanted. Part of these old time mating competitions is the fact you have to actively date. And unless you mate or say you're exclusive you're not being selfish. And it's not considered cheating by any means."
"R-Really it's not!?"
"Of course, mating is permanent, you know. So feeling out your options is being mindful."
"Like the Sorcerer of the Sands!?"
"Ha ha yes, not exactly but yes."
"Don't worry Kalim, father also wanted me to start looking for mates too. It's part of the reason I ran for the chance to go to land school. But I mostly came to see the world!" Rielle pops in.
"Oh yeah! I forget you're the youngest prince! I hope you never have to go through this. Mina-nii and I are not enjoying it at all! You know before I came here, I didn't have to worry about arranged matings and stuff. But Baba got protective and now I'm here. But don't get me wrong I love you guys! You guys are like my closest friends here!!"
"Aww, I'm touched." Neige comments with his hand over his heart.
"You're one of my favorite land friends too! I'm glad you came here!" Rielle assures while messily eating his pasta the way Niege taught him.
"Aww you guys!! You're the best!!"
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It was finally time to see Ali again, and Kalim was nervous. He looked over his outfit and makeup multiple times to make sure it was decent. Why was he so nervous all of the sudden? This was just a simple outing with a potential good friend. Deciding to stay in his dorm uniform, he stopped looking at the mirror and just tried to calm himself down.Maybe it was the pressure of having to initiate this meeting, but Kalim was having second thoughts. Even more so when he looked down to the messages Jamil had sent him.
Mazin:
You're going on a date with that show off? I thought you loved me!?How could you? I'm the one you love, not him! When can I see you again? I need to see you now! Where are you two going?
The message had caught him off guard, and if he was being honest scared him a little bit. Jamil had never spoken to him like this before. And it kinda sounded super out of character for him. In the past Jamil did show some possessive traits, but why did this feel like it came out of nowhere? He tried to assure Jamil that this was only a formality, but the only response he ever gave was: don't go on that date. Thus leading him to feel even more conflicted. And as a somewhat people pleaser himself, he was so close to caving in. He was already hesitant about his decision to initiate the date, but now with Jamil's pressure it felt like cheating. Even though Neige assured him he in no way was actually cheating, he still felt bad. And looking at Jamil's desperate messages wasn't helping at all.
Looking at the time on his phone, Kalim decided he needed to stop thinking about everything and go to the menagerie. Maybe the presence of animals will help ground him. Pocketing his cell phone, the heir sighs and makes his way to the meeting spot. The closer he got, the more it felt like his feet were made out of bricks. It was too late to cancel, and he wasn't one to do no shows when he made promises. So he does what he does best: think on the brightside.
This date will give him clarity, and reassure his feelings for Jamil. Any hesitance to not choose Jamil was purely the influence of everyone else. At the end of the day it was his decision and his heart and mind already chose his champion. And at the end of this date he would have a nice new friend! Ali would be understanding of Kalim's choice, and everyone would be happy!
Yes, that is exactly what's going to happen! Kalim had nothing to worry about. All he needed to do right now was enjoy the animals and the constantly beautiful weather of Dunasmina.
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Was what he was wearing ok? Jamil thought as he was looking at himself in the mirror as he fixed his turban one more time. He didn't know what Kalim had in mind. And maybe that's the reason why he was so worried about what he wore. Aziz had come an hour ago with another letter for him. This time it told him to go to the front of the school. Carpet would meet him there and fly him to Dunasmina. With the confirmation of his mode of transportation, Jamil made sure to prepare a gift for the omega.
It was now spring, which meant his inevitable heat would happen soon. And if history repeats itself, like it so often did, Kalim would have completely forgotten about it. The fact always stressed Jamil out. Before his heat, he would get terribly anxious and always want him by his side. It was a little annoying in his opinion, but it was comforting to know no one would try anything with him around. Although he couldn't outright say that he knew the omega was going into heat within the season, he could offer him nesting tools with the facade of a courting gift.
On his bed he had prepared some blankets from the Scalding Sands which were made to have a cooling effect. He also added a snake plush that he could hold with the notes of his own scent. Since he wouldn't be able to provide any scented items, he thought this might suffice. Hopefully Kalim would like them, and not just toss it with the lot of items he already owned.
A screech from Aziz takes him back to the present. It was obvious the monkey was growing impatient at him for taking so long. Rolling his eyes, Jamil decided to move forward in his process of getting ready. Going over to his new jewelry box, he rummages through the container to reach for more golden bangles to place on his wrist. While feeling the cold metal on his skin, he accidentally drops one of them causing the entire box to fall. Groaning at the inconvenience, he squats down to clean up the mess he made. In the process a shining pendant caught his attention. He didn't recall owning that.
Curiously, he shifted to grab the item and brought it closer to his face. Immediately, he recognizes where this pendant was from and how he got it. This was the one that Kalim had gifted him all those months ago. The day he was exciled. He stays still for a moment, observing the trinket closely now that he isn't in a dark jail cell anymore. As he thumbed the surface, he recalled how he thought of it as a nice sensible gift in the moment. For a moment he wondered why he ever tossed this fine jewelry into the depth of his jewelry box. But then the memory hit him.
The kiss.
The sensation of the shy and inexperienced peck from the lips he maintained came surging back to him. His last conversation with Kalim as Jamil Viper haunted his thoughts now. The memory unwanted in a way. He had kept this momento thinking he was going to throw it out or sell it. So why didn't he? That was the question on his mind now, and allows because he rediscovered this little thing.
He hadn't gotten the chance to wear it since he took up the persona of Ali. But now as he prepares for his date he contemplates if he should for a second.
"No I shouldn't, he can't know who I really am." He says to himself with Aziz looking at him curiously. Throwing the accessory back into his box, he retrieves the bangle that evaded him and grabs his present. Turning to his guide, he gave a nod of confirmation before the capuchin took off leading him to the front gates.
Within 20 minutes he was able to reach the school's gates. There the excited enchanted fabric waves its tassels at him. Waving back with his free hand, he gave a small smile to the magical item. In response, it charges towards him and circles quickly before wrapping around him in its version of a hug.
"So you do recognize me. I guess you can't fool a magical sentient object. You have to keep my secret though." He warns the carpet who released its hold and moves its tassels up and down in acknowledgment. It then proceeds to lay flat on the ground ready for Jamil to mount it. Taking the cue, the faux prince placed his items on its surface before stepping onto it and getting comfortable. Aziz clutched onto his back thus concluding their boarding process. Grabbing onto the front rim of the carpet, the alpha whistles for it to know to begin flight.
Soaring through the sky, it took them over Foothill town and straight to the front of the RSA. Thinking they would take the front gates, he pushes down on the carpet to direct him that way. However, the fabric had other plans. Ignoring his commands, it circles around the school to what looked like a stone maze of sorts. Twisting and turning through the structure, the carpet looked like it was about to go into a wall. Pulling it to try and stop the inevitable collision, he was unsuccessful in his attempts.
With closed eyes, the passenger was held hostage and braced for impact. When he opened his eyes a few seconds later, he was greeted with the majesty of Dunasmina. The princess inspired dorm was flooded with sunshine and riches, a sight Jamil never go the time to appreciate the few times he was here. The scent of Jasmines polluted the area, reminding him of the person he was to meet. Below him the students all pointed at him calling his name in remembrance of the performance he had done not too long ago. Their gaudy teal and semi sheer dorm uniforms making Jamil sick. How could they think that was fashionable? He wouldn't be caught dead kn the uniform. Awkwardly he waves to the inhabitants, not really wanting to pay them any mind. But since he was Ali and not Jamil he greets them nonetheless and focuses his attention forward.
Arriving at the menagerie he took note of how open it looked. Usually places like these were known to look like underfunded zoos. But this one was quite the opposite. There were animals roaming everywhere from tigers to peacocks. The two animals seemed to live in harmony despite their predator prey natures. This must be due to the students feeding the predator animals adequately enough that they don't hunger he concluded.Besides the animals, another more notable thing about the area was a large fountain. It design was a giant lotus flower surrounded by water with the princess the dorm revered so much at its center. He never liked the princess, he always thought she was a spoiled brat. The only thing he could agree on though was that she shouldn't have been made to marry the sorcerer. The age difference was criminal. Looking away from the princess statue, Jamil noticed that carpet begin to decline in altitude slowly. Thus meaning he was getting closer to the intended meetup location.
Feeling the weight on his back lighten up, he sees Aziz plummet willingly to the ground and run to others of his kind. The mischievous being gave him a thumbs up before making his own presence scarce. How people could keep monkeys as pets was beyond him.Landing right beside the large fountain that animals were drinking from, he takes a small step off of the carpet and picks up his gifts. Searching right and left, the suitor looks for his date. Since he was unfamiliar with the area he dared not to move away from the drop off spot. Carpet who had not left his side, noticed his predicament and starts nudging him into one direction. Taking the hint, the alpha slowly follows the object's instructions.
As he walked around the fountain, he began to hear the murmurs of a human voice paried with the caws of a peacock past the trickling of water.
"Oh you know I can't give you anymore crackers. Mina-nii says I'm making you fat." The omega's voice became clearer with each step he took. His back turned to Jamil as his attention remained on the brid who kept cawing at him while ruffling its train to its full glory.
"Wow I didn't know you invited another man on our date." He teases finally making it right behind the omega. Kalim's body stiffened for a second before lifting up his arms and gripping his shoulders. Confused, Jamil does nothing, and waits for his explanation. Unfortunately for him, Kalim decided to judo flip him knocking the wind out of his lungs and having him see stars.
"Oh my sevens Ali! I'm so sorry!! If I knew it was, it wouldn't have done that. Oh man, are you ok? I just started taking judo lessons, so I shouldn't be that good. But then again, I took someone taller than me down. Maybe I am pretty good." Laughs off Kalim as he held his hand out to Jamil who was still trying to see more than his hand.
With a groan Jamil allowed Kalim to help him up. Completely forgetting that they had something happen everytime they touched, he felt the familiar urge run through his body. The sensation causing the omega to gasp and unfortunately let go of him as he was half way up. Groaning once more at connecting with the floor, Jamil curses that he ever trusted Kalim to properly hold him up. But in all honesty, the heir probably cpuld have successfully excuted the notion if it wasn't for that stupid hand thing.
"OH MY SEVENS! I DIDN'T MEAN TO LET GO!"
"It's fine, I shouldn't have snuck up behind you. When did you learn how to do that anyways? You need to be more careful." Nags Jamil, dusting off himself once he was finally up and searching for his wrapped gifts on the floor.
"Oh, I finally got permission form my mother to practice martial arts! Ever since last December, she finally let up on not letting me know how to defend myself properly. It's super fun! Im picking it up pretty well. Ha haha!"
"I-I see, I didn't know that." Jamil pretends not to know, but was secretly surprised the madam allowed her precious omega first born to enroll in the activity. For so long she insisted it was too dangerous for him. But now after his overblot, she probably thought differently. On the other hand Jamil didn't know Kalim wanted to learn any kind of martial arts. He never made it evident to him in any way. He just always stated how cool it was that Jamil knew.
"Oh is that for me?" Kalim asks as he pointed to the packaging in his hands. Remembering he had found the gift he brought the faux prince finally faces looks at Kalim attemptingto speak, but nothign came out. The white haired male was wearing the Dunasmina dorm uniforms. And although he thought it was ugly on the other's, looking at it again it suited Kalim more than his Scarabia uniform.
Just like all dorm uniforms it was a much simpler design compared to the housewarden's. While Minajael had layers upon layers of golden necklaces, the only thing Kalim wore was his golden collar.On top of his head was a headband with a single blue gem in the middle.Where his signature snake earrings used to hang were small golden oval earrings. The jacket the omega wore was the only thing directly similar to Minajaels, but instead of golden tiger accents it was small embroidered Jasmines with white cropped shirt to complete the upper half of his body. Continuing down, Jamil takes notice of the lack of baggy pants and instead sees plainly Harem pants with the only decoration being golden embroidery at the middle. Completing the looks was golden curved toed slippers. Lighter colors were definitely the best to compliment Kalim indeed.
"Uh, Ali? Do I have something on my face? Man, I must have really messed up my make up if you won't stop looking huh?" Kalim's words cause Jamil to look at him with a look that indicated he couldn't believe what ge just heard. Of all things, that's the conclusion he came to? Not that, maybe a suitor was admiring his outfit.
"What no! Your makeup is fine, I just haven't seen you in your dorm uniform yet. It looks really nice on you."
"Oh whoa! Thanks, I appreciate it! Sorry if couldn't get into anything better. I just kinda lost track of time. Oh yeah, thanks for agreeing to come over. I know it sucks that we have to have our date here. Kinda grounded so I'm stuck here."
"Sorry about that."
"Don't be! It was also my fault too. It could be a lot worse! But we still have today, so let's have fun!"
"Oh right, before that, here I brought you some gifts. I blanked for a second when you asked earlier, but yes this is for you." Handing over the parcel, he watched as Kalim graciously takes the present and messily opens the packaging. Watching those garnet eyes widened in excitement, Jamil smirks knowingly he did well.
"Whoa! Cooling blankets from the Scalding sands!? And a snake plushie!! These are amazing! I love them! Oh I can't wait to put them in my nest!" Kalim interjects as he rubbed the fabric into his cheek and squeezed the life out of the snake plush. His scent turning sweeter with glee by the second.
"You should try smelling the snake." Jamil suggested to the omega who looks at him curiously, but does as he's told. If he thought Kalim's happy scent was strong before, now it was pouring out of him. But this time it was paired with the sound of loud purring. Watching at the omega nuzzles his face into the faux scented snake, he could feel his glands start to defy him once more. Holding his breath, Jamil subtly takes a few steps away from Kalim and looks at himself in the water's reflection. When the omega wasn't looking, he opened bis mouth towards his reflection to see how bad it was getting. Seeing that they almost completely erupted curses and sticks holding his breath for intervals at a time. He honestly should have thought this more through.
"I LOVE IT SO MUCH! LIKE YOU DON'T EVEN KNOW! YOU REMEBERED MY FAVORITE SCENT! THIS IS THE BEST GIFT I'VE EVER RECIEVED! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!" The elated omega surges forward rubbing his face into hus chest dooming Jamil even more. If this continued on, he just knew he didn't want to know what would happen based off instincts alone.
"W-why don't you put those in your room so you don't lose it. I can wait here for you." The struggling alpha suggested successfully getting Kalim off of him.
"Good idea! I'll be right back! Don't move!" Kalim tells as he was half running and half looking back at him. Whistling for the carpet, he skillfully gets onto it allowing the alpha to finally breathe.
"Ugh, I hate being an alpha sometimes! I need to control myself." Turning back towards his reflection in the water, he glares at the man looking back at him. His fangs seemed to refuse to return, probably. This only proved his initial thoughts of the omega going into heat soon. He only ever got like this if there was a shift in Kalim's hormones. And although his body was instinctually reaction to the satisfaction of a satisfied omega, the prolonged fangs presentation was a special case. There was only two reasons for this kind of thing to happen. One he was not as resistant to Kalim's pheromones as he used to be ( the more likely option). Or two, he viewed him as a potential mate and his body was acting accordingly. He was just so lucky he didn't have a scent right now. If he did, he's sure it would alert the omega this issue.
Using this time away from the omega, he tried different things to get his pesky teeth back in. First, he splashed bis face with water. Then he tried smelling the flowers that surrounded them. This was probably a bad option considering among the flowers around jasmines were one of them. Gosh, he hated tbis dorms obsession with the flower! Looking around for another solution, his eyes landed on a tiger who had been staring at him since the omega left.
Desperate to get rid of this scent, he quietly approaches the tiger seeing if it will let him get close. With slow and steady steps, the Viper male closed the difference between himself and the big cats. The tiger in question just eyes him but showed no signs of hostility. It simply yawned and looked away. Taking this as permission, the faux prince, kneels down next to the lying tiger and slowly places his hands on it.
While he waited for any signs of warning, he admires how soft the pelt of the animal was. This was his first time petting a tiger. As a servant he never had the luxury of petting an exotic animal. They were reserved for nobles, the rich, and the royal family. So as he ran his fingers through the stripped orange fur, he commits this moment to memory.
By the time he wagered the tiger would allow him to do more, he sees Kalim coming from above. Swiping his tongue over his fangs, he felt the sharp prick of the marking teeth. Damn, they were still there. With time running out, and his fangs showing no sign of disappearing he makes quick on hs original plan. Hopefully it worked! It needed to work!
Allowing his nose to be buried into the pelt of the tiger, Jamil inhales strongly hoping to cause himself to sneeze. For a second there was nothing, the cat's fur smelled of shampoo which was not typical for an animal living in this part of the dorm. Inhaling once more, he noticed the smell of something else. Of course it was Jasmines, but this time it was a more familial scent. And under that was the musk of an alpha human: yuck!
"Oh Rashid must really like you Ali! He wouldn't even let Mazin near him. Kalim's voice informs him causing him to scatter backward and look at the nonchalant tiger. That was the royal tiger that belonged to the prince of the Scalding Sands! So that meant the scent he was smelling was Minajael! Double yuck! Watching the large cat purr as Kalim greets it, he brought his hands to his mouth to make sure his fangs were gone. When he felt the smooth surface of his canines he breathed a sigh of relief. Who knew smelling Kalim's cousin's scent would make them go back? Maybe in the future if he was in need of calming down, he could think of the prince and return back to a normal state.
"Thanks for waiting, I made sure to place the things in my favorite part of my nest." Kalim gave his signature hundred watt smile seeing nothign wrong with his statement. But for a courting alpha that sounded suggestive. Feeling his face grow hotter, Jamil did the only thing he ever did in embarrassing situations with Kalim, yell at him.
"HOW COULD YOU SAY THAT WITH SUCH A STRAIGHT FACE!?"
"But it's true though..."
"Yeah, but you didn't have to say it was in your nest! Especially to the alpha whose courting you!"
"Why I really liked them though?"
"It sounds suggeative!"
"Oh right huh, ahhaa maybe it did! Oops my bad! I'll try to think of that next time."
"Oh my Sevens...."
"Anyways where are we going?"
"What do you mean?"
"On our date of course."
"You said you were grounded and asked me. How would it know?"
"Oh yeah, you're right. Man today isn't my day. Originally I planned for us to vo to a festival in the Sunset Savannah, but I guess since I'm grounded I can't go." Kalim brought up, shocking Jamil. Usually Jamil was never impulsive or dallied in many risky behaviors. Hearing that Kalim was going to take him outside of Sage Island, got him excited for the first time in a long time.He had always wanted to travel the world. And he would be damned if he let this opportunity slide. When all of this eventually ends, he probably would never get an opportunity to travel.Kareem had probably black listed him for any high paying job.
"I wouldn't mind going to the festival." The golden eyed male let's his partner know.
"But we can't what about my punishment. I'll get in trouble."
"It's only trouble if you get caught."
"I don't know...Jamil always used to say I needed to follow the rules more." Oh crap he did say that. Damn himself for giving sound advice that the shorter male only now listens to.
"Ok, but hear me out. What is the nature of your dorm?"
"Freedom, intelligence and defiance of rigid traditions."
"So you going to the festival would fit right in with that don't you think?"
"Wait you're right! I'm sure Mina-nii will understand. I'll keep my phone on me though! Carpet let's go!" Kalim tells his carpet who was more than eager to take them where they needed to go. Making the risky decision to let Kalim drive, Jamil hopes behind the omega and prepares to see the world.
---------------------------------------
"So they went off somewhere else anyways. That's my cousin for you. I guess I'm going to have to cover for him this time. At least he took his phone and isn't with that other alpha." Minajael says to no one in particular watching the two lovers take off into the sky to who knows where.
Rashid who had informed him of the event, watches along with his master waiting for the two to make it out of plain sight.
"I really hope it goes well tonight. You know, I kind of miss when Kalim was actively having you bite the butts of suitors. It was more fun to watch than whatever is happening right now. It was kind of nice having someone in the same position as me for once. But now that there are two suitors he likes there's nothing I can do." The prince tells his tiger who gives a small huff in understanding. "Let's head back to the room Rashid, I have a lot of paper work to do." The alpha made his way to his private dorm room where he found Aziz waiting for him on his bed with a mysterious satchel. There was no doubt in Minajael's mind that the monkey mist have stolen it from someone.
Closing his and shaking his head in disapproval for a moment, the warden brought out his wand and activated the speaking spell on him and Aziz.
"Aziz, what have I said about stealing?"
"I didn't steal this time! I promise, Prince Ali let me have anything I wanted from Scarabia for letting his friend's potion go."
"And why were you trying to take his friend's potion?"
"Because...I thought the bottle looked cool."
"Aziz!"
"I didn't take it though!"
"You still somehow recieved it by underhanded means."
"I was just hoping the other school had something you didn't have. I wanted to thank you for the bananas. I was looking for you all day."
"I appreciate the thought Aziz, you're didn't need to get me anything. Especially if it comes from a reward to get you to stop stealing."
"I'm sorry, I promise I'll be better about it next time."
"Ok, I forgive you. But if this keeps happening for sure no bananas ever."
"Promise!"
"What did you pick anyways?"
"Oh right, let me give it to you." The capuchin made his way over to climb on Minajael's shoulder. He then plopped the bag in the third year's hands and waited for him to open it. " It was in this room near the treasurey. It smelled intresting and I saw someone turn the smell on and off!"
"Smelled Intresting? Is it food? What do you mean turn on and off? Wait did you steal this? Was this not from the treasurey?" The prince hypothesized as he shook the bag lightly feeling something cold a rigid land in it. Holding it up closer to his face, he saw a shell. Monkeys didn't typically like the smell of fish, so what made this thing so intresting. Turning it around, he noticed a pin indicating it was a pendant of sorts. Not wanting to be ungrateful, he smiles to the small creature in appreciation.
"Thank you Aziz, this is lovely. But whoever owns this must be worried sick that its gone. You have to return it."
"Aww, but you didn't even get to turn it on yet!"
"How do I turn it on then? Ive never heard of a shell that did that."
"I saw the guy place it on himself and tap twice with a shiny finger."
"Hmm, ok if you insist but after you must return this."
"Ok." Following the ape's instructions, the prince placed it on one the front right of his warden jacket. Still unable to channel magic without a wand, the prince tapped twice with the tip and watched as the shell came to life. Within seconds the scent of an alpha floods his nose. The concentration was strong, and the familiarity of the cinnamon and Oud smell. This was Jamil Viper's scent! But how was it in this shell? And why was it in Scarabia. Taking off the magical item, Minajael grips it in his hand in disbelief.
Usually he would assume it was a perfume mimicking a scent, but no this wasn't the case. This shell had magical properties, and with that there was some black magic that could strip a person of their scent. Criminals in the Sands would use it to hide from he authorizes..he never thought he'd see something like this here. Still smelling Jamil's scent on him he almost gags at the lingering scent. Before Kalim came back he needed to take a shower. This had now become a serious situation.
"Aziz what did the person look like?" Sternly asks the alpha who looked at the regretful monkey. Remembering that this was a gesture of good will, he reworks his approach. " I'm sorry I sounded so angry for a second. Thank you for bringing this to me. I'm actually very glad you did."
"You are?"
"Yes, actually what you took was from a very bad man. He might be deceiving Kalim and you just gave me proof."
"He's deceiving Kalim!? I'll bite him!"
"No, we have to do this right. Do you know what he looked like?"
"YES! He had long hair in a ponytail and skin like yourself. He wore a glove on one hand."
"I see, thank you for that description. Don't tell anyone else about this. Not even Kalim, can you do that for me?"
"But I want to help!"
"And you will by being quiet about this. I need to talk to some people about this. It's gonna help protect Kalim."
"Ok, I will."
"Thank you, now go back to your friends I'm sure they're missing you." Minajael advised after seeing the monkey off. Turning his attention to Rashid, he could see the tiger was thinking the exact same thing.
"I need to call Leona. He needs to know that Jamil is pretending to be Mazin. I can't believe that snake! What does he gain from all this!?"