Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Oh my god! You two actually broke up?!" that laughter echoed inside of the harlequin rabbit's mind.

It's been a month since she and her boyfriend broke up because of that dwarf slut! She vowed to humiliate that girl for the rest of her life. That's the punishment for sleeping with most of the boys in school. In fact, what's so special about a stinky, plain Netherland dwarf rabbit in comparison to a beautiful harlequin like her?

Is it because she's so small and cute?

Bullshit! There's a lot of grit and predation under those baby eyes and innocent expression!

Mizuchi slammed her laptop close when the memories of her ex-boyfriend clouded her thoughts. Getting over him was the hardest part of her life. How is she going to save her species from extinction when the only male harlequin rabbit doesn't want to date her anymore?

"Damn that slut," Mizuchi growled, throwing herself onto her bed in frustration. In her dorm, she shared rooms with other leporidaes who seemed to be wary of her. Well, they should be since she's the rare one in the room.

Most rabbits in the academy were either plain white, brown or even a mix of both. Mizuchi was the only one where she is white on the right side while black of the left side. She was very proud of herself being the only one but sometimes it gets lonely.

Right now, she has to finish this dumb homework before watching her favourite show on the television. 

Sometimes she wondered what's the point of homework if it means sacrificing your sleeping schedules and not having any time for fun.

If she was running this place, she would definitely ban homework for life!

She giggled at the thought of her envisioned dreams. Then again, the idea of becoming a Beastar would not be something she wanted no matter how much she wished things would go according to her way.

Because she believed that her way is the right way.

Her lifelong dream was to become a famous fashionista! In fact during her spare time, Mizuchi would save some money to buy some fabric and whatever she could get her paws on and tailored herself a new top, blouse and even pants for the weekends.

No one knew this except her two friends: Riley the black cat and Tanya the racoon.

Those two were her closest friends when she moved to Cherryton as a first year and they were inseparable. In fact, those two helped her pranked that Haru slut for preying on the boys that they liked. But that dwarf decided to go as far as having a romp with another harlequin rabbit?

She was not going to let anyone take everything from her when she worked so hard to get here!

Oh, they'll see....

Everyone must watch out for what's coming for them when she walked down the corridors, the courtyard or anywhere.

She will guarantee that!

Chapter Text

Chapter 1

Today was a new day at Cherryton Academy. Most of the students were gossiping about a new arrival that would be going them on campus. The girls were hoping it would be a heartthrob guy while the guys vice versa if the newcomer was a girl. 

But the school had a dark history where a student named Them was killed by a carnivore in the auditorium. Who was that carnivore? No one knew but the herbivores were wary of the carivore students. 

That was the current tension among the students no matter how much they studied and learn together in the same school before graduating to see the world. The only place on campus where carnivores and herbivores co-exist would be the drama club run by Louis the red deer. The drama club themselves were also excited that a new student would be enrolling on campus.

"I heard it's a boy! I bet he's a handsome herbivore~" Mina the giraffe swooned, causing the other girls to giggle.

"Nah, I heard it's a girl!" Bill the Bengal tiger's voice boomed. "If she has stripes and is a tiger like me, it would be a dream come true!"

"You and your dumb fantasy, Bill!" Ellen the zebra rolled her eyes. "We don't need another Bill, let alone a female version of you in the the club!"

"Hey, what's wrong with two of me? We will make this club badass!"

Legosi the grey wolf was adjusting the lights when he heard his club mates chattering about the new student. He paid no attention as believed that the student would be just the same, carnivore or herbivore. Right now, they were practising for another Adler play before the holidays, according to Louis. The red deer mentioned that it would at least boost the students' spirits before they leave until next semester.

Now, the grey wolf had made plans to visit a special someone at the gardening club. Maybe Haru knows who is the new student.

Taking a deep breath, Legosi resumed his work on the lighting while observing the practices below.

...

Legosi was the tallest canine out of the other members of the Canidae. So he got used to both carnivores and herbivores feeling afraid whenever he's around. He wished they wouldn't be so nervous just because the news keeps reporting about different cases of herbivores being attacked by carnivores.

Plus, he doesn't want to revisit or remember his encounters of the Black Market. He can't imagine that was the only way for carnivores to stay sane in order to co-exist with their herbivore friends.

It was all Bill's fault!

Shaking his head, he knocked onto the door that led him to the rooftop. His tail was wagging in excitement, his nose filled with sweet scents of flowers just like the gardener herself. Haru, the Netherland dwarf rabbit was tending to her flowers when the sound of the door perked her eyes up.

"Oh hi, Legosi!" she greeted him with her usual peppy self. "Needed anything? Wait, you want to make out with me on the rooftop~"

"No! Not like that!" Legosi raised his arms in defence but the rabbit only laughed.

"Come on, I was just kidding! Come, laugh!"

But Legosi didn't.

Haru regained her composure and approached him. She grasped his clawed hand in her tiny paws. "So what brings you here, Legosi?"

"Have you heard or know about the new student?"

'Ah, so I was right!' Haru thought to herself. To be fair, she's curious about the new student too but she only heard rumours about what the student might be. So far, she only knew that he would be joining them tomorrow and some other things.

"Well I only heard rumours. It's a guy and is going to be in second year like you. So, maybe you'll get yourself a new friend, huh?"

Legosi didn't answer as he was deep in thought. He was trying to picture what does the student look like and what is his personality like.

"So what do you hope the student is like?" she asked.

"Not like Bill."

Haru has heard of Legosi's conflict with the Bengal tiger which led him to have those striped scares on his back. She felt guilty knowing that this sweet wolf had gone through so much but he can be an idiot sometimes with his feelings.

Oh well!

Legosi thanked Haru before bidding her goodbye. He was thinking of walking to the courtyard to take a breather before heading back to his dorm. He had some homework to do anyways and Jack, his roommate and best friend wouldn't take no for an answer.

Without looking where he was going, someone bumped into his stomach.

"Oh, I am terribly sorry! I didn't know you were in front of me!" a voice chirped.

Legosi lowered his gaze down and flicked his ears. He knew some of the students on campus through his sense of smell but this student...

He's the new student and he is a bat! Legosi knew that the student is a Honduran white bat.

"Are you the new student?"

The new student's large ears perked up. "Yes, I am! I wanted to explore campus before I start class. So, are you a student too?"

Legosi was taking in the new student's appearance. The grey wolf has studied about animals in the Chiroptera family and this new student is definitely one. He had yellow-orange ears that were larger than his own head with bits on his muzzle. The student's nose was odd as it was shaped like a leaf that was going to fall in autumn.  His fur was white, almost like a cotton ball if the new student decided to curl himself up. Because he is a Chiroptera, he had those wings that were different from the avian students.

While birds have feathers that cover their wings, Chiropteras have really long, thin fingers that fused with skin membrane on their arms that formed their wings.

Like the avian students, they too need a license once they graduated in order to fly.

What made the student stood out were his eyes: They were blue but very cloudy as if someone had placed clouds and smoke in an eyedrop and placed it into his eyes.

They were unnerving?

"Excuse me," the bat student waved an arm at him. "Can you hear me?"

"Oh, I am sorry," said Legosi. "Yes, I am a student. A second year."

"Then you know the whole campus?" the student enquired, his cloudy eyes looked even more creepy when he is smiling. "Oh where are my manners? My name is Arthur."

"Legosi," the grey wolf introduced himself. "Do you want me to show you around?"

"That would be nice, thank you," Arthur nodded gratefully. "But could you describe to me what we are looking at?"

Legosi tilted his head. Describe, can he-

"You see," the bat arched his head, trying to be at the same level as Legosi's voice. "I can't see well. I'm born blind."

'This is going to be a problem,' Legosi thought to himself.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2

Legosi became the tour guide for Arthur that afternoon. He was a bit thankful that Arthur doesn't talk much just like him. He only swivel his large, disc-like ears to everything that was around him. Now, Legosi wasn't much an expert in biology but he knew that Chiropteras have excellent hearing compared to rabbits and even elephants.

In fact, their hearing was so good that some believe they could hear the wind sing!

Arthur only talked when he was asking questions. He was curious at everything around him, which attracted other animals to stare at him walking alongside the grey wolf. They were whispering and pointing at him. Legosi knew that feeling when everyone first saw him.

Afraid.

He wondered if Arthur could hear them whispering about his arrival on campus and how he will be starting class tomorrow? But the Honduran white bat seemed unfazed by this. Legosi concluded that this wasn't the first time Arthur has experienced this sort of segregation among his classmates. Legosi remembered that herbivores and carnivores have conflicts with each other, even in places like the drama club where they're suppose to co-exist.

Even when animals were just minding their own business, all of them paused to stare at Arthur. Legosi doesn't understand why. Maybe it had something to do with those glassy blue eyes that were wide and unblinking.

Or maybe it's something else.

Arthur at this point was grateful to have scouted a kind soul like Legosi to show him around the school. He may not know how he looked like but he could sensed that he's a carnivore and a big one too. He's not sure if anyone noticed but his mouth moved slightly to let out clicks which were inaudible to most animals.

Those clicks helped him to roughly estimate his surroundings and obstacles.

He doesn't need a cane to guide him or wear sunglasses since it's prohibited to wear it on campus. To show that he's not weak, he kept practicing his clicks and rely more on his hearing to help him.

He damn well knew that most animals with disabilities are basically useless in the real world. Especially those who lost their sights.

He wished he could at least know how Legosi looked like. He may not be so good at judging character but his gut told him that Legosi is a good animal. From the way he talked, Arthur assumed he's a predator and was freakishly tall.

"Legosi?" 

"Yes Arthur," he could feel Legosi's pace slowed down.

"I hope it's not intrusive but what animal are you?"

Legosi was surprised by this question. But then, Arthur can't see so it made sense that he can only tell whose voice is who. He decided to tell him that he's a grey wolf. Arthur nodded, his left ear swivelled while the right was listening to Legosi attentively.

"Ah, so I wasn't far off," said Arthur. "I thought you were some large dog."

Legosi couldn't help but have a small smile he reserved for some people. Arthur was not so creepy once you get to know him. But then, he knows Chiropteras were viewed on two sides of the coin: the presence of them could be luck or a sign of bad omen.

They were almost at the end of the tour but Legosi couldn't help but feel sorry for Arthur because throughout their walk, he couldn't help but hear comments about the poor bat:

"A bat! Why did the student have to be a bat?!"

"Better start praying because that thing's a bad omen to be around."

"What's wrong with his eyes?!"

"Eeek! Look at those little fangs! I hope he doesn't suck our blood!"

Legosi and Arthur walked faster to get away. He swore that he could heard Arthur muttered under his breath: "I'm not a Vampyrum...."

The grey wolf decided to change the subject by talking about the different clubs that the campus has. All carnivores and herbivores have their own respective clubs since a mixed club would be resulted in chaos.

"...the only club that carnivores and herbivores can co-exist is the drama club and I'm a member there. But I am part of the stage crew. You need to be scouted out by the seniors if you want to be a member."

"Don't worry," Arthur reassured him. "I'm a horrible actor. So, is there a club where there's not many animals?"

Legosi thought for a moment. Haru's all alone in the gardening club and she does all of the hard work. But does the bat know anything about flowers? He wondered if he is breaking the rules if he decided to introduce Arthur to the dwarf rabbit.

...

"Hey Legosi! Who is-What the hell?!" Haru almost dropped her pot of aloe vera plants.

"Haru," Legosi kneeled down to look at her. "This is the new student, Arthur. He's in second year and will be starting class tomorrow. I kinda showed him around on campus before I told him about the clubs."

"And you want him to be in the gardening club?!" she hissed into Legosi's ear. Arthur seemed oblivious to Haru's shocked and frustrated expressions. He seemed dazed and wiggled his ears at something.

"Haru," Legosi growled softly. "He's blind. All of the students are scared of him and he just moved in. Surely you would know what is it like to be judged."

"Don't you dare go into that territory," the dwarf rabbit snapped but her face relaxed a little. "But...it does get kinda tiring doing all of the work by myself. An assistance would be nice."

"So, will you take him?"

Haru didn't answer as she watched Arthur cocking his ears closed to the flowers she grew. What a weird animal! She thought Legosi was strange with his feelings but this animal...

This animal takes the cake!

"What are you listening to, Arthur?" asked Legosi, who was also curious.

"Just listening to the flowers," answered Arthur as it were just common sense. "They sure are very happy to be taken care of but I think they disagree on each other."

Both wolf and rabbit were too stunned. Haru turned to Legosi and whispered:

"I'll think about it. Just take him back to his dorm to settle first."

...

Just as Legosi and Arthur were heading back to the carnivore's dorm, Arthur accidentally stepped on someone's foot.

"Hey! Watch where you're going-Ah!"

"Oh, I'm so sorry. I didn't see your foot," Arthur tried to apologise.

"Well, sorry is not going to make it better, freak!" the shrill voice stung Arthur's ears. "What are you? Blind or something?"

Legosi let out a warning growl and the three girls ran off. Arthur turned his head to Legosi's direction.

"Is this normal? Getting bullied on the first day?"

Legosi sighed, knowing where this was going. He had told Juno the same thing when she was picked on by first years. He reminded Arthur that there were more herbivores than carnivores in the school. Because Arthur was in the middle, he had to tread carefully.

"I will," the bat nodded. "Thank you very much for helping me today, Legosi. Do you want to come into my room and stay for tea? I'm the only Chiroptera in the room."

Legosi kindly declined the offer, saying that he has homework to do. They both bid farewell and Arthur went into his room.

He decided to kick off his showed and hung himself upside down between the gap of the bunkbed. He took out his phone and voice command it to play music to sooth his soul.

What an eventful yet stressful day!

Chapter Text

Chapter 3

Mizuchi was fuming with anger.

How dared that freak of a bat just stepped on her foot without looking! He was creepy enough with ears too big for his head, those wings that were sewed to his fingers and those eyes...

Those eyes are just like voids without an end.

If it weren't for that wolf, she would have clobber that bat up! She saw that the other students were creeped out by him but she would be the first one to hit him if he ever comes close to her again.

The harlequin rabbit decided to maker her way towards her history class. A boring subject where she would just record what the teacher is saying on her phone or she could ask her friends to lend her their homework to copy.

She would rather be watching her favourite show on her laptop or check out some online stores for new clothe designs.

'Can't the class be anymore boring?' Mizuchi thought with a small yawn, trying to let her long ears listen to her teacher's droning. But then something caught her attention.

"- Now, we will dive into the war between the Birds, Beasts and Bats," announced the teacher. Mizuchi was convinced that the other students in the auditorium was now stirring from their boredom. This was new and she was sure it had something to do with that freak's arrival.

All of the class' sleepy demeanour was roused by the mention of the bat. Some students took out their notepads and laptop, ready to write down notes. Others were whispering in excitement, which meant that all the students will now know what to expect with the only Chiroptera on campus.

Clearing his throat, the teacher began. "Long ago, millions and millions of years ago during the Cretaceous period, the world was an empty place..."

'Empty place? I thought that's where out ancestors once roamed?' Mizuchi thought to herself. She may not like studying but she's not ignorant about the subjects the school taught her.

"Dinosaurs, our ancestors ruled both the land and skies which will later became our very own herbivores and carnivores," the teacher continued. "Bats were different however because they have the qualities of both to survive. Before their evolution, they were allowed to roam during the day and see the sun."

Mizuchi would lie if she said that the story behind the bats bored her. But that big-eared rat with wings was seen walking around campus before sunset. Hell, she wondered why she is thinking about him!

"Since the birds and beasts were dangerous, the bats stayed out of every conflict until they were surrounded. Because they won't choose a side, they were banished to be in eternal darkness. The Chiropteras were deemed as cowards and traitors among animals. From there, their fate has led them to uncertain lives..."

The auditorium was silent until a hand was raised up.

"Wait a minute, Teacher!" a lemur student protested. "They were banished to mix with us just because their ancestors were neutral about the war?!"

"Hey, sometimes you have to choose a side!" a leopard classmate argued. "We can't always be neutral and expect things to die down so quickly!"

"I wouldn't blame them," a rhinoceros student huffed. "Have you seen those wings and teeth? They made all of the carnivores in this room tame in comparison!"

The whole class became a sea of murmuring until the teacher decided to silenced them again. Mizuchi rolled her eyes and stopped her phone from recording. The other parts of the lesson is useless anyways. She took out a pencil to doodle a bit on a new design for either a handbag or a blouse until the class is over.

For now, she would forget about that bat with his soulless stare...

...

The next morning, Arthur woke up to the alarm from his phone. Before bed, he received a voice message from Haru, saying that he should meet her at the rooftop before breakfast. Arthur was curious to know what she wanted but decided not to question it.

Questioning a lot of things doesn't get you anywhere.

Arthur had three brushes after his morning shower: One for the bath, one for his fur and the last one for the membrane from his wings.

He was glad that no one was up yet when he left the carnivore dorm to go to the school building. Like other students, he wore the school uniform but had to cut out the sleeves of the shirt and vest since his wings were too large to fit into the sleeves.

He had his student card with him. To others, they could see what was written but could not fathom why there were little dots inscribed below each letter. To Arthur, it's how he had to read. The morning had a wonderful breeze and his ears picked up a few butterflies fluttering about.

He made his way to the rooftop with just his clicks. Since not many animals were awake, he could allow himself to make the clicks louder which helped him a lot. He heard humming and the whooshing sound of water loud enough to be a waterfall coming from the watering can.

When Arthur gently knocked on the door, the whooshing stopped. "Come in!" a feminine voice called out.

Arthur entered and was hit with the pleasant fragrance of the flowers. He was happy to hear  their little chatters without breaking into a fight like yesterday. He brought his music with him if he needed to sooth those botanic souls.

"Good morning, Arthur," Haru greeted him politely. "How are you settling in?"

"It was rowdy," he answered, still a bit dazed at all voices from the rabbit and the flowers coming from all sides. He lowered his disc-like ears down to block some of the sounds.

"Ah, you'll be fine!" Haru assured him. "You're a bat so I don't know, tell them you would suck their blood and will haunt them."

Arthur was tad annoyed that most of the animals assumed all bats are as vicious as their Vampyrum relatives from the same family. Majority of Chiropteras are omnivores where they eat both carnivore and herbivore diets.

Arthur was told to help Haru water some of the flowers, plant some new seeds and adding special nutrients into the soil. Haru was impressed that he could manage without his sight. She would be scared if she can't see anymore. 

Also, she wondered how his hands worked since the thumb and pointer finger looked normal but the last three were so long and fused with the wings. She can't imagine how he could type or write with hands like those.

Needless to say, his silent company was nice, even if she caught him talking among the flowers. Now that's an ability she would want!

Once they were finished, Haru and Arthur decided to take a break in the shed. The dwarf rabbit almost screamed when the bat suddenly leaped up to hang himself upside down on the ceiling. Oh yeah, that's a bat's thing...

"Thank you for letting me be part of your club," said Arthur, whose cloudy eyes seemed to stare far away. Haru watched him in awe.

"Hey, it's my job as the president of this club!" she huffed. "No one here takes care of the flowers but me. But hey, you looked like you enjoyed yourself."

"I know. When I was back home with my dad and Nana, we used to play music to the garden. You'll be surprised to know that they enjoy it just like us."

Haru was speechless again. She was even more surprised when he took out a tiny harmonica from his bag and played a tune. It sounded a bit rusty but cheery which is something to wake up to in the morning.

Haru leaned back to listen, seeing that Arthur may be different than most of the male students. She wondered if Legosi knows that he could play music.

"I bet he'll love to see this," she murmured.

Little did they both know that the tune from Arthur's Harmonica can be heard throughout campus, making every herbivore and carnivore pause in their daily routine just to listen. Teachers stopped writing their paperwork, cooks in cafeteria halted their preparation of meals and the morning chatter became silent.

Even the president of the drama club.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4

Arthur thanked Haru again before he made his way to the cafeteria. Of course he may found his way through clicks, he kept bumping or accidentally stepping close to the other students which they yell or shoved him for being clumsy.

Well, he can't always know what's around him.

His hand-wing was caught by someone's strong hand. He clicked softly and sighed in relief. It was the grey wolf Legosi. And he's not alone.

"Arthur," he nodded at the bat. "Are you heading for the cafeteria for breakfast? We are heading there as well."

"Yes, I am," the Honduran white bat smiled. "So, who's next to you?"

"I'm Jack, a Labrador retriever," Jack gave him a friendly smile but forgot that Legosi told him that the bat was blind. So he grasped the two fingers of the hand-wing and shake. He could see what Legosi meant when Arthur is harmless.

Poor guy! He's going to get eaten alive by the other students in the cafeteria!

As predicted, the students in the cafeteria paused their conversation to stare at Arthur like he was a juicy morsel. Then, the resumed their activities while Arthur tried to block specific sounds to avoid getting paranoid that he would become their breakfast. Then again, Chiropteras are either on top of the food chain or become the meal themselves. Legosi had to tell him which queue was for carnivores and herbivores.

"Don't worry about me, Legosi," Arthur assured him, his ears wiggled a bit. "I can manage. I will meet you at the table you're at."

Legosi wanted to argue but Arthur's unblinking eyes were unsettling even though he means no harm. He figured maybe blind people who have open eyes do have an edge in arguments due to those cloudy orbs. He reluctantly left Arthur on his own to join Jack at the table.

While queuing up for food, the animals behind Arthur were whispering rather too loudly. It's like a hissing of a leaking pipe in the bat's poor ears. He shrugged it off, focusing on the wonderful smells of the cooked food.

"What's he doing?"

"He's feeling up the tray as if he's never seen one in his life."

"Those wings could be his  handbag if he wants to!"

"Maybe the rumours of bats are naturally blind are true after all!"

Arthur was almost losing his appetite. Bats are never blind! They can see just as well as any animals, especially in the dark. It was unfortunate that he was graced with blindness when he was dropped out of his mother's womb.

He tried to forget some things but it's going to make him lose his focus.

"Morning," the cafeteria lady greeted him when it was his turn. Arthur may not know what she looked like but her tone was friendly, not in a condescending way. She laid down his meal of the day which is the same as any carnivore:

Scrambled eggs with baked beans, two toasts with butter and a yoghurt served with a glass of juice. 

Arthur felt his stomach rumbling from the wonderful scent of the food. He used his two fingers to feel for a fork and a knife, which made the animals behind him irritated.

"Hurry up, will you!" one yelled, almost bursting Arthur's eardrum. "Some of us have early classes and as much as we hate it, our teachers will give us extra work if we're late!"

Arthur was eventually pushed out once he's got the things he needed on the tray. His clicks were inaudible to most animals so from hindsight, most animals assumed he's crazy because his mouth was moving. Like he's talking to himself or has not outgrown the idea of an imaginary friend.

"Hey Bat-freak!" a feminine voice called him. It was that same voice he heard yesterday where he accidentally stepped on her foot by accident. 

"What do you want?" asked Arthur, tired of all of this and just want to eat. "I said I was sorry."

"Sorry is not going to save my foot!" the voice was shrilled. "I'm an endangered harlequin rabbit and I can't be tainted by some thing that's not even on the carnivore-herbivore spectrum. I hope you die in eternal darkness like the rest of your kind!"

"And for a good reason too!" another feminine voice added with a snicker.

All of the students were shouting and some were giggling at the scene before Arthur was dragged off. "Are you okay?" a kind voice asked. Arthur knew who it was but he felt guilty that he's making the two canines saved him.

"Peachy," Arthur grumbled before sitting down. He crouched forward and shielded his face with both of his wings as he ate his breakfast in silence. He's going to need more than just chamomile and chai to sooth his angry soul.

...

Arthur went to his first class without a word. All the second year students were seated according to their names in the alphabet. Because Arthur can't see, he had to rely on his clicks to locate at least an empty spot and carefully listened to the names of the students.

"Bats, your seat is over there," a student shoved him forward.

"Nope. Wrong place pal!" another student failed to hide his laughter told him.

Arthur drooped his ears, planning not to hear his 'classmate's' little game of reverse Blind Bat's Bluff. He clicked rapidly again, trying to get away from his tormentors before he was caught by the wing.

"Hey, stop picking on him," a firm voice told the tormentors. Arthur blinked, hearing how velvety it sounded, he assumed it was from an avian student. Arthur used his free wing to feel around slowly, finding out that this student was tall. "It's his first day too. Cut him some slack."

"Tch! Whatever, you eagles just want a piece of him to yourself. "

"Yeah," another tormentor added. "We heard from the seniors that predatory birds like you eat bats like him for lunch."

The footsteps of Arthur's tormentors faded, leaving him alone with the avian that has his arm. He swore that his heart was about to be digested by his own stomach acids from total fear. This bird could might as well tear the membranes of his right hand-wing.

 This made the Honduran white bat worried.

"Hey, it's okay. They're not going to bother you at this point. Your name is Arthur, right?"

Arthur hesitated but nodded slowly.

"You're sitting next to me. I'm Aoba. I've heard about you in the cafeteria and saw you sitting with Legosi. We're both in the drama club."

Aoba led Arthur to where he was sitting. He was still a bit shaken up from his first class torment. The bat's instincts were right to say that no matter where he goes, it's kill or be killed. So far, Aoba seemed alright but no harm in being cautious.

"Thank you...I'm sorry to drag you into that."

"It's not problem," Arthur could hear him smile. "I'm glad to have meet you. Come on, class is about to start."

Most students either took out their notebooks with stationary or their laptops. But Arthur took out what looked like an old typewriter machine that goes 'clunk' when he placed it on his desk. It had two giant buttons on the left and right hand side of it, six keys with a space bar in the middle and a few papers that were hard enough to make graduation certificates.

When the teacher started teaching, Arthur began typing, his ears perked up to listen.

'Click...Click...Click...Ding!'

Out came the paper with various punctured holes where dots were formed.

Aoba, and a few other students watched him with fascination. But some found it weird and out of place!

"Hey grandpa, the Great War is over," one of the girls in front of him teased.

Arthur ignored some comments and continued writing notes. Aoba now understood why Legosi is sort of comfortable around this bat. He is quiet but those cloudy eyes seemed to stare straight ahead, like it was seeing something supernatural or extraterrestrial in the auditorium.

Now Arthur, doesn't mind Aoba's presence. So long as he doesn't relax his shoulders, he should be safe. He reminded himself that he has the same class as this student who suddenly helped him. Some sounds in the auditorium echoed in his ears so his brain felt like it's been cramped so the bat had to block out some sounds.

Aoba was writing notes as well. He can't help but glance at how Arthur was writing his. His hand-wings were very steady and meticulous. With his posture in a crunching position, it was as if the bat was conducting a very important breakthrough like a scientist.

He wouldn't mind bring him to the drama club, unable to comprehend why he felt that.

...

Arthur almost collapsed in the bed of his dorm. What a day!

He wouldn't dare do his homework in the school's library so the comfort of the room sounded better. The bat kicked off his shoes before hanging upside down at the gap of the bunkbed again. On the top bed, he had a few instruments he brought from home.

Music soothed and comforted him when he was alone.

He hoped his dad was doing alright in his new workplace, the reason why he exchanged to Cherryton Academy. 

Trailing his fingers along the keyboards, Arthur decided to play a song before starting his work. His mind was exhausted and his heart was close to bleeding from the shit he had to endure today.

His window was opened and people around campus could hear the notes being played. They were enjoying the sounds that were being composed. Who was this student that's been playing all of the melodies that brought hope to the carnivores and peace to the herbivores?

Arthur had his eyes close but he sang a song that was one of his mantras growing up:

"Smile..." he whispered. "Though your heart is aching..."

Chapter Text

Chapter 5

After that incident, Arthur was careful with how he planned his routine for the day.

He will wake up as usual to go to the gardening club but before that, he had two food containers with him in his backpack. One was the breakfast he packed from the cafeteria before the other students arrived while the other was a lunch he made for himself which was a peanut butter and strawberry jam sandwich with crispy crickets.

He was greeted by the sweet fragrance of the flowers and tiny whispers around him. He could hear Haru watering some of the plants. The dwarf rabbit on the other hand was glad to see him on time but was picking up that something was wrong. His hand-wings were shaking when he was placing his backpack aside to help her.

She wished she knew what's in the mind of that bat.

'Maybe Legosi knows what's up,' she thought to herself. She knew that the bat had some classes with the grey wolf and it would be logical to ask him when she bumps into him. While Arthur was tending the soil and pulling up the weeds, Haru got a glimpse at his student card. It was like hers with the photo and description but she wondered why are there little dots at the bottom of each section.

She traced them, wondering what the bumpy dots meant. This was what the card read:

Arthur (Age 17)

Male

Omnivora Chiroptera (Honduran White Bat)

Birthday: December 16

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius

Blood Type: B

Height: 5 Ft ., 5 In

Haru found it interesting that he is neither a carnivore nor a herbivore. But Arthur seemed to keep it to himself and focus on his task. She giggled, thinking that she's finally a president in her own club now that there's another member besides her.

After tending the garden, Haru would give some horticulture tips, which Arthur listened with interest. He in exchange told her about the garden his grandmother had back at where he used to live with his father before they moved here.

"So what does your father work as?" asked Haru, as she sipped her cup of tea.

"He's an astronomer at Manticore University," said Arthur. Judging by his tone and toothy smile, he seemed to be proud about him. "He works at the observatory there, sometimes telling me about the universe and constellations on the phone when he's not busy or teaching the students."

Haru was surprised. She can't remember the last time she had contacted her family because they always warned her about the dangers since she's small for a dwarf rabbit. The both of them decided to chit chat before Arthur heads off to his classes. The bat used the last moments to have his breakfast he packed in his container.

It was breakfast from the cafeteria menu containing egg sandwiches, a hash brown and mixed fruits and nuts drizzled in honey which was meant for herbivores but because of what happened on his first day, he received it out of pity.

"Would you like some of the mixed fruit and nuts?" Arthur offered. Haru kindly refused, seeing that this bat had an episode yesterday if he had to eat his breakfast here before class. She's heard all about it from some of the students and even her roommate, Sally.

Arthur ate slowly, still listening to the wonderful sounds of the winds and flowers. He was also savouring his breakfast, since it was delicious. He finished drinking his tea and then decided to help Haru wash both of their cups. Haru grabbed his hand-wing before he could leave.

"I know what happened to you during your fist day," said Haru.

Arthur stood still but his ears twitched, indicating that he is listening.

"I just want to let you know that I understand. I too have been tormented over some things. But you have to keep going, Arthur. It sounds hard, I know but that's the way it is. Show them that you are not helpless."

Arthur said nothing but know that what she said was true. He had to step up his game if he wants to stop the torment and at least some respect.

Or not...

"Thanks, Haru," he turned back to give her a smile. "I'll remember that."

...

Arthur proved some students wrong about how he submitted his homework. They all assumed he will just send his braille writing but he had a special printer back at his dorm to transform the braille into normal alphabet texts. 

Out of all the subjects Arthur sucked at chemistry and geography since he is blind. He can't tell what is in front of him unless he could smell, hear, feel and taste. To a certain extend, he can't play sports unless it is just warm ups and those exercises that could help him lose weight.

So far, the only animals that made him comfortable were Legosi, Jack and Aoba. 

Besides, there were a lot of animals so Arthur sometimes had a hard time distinguishing who's voice is whom if he doesn't recognise anyone.

He was just walking down the hallway, headphones in his head when he halted in his steps. The bat turned his head in a direction, swore he could hear someone mumbling something. That animal sounded so sad....

He figured that he should get back to his dorm room before another animal decided to tear the membranes off his wings.

Little did he know, the animal he just heard was staring right at him. He was intrigued but cautious about the new bat.

Like a deer caught in the headlights.

...

Mizuchi was tired after a long day.

She can't imagine how some students could finish all of the homework or pull an all-nighter to study. Just to boost up grades and prove to everyone that they are worth something. To the harlequin rabbit, it was more on the beauty of someone.

Because beauty can be both charming and vicious at the same time.

She decided to finish the homework that were easy for her while the harder ones later or tomorrow morning while skipping her breakfast.

So much needed to be done!

Mizuchi would rather have a girls outing with Riley and Tanya at their favourite shopping centres or window shop. She smiled when she remembered window shopping and found a beautiful looking dress that had a particular design.

She was fascinated on how clever and creative some animals can do in order to design comfortable yet elegant clothing.

Her roommates were busy chattering away to some mundane nonsense she won't care about. In her room, she felt at home. With her posters, magazines and even her pink laptop that could stream her favourite shows to binge during weekends.

She wanted to forget him.

He may be a harlequin rabbit like her but being apart from him made her saw some sides of him he never revealed to her before. Like with that slut, Haru! She would've stripped that dwarf rabbit naked and make her parade around campus if she wants to without getting caught.

All of these negative feelings almost made her crush her own phone in her paws.

Suddenly, her long ears picked up music coming from outside. She opened the balcony in the main dorm room, allowing herself to step outside to listen. In fact, she noticed that other animals from both herbivore and carnivore dorms had their balconies and windows opened.

'Such a wonderful melody,' She thought to herself. Something about the sound of the piano filled her heart with wonder about things she never thought of before. Mizuchi couldn't help but leaned close to listen more.

The music that flowed throughout campus could be described as something that's never known. It's like seeing the entirety of animal's existence, the rise and fall of the greatest empires, witnessing the most pure acts of kindness and savagery.

 And then ..looking back on everything  that has been done, and being grateful to have participated in the flame that is life, because it is precious.

Mizuchi shook her head. Since when does she ever had these deep thoughts?!

About to go back inside, she turned her head back to where that melody was coming from.

"Thank you," she whispered. "For making my day better."

Chapter Text

Chapter 6

Arthur was planning to play his instrument as a reward after finishing his homework. But this homework was harder than seeing anything besides darkness in his opinion.

It was his mythology homework for history class.

Basically all of the animals have to present their homework in front of the whole class about a story of their family history. An example would be a wolf telling a story about a great Canidae that used to be in chains and once broken, chaos would unleashed. Or a cat telling story about their ancestors after dinosaurs that used to rule a promised land, however different the story varied for each one.

His mind was blank and was distracted by the songs he played every evening.

The bat was aware that most of the students have heard him playing but don't know that it was him. The blind Chiroptera that they were crept out about. He shrugged it off and decided to play something until an idea pops into his little head.

Suddenly, there was a knock on his door.

Arthur almost jumped to the ceiling since he wasn't expecting any visitors. It was frustrating sometimes when you don't have sights since he can't really see through the peephole. He placed an empty glass to the door before cocking his head to listen.

The Chiroptera's room was soundproof on the inside unless the windows and doors are opened since most bats are sensitive to the sounds around them. Some animals believed that the bats use any room as their echo chamber.

"Arthur? Are you around today? It's me, Aoba."

Ah, the bald eagle. Arthur was expecting it to be a prank so he clicked just to confirm. He could vaguely picture a figure in his head but what was prominent was the sharp, predatory beak. The Honduran white bat unlocked his door, welcoming with a warm smile.

"Hello Aoba. What brings you here?"

The eagle looked behind Arthur, seeing that his room was so spacious and cool in terms of temperature. Lucky him all by himself in the dorm! Arthur was still waiting for him to answer, unless it was a door prank.

"Sorry Arthur, I just spaced out," he apologised. "I was just wondering if you don't mind me hanging out with you?"

Now Arthur was getting suspicious. "May I ask why? I'm really sorry if it sounds rude but I had a long day and all."

Aoba's grasped the two fingers of Arthur's hand-wing. "Well, I just want to know you better. We may sit together side by side in class and help each other out with our classwork but I don't think we ever hung out together."

Arthur's ears drooped a bit. "Of course. Please come in and again, sorry if I sound rude."

Aoba laughed. "Not at all, Arthur."

...

Aoba was impressed at the things in Arthur's dorm. He had a few musical instruments at different places. So that's where the beautiful sounds were coming from! He knew there was something special about the bat.

Lately at the drama club, most of the actors including the eagle himself had seen their president Louis pacing back and forth about the plays they have been putting on. Other than Adler, some of the other shows inputted by the others weren't so successful.

That had stressed out most of the actors while Legosi and the production crew team had their works doubled.

He remembered one evening, he heard a beautiful composed song outside of the balcony. He never knew that the music maestro was the aloof Honduran white bat. Arthur doesn't seem to mind his presence. In fact, the both of them were watching television.

Well...only Aoba since Arthur just sat with a smile with his unblinking cloudy blue eyes. He assumed the bat used the television like a radio. He wondered what was it like for Arthur to manage on his own without having the ability to see anything?

Since eagles don't have strong sense of smell, Aoba was surprised that the whole dorm was ginger-scented.

"Oh, tea is almost done!" said Arthur. He poured two cups and offered the bald eagle. Aoba was touched by this bat's kindness. He was still trying to understand him but he could tell Arthur was beginning to warm up as well since his ears perked up and the way his white fur fluffed up.

"This is really nice, Arthur. Have you thought about my offer about visiting the drama club one of these days? I'm sure the others might like you."

Arthur said nothing but sipped his tea with utmost care. "I might. It's just that some of your friends might mistake me for a Vampyrum. You know what that is, right?"

"No, but I've only heard of Vampyrums in horror movies where they suck blood off both carnivores and herbivores so we would join their legion of undead. Sorry if it bothers you."

Arthur assured him with a smile and a pat on the eagle's shoulder. "It's fine. Vampyrums were stuff mother bats tell their kids to behave. But don't worry Aoba, it's nothing personal. So Aoba, what are your plans after graduating?"

Aoba sipped his ginger tea. "First off,  get my flying licence so that I can taste the sky for the first time. The next step, I'm not really sure..."

Arthur sighed. Looks like he is not alone in thinking about the unknown future. Even if he does succeed, who would ever want to hire a blind bat? Might as well turn him into a guinea pig lab assistance!

"I feel the same too. Say, are you done with the mythology homework?"

"No. Why? You haven't done yours too, huh?"

Arthur was a bit embarrassed but nodded. When he felt a bit nervous, he decided to hang himself upside down on the gaps between the bunk bed. Aoba watched, still interested.

"Does it hurt? Being upside down if you need to sleep or relax?"

Arthur gestured the empty side next to him. "You are welcome to try. For me, it's natural and to some extend, it acts like a practice for me to fly. Especially when I am high up a tree, me flapping down helps to break the fall.

'That makes a lot of sense,' the bald eagle thought to himself. Maybe he should practice a bit one of these days.

Aoba climbed on top and tried to mimic the Honduran white bat. It was harder than he could ever imagine! He felt his own blood rushing to his head while his talons were loosing their grip onto the bed. Arthur on the other hand looked relaxed, wings wrapped around his body like a sleeping bag. He's gotta respect that. 

Arthur looked like a burrito if one could put it into words.

Arthur was just glad that hanging out with a new friend like Aoba could help him reset this mind for a bit. After the eagle's visit, he had an idea on what to work on for his presentation and a song to play as a bonus!

...

"Are you sure he's not a blood-sucking Vampyrum?" Kai the mongoose kept on asking Legosi about Arthur's presence. Reason for this is because Arthur was going to visit the drama club, courtesy of Aoba after their physics class.

Legosi wasn't much of a physics type so he had a free period before heading towards the club as he was in charge of the lighting.

"He's not a bloodsucker," Legosi grumbled, annoyed how Kai can still have the energy to ask questions after preparing different props and costumes for the new play. It was a romance about a beautiful herbivore who fell for a carnivore and another herbivore. The grey wolf couldn't understand the excitement of this play as he figured that romance is more on two souls who felt the attraction like a magnet.

"Should we get garlic in case anything happens?" asked Ellen the zebra, who was still not convince about having a bat watch them rehearse.

"Relax," Bill scoffed when he joined the others. "I heard he's blind so there's no harm. Besides, Louis would know what to do."

"I hope he's nice as you mentioned him to be, Legosi," Els the Angora sheep murmured. "I'm more worried about the play not being a success."

Just then, the door opened and Aoba stepped in with Arthur walking close to him. He had his mouth open which was weird to most of the drama members. Sensing the silence, Arthur gave them a friendly smile.

"Hello, I'm Arthur."

"So, this is Cherryton's new 'celebrity'. Honestly, I don't see what's so scary about him."

Arthur couldn't make out who said that but everyone in the drama club knew not to talk back when he speaks.

The president of the club, Louis the red deer had stepped outside of the office to take a look at the creature that now resides on campus.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7

Legosi was worried about Arthur when Louis was standing too close to the bat's face. All of the drama members watched as Louis inspected Arthur while the bat seemed oblivious to who was in front of him.

"You must be the president of the club, I assumed?" enquired Arthur, who lifted his head and Louis was met with those cloudy blue orbs that were a shock to him. It reminded the red deer of the sky when a storm is brewing.

"Correct. I believe that you know who I am?"

Arthur tilted his head. "Well, heard about you from other students but never really know you. I only heard that you are the star for the play called Adler, wasn't it?"

The bat could detect a shift in the club's atmosphere. He hoped that it was not an offence or anything. But Louis grasped Arthur's two fingers, squeezing it hard. Arthur was surprised that a herbivore could be this strong.

Then again, life is full of surprises like a box of chocolates.

"What is Louis doing?" Arthur heard one of the student's whisper.

"I don't know but it could end on either side." Wait, what do they mean by that?

Arthur was confuse but a gentle claw was laid on his shoulder. "Louis, he came here because he's curious to know how we run the club. Plus, he won't bother anyone."

"I don't need a wolf's opinion on this," Louis snapped. "But fine, he can stay to watch. But do not disturb or distract anyone while we rehearse. Is that understood?"

Arthur nodded. "Clear as crystal."

So with the club resuming their rehearsal, Arthur made himself comfortable by kicking off his shoes to climb up so that he could hang upside down on the rafter. He was listening to the roles that were performed, the flickering of the lights that Kai and Legosi were doing and to an extend, the sounds of the props.

Sounded like a fire from a musket or a gun. He wasn't too clear with what he's hearing.

"Oh my," Els gasped when looking up. "How does he do that? Can he fall off?"

Aoba, who was done with his part came up to her. She was one of the herbivore that was not afraid or has a distrusting feeling towards the carnivores in the club. "He's fine, Els. That's something most bats do. Sometimes, I guessed their wings are big enough to be their own blankets."

The Angora sheep giggled at the idea. So far, Arthur seemed harmless. Maybe it's his eyes that seemed to stare at the abyss or the way he moved that reminded her of a dancer. Like others, she found him creepy like how she met Legosi but unlike him, there's a sort of beauty that's being presented in a body that came from the stuff of horrors.

"Hey Arthur!" the bald eagle called out. "Why don't you come down here. We have a piano backstage if you want to take a look."

The Honduran white bat was now interested and dropped with a small flap of his wings. The ones who noticed were Aoba, Els and Legosi. Legosi was watching what the bat might do as the bald eagle guided him to a wooden piano.

Arthur felt the keys of the piano, admiring how smooth the white ones were while the black ones were firm to the touch. He tapped a key with a single finger to test it out. "It's a nice quality," said the bat. "Was it used often in the plays?"

"It used to," explained Legosi, who was above them with the lighting. "But the recent plays we used the music from our laptops. So basically, that piano hasn't been used since the last three years."

Aoba gestured him with a tap on the shoulder. Arthur turned his head, his ears twitching. "Is there a reason why you asked me to come down here?"

"Try and play a tune," Aoba suggested. "Just want to see how good you are. Don't worry, it's not going to bother the others."

Arthur arched a brow, questioning the situation. He listened to any footsteps that were coming close to where he was but so far, it was just the three animals backstage. He decided to stretch, which showed his impressive wing span that was bigger than his whole body.

Slowly, he flexed each finger, including the ones fused with his skin membrane to test out if they are ready. With his whole fingers covering the keyboards, he began to play.

...

Everyone who was busy rehearsing suddenly stopped when they heard fast piano notes being played. Even Louis who was beginning to wonder who could be making all of that. No...It can't be! Can it?

Everyone was heading backstage, murmuring to each other while Louis was standing at the corner, hiding his shocked expression. How could something as hideous as that bat play something so intense and beautiful?

The music was what Louis would imagine a blend of jazz and ragtime of the thirties where animals in some countries go to casinos or clubs to have one hell of a time. It had a hint of fury in which how the keys were played. Of course, he knew histories and geographies of the world since it was compulsory for him if he wants to be the next Beastars.

"Wow, look at those fingers go!"

"How is he moving them without tearing his wings?"

But Arthur was so in focus of the song he played, he was not aware that someone was ready to pounce him from behind. If it weren't for Legosi, Arthur would get some serious claw marks on his back and maybe his ears will be torn off.

Once he had finished, everyone backstage clapped. Arthur was surprised that he had an audience. Feeling a bit embarrassed by the whole attention. He folded his hand-wings close, attempting to cover his red face.

"So that's where the harmonious melodies were coming from!" Sans, the pelican approached the flustered bat. "You really have an ear for music! Would you consider playing for our plays?"

Arthur had his ears drooped and his cloudy eyes blinked. "I'm sorry but I'm already in a club. Plus, I have other things to do."

There was a a clamour until Arthur was hoisted up and steered away from the drama club. The bat was trying to comprehend where he was and what was going on. He almost jumped when he heard the door clicked shut.

"So Arthur," the voice from Louis was heard. "Looks like you've put yourself an impression to the casts. But you are aware that I am in charge of this club?"

Arthur just nodded, wishing he could imagine the expression on Louis' face. His tone sounded cool and brief.

"What did you hear yesterday?"

"What do you mean?"

"At the hallway," Louis explained. "I saw you staring at me. You heard everything?"

Arthur put up his wings in protest. "N-no! I didn't know it was you. Honest, really! I just heard someone talking in a sad tone. I assumed it was a break up."

There was silence and the Louis grabbed his right wing. It hurts and Arthur swore he could feel one of his finger bones about to crack. "Have you heard about what happened in this school? Did the teachers or anyone told you about a tragedy that struck here?"

The Honduran white bat shook his head. He was afraid of what Louis might do to him since he is taller than the bat himself. "No, what happened."

"A student was murdered in one of the auditoriums," Louis murmured. "He was killed by a carnivore."

Chapter Text

Chapter 8

Arthur's cloudy blue eyes became wide with shock when Louis told him about a tragedy that struck this school where students were hushed about it:

A herbivore student by the name Tem was murdered and eaten by a carnivore.

Plus, he was also a member of the drama club.

"But I didn't know!" Arthur protested. "I just got here and no one told me about this. Maybe they're too scared or something-"

"I know that!" Louis snapped. "Which is precisely why I am warning you that if you try anything funny whether here or on campus, I will find you. I won't hesitate if you try anything."

Arthur gulped, his little heart was pounding in feat. He wondered what Louis would look like. He knew that the president was a deer but an angry deer would be something new to him. The Honduran white bat wanted to cover his face with his wings. But the bat just had enough of the deer almost crushing his fingers, he head butted Louis in the stomach.

"Why are you so paranoid?" asked Arthur, trying to flex his finger to check if his bones were intact. "I know carnivores are scary and let me tell you, I've been there and almost got turned into someone's dinner. Right now, you have a club with both carnivores and herbivores which is a big step! As the president, I thought you can show everyone that carnivores and herbivores can be friends?"

Louis was silent at this bat's speech. Who was he to lecture him? He was weirded out when Arthur reached up to touch his antlers, feeling the structure and branches. Arthur knew that he must be distinguished judging by the structure of his antlers. Almost felt like ivory like an elephant's.

Sensing that Louis was not going to go the offence, Arthur apologised with a small bow before leaving the office. He needs to get out of the drama club before anything can happen. But he was stopped when something large tackled him from behind.

"Gotcha!" he heard a rambunctious roar. "Looks like you weren't paying attention. So, what's up with your eyes? Show me your fangs! I wanna know if you are a Vampyrum or not!"

Arthur kicked the figure at the chin before biting him.

"OW! What the hell?!"

The drama club members paused as they saw what was going on. Bill the Bengal Tiger had pounced on Arthur when his back was turned and Arthur retaliated by biting him.

Arthur got up, trying to compose himself. He was really stressed out today from all of the excitement. His cloudy eyes, some of the animals swore that it darkened, almost looked like a black hole. "Now I bit you. Did you feel woozy or have a feeling your blood is rushing out? No, I think not."

Before Bill would attack, Legosi and Aoba held him back while Arthur's hand-wing was grasped by Sanu and Shiira, the cheetah. Legosi knew that Bill was going to harass the new student, which was why the grey wolf had a strong grip on him.

"Enough, Bill!" Aoba scolded him. 

Arthur backed away while everyone was arguing. He slipped out of the drama club to make a move to somewhere quiet. He decided to pay the flowers a visit at the gardening club. As he predicted, Haru was around and allowed him to hang out.

...

Haru was surprised to see him, considering that he always showed up every morning. Something must be wrong. Seeing how his body was tensed, occasionally he shook his head as if a mosquito went inside his ear and him moving his mouth made the dwarf rabbit worried.

She decided to calm him down by talking about flowers with him.

"So what's your favourite flower, Arthur?" she asked gently, placing a hand on his back.

Arthur's tensed body slowly relaxed as he took a deep breath. "Well, I have several but if I had to narrow it down to one, it would be lavender. They can bring out a sweet lullaby when they are cared for correctly. Plus, good for tea, cakes and when you want to sleep."

Haru tilted her head, her nose twitched a bit. "Another thing, how can you hear the flowers? Sure I care and grow them like they're my children but I don't think I've ever heard them speak."

Arthur chuckled a bit, his soulless eyes looked like they are twinkling under the sun. "Oh, they do and can hold long conversations with each other much like how I hear music...at least I presume, since I don't understand a word they're saying, naturally."

Haru was intrigued but also jealous that Arthur has this gift besides music. What would she give to listen to her children talking!

"But how come I can't hear them but you can? We almost have the same ears for listening! Well, yours looks like a satellite dish while mine is like other rabbits."

Arthur still has that smile of his, his little fangs protruding out a bit. "Well, bats can hear a lot of sounds that might not be loud for other animals due to our biology but I believed it has something to do with age as well. If,  you retain an open mind to such matters."

The dwarf rabbit had never thought of that. Suddenly, the door of the gardening club opened and there was Legosi. Haru put a finger on her lips to silenced Legosi from saying anything but gestured him to come sit next to her.

"Hello Legosi. Sorry about running away from the club," Arthur turned his head to the grey wolf and his ears drooped, ashamed for slipping away without telling him or even Aoba about it.

"It's okay, Arthur," Legosi assured him, the sound of his wagging tail was enough to let Arthur know. "I understand why you escaped."

Arthur was grateful for the wolf's understanding. So the three of them sat in the garden, just enjoying the scent of flowers and Arthur had calmed down, him playing a song on his harmonica which was heard all around campus.

They were still wondering who was the mysterious musician except for the drama club who knew already.

Arthur sensed something between the rabbit and the wolf. He wondered if it was infatuation or a crush because he doesn't seem to mind. Love does not have boundaries just like music. He can't explain it into words but there's more to that.

He hoped one of them would make the move soon as love can be a deadly waltz, like a spider during those seasons he had heard.

...

Just as he was walking back to his dorm, he stopped. He heard footsteps and recognised who it was immediately. It was during the incident on his first day at the cafeteria. The proud rabbit whom he had stepped his foot on.

"Haven't seen you in a while, Bats," Mizuchi smirked. "Got somewhere to go?"

"Of course," said Arthur politely. "Going to finish my homework before I rest."

He heard not just her but two other animals giggling as well. He wouldn't lie if he found the voice of the harlequin rabbit fascinating. It's like a sea: untameable, rough to form a maelstrom but if things go well, he might find the sound a gentle lap like the sea on the seashores.

He missed going to the beach with his dad.

"Hey, are you spacing out?" the rabbit waved her hand in front of his face. Mizuchi wondered what was it like to function without sight? Must be a horrible fate to have! But the more she gazed into those cloudy eyes, she never saw a hint of pity or sadness. She found it funny that his nose was shaped like a leaf and those orange-yellow bits on his muzzle.

Arthur shook his head. "No, just planning. Well, I shan't waste your time so good day."

Mizuchi and her friends watched as the bat left to the carnivore dorm. Tanya clicked her tongue. "What a weird thing."

"I pity his parents for having a blind son," Riley the cat purred. "All animals are going to eat him alive before he could even fly. I mean, no one in society has a place for blind animals."

Mizuchi said nothing. She was baffled at how he never held a grudge or say a witty remark like Haru does when she was tormenting her. This bat was an enigma to her and the animals on campus.

And she would like to find out how to solve that puzzle.

...

In his room, Arthur had brewed peppermint tea this time, seeing as there's a lot of homework to do. For his mythology homework, Arthur was done but he can't really see what the images he had put on the slides. His computer had voice command that allowed him to tell what to edit or read out before saving it in a file.

Arthur had thoughts about what song he would like to play after this whether the harmonica, his keyboard, recorder or violin. Most of these instruments were hand-me-downs but were still functional, which was what he wanted.

A knock on the door startled him again. He washed a glass he had used to drink berry juice and placed it again at the front door to listen.

"It's me, Aoba. Can I come in?"

The Honduran white bat was debating whether or not to let the bald eagle in because of what happened at the club. Tentatively, he opened the door. Aoba felt sorry for Arthur and he blamed himself for not knowing what might happen at the drama club. The bald eagle grasped his hand wing gently.

"How are you feeling today?"

"Exhausted," said Arthur, whose left ear flicked. "I'm almost done with my homework."

"It's fine, Arthur. I can wait," Aoba assured him as the both of them entered the Chiroptera room. He wondered how many types of tea Arthur has since he noticed a different box on the kitchen counter. At the main dining table was a plate of rectangle chocolates with orange underneath.

"Please, help yourself to the orange Jaffa cakes," the bat gestured while he was typing on his braille machine. 

Once he was done, Arthur asked Aoba if he could help him check on the images for the history presentation. The eagle was shocked when he opened the slides. He has never seen anything like these images before. How can someone without sight produce this quality of a presentation?

"I can't tell you what each one is," said Arthur, a hint of humour in his tone. "It will ruin the surprise during the presentation."

Aoba couldn't help but smile. Arthur was something to treasure with how he handles himself and his mannerism. He was curious about one thing today:

"Arthur, why do you like to play music so much?"

The Honduran white was was tracing the braille dots on his print out paper, not looking up. His voice was quiet when he said:

"Playing is the only thing that makes me feel like I have my sight."

Chapter Text

Chapter 9

Arthur was beginning to relax as time went by where he and Aoba talked about stuff outside of their routine school life.

He never knew that Aoba's hobbies to be playing open world video games and watch some action movies. He admitted that he likes how the plot was driven in both of the medium. Arthur listened attentively, his cloudy blue eyes never blinking.

"I may not play games," confessed Arthur, his leaf nose twitched. "But the soundtracks from the game itself is enough to tell me what's going on or how the story is driven. So yeah, I do listen to gameplays on ZooTube when I have nothing to muse on."

Aoba laughed because he does the same thing when he is bored. He was curious about the dotted papers Arthur kept typing in class and how he had to scan them through his own printer to translate them into alphabets.

"Arthur, how do you read this? I know you can't see alphabets but I'm not sure what these dots meant."

Arthur walked behind the bald eagle, gently guiding his wings to the first few dots. "I want you to close your eyes," Arthur instructed. Aoba did so and the tips of his wings felt the bumps. He felt a single one on the far top left. "Good, Aoba. That's the letter 'A'. Each letter has a specific bump, including the numbers, punctuations and spacing."

The bald eagle didn't know that these simple dots could be so complicated! Was this how the blind could see? Through the sense of touch?

It was about two hours when Arthur heard another knock on his door. He was surprised because no one besides Aoba has came into the Chiroptera room. Aoba decided to answer for his new friend and was shocked to see Legosi and his friend Jack standing in the doorway.

"Hi," Jack greeted with his tail wagging. "Legosi and I were just heading back to our dorms and I heard a high whistle. Was that you, Arthur?"

Arthur nodded, a bit embarrassed now that his room has become a hang out spot for a few friends. The Honduran white bat immediately locked the door once the two canines got in because he doesn't want a lot of attention. Might as well burst his eardrums if he allowed more animals into his dorm.

But knowing Legosi and Jack even for a brief moment, his gut told him that they can be trusted on not making so much noise in the soundproof dorm. He decided to close the windows too, hoping no one notice.

...

Both canines and the eagle watched how nervous Arthur looked. They assumed it was because of their presence but by observing closely, it was him not wanting so much attention because he loved music and a crowd would've overwhelmed his hearing.

"So, do you three want some tea?" asked Arthur, his fur was puffed up. "I have some milk and honey if you don't like the taste."

Seeing the bat's generosity, they accepted it and the four of them hung out. Arthur smiled, because ever since he moved here, he was prepared to feel alone but life is funny by introducing him to Aoba, Legosi and Jack. The tea that was prepared was chai with milk. Very popular and delicious during a bustling day when the spices kicked in. He decided to serve it with some snacks which were just plain toast with a spread called Maple Mite.

"You like tea a lot," Legosi murmured, enjoying the chai that has milk. "It's just like insects....They have their own personalities."

Both Jack and Aoba were stunned at Legosi's interpretation but Arthur laughed a bit. "Then you'd fit right into the Natural Entomology Museum. They're always asking for bug catchers to collect some insects for research before releasing them. Some of them even became researchers."

"Really?" Legosi's expression became excited at the idea. He loved insects  and even had a rhinoceros beetle in the Canidae room as his pet. Arthur nodded, his hand-wings were tracing the rim of his mug of tea.

Jack and Aoba were also interested because Arthur had never told them what was his old home like. What towns are there and what school did he come from?

"By the way Arthur," Aoba tapped the bat's shoulder. "What school were you from before exchanging to Cherryton Academy? It must be different, I take it?"

Arthur slowly chewed his toast meticulously while his ears flicked. "I'm from Gryphon Cross. Surely you must have heard of it? It would say that it has competition even with Cherryton."

The three of them exchanged glances. None of them has heard of that school. Jack whipped out his phone to check the name of the school on Zoozle and his puppy eyes widened. He showed Legosi and Aoba what he had found.

"Your school and old home is twelve hours from here?!" Jack yipped. Arthur had his toothy grin, wiping the crumbs off his mouth. "Yes, it's twelve hours and you will need a plane to travel. Even some avians needed the plane since flying can be strenuous."

Aoba literally can't imagine flying for at least twelve hours without stopping. He inspected his wings, wondering what it will bring out of him once he gets his license. He only put a little Maple Mite on his toast because the spread was so salty!

"I do missed it because I had a friend there," said Arthur. "I've been busy with my new life here, I have forgotten about talking to him..."

Aoba placed a wing around Arthur's shoulder. "It will be okay, Arthur. I'm sure he'll understand."

Arthur smiled, tapping the eagle's wing with his two fingers. "Thanks. So anyways, Gryphon Cross is an all-boys schools. Reason it's called that was because a long time ago, there used to be a creature called a griffin, half-lion and half-eagle that were the first ones to past down knowledge to us for generations."

Jack, the historian out of the four of them wanted to enquire more. But that's all Arthur knew about his old school's history. But all of them knew one thing: They would like to visit the place where Arthur grew up.

The four of them spent their times talking about places to go for vacation, their hometown and in Arthur's behalf, what his life was like before Cherryton. The place where Arthur used to grow up sounded like a peaceful place with the forest, little towns and city along a giant lake that leads to the open ocean.

When night fell, Arthur knew it was time for his new friends to leave before the dorm mother catches them away from their respective rooms. Arthur was disappointed that they couldn't hang out for a while due to the curfew and he knew why. Most carnivores use the darkness as their ally when hunting prey.

All of them were being contained so that the herbivores won't feel scared about walking alone on campus. He knew some carnivores are still out and about. But for how long?

...

Today was Presentation Day in history class.

Arthur was nervous because he hoped that he had done enough research to pull this off. Plus, it was difficult for him to practice his lines since he can't see his own reflection in the mirror of his dorm's bathroom.

Before the class, he tried to practice in the gardening club with the flowers as his audience.

Haru found it weird but decided not to question it, seeing that Arthur was shaky like a leaf all morning.

"I bet his slides are a kindergarten's work," one of the students behind him snickered.

"Where's your little morse code, grandpa?" another barked with laughter.

Arthur said nothing but waited for his turn. He had his thermos flask filled with hot tea to sooth his nerves, hope that no one could detect the shakiness of his hand wings. Aoba, who always sat next to him, glared at the other animals to lay off the poor bat.

When it was Arthur's turn, his walk was ungainly since he had to carry his laptop to be plugged while he faced everyone. He had a tiny smile, thinking the only benefit of his blindness is that he doesn't have to worry about seeing everyone in the auditorium.

Clearing his throat, he began:

"In my mythology homework, I would like to present the story of Nocturna and her brother, Camazotz."

He clicked and the slide presented the bullet points and the image of two creatures which made the students gasped. Two of the creatures in the image resembled all the things they imagined of the Chiroptera, one with bright fur and beautiful blue eyes while the other was a dark like ash with eyes that resembled the fires of Hell.

No one commented or threw insults at the Honduran white bat.

"Nocturna and Camazotz used to be together to balance the light and darkness of the Chiropteras but that changed when Zotz committed an unspeakable act: eating the colony he was swore to protect. Nocturna could only watch in horror as her brother continued to threaten the balance of their swore duties."

The whole auditorium were silent with fear at the image. The picture of a monstrous bat called Camazotz devouring every bat in front of him, even the old and young. They never knew that Chiropteras had that kind of history. Aoba, Legosi, even the boisterous Bill was intrigued by the story.

"Nocturna just had enough," Arthur continued, his movement wasn't so awkward now that he had everyone's attention. "She decided to lead her colony away from the darkness that spread in her brother's heart. All those bats who followed her have developed new traits to adapt into both light and darkness."

"Just like him," Arthur could hear one student whispering in awe.

"However, Camazotz also had followers as well. Those that sacrificed their own families and adopted the taste of blood, flesh of their own kin and other things to satisfy their hunger. They remained in the dark....watching....waiting to rise up...

"Thus, that now comes to us as bats. Those Vampyrums, they do exist and have their own lives just like us.But like the stories our family warned us, their true nature will come out without us knowing when. And that is my presentation, thank you!"

Arthur hoped he didn't talked too fast or sound like he should be locked up in the asylum with a muzzle from what sounded like he's rambling rather than presenting. He would rather wrap his wings around his body to comfort himself with this unnerving silence.

But there was a slow clap. And then several until there was a thunderous applause in the auditorium. Arthur could not see the whole crowd but he could feel their excitement radiating in the room. Embarrassed, he drooped his ears a bit at the sudden attention. He promised to reward himself later with a nice egg sandwich with honey for lunch.

Little did he know that there was a senior student that was watching his every move.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10

Mizuchi can't help but stalk her ex whom had moved on from her.He was hanging out with his friends and were still talking about girls. He's got brown rather than black markings on his white fur and was talking than her. He kept mentioning the types of girls he would settle for.

Not once did he mention her.

There's no way she was going up to make a scene in front of the whole school. What would her mother say? A harlequin rabbit like her shouldn't start the fights but she can finish them. Oh, that Haru sure added fire to her rage! But her anger was cut short when an elephant student almost stepped on her, making the rabbit stumble into one of the auditoriums.

She was about to get out when a sea of students came in, leaving her no choice but to sit somewhere until the crowd dies down. Then, she could make her escape.

She groaned, realising she's stuck in the second year's class. Oh well, she sent a quick text to her friends, telling them to cover for her while she's trapped. At least they could help her record the lecture and tell her about the homework.

Which was something she wasn't a fan of!

Like other rabbits, their biology has made them fearful of all animals bigger than them whether they are herbivore or carnivore. So it was the best that Mizuchi put on a brave face, proving to everyone that she's not just some dumb bunny. She was thankful to find friendship in Tanya and Riley because they too have their own struggles in the school.

To think a dwarf rabbit would set a chain of events was beyond Mizuchi's comprehension!

She can't pick on that slut because that grey wolf will always follow her. Oh well, she doesn't care if that wolf eats her. But why can't she move on? An optimistic part of her say that there are other rabbits but now she was not sure.

Other herbivores or rodents wouldn't dare cross her since they know her reputation despite her being a rabbit.

Her ears perked up when she heard a familiar voice. Peeking over between the tall herbivores, she saw that bat again with those voids for eyes. It was his turn to do his presentation and Mizuchi was intrigued by how he carried himself despite the other animal's views about him. His soulless eyes gave Mizuchi an impression of him being dreamy despite being in the present moment.

Plus, his presentation was really interesting. That she will admit.

...

Arthur was relief that it was lunch time.

He had packed some egg sandwiches he made for himself and had a small bottle of honey which he will have as his dessert. He avoided the cafeteria, knowing what happened. Just as he was about to find a secluded spot, a hand grabbed his shoulder.

"That was amazing!" the voice of Jack yipped excitedly. "I have so many question to ask you about that mythology and what world is there beyond where we are. Hey, does your old town have a museum and-"

"Jack," the soft growling voice of Legosi halted the Labrador retriever from getting too excited. "Let him talk. Arthur, you were great out there."

Arthur was flustered, his white fur fluffed up, easy for him to bury his face under it. "Oh, thank you. I was a nervous wreck up there and I hope no one saw my wings shaking like I'm having some electric shocks."

Jack shook his head and grasped Arthur's hand-wing. "Come join us for lunch. We're just eating near the pool. No one goes there and the pool is only filled up during the evening."

'Well why not,' the Honduran white bat thought to himself. He had extra tea left in his flask and can share with the two canines his honey. He walked close to Legosi, knowing that the grey wolf is the one he knew more than his companion.

At the empty poolside, Arthur loved how peaceful it was with the occasional sounds of insects humming. The three of them ate in silence, the sound of the crinkling wrappers filled Arthur's ears and it was a satisfying sound. He was wondering what his dad, his grandmother and his old friend are doing at the moment. He mentally noted to himself that he will give them a call soon.

"You like tea a lot," Legosi pointed out. "Is it the taste?"

Arthur smiled, swallowing the sandwich before speaking. "Not just the taste. It's the effect of tea where it can make you feel calm or have the energy to do work. It's not as strong as coffee but it is very comforting for me. I like to drink them without anything but milk if my mood is down or honey."

The grey wolf pondered at Arthur's answer. He of course has drank tea but never at least five different types everyday! Arthur may be blind but Legosi could tell that he doesn't let that stop him from being a student just like everyone else. 

...

Arthur was thankful for Jack and Legosi's offer to join them for lunch. He decided to call for his friend back home by plugging his headsets on his ears and voice command his phone to call a number.

"Oh, looks like you haven't forgotten about me~" a smooth voice on the phone answered the call. His tone was teasing and Arthur was glad that there wasn't a hint of anger.

Arthur chuckled as he walked down the school's hallway. "Hello Sameer. Just calling to check in on you. Also, sorry about the long wait because I have homework and adjusting to Cherryton."

"Aren't we all?" the voice laughed. "But it's good to hear from you, my friend. Ah, everything is well here in Gryphon Cross except that you are not around. Homework is pilling up and the compulsory after school activities. I swear that I might be the only one who is questioning us working to the bone at a young age."

Arthur shook his head at his old friend's ramble. He gave his friend a brief update on what Cherryton is like and the people he met. It was good talking to him again. "I know you can make it through. You are flexible in how you handle things."

The voice of Sameer laughed. "Likewise with you, Arthur. But I have to go now, got fencing after this. Hope we keep in touch soon. I bet you have a beautiful lady with you, no?"

"O-Of course not!" 

There was a click and the call was off. Aoba was right about Sameer being understanding about the bat's situation. Arthur was thinking of playing a song on his keyboard in his room. Maybe something upbeat or epic? Or maybe-

"Hey! Let go of me!" a voice cried out.  Arthur's cloudy eyes widened when he realised who it was. Placing his headphones back in his bag, he followed to where that sound was coming from with the help of his clicks.

"Your wolf isn't here to save you, Haru," that familiar voice almost made the bat stopped his tracks. What does that rabbit have with the president of the gardening club? Arthur was not sure if he was going to take action or take it as a private argument.

"Look, why don't you talk to him?" Haru snapped. "It's not my fault he went with me when you are being desperate and possessive. Of course he left you! No one wants to be with a possessive, crazy, Prima Donna!"

Arthur could sense the heat in the argument. He had to do something before things get ugly. Relying on his ears, he rushed in to shield Haru from an oncoming attack. After all, she is his club's president.

SLAP!

Arthur felt a stinging pain on his right cheek. He sweared that he could feel the heat and a rush of blood on where it hurts. He cupped it, hoping it will hold the pain for now.

"And what are you doing here?" the harlequin rabbit's voice demanded. "Can't you mind your own business?"

"Leave Haru alone," Arthur told her off. 

The harlequin rabbit let out a laugh. "What's this? Don't tell me you've been sleeping with the freak too? Oh Haru, no wonder no one wants to be friends with you!"

Arthur may not know what she looked like but he assumed that her appearance might be taller than Haru and had a more fiery edge to her aura. He's not accurate but at least it's something he could pick up.

"And you," the bully rabbit he could feel was close to his face. "Stay out of things you shouldn't interfere. In fact, it's better if you don't interact with anyone at all. Animals will just pity you but they will never like you. Who would ever be with a blind, fish-eyed freak like you?"

The sound of her footsteps faded away and Arthur sighed. He had been holding his breath after taking the hit for Haru. He felt a tiny hand tugged his hand wing.

"Forget about her," Haru sniffed. "Come on, I'll walk you to the infirmary. She almost sliced your cheek."

Nodding, Arthur allowed the Netherland dwarf rabbit to guide him.

Chapter Text

Chapter 11

"Ow!" Arthur squeaked in pain as the nurse was tending his wound. The wound was not that deep but the cool scent of the herbal medicine was like having a knife carving his face. He was in deep thought of what that harlequin rabbit said.

Were the animals who were his 'friends' just pity him because he was different?

He wondered how life would be like if he does have his sights. He would rather not dwell about it too much because he will not get anywhere in life if he allowed the past or grudges to be attach to him. He learnt that throughout his years in Gryphon Cross before coming here.

"Arthur, I'm so sorry about this," Haru held his left hand-wing. "You didn't have to take the hit for me. It was a private matter."

"It's fine, Haru," Arthur assured her, his cloudy eyes slowly blinked. "I'm not going to ask what was the argument about. Sounded very intense to me."

Haru said nothing but cringed when she saw the wound was still bleeding from his cheek. A dab from the cotton with some patching done, Arthur was good to go. But how was Arthur feeling, even without sight Haru could tell that he's really upset.

"Just don't think about what she said," Haru told the bat as they walked to the gardening club roof. "She's always blaming others instead of looking at the problem within herself. You're lucky that you're not in third year yet. She would've beaten you."

Arthur's mind was somewhere else. There were a lot of unwanted noises in his ears and he was trying to focus on walking towards the gardening club. His clicks were becoming louder which in the eyes of other animals, looked like the bat is talking to himself.

"Arthur," Haru tapped him on the back, making him jolt. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," The Honduran white bat gave her a toothy smile. "Come on, those flowers need some care before we both leave for the evening. Though, who was that rabbit that was fighting with you?"

"Mizuchi," the dwarf rabbit spat that name bitterly as if it were an endive. "She's the Prima Donna of the third years and always claiming that her harlequin rabbit breed is becoming extinct. She's always with her posse which was that black cat and raccoon."

"I see..."

"You've bumped into her before?" Haru asked as she led him to the gardening club where the sweet fragrance from the flowers had greeted them. Arthur's tone sounded dreamy as if he were in a trance.

"Yes and she really is passionate about hating me."

"She hates most animals if they get in her way," Haru rolled her eyes. "Come on, there's some new seeds I bought for this club to grow. They're your favourite, lavenders."

...

Arthur felt calmer after tending the needed plants and gaining a bit more horticultural tips from Haru. He was debating whether or not to have a little plant inside his dorm room but he wasn't sure with the policy. He remembered eavesdropping on two students while he was in class about how the Felidaes can't have plants because it will set them off.

How? He wasn't too sure about that!

He was thinking of walking back to his dorm when someone tapped his shoulder. The bat turned his head at the source. "Hi Arthur," Aoba greeted him. "I was looking for you after class and- Hey, what happened to your cheek?"

Arthur tapped the patched up part of his cheek. "I became a white knight to my club's president and got a good hit from her bully. It's nothing really, I'll live."

Aoba found it admirable that Arthur was very persevere from everything since he arrived in this academy. He wondered if the bat had accepted his fate once he had graduated? But whatever it is, he is a really good friend to the bald eagle. He wished others could see that there's no harm in him and that he is not a Vampyrum like what he had presented.

Some animals do whisper about Arthur while some stayed quiet as the both of them passed as if Arthur was a plague. Arthur just held his head with those disc-shaped ears high. The eagle was thinking about asking Arthur to hang out with him by going out to town. 

"Say Arthur, have you ever been to town before?"

Arthur had his mouth moving and it was inaudible. Aoba assumed it was a bat's thing and decided to shrug it off. Arthur had an apologetic smile when he looked at the eagle. "Sorry but I have been to town for a bit before coming here. It's just to buy some groceries and I can't recall browsing the town afterwards."

"Then do you want to go to town tomorrow?" the eagle asked. "Besides, it's the weekend and I bet it's good to get out of the school's routine once in a while."

Arthur pondered. He hasn't gone out for a while since he enrolled in Cherryton. Maybe a walk in town could give him a new perspective of things he doesn't know. He can try some new things and there are some stuff he needed to buy for his dorm.

"Okay," Arthur nodded. "Maybe it can give some creative juices for my music."

With that being said, both of them hung out, literally at the Chiroptera dorm. Aoba was still feeling the blood rush at his head if he decided to keep hanging upside down. But Arthur looked relax with his feet clinging to the gap between the bunk bed and having a harmonica in his wings. He was playing a tune he could describe as a lonely adventure in a desolated place where a lone stranger walks into a town with no name. Everybody stared at him and traced his every move.

Maybe the stranger was out for revenge?

The atmosphere on campus was silent as the grave when the wavering sound of Arthur's harmonica was played. It sounded like the tunes of the harmonica was crying in despair and fear with everything that surrounded it.

Is Arthur upset about something?

"Sometimes," said Arthur between breaks. "Playing music is like having a conversation between the tunes you play. You tell a story with the notes that resonate within you..."

Aoba could only listen to the music, loss for words to say.

...

"Dammit! What the hell is wrong with me?!" Mizuchi flops down on her bed. She was thinking back on her encounter with that bat. In fact, she was beyond angry that the bat knows Haru. 

Did she seduce him? Did she try to charm him like she did with her ex?

But when her paw collided with his cheek, why does she feel like throwing up?

The sounds of the harmonica she's hearing is going to haunt her in her sleep. Her mind wandered to what she had said to the bat. Did he mean any harm? No!

She decided not to think too hard about it.

Maybe a small stroll or window shopping tomorrow would do her good. Besides, she would like to visit her favourite stores and probably get a sweet carrot juice afterwards. Yes, she wouldn't have to be so worked up over that blind bat.

Little did she know, Fate decided to play a little game~

Chapter Text

Chapter 12

Arthur was a bit nervous because it was his first time having an outing with a friend since his transfer here in Cherryton. He was so nervous that for breakfast, he accidentally put berry juice instead of milk in his oatmeal. Berry juice and honey in hot oatmeal was the worst thing he's ever tasted!

He called for Legosi and Jack on his phone to ask if the both of them would like to join him for the weekend outing.

Jack apologised, saying that he's got plans with two of his canine roommates while Legosi was busy. Arthur wondered why but Legosi assured the bat that he was meeting Haru. The Honduran white bat couldn't help but smile. There was something going on between the grey wolf and dwarf rabbit and he knew one of them has to make the move soon.

He recalled back in Gryphon Cross, some of the students had interspecies parents. They looked like either species rather than a hybrid, or so he was told by his old friend Sameer. He understood why people don't like a carnivore and a herbivore together because it might trigger some natural instincts within either of them.

His dad would've said that for most animals including herbivores, have trouble  ignoring their instincts so he must learn how to adapt or else he will be depicted like most carnivores as murderers. Since Arthur is a bat, they are both carnivores and herbivores so it was not an issue for him.

"Arthur," Legosi's gravelly voice almost made him jumped back from his own phone. "Do you know what is the Black Market?"

Arthur tiled his head, holding the phone close to his ear. "B-black Market? No, what is it?"

"Just avoid it while you're there," said the wolf. "It's the worst place for carnivores and don't listen to anyone who says otherwise."

'O-Okay..." Arthur wasn't too convinced but sensed a hint of urgency in Legosi's tone. He was a bit excited yet nervous about his first time out of campus with a friend. He just brought his backpack and inside were just his thermos flask along with a tote bag in case he finds a supermarket to buy some stuff for his dorm.

...

"Glad you could make it, Arthur," Aoba greeted him. He was interested to know how is it that Arthur is blind but could dress himself so well? Maybe it's his other senses that heightened when his eyes are useless.

"Thanks for inviting me for this, Aoba. You're right, it's nice to be out of campus once in a while."

Arthur's shirts like every other top had the sleeves cut out so that there's room for his wings. A black t-shirt with a white star in the middle and matching grey pants made him looked like his age. When in his school uniform, Arthur might as well be a third year.

"Say, how come you don't have glasses?" a confused tone asked. Arthur recognised the voice immediately. "I don't think glasses would be necessary for someone who is blind, Bill. Plus, I can't see light but I can feel it."

"Still, wouldn't everyone be creeped out by those soulless bug-eyes?"

Arthur said nothing. He wasn't sure whether to be angry or sad because no one has ever experienced his view of things. He could hear Aoba smacking Bill at the back of his head to reprimand him.

So a bat, an eagle and tiger were off into the town below the cliff. Arthur was thankful for his clicks improving, especially in crowded area where he could block other sounds to find his way around. The three of them boarded the train and soon they were on their way down hill.

Now Arthur may not know Bill too well so judging by his voice and tone, he must have something to hide under all that boisterous attitude. While Arthur may seemed creepy even to the regular civilians, Aoba stuck by his side. Even the Bengal tiger Bill was still baffled by how Arthur can function like a normal animal.

"So where are we going?" asked Arthur, feeling his backpack.

"Just a couple of comic book stores and maybe the arcade," replied Aoba, watching the scene going by from the train's window. "Probably have lunch somewhere too."

Arthur only nodded, letting his ears listen to the rumbling of the railway tracks and the footsteps. His hand-wings were wrapped closed to him, to others it would look like the bat was wrapped in a blanket.

"Seriously," Bill poked Arthur at the knee with a single claw. "How the hell can you function without a cane?"

Arthur turned his head, his cloudy blue eyes reminded Bill of sky getting dark due to rain. It was unnerving to the Bengal tiger.

"Bill, I'm seventeen not seventy."

...

Arthur was enjoying his outing with Aoba. He was still wary of Bill after that incident at the drama club. He wondered if Bill was angry with the bat biting him at the chin?

At the comic book shop, he listened to some animals geeking out on some characters while some complaint about certain expectations they have of each plot of the comics. It reminded him of his time with his dad and Sameer at the comic book store from his old home called Furbitten Planter. There, there were collectables and posters besides the basement chock full of comics!

If he ever goes back during the holidays, he hoped to invite his new friends to that place. He was starting to warm up to some so far...

At the arcade, Arthur was pretty much useless so he decided to wander down the streets all by himself. He reassured himself that he will be back because his landmark was a statue he felt outside of the comic book store. It was smooth, cool to the touch and the structure was so intricate, Arthur assumed it was a very important figure.

He could hear different sounds around him and smelled delicious food wafting in the air.

"I should wait for Bill and Aoba to finish and then have lunch with them," he murmured to himself. Along the way, he would try to find a grocery store. But it was difficult even when he politely asked for direction. That was the disadvantage of not having his sights.

"Hey, what are you doing here?"

'That voice again!' he thought to himself. He straightened himself up to face her. "I could be asking you the same thing."

"No," the harlequin rabbit, from what Arthur assumed to be shaking her head. "This is the department clothes store unless you're looking for a new dress."

"O-oh, I'm sorry then," he felt embarrassed to stumble into the wrong store. "I'll be on my way now."

But a paw had stopped him by holding the two fingers of his hand-wing. "Wait....Where are you going?"

Arthur was confused. Because her tone sounded curious and there wasn't that fiery tone he had gotten used to hear from her. He was getting suspicious but try to be as polite as possible. "I'm trying to find the grocery store or a supermarket."

"I can take you there."

Mizuchi wanted to slap herself. Since when does she decided to help out this blind bat? Maybe it's like what she said to him before, she pity him. In fact, she can't imagine not seeing the wonders and beauty the world has to offer. But his posture looked a bit stiff, realising why.

He was afraid of her.

Of course he is! Because ever since day one, there's nothing but disgust and loathing for the blind bat. It's better if an animal loses a limb because your senses are intact but when one important sense such as sight was not working, that animal is as good as dead.

Yet why does she feel like having bile rush up to her throat?

Thankfully, her two friends weren't here or else they would tease her non-stop. Sure she may be the leader of the group, but those two are starting to suspect her odd fascination with this bat. He looked calm despite walking together on the bustling street.

Both of them reached the supermarket and Arthur took out the tote bag inside his backpack. He flicked his ears to listen to the sounds that might confirmed him that he really is at the supermarket. The wheeling sounds of the trolleys, beeping at the cashier and sounds of bottles and cans clinking together in a basket.

"Oh, thank you," Arthur gave her a grateful smile. Mizuchi looked away, a bit embarrassed at how relieved he sounded. Not only that but even with cloudy eyes she saw what might be a twinkle. But then she noticed the faded scar on his cheek where she slapped him.

Realising Arthur was still waiting for her response, she cleared her throat. "Of course. It's my way of apologising....for your cheek..."

The Honduran white bat's ears drooped slightly. "It's alright. I understand why you're angry but I could be wrong. No need to linger onto what had happened. Best we push forward and create something new today. I have to go so I shan't waste your time any longer."

"Wait," Mizuchi called out, the bat turning around. Slowly, she grasped his two fingers of the wings. They were so delicate and his wings...it reminded her of a cape if he ever wrapped himself  in one before. He was taller than her of course, with her height of four feet eleven. But his large ears made him tower a bit over her.

"Yes?" asked Arthur, his head tilted in confusion.

"I don't mind...browsing around here," she told him softly. "I just need to clear my mind off something."

"I understand."

Mizuchi was surprised by his tone. Again, there wasn't a grudge or malice which meant that the bat meant what he said. It made the harlequin rabbit feel something but she can't tell what. But she hoped that the bat doesn't hear her ears drooping when she is relaxed, making her look like a lop rabbit.

"Oh, by the way my name is Arthur," the bat introduced himself.

The harlequin rabbit grasped his right hand-wing with her right paw and shook. "Mizuchi."

Chapter Text

Chapter 13

Arthur never would have thought that he would be doing groceries while the animal who helped him was the proud harlequin rabbit. He wondered if it had anything to do with the fight he tried to stop between her and Haru?

His ears were still erected, mindful of his surroundings as he visited aisle to aisle for the items he needed. Mostly just some fruits, packets of insects, jam, butter, honey, pickles, three types of cheese slices and of course, tea. He had to rely on his hearing and nose to seek out the items he wanted. He wasn't aware that the harlequin rabbit was still in the store but no where close to him.

Mizuchi was fascinated by how the bat, Arthur could handle himself well when doing such a menial task such as grocery shopping. His two fingers slowly tracing each item on the shelf, tapping some to listen to the content inside the cans and even to an extend had his cloudy blue eyes close to the smell of freshly baked bread at the bakery section. Who knew he could experience all these everyday routine as something so wonderful?

"You know," Arthur's voice made the harlequin rabbit jump. "You don't really have to follow me around to clear your mind. I can be boring at most times."

Mizuchi just smiled at him, wondering if he could sense it. "No, I'm okay. It's just that I am curious at how you can carry and find the stuff you need without having to see."

There's his toothy grin which is scary to some but it meant no harm. "Ears and hands can be my new eyes. I'm almost done so please, if you need to leave now just go. I can find my way back."

Mizuchi said nothing but watched him going to the bakery section and his ears twitched. The expression on his face lit up when he picked up a loaf of bread and listened to it, as if the loaf was like a phone. It was a precious thing to watch his leaf nose sniffing the scent of some cakes and his fur fluffed up.

The harlequin rabbit wondered why she was horrible to him before?

Once the groceries were done, Arthur paid for everything and decided to head back to the arcade. He hoped that he didn't stray too long for Aoba and Bill to notice that he was gone for a bit. While walking, he recognised a footstep next to him.

"So you are a third year?" the Honduran white bat enquired, his hand-wing holding the tote bag.

"I am," he could hear the nod in Mizuchi's voice. "Just this year and I'm finally out of here!"

"What are you planning to do after graduation?"

Mizuchi pondered if she should share her dreams with the bat whom she had tormented before this. But seeing as he meant no harm, she told him about her fashion designer dream and maybe one day become an apprentice to one of the top fashion brands.

"Sounds like you know what you're doing," Arthur chirped. "So forward and confidence in what lies up ahead for you."

Mizuchi at this point, was glad Arthur was blind. Because both sides of her cheeks were tinted with pink from blushing at his comment. But what's nagging her mind was that he and Haru are in the same club. She will confront him about it but so far, nothing nasty came out of her mouth.

"What about you?"

Arthur was quiet for a bit as they walked. "I'm not too sure. I hope I do before I graduate. Sometimes, I feel like all of us are rushing to be what everyone wants us to be but not enjoying the present moment."

...

Once Arthur arrived back at the arcade, he wanted to thank Mizuchi for the company but he could not hear her or feel her presence. Shrugging it off, he waited close to the door of the arcade to wait for Aoba and Bill.

"There you are, Arthur!" a voice boomed. "To think you'd stray off on your own is gonna put Aoba here into a heart attack. Say, you went to the supermarket on your own!"

He could feel a feathered hand touched his shoulder. "Arthur, why didn't you tell both us that you're going to head out."

The bat shrugged. "You two sounded like you were engrossed with the game. So while waiting, I might as well do my little errands before coming back. Seems like a plausible idea."

He could hear his bald eagle friend sighed in relief. "What's important is that you're back, Arthur. We were just thinking of having lunch and maybe stroll around town."

With the three of them agreeing to this idea, they went to this restaurant where all herbivores and carnivores go to for sandwiches and burgers. Now for carnivores, meat is forbidden and a crime so alternatives such as soy based burgers, insect burgers and eggs were used as their meat substitute.

Arthur was happy with his order of his cheesy garlic toasted sandwich which consisted of three types of cheese, buttered on both sides with garlic butter and a bit of grasshoppers. His sides were delicious large onion rings with a drink of ice lemon tea.

"So anyways," Bill continued his complaint about his girlfriend. "She keeps saying that I'm not so sensitive. Geez, I did everything I could for that girl!"

Arthur shook his head and popped two onion rings in his mouth. He was thinking about what song he should play when he gets back. He was mildly surprised that the harelquin rabbit who had bullied him before this is now helping him.

'Mizuchi, huh? That's a lovely name...' Arthur thought to himself.

...

Arthur decided to catch the train back despite the two carnivores' protests. The bat assured both of them that he enjoyed himself and he wouldn't mind doing this sort of outing again. It's just that he doesn't want to lug around his tote bag full of groceries while Aoba and Bill wanted to explore.

When he arrived at his dorm, he quickly arranged his grocery items before playing something on his keyboard.

He was trying to imagine what the harlequin rabbit look like and by judging her voice, he knew exactly what he was about to play tonight.

Needless to say, the campus felt the emotions of the mysterious musician.

Chapter Text

Chapter 14

When Arthur headed back to Cherryton alone, he wasn't surprised when he was greeted with a few whispers and some remarks despite his mythology presentation. Oh well, he knows that in life he can't please all animals.

"Look, he's back all alone," one of them sniggered. "Where's your eagle bodyguard, blind bat?"

"That's a lot of stuff for someone of a small body and having no eyes," another one commented.

"His eyes are so creepy!" he heard one of the female students whispered. "I hope he's not a Vampyrum in disguise. You know they can take up many forms and shapes!"

'Honestly,' Arthur thought to himself irritably as he made his way to the Chiroptera dorm, his place of zen and peace. In the present moment, he was just checking to see if he had to study for anything before Monday or he could just continue his music session in his own little world.

Heh, he might as well create one while he is in his room.

Suddenly, his phone rang and Arthur stopped whatever he was doing to answer the call. It must be Aoba, Legosi or even his old friend Sameer. Placing his headphones close to his ears, he answered the call.

"Hello?"

"Hi son!" a comforting familiar voice made the Honduran white bat's heart dropped. He wasn't expecting a call from him. "How are you settling in Cherryton?"

"Rough around the edges but found some good friends," said Arthur, his tone couldn't hold back the relief and happiness from hearing from his father again. "How is Manticore University treating you, dad?"

"The same," he could hear the tinkering laughter from his father. "Let me guess, they asked if you're a Vampyrum?"

Arthur blinked his cloudy eyes in surprised. "You too?"

It was nice to know that he was not alone in how the other animals saw him as. His dad decided to chat about his time at the university while Arthur told him of the new friends he has made and how his music kinda helped him go through with the motions.

"I'm glad you still find the time to play music, Arthur," there was a hint of pride in his father's tone. "Music to me, it's just as important as finding a discovery out of this world. I'd like to think of them as one being."

Arthur smiled, curious to know if his father discovered something. "So dad, any stars or planet decided to fall under your scope?"

"Ursa Major. The stars connect together to form a great bear in the sky and is the symbol of the north. Inside of her, you can see the Big Dipper, feels like a pot-pan shape if I had to describe it."

Arthur was excited about his father's discoveries of some of the stars and chasing planets seemed like an adventure. It suited him very well despite how some would call him crazy for it. Well to Arthur, anything seemed possible.

In fact, he could think of six impossible things before breakfast if he wanted to.

"I missed you, dad," said Arthur softly. 

"I missed you too, son and I am very proud of you. If you ever feel like giving up, remember our poem we both recited since you were a pup."

Arthur took a deep breath and recited: "Do not go gentle into that good night..."

"Old age should burn and rave at close of day..."

"Rage, rage against the dying of the light," Arthur finished the last sentence of the stanza. That last line got to him. All his life, he had to work his way harder than most animals due to him lacking the ability to see.

"Let's meet up once the both of us have a free slot in the weekend," his dad suggested. "It'd be good to explore the town together."

"I'd love that. See you soon, dad."

"Bye son. Take care of yourself."

When the click was heard, Arthur felt the need to play a song on his keyboard. Despite it sounding like a piano, he can switch it to a synthesiser or an organ if he wanted to. But the song that's been stuck in his head.

Slowly, he let his fingers glide through the keyboard as the sound echoed throughout campus.

...

Mizuchi was still thinking about her encounters with that bat.

He was nice and he doesn't seemed to be all that bad as she thought he might be. But she had to keep her encounters with him a secret or else she won't hear the end of it from her classmates. They knew her reputation as a harlequin rabbit.

In her dorm, doing homework while a new song was played in the evening.

It complimented the sky full of stars. It made her wonder if there are worlds beyond this mundane life on campus? An unknown journey that's waiting to be discovered?

More importantly, who is this angelic composer of all of this wonderful piece of music?

She decided not to focus too much on finding out who was the angel of music on campus as she has a lot of homework to do. Plus, before she took the train back to school, she decided to purchase a book she saw at the newsstand where they sold not just newspapers but magazines, confectionaries and some books. The book she purchased was called "Interview with a Vampyrum" by Fern Price.

And she is not keen on finishing it!

...

Arthur was tending the flowers at the gardening club before heading straight for class. The flowers were a bit lively in their conversation today.

"You had a fun time in town, Arthur?" Haru enquired as she was watering the sweet roses next to him.

"It's nice but I think I disappointed Bill and Aoba for not staying too long due to my grocery shopping."

"Oh, it happens. No need to feel guilty about it!"

Arthur was silent but continued his task carefully with his hand-wings. He could use a roost after this before class. Last night, he was having trouble sleeping. He deducted it to be him drinking a type of tea before bed.

"So Arthur, did you stumbled upon the Black Market?"

The Honduran white bat halted. "Excuse me?"

"Didn't Legosi tell you about it?"

"He warned me but didn't give me any details. What is it? Did something happened there?"

Haru looked away despite the blind bat staring at her. "You should ask Legosi about it. He will give you in detail on why you should stay away from that place. Especially if you are a carnivore."

Arthur was beginning to wonder if this also applies to omnivores like him as well?

Chapter Text

Chapter 15

Arthur was sure to confront Legosi about his warning about the Black Market. He noticed that whenever he uttered it out loud, some of the animals recoiled back, as if the bat was finally going to feast on their blood. He deducted it as something only carnivores know, since the animals who recoiled near his clicks were mostly herbivores.

Maybe he'll find Legosi later during lunch. In the meantime, he could finish up his homework before his next class which was Marine Languages where the students were supposed to take up languages spoken by the fish and other marine life.

For Arthur, he was mediocre at it because it was difficult to hear fish when his ears are clogged up with water. Back in Gryphon Cross, the animals that are naturally bilingual in the language would be those of the Ceteceans and Otariidae family since they can live in water yet breathe the same air just like any other animals.

The homework he enjoyed doing while listening to music would be mathematics and geography. He believed those two go well hand-in-hand plus geography helped him to imagine himself in different parts of the world and what sort of music do they play. In fact, he knew all too well that music is a universal language all animals can communicate with.

Once he was done with his homework, he head straight for his Marine Languages class with his braille textbook in hand.

From there, he bumped into a figure. "Oh, I am really sorry! I hope you are alright."

"I'm fine, Arthur," the gravelly voice of Legosi surprised the Honduran white bat. He had almost forgot that Legosi has attended this class because they were both seated according to the alphabet of their names. Unfortunately, Aoba had not taken up this class which the bat understood why.

Marine animals and predatory birds have a dark history with each other.

"Legosi," Arthur tried to call the grey wolf's name, hoping he's still around before sitting at his designated spot. "Can I talk to you during lunch? It's important and I would really appreciate it if we discuss it so that I could lessen the burden."

Legosi's eyes were wide at the urgency in Arthur's voice. He wondered if it had to do with the bat's outing in town with his friends. The grey wolf just confirmed with a tap to Arthur's shoulder.

There's just something about that bat.

...

This time, lunch at the cafeteria wasn't as crowded as before. Both the grey wolf and Honduran white bat got today's carnivore set for lunch:

Spaghetti and wormballs with garlic bread served with a drink of grape juice.

Arthur had put more cheese on his pasta compared to the sauce and wormball ratio as the two of them made their way to a table to settle down to eat. Legosi noted that the bat's cloudy storm eyes had a brightness to it when he inhaled the smell of his food.

"Oh, I haven't had spaghetti for a while," said Arthur as he twirled his fork around the weaving mess. "You're enjoying your meal, Legosi?"

Legosi ate his quietly but observed how Arthur eats in slow chews as if the bat was savouring a fine dining meal despite it being from the cafeteria. "You like cheese a lot, don't you?"

"I'm just craving crackers about cheese," Arthur answered through a mouthful before swallowing. "Just as much as tea. If I had my way, cheese can be use in anything but I doubt it would taste lovely in a cup of brewed tea."

Both of them ate in silence until Arthur decided to break the ice. "I went to town last weekend and I didn't stumble upon the Black Market. Now, I might be cautious about your warning but I can't help but be curious. What is the Black Market? Is it a carnivore hideout?"

Legosi leaned his head close to Arthur's face. "And how do you know about that?"

The bat shrugged, unaware that Legosi's expression was that of panicked. "I just assumed since I accidentally uttered it out loud and the animals close to where I was walking recoiled as if they were about to be eaten."

"That's exactly what the Black Market is," the grey wolf's voice almost rattled Arthur's hearing at how close his muzzle was to the bat's ear. He told the Honduran white bat in detail on his encounters in the Black Market during his outing with Bill, Aoba and Tao for the drama club. From there he experienced horror, hunger and the worst of his predatory instincts because he couldn't bring himself to eat meat.

"I see," Arthur's ears drooped a bit. "I'm glad you and Aoba didn't. It would be unsettling to do that since we have herbivore friends. Well...You, I suppose with Haru."

"Yeah..."

"I almost forgot," Arthur tapped Legosi's clawed hand. "Do you like Haru?"

Legosi almost chocked on his food when Arthur asked a rather intrusive question. He was glancing around, hoping no one else heard their conversation. Arthur had a small toothy smile on his face.

"I mean, she talks about you a lot and you sometimes visit her at the gardening club despite me being around. I might be wrong but I almost thought that the both of you are a couple."

Arthur had expected the silence. "Sorry, sounds too personal, isn't it?"

Legosi said nothing because he was stunned at how Arthur knew about it. Did anyone tell him? But knowing Arthur even by a fraction, it must be something he knew ever since he became a member of the gardening club.

Arthur decided to drop the subject by talking about music he thought would be satisfying for the flowers. At least that would take Legosi's mind off of the rather too personal question he had confronted the grey wolf with.

He hoped Legosi doesn't take it as an offence.

... 

Later that evening, Arthur was just walking around campus trying to clear his head. All of the lessons and homework today in class had given him a block in the mind. He couldn't think of what to play later at night.

So he decided to wander around campus, until he at least calmed down.

"Hello!" a sweet voiced was heard and Arthur felt someone tugging at his wing.

"Yes?" he tilted his head. "I don't think we've talked or interacted before."

The was a small giggled, Arthur noted it sounded harmless rather than patronising. "I think I've seen you but you're right, we haven't talked. I'm Els, from the drama club."

Ah, the drama club. Arthur's heart dropped because he remembered what he did that almost got him into trouble. He turned around to gaze at where the source of sound was coming from. He felt the hand that touched his wing was soft like wool.

"Oh, I'm sorry for biting Bill."

"It's okay, Arthur," the Angora sheep assured him. "I...was wondering if you're doing anything later."

"Nothing much aside from homework, really."

"Well..." Els said sheepishly. "If you are free, would you like to help us at the drama club for a bit? Our music was off due to a problem with our sound system. I was wondering while the system is being fixed, could you fill in for a bit?"

Arthur was hesitant about helping the drama club since all of the members knew he was the one playing the music every night. But he wondered if any one of them had spread the word about his virtuosic talent. He was not the one to take huge crowds well...

"Um...are there a lot of animals there practicing?"

"No, it's just the dance team for our rehearsal. And no one knows about you playing those songs except us. There are a few instruments you can test out but we can tell you what to play."

Well...that's reassuring to say the least. Arthur pondered if this is a way to make up for head-butting their president and biting Bill.

"Alright," Arthur finally nodded. "Lead the way."

Chapter Text

Chapter 16

Arthur had his back straight up and ears erected incase he might bump into anybody. Els steered him towards the dance room at the back of the drama club where the girls are practicing. From the sound of it, Arthur could tell the steps of the dance was off.

But who was he to judge when he himself danced like a clownfish having a seizure?

When both the Angora sheep and Honduran white bat entered, the rhythm of feet began to drop and there was that silence Arthur is so familiar with. Well, of course a non-member would be questioned so easily!

"Wow, Els actually brought him!" one of the members whispered excitedly.

"Look at those fingers," another added. "They're as long as his whole body!"

"Duh, they're part of his wings!"

Arthur wasn't sure whether to say something or not. But a small clap silenced the excitement of the dance students. It was Shiira, the choreography director. Arthur hardly knew anyone in the dance section of the drama club so he felt a bit intimidated.

"I'm glad Els convinced you to come," the cheetah told him. Arthur stood still, his ears wiggling a bit to gather all of the information he could muster. "The last time you played was really something."

Arthur tilted his head. "Oh yes...Hope it didn't mess up your rehearsal when I first visited the club."

Els tugged his wing gently. "No Arthur. It was amazing! So, we got some instruments and our music director, Mokichi can give you the briefing on the sounds in our club and let you try out some of the instruments. Shiira can tell you about the dance that we're practicing."

Arthur only nodded in understanding. He really doesn't know what dancing is like due to his blindness but he figured the movements and steps in the rhythm is similar to making a beat in the music. After all, what's a dance without music?

"Hey, we must make him feel welcome here," Arthur heard a soft, feminine growl. Was there a wolf in here?

"Juno's right," he heard another nodded. "Look at his ears flicking frantically. Hey, are you still there?"

"I am," said Arthur, a bit confused at the students' behaviour towards him. "Please, you can tell me how do you want the music to be played and I will do my best."

There was murmuring so Arthur folded his wings closer just as one would do when folding their arms when feeling nervous. A clawed hand gently held the two fingers of his hand-wing with utmost care. Her fur felt so soft, almost like curls compared to the bristled fur he

"It's okay. I don't think I've met you before or heard you play," the soft voice of the canine assured him. Arthur felt comfortable around her.  "Maybe you would like to demonstrate for a bit?"

Arthur lifted his head, at where the voice was and nodded. "Yes, that would be nice. By the way, are you a canine by any chance? Sorry if it sounds wrong but your voice is almost similar yet softer than Legosi's."

"Yes, I am," the voice had a small yip. "I'm a grey wolf as well like Legosi. My name is Juno."

"Arthur," the bat introduced himself with a small smile. "So, what is the instrument and song I'll be playing?"

Now there were excited murmurs as they were about to witness the bat who could see through music. They have chatted about it outside of the club but no animal would believe them. They couldn't imagine a blind animal being able to play music without having to read the sheets and only learn to play by ear.

Arthur was guided to what he felt was a smooth, wooden instrument and the seat was very comfortable. He tapped the instrument, satisfied that the wood structure was hollow in the middle. Testing the keys, he concluded that it's the same piano he had played before.

"Whenever you are ready," Shiira called out.

Arthur began to play his little tune. The dance team and the music team were stunned at how melancholic it felt. It was the polar opposite of the upbeat song he had played before. If there's a scenario to describe this tune, it would be like an arrow pierced into the heart, a feeling where one would cry but the tears won't fall, yet it is hopeful and excited about the possibilities ahead.

Almost a slow waltz.

Once Arthur was done, the team clapped for his performance, making the bat a bit embarrassed.  Needless to say, there was some sort of respect towards him but he knew not all animals will be comfortable around him so he kept his distance.

"That was sad but beautiful," said Juno. "Did you come up with that yourself?"

Arthur laughed and shook his head. "Not really. That was just a soundtrack from a movie my dad used to watch while I listened. I just enjoyed the pacing and the tune it carried. So, shall we start?"

So Arthur, under the supervision of the sound choreographer Mokichi, the European badger filled in to play the music as the dance team rehearsed. The Honduran white bat convicted himself that he doesn't know the play the drama club was doing or have the idea of imagining how the show was performed.

It was like giving him a smooth, blank paper.

He was told what kind of emotions to portray in his music and it has to tell a story. In a sense, Arthur has to build the world through what he could hear, feel, touch and his other senses while he lack sight.

...

He was glad when practice was over because he would love to brew himself a nice cup of ginger-cinnamon tea and eat crackers with Maple Mite spread on it. 

He was feeling proud of himself when he played the music but was cautious with the students around him since he hardly knew them except Legosi, Aoba and even to a certain extend, Bill.

Arthur hummed to himself, brushing off the dust from his wings in the bathroom while waiting for his tea to be ready. He himself won't understand why some animals don't prioritised grooming or make themselves look presentable.

To him, it doesn't matter what animal he surrounds himself with so long as he carried himself the way he always wanted to be.

Just then, there was a knock on the door.

"Hey Arthur!" a booming sound was heard outside of the Chiroptera dorm. The bat knew who it was but placed an empty glass at the door to listen. "You're free later tonight?"

"It depends, Bill. What brings you here?"

"Aw come on! I just wanna get to know you better!" the tiger pleaded. "I just heard from Els that you were great filling in while the system was being fixed. Shame the rest of us didn't get to hear it."

Arthur had a mental debate whether to let him it. He allowed Bill inside but he didn't let himself turn around, afraid he might get pounced and there was no way he would ever tangle himself in another situation like that!

"Please, have some tea," the bat offered. "Hope you don't mind the spices in this one."

"Hey, not at all," he could hear the loud assurance from the Bengal tiger. He assumed he might be nervous as well. The both of them drank in silence, it was a bit awkward for Arthur since he doesn't know what's Bill's intention of visiting him.

"So," Arthur broke the silence after sipping his tea. "Do you need something?"

"Oh yeah! I was wondering if you would like to hang out in town? I know a good place for a meal and let me tell you it'll save the budget in our allowance. Besides, you're done with your little grocery shopping so you should be okay."

"Bill, this is very sudden."

"Don't worry about it!" the tiger insisted. "After we're done, we can go get some ice cream. What do you say?"

Arthur was hesitant about this but he hasn't experienced the town at night. Maybe it might give him some insight.

"I'll think about it."

Chapter Text

Chapter 17

Mizuchi was hanging out with her two friends on campus. They were sitting together at the bench while life goes on as usual. Both the black cat and raccoon was starting to suspect something was off with the harlequin rabbit.

She has been quiet lately but still regarded their main target, Haru a threat.

Was it because of her ex and how she wanted them to be back together? Or was it-

"No, it can't be," Riley the cat shook her head. Both her and Tanya the raccoon were drawing out possible conclusions as to why Mizuchi was acting all quiet ever since her weekend shopping trip. They had a possibility of why she's acting this way.

Right now, Mizuchi has been keen on reading the novel she bought in town and there wasn't a sign of her showing interest in talking to her ex. There was even a time where the both of her friends talked to him behind her back but he has moved on.

"Mizuchi," Tanya tapped her friend on her shoulder. "Is there something wrong?"

The harlequin rabbit looked up from her book. The plot was intricate, romantic yet melancholic and all it took was her friend to break her out of her concentration. "What do you mean?"

"Well..." Riley hesitated, her tail swished nervously. "Ever since you came back from your shopping trip, you've been..."

Mizuchi shuts her book to look at the black cat in the eye. Despite her being a herbivore, her jade-green eyes were very intimidating on her half-black and half-white face with her ears sticked up straight.

"I've been what?"

"What Riley is trying to say is that your ears were down ever since you came back. I mean, not all the way down but you know what I mean!"

The harlequin rabbit rolled her eyes. "You do know I'm a rabbit, right? Of course I can let my ears down!"

"Since when do you read novels?" Tanya pointed out at the black paperback book in the rabbit's paw. "Especially something that sounded like a horror romance."

Mizuchi can't understand why her two friends were so worked up about it. "I don't always watch my favourite shows or follow celebrities on Roaragram all day! What's the matter with the both of you?"

Both raccoon and black cat exchanged glances. "Did that eyeless bat cursed you?"

Mizuchi's eyes were furious. "What the hell! Don't you need sights to see what spells you are casting? If anything, he might hurt himself more and did any of you see him causing harm to anyone?!"

Now, Tanya and Riley got their answer. "You met him, didn't you? While you were in town?"

"So?" Mizuchi huffed. "He just stumbled into the clothing store, thinking it was the supermarket. Girls, why are you acting like this?"

Both the raccoon and black cat decided to drop it since the harlequin rabbit now looked irritable. Just then, Mizuchi's eyes went wide at something that walked past her. Oh, she has to confront her about it!

Haru was just on her way to the cafeteria for an early dinner when a firm paw grabbed her by the elbow. She groaned at who was her attacker. "What do you want? Haven't you caused enough trouble already?"

"Where is he?" Mizuchi demanded, gripping the dwarf rabbit's elbow a little too hard.

"Who?"

"Arthur!" Mizuchi shouted before realising what she just said. She covered her mouth but regain her hoity-toity attitude. Haru raised a brow and tilted her head.

"Wait, how do you know his name? Scratch that! Why the hell do you care?"

Mizuchi dragged Haru close. "None of your business. Now tell me, did you sleep with him?"

Haru kicked her in the shin to make the harlequin rabbit let her go. Haru stamped her foot in anger. "How dare you assumed that! He's a sweet bat and I see him as a little brother. As the gardening club president, stay away from him."

Mizuchi wanted to fight back but seeing the monstrous grey wolf approaching them made her think twice. The harlequin rabbit was left to her own device. Quietly, she decided to retire to her room at the Lagomorph dorm, deciding to binge watch her favourite competitive reality shows.

She might want to meet him again but it will have to be discreet.

...

Arthur decided to meet up with Bill and go along with the tiger's offer.

After all, it was one way for him to understand the night life here compared to the night life in his old town. He remembered hanging out with Sameer, having roasted nuts as they explore the town and city before heading back home every Friday night.

The only time Arthur remembered he ever got into trouble was stepping on a homeless animal, he thought it was just a worn out mattress just by the texture and springy bulk he felt under his feet. 

Ah, he shouldn't be dwelling so much on the past since he is living in the present at the moment.

He was wondering where is Bill taking him, judging by the rumbling in the Bengal tiger's chest, somewhere exciting. Arthur could hear his own stomach rumbling like a vibration of a railroad track that indicated that a train is coming.

"So where are we going?" asked Arthur, padding close besides Bill.

"It's a surprise. Think of it as a turning point in your life!"

Arthur was now confuse by the tiger's respond to his question. "A more specific hint?"

"Um....you're going to sample some food with me."

The Honduran white bat's steps were slower so he used his clicks and ears to try and make out where are they going. So he estimated that they're going to a bustling place that sells food. Much like the hawker shops he guessed or a market like the Farm Market he was familiar with back at his old home.

When Arthur sniffed, his leaf nose twitched at a scent that seemed very nauseating:

Blood.

"Bill," Arthur coughed on his wing. "Please tell me you didn't bring us to the Black Market."

There, he heard a halt in the tiger's step. "Wait, you know about the Black Market?"

"Legosi told me. So why are we here, Bill?"

The tiger was silent but staring into those foggy blue eyes in the dark was creepy for him to come up with an answer. Arthur waited, his expression was a slight anger.

"Bill, I'm not a Vampyrum! I get sick easily around the scent of blood and isn't meat forbidden for carnivores? What about your herbivore friends in the drama club?" 

There was silence and that was all the answer Arthur needed. He needed to get out before he threw up in public.

But his ears heard dialogues from the other carnivores at the market:

"Look, that tiger brought a bat! Is he going to sell him?"

"What's wrong with it's eyes? Can that thing bring good luck!"

"Oooh! I know a recipe for a soup on that thing! I can roast it's wings like crackers!"

Arthur's heart was pounding with fear. He was not going to linger around and be some animal's special dinner. He tried to hear for Bill but the footsteps of the tiger was no where to be heard. This made him worried.

"Bill, where are you?" he called out.

He walked quickly, trying to get away from the market but his mind was panicking, making him click all over the place. His thoughts were fuzzy and he felt bile rushing up to his throat. He was glad that he doesn't have to see the horrors this market had to offer.

Just then, he felt a rush of some force hitting him on his head, making him fall to what he smelled, a bloodied ground.

Chapter Text

Chapter 18

Arthur had never felt so nauseous and dizzy in his entire life.

The closest hit to the head was when he had dropped down face first from a tree branch to practice breaking his fall. 

He tried to move but felt his wings were spread apart by force and the two fingers felt like they were being cuffed. The more he tried to move, he could feel the membrane between the wings going to tear. He was sure that some animal knocked him out and now he's in an unknown location.

He was terrified, small tears trickled down from both fear and pain.

"Arthur, oh I thought you were dead!" a sighed of relief was heard on his left. Now the bat narrowed his blind eyes at the direction. He could hear the nervous shift in the figure's body movement.

"Bill," Arthur's tone became eerily quiet to the point it was almost inaudible. "Where are we? What happened?"

So Bill explained that after the bat's refusal to participate to try stuff at the Black Market, he turned away and the tiger saw something approaching Arthur. Before he could catch who was the attacker, he too was knocked out.

"You were also knocked out?" Arthur asked, still baffled how could Bill with perfect pair of eyes not know who attacked them while they were at the market. Arthur tried to slow his breathing because if he could feel his heart hammering inside his ribcage, he was worried about dying from shock than what's up ahead for the both of them.

"Yeah. Look Arthur, I'm sorry I brought you to the market. Usually most carnivores salivate or even run but you calmly walked away but your face looked like you were about to throw up."

Arthur nodded, still trying to wonder where they are while Bill rambled on his apology. "Bill, I'll forgive you later. Now, we need to get out of here."

"I don't think that is possible," a velvety growl made Arthur shudder at how terrifying it sounded. He could feel the shift of Bill's body being close to him.

"Where are we?" Arthur asked, trying to hide the shakiness in his voice.

"Why, you're in our mansion of course!" a younger voice answered. "Your friend there had the balls to try and stop us. Isn't that right, tiger? Trying to steal food from the Shishigumi now?"

Arthur tilted is head in confusion. He's never heard of this organised group but Bill's voice sounded scared under that loud tone.

"Hey! I'm not trying to steal anything!" the Bengal tiger protested. "This bat is my classmate and I'm not letting him be your dinner!"

"Um, sorry to interrupt," Arthur directed his face at the unknown voices. "But what is the Shishigumi? What animals are you?"

There were some murmurs before an incredulous voice roared: "You don't know who we are? Are you blind or something?"

"Yes, I am."

The was a pregnant silence before Arthur heard whisperings amongst the unknown animals. He tried his best to lower his head to talk to Bill. He could feel his own neck about to snap as if he was on the noose. "Bill, who are the Shishigumi?"

"They're the top crime bosses here," the trembling tiger whispered. "A gang made up of a pride of lions and they are the ones controlling the Black Market. You don't want to mess with them!"

It was difficult because Arthur could only judge animals based on their voices and tone.

Arthur was scared for the both of them. They both could be dinner but for Bill, he has heard of some crimes where carnivores were targeted for specific parts of their bodies for medicine and aphrodisiac purposes.

"What are we going to do?" Bill whispered nervously. "I don't want to be a rug!"

"I don't know," said the bat. "Is there a way to negotiate them?"

"Arthur, you're gonna be killed if you start talking to them!"

Both tiger and bat heard multiple footsteps coming towards them. Bill's eyes were wide with fear but put on a brave face. He let out a growl to warn the suited lions to back off. But a warning from a gunshot made Bill clamped his mouth shut.

"Look, we are not sure what to do with the both of you," said the lion with the mohawk mane-style. "Our boss will not be around  for two weeks so the rest of us will be handling this together."

Bill moved closer as if to act like a shield to Arthur. It's more of an apology for dragging him into this situation. "Leave him alone! I-"

WHACK!

Bill was hit on the head with the butt of the gun. One of the lions, the one with the 'X' mark across his face approached the bounded Arthur as if he were inspecting an intricate piece of artwork in a gallery. Arthur could only focused his head at the direction of the sound.

"You're not much to look at," the lion murmured. "But you're not from here, are you?"

Arthur shook his head. "No...At least not on this side of town."

There were whispers among these Pantheras but Arthur could pick up what they're saying. Needless to say, there's a chance that they are not going to let him and Bill out.

Not alive, at least.

"I don't know if we should eat him," another voice brought up his concern. "Do you think because he's blind, it might cursed us if we eat him?"

"I don't believe in superstitious nonsense, Agata. This bat looked like he's staring at us but he's not going to do anything. Besides, defective animals will be the ones to go first before herbivores."

Bill felt sorry for Arthur. He must've gone through all of that crap just because he can't see. But the bat was unfazed but was tilting his head despite the pain of his wings being stretched out too far.

"Please," Arthur pleaded. "You don't want to eat me or kill Bill. The teachers in school will suspect us missing and then call the police who will hunt you down."

"Arthur," Bill hissed. "Don't-"

Another hit to the head to shut the tiger up. Despite how tigers are biologically larger than lions, lions are known for their ravenous hunger that could kill even a carnivore. After all, it is in their taxidermy history that they've been in the bloodiest of battles amongst all felines.

"Hmm, he has a point. What should we do with the both of them?"

Footsteps from one of the lions were heard again through Arthur's ears. He could feel a single, claw digit running down his sensitive membrane of his wings.

"Well, let's see if they can behave while they are here. Maybe we might let them go or..."

Arthur held the roof of his mouth with his teeth to stop himself from screaming in pain as he felt the sharp digit tearing through his left wing's membrane like a knife through a ship's sail.

Chapter Text

Chapter 19

Bill could only watch in horror as the lion began to tear at Arthur's wing membrane with a single claw. It wasn't like a slash but more like a slow, painful drag as though the claw was a box cutter poking at the taped package.

He himself was restrained by two other lions despite them being slightly smaller than him.

But he had to admire Arthur for not screaming or showing how much he's in pain to give into these lions' satisfaction. Those cloudy blue eyes seemed to be gazing right into the lions, he wondered if Arthur could imagine what they would look like.

"Your will is strong for a small bat," the lion commented. "It would be a shame to eat you and skin off your friend over there."

Arthur doesn't want either of them to be killed so he had to think fast. He's not as smooth or charming as some animals who could sweet talk their way out of trouble so he decided to experiment on something.

"Um...could you tell me why do you like to eat meat?"

All the felines were baffled at the bat's strange question. Arthur, held his head up despite the pain in his wing.

"I'm just curious why since there are alternatives the food engineers and scientists have been manufacturing. Like insects, arthropods, arachnids, annelids, molluscs and even the bean-based burgers. They are delicious and can be cooked in various methods."

Arthur shouldn't have said that because his stomach was growling. He hoped he could stand the pain for a bit, despite the gory image he imagined that his stomach lining has been destroyed by the bubbling of his stomach acids.

He needs to eat and have tea.

"He's creeping me out with those eyes!" one of the voices called out. "Let's just take out his eyes and be done with it!"

"Miguel's right for once," he heard another huffed. "I mean sure, bats have the most succulent meat but they have those teeth for biting us and sucking our blood."

Arthur hoped Bill is still conscious. He was afraid if he was all by himself in this den full of lions. He imagined it's like the history he had learnt when he was fourteen about prisoners, both carnivores and herbivores becoming lion food in a bloodied sport that was sponsored by the emperor back in the days.

He prayed that history does not repeat itself in this predicament.

"I'm not a Vampyrum," Arthur told them, trying to resist the searing pain. He might as well have no arms to match his blindness at this point. "I may be blind but I'm sure you can see my reflection in the mirror."

He felt the pain stop and with caution, he was lowered down and unbounded.

The first thing he does without thinking was stretched his left wing and winced when he felt his long fingers being loose. The membrane was torn and it would take at least a week for it to heal! He shifted closer to where he could feel Bill's tail swishing anxiously.

Both bat and tiger huddle close in each other's company without saying a word. The both of them want to get out of here as soon as possible.

"We might change our minds about keeping you. But there's something we want to find out first."

Bill brought Arthur close to him, feeling protective of the brave bat.

"If you could convince us about this 'alternative' food that might change our palettes, we might let you go. But if you try anything funny, the both of you will be the main course for our late night supper. Do we have a deal?"

Bill glanced at Arthur, who looked calm but he was sure that the Honduran white bat was panicking with his two fingers on each wings shaking as he sealed the deal.

"Okay, a deal."

"I hope you know what you're doing Arthur," Bill hissed in a whisper. "You're playing a dangerous game."

"Which you dragged me into," Arthur's ear twitched irritably at the hissing noise when Bill whispered too close. "I'm just going with the flow of the situation."

...

Mizuchi was enjoying the dinner at the cafeteria. Which was unlikely because it's the same item on the menu they have served every night for the herbivores: Chargrilled vegetables with gluten free bagels and potato-pumpkin soup served with a carton of beet juice.

Maybe the food was delicious because of how the harlequin rabbit was busy finishing the last chapters of the book she had purchased. It had a sad ending but Mizuchi was happy that at least the couple confessed their love for each other before the Vampyrum in the story was murdered.

She wondered what happened to the music that flowed throughout campus at night. It was too quiet. Sure it was nothing before but when that bat arrived, things have changed. The harlequin pondered if ha had anything to do with it.

She still felt guilty about bullying him because he never picked a fight with her or the fact that he can't see she or any of the other animals could. Mizuchi wondered if their meeting in town was the road to learning more about him.

And about herself.

Eversince that meeting, her long ears perk up when she thought of him. She shook it off, telling herself that they could be acquaintances but it would be difficult because she had scratched his cheek, picked on him  on the first day at the cafeteria and even told him to kill himself.

"Sheesh!" she stamped her foot, feeling frustrated. "I never thought this way to anyone before. What is wrong with me?"

"Something wrong, Mizuchi?" it was her friend Riley, the black cat. The harlequin rabbit was thankful that her friend was here because night on campus is scary because of the carnivores using the darkness as their ally.

Mizuchi gave her friend an assuring smile. "More than fine. Tonight's dinner was up to a different standard and there's no homework tonight."

Riley was suspicious of her friend's answer but decided not to question it. The both of them walked towards the herbivore dorm so that Mizuchi could get to her room safely. Along the way, she noticed that the harlequin rabbit was silent during the walk.

She wondered if that bat had anything to do with it. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 20

Arthur was escorted to the kitchen rather forcefully but the bat won't struggle because he knew that this organised group meant what they said about him and Bill getting eaten. Arthur relied on his ears and nose for this.

Despite the fact that he is in a tight situation, he felt his heart rate calming down. He focused on his task of preparing a meal for hungry lions while he felt someone standing too close to him. Arthur said nothing but thought of a song he would like to play when he gets back, a nice cup of tea and a good braille book to read. Maybe a mystery series or a fantasy novel will do.

Oh yes, the Honduran white bat was comfortable alright.

Bill was indeed with him this whole time, describing to Arthur about the surroundings and what he could see in the kitchen. He was grateful that Bill doesn't mind being the bat's eyes while they are in this predicament.

"So what are you making, Arthur?"

The bat had a small, cheeky smile. "I can't tell you but it's got some insects in it. Because of what  we've heard, let's see if this works. If not, it is worth a shot."

Bill was confused by Arthur's optimism in this dire situation. "What makes you so positive about it? Aren't you scared at all?"

Arthur's expression became serious. "Of course! I'm more terrified than you. I know there's a lion here watching our every move but if we play our cards right, hopefully we can go home. Besides, our Dorm Mother is scarier than these pride of lions."

Bill couldn't help but chuckle. "Yeah. Okay, just tell me what do you need to see."

So Arthur does the handiwork while Bill guided him on what the bat could not see. The lion in the background name Dolph was watching the pair with fascination. All his life in the Black Market, he never knew disabled animals could be capable of carrying out tasks just like any other animals in society.

In his perspective, handicapped animals were usually locked away so that society doesn't have to look at them. Or the most merciful thing to do to a handicap is to end their suffering. But this bat...

This bat looked contented in his whole demeanour despite the fact that he can't see.

He guessed that as he grows older, there's more to learn from those younger than him.

What surprised him and the Bengal tiger afterwards was the little hums that was barely audible to hear but they were certain that it came from the Honduran white bat himself.

Needless to say, Dolph was interested in what this blind Chiroptera has in store for them

...

Arthur was nervous at what he was serving to the table with the Shishigumi. He hoped the plating was how he imagined it. Thankfully with Bill, he assured the bat that his dish looked fine. He had whipped up stuffed pasta he made from scratch and the filling was cheese and grasshopper which was his favourite and it was cooked in butter and chopped up herbs, giving it a welcoming aroma.

He could only listen to the clinking of cutleries and the occasionally gulping in the room. He wrapped his wings across his body like a safety blanket. He winced a bit when he tried to stretched his torn left wing, smelling the faint scent of his own blood.

There was silence except for the occasional incoherent mumbles of these big cats.

"I think your pasta's good," Bill whispered rather too closely to Arthur's disc-shaped ears. It sounded like a hissing of a leaked pipe that was bound to explode. But Arthur managed to shake it off and smile.

"Thanks," he whispered while his ears focused on the hungry lions. "Though their organisation and mannerism through their tone reminds me of a crime novel I used to read. Family, violence and even holding hostages to gain something that they want."

"Sure but you know this is real, right?"

Arthur sighed dreamily. "I don't know. Sometimes life can imitate art rather than the opposite. We are all caricatures of some magical story while the story in the book itself sounded real to me. But my perspective of things are limited as you can see."

Bill said nothing, not sure how to respond to Arthur's view of what's reality.

Once Arthur heard none of the pride eating, he was nervous. What if they are next on the menu? Has he done enough? Can they go home? What's going to happen to them?

"Not bad, bat," he heard the light tone of one of the lions. "It was interesting to say least but this could only be rated as a hor dourves. You better come up with something better to convince us to let you go."

"He can play music!" Bill blurted out much to Arthur's horror. It was uncomfortable to be put into the spotlight but he tried not to show it. This got all of the lion's attention. Now Arthur was not seen as food but as a toy that most cats get excited with!

"Oh yeah? Let's here you play then, bat! Agata, show him where the piano is."

Arthur let the paw grabbed his right hand-wing and led him to sit down on a rather comfortable stool. He tapped the frame of the instrument, satisfied by the hollow echo it was producing before he could lay his fingers on the keys.

He has to think of a song quickly before he would become soup or Bill is going to become someone's traditional medicine.

Now for the Honduran white bat, he was comfortable with music but when his audience are an organised crime group, Arthur was feeling knots in his stomach and he might as well tear off the membrane from his right wing to even things out.

But the soft chuffing sound he heard from his left somewhat calmed him down. He can't explain why but it gave him a pinch of confidence to play the notes that he felt deep inside his heart.

He decided to play a song that reminded him of his favourite crime novels. Oh, what would he give to reread it and collect his mystery series again? He realised that he could but priorities come first such as school and homework.

The song would've been more dramatic if Arthur had time and patience to practice on string instruments like the mandolin or guitar that required all of his fingers just as he is doing with the piano.

But the problem is that his two fingers could snap the nylon strings with ease.

The atmosphere of the mansion felt heavy through the notes that resonated with what the bat felt. It was fascinating to much and so beautiful to listen to. It was as if these Pantheras are put into a trance with this song that reminded them of a deadly waltz.

Arthur was certain when the flick of his ears caught the sounds of murmurs of approval from those lions. But he has to mentally prepare himself for the worst.

After all, bats are just mice with wings to most animals.

"Well," he heard the voice of one of the lions he couldn't recognised. "I wished our boss was here to see this. He's a bit particular about things and you might fit right into his expectations. So, I take it you and your friend here want to get out?"

Arthur only tilted his head, his cloudy eyes not blinking.

Suddenly, he was grabbed again but the strength could literally crush both of his wings if he tried to struggle. He could hear punches from where Bill was and then, both of them were thrown out.

Arthur landed, getting a cut on his chin. 

"Don't come back unless you want us to change our minds about you!" the voice called out.

Without hesitation, both bat and tiger ran out into the night, hoping to find the nearest train station to hop on. Arthur noted to himself that he needs to get to the school's medical wing to at least get his wounds treated.

"Arthur," Bill panted after they ran for what seemed like hours. "You were pretty brave back there!"

The bat could only let out a sigh of relief as they walked together. He was too exhausted to answer back to which the Bengal tiger decided to let him lean close to him for support as they made their way to the last train before the station closed.

Chapter Text

Chapter 21

Arthur found it difficult to walk on campus towards the infirmary. He figured it had something to do with him all tied up and the fact his left hand-wing's membrane was torn, leaving him a bit vulnerable and bloodied.

He hoped no other carnivores smelled his blood.

Bill knew Arthur was about to collapse ever since they were on the train back to school. So, he decided to carry the Honduran white bat until they reached the medical wing of the infirmary. The Bengal tiger was surprised at how light Arthur was considering he has fluffy white fur. He allowed the bat to cling onto the tiger's back while his wings draped over Bill's shoulder. It made Bill feel like he's wearing a cape or a very furry backpack with hand-wings as the straps.

Of course, the nurse was horrified at what she saw when a tiger came in with a bloodied bat. She glared at Bill before prying Arthur off of him to get him treated. Now the tiger was left alone, feeling guilty that he had put Arthur at risk and injured.

'Great, now everyone is going to think that I have hurt him,' Bill thought to himself as he watched Arthur being placed on the medical bed. The nurse had to patched up his wounds and fed him a few sips of water which the bat gulped down as if he had crossed the desert.

Bill decided to leave, heading straight towards the cafeteria, finding a way to make peace with the bat.

As he was making his way to the cafeteria to order something for Arthur to eat, his muttering was a bit loud, making some animals eavesdrop.

One of them was a surprised harlequin rabbit.

...

Arthur was wincing in pain as the nurse injected anaesthetic into him so that it numbed the pain on his left wing. He was debating whether the stinging pain of alcohol applied to his bloody wounds or the fact that he felt a needle with thread being sewed into the membrane of his left wing was the worst thing to endure.

His stomach growled, realising he hasn't eaten anything since his little 'adventure' with Bill. Speaking of which, he moved his mouth a bit to click, trying to find another presence in the room besides the nurse. 

He wanted to speak but the medication made his mouth feel numb as well. Arthur bet that he sounded like a drunken sailor at this point.

The Honduran white bat's ears swivelled around to hear at least a different sound that might comfort him. Something about the medical wing and hospitals gave him an unsettling feeling. It's like the slow caresses of the Reaper was finally going to take him after he struggled to fight for his life.

But he knew that's just an exaggeration!

"Are you okay?" the nurse asked with concern. Arthur can't make out what kind of animal was she but the tone of the voice suggested that she might be a herbivore. He smiled and nodded.

"I'm okay. Is my injury that horrifying for you?"

"Nonsense! Yours is minor but I might have to talk to your dorm mother about this incident that you're in and there's a chance you need a day's rest so I need to see your timetable to let the teachers know."

Arthur's ears drooped a bit. "Ah, but the problem is that my timetable is in braille."

Before the nurse could say anything, the door of the infirmary was opened and Arthur recognised those voices.

"Arthur!" the voice of Aoba gave him a sense of relief. "I almost molt my entire feathers when I saw Bill muttering to himself and got some bruises on his face. I'm glad you're okay. Bill told me what happened and I just can't believe it."

The bat gave a small laugh. "Neither could I. I was surprised when the both of us are still alive and not some animal's main course."

The bald eagle couldn't help but smile at how Arthur is still lightening up the mood despite the pain he's in. He placed his wing gently over his friends shoulder. "I'm sure this pain will pass. You're a fighter."

Arthur grasped Aoba's wing with his two fingers. "I'm just doing what I can to keep me and Bill safe. Speaking of which, where is he?"

He heard his eagle friend sighed. "He felt guilty for putting you through that ordeal. He asked me to give this to you."

Arthur felt a round, warm object placed into his wings. He sniffed, inhaling the scent of wok-fried noodles, he could tell by the texture when he felt it and the wobble of the fried egg yolk that was going to be runny when he sliced it opened.

"Please, give him my thanks," the bat lifted his head at the direction where his friend was. "Aoba, please come sit with me if you like. I feel bad that you are just standing there."

The eagle complied to the bat's wish and sat at the chair close to the bed. So the both of them just chatted while Arthur ate his late supper. He never realised that he's been gone since six o'clock! It was almost an hour to midnight.

"Don't worry about tomorrow," Aoba assured him. "I'll record the lessons and let you know what homework we're getting."

"Aoba, I can't thank you enough," Arthur thanked him, grateful to have a friend like him. He clicked to check his surroundings again and was disappointed that he could hear faded footsteps. This meant that visiting hours will be over soon.

The Honduran white bat had never had this sort of excitement and thrills ever since he left Gryphon Cross. He remembered when he was in primary, he and Sameer would have some adventures but that was tame compared to his encounter with the Shishigumi.

He hoped that Bill was okay after that ordeal.

When it was close to midnight, Aoba bid him goodnight while the bat was left with his own thoughts in the infirmary. He flexed his left wing but winced when he felt the pain where the wound was sewn.

It's going to be disappointing, playing his instruments with one hand-wing. But he knew that he will have to be patient and accept what's been given to him. 

Feeling tired, he wrapped his wings around his body before letting himself be bounded by the blankets. He felt like a larva going through the stage of metamorphosis. 

All he could do now was try to fall asleep.

Chapter Text

Chapter 22

Arthur was woken up by the nurse for his morning medicine before having breakfast. The Honduran white bat was reluctant but accepted it since he wants to get better. He was told that he could return to his dorm by the afternoon since his stitch might heal for a while.

"But," the nurse warn him. "I don't want you to do strenuous physical work that might tear the seams. No carrying things, no fights, et cetera."

Arthur only nodded in understanding. It's going to be difficult but he hoped that this problem will pass. After all, he has played instruments with one hand-wing before.

Just then, his ears detected footsteps coming towards the infirmary. He tilted his head, wondering who it was.

"Arthur!" the female voice he recognised tackled him into a hug much to his surprised. He heard another set of footsteps after her.

"I'm okay, Haru," he assured her. "Just mind where you are holding since I have these stitches. And hi, Legosi."

"Okay? Okay?!" Haru sniffed. "You came back late last night all bloodied and everyone thought Bill the tiger attacked you! Legosi, tell him that the drama club was thinking about suspending him."

"He didn't attack me!" Arthur shouted, much to his own surprised. Both Haru and Legosi were stunned at how the bat just snapped. "Bill and I were kidnapped. While we were hostages, the both of us got injured before we escaped."

Legosi told the nurse to give the three of them some privacy because he caught a distinct scent on the bat despite him being coated with disinfectant. The grey detected a scent that is associated with felines. But it was not from Bill...

Sensing both the dwarf rabbit and grey wolf want an explanation, Arthur told them the story on how both him and Bill were kidnapped by the Shishigumi for food and souvenirs. He was certain that they were going to die in that mansion.

"They didn't try to make you strip or something?" Haru prompted. Legosi placed a large hand over the rabbit's shoulder to comfort her. He knew how traumatic she must have felt during that time.

"What? No!" Arthur shook his head. He was confused by Haru's question. "They just bound me as if I were a prop for a dagger-throwing act in a circus. Wait, you two know the Shishigumi too?"

Both Legosi and Haru exchanged glances whether to tell the bat about their experience with those organised crime of lions. It was Legosi who talked softly about his encounters with the Shishigumi and how Haru was kidnapped to be eaten. Arthur listened to the story with interest and his cloudy blue eyes widened.

Haru wondered if it was difficult since Arthur wouldn't know what he actually looks like since he can't see his own reflection and emotions. Hell, the way how Arthur explained his encounter with the Shishigumi compared to her was more like he was picked on by a brute of a bully.

"That's scary..." Arthur managed to speak after Legosi's narration. "I..I never knew they were that vicious. Because with me and Bill, it was like a typical cat behaviour of playing with their catch. I was surprised that they allowed me to convince them about food alternatives, let alone let me play a tune on their piano."

"Luck is on your side, it seems," Legosi commented. 

"I thought I really was going to be a bat burrito for them," the Honduran white bar wiggled his ears, trying to get rid of the irritable dust he felt in the ear canal.

Haru shrugged and patted the bat's shoulder. "Hey, the good news is that you're alive. Say, once you've recovered, let's plant something new into the garden. You got any suggestions?"

Arthur pondered, tapping  his patched up chin with a single digit of his finger. 

"Hmm....maybe some herbs or tea leaves. You told me that you sell flowers to pay for the club's expenses, right? Why not we try and grow herbs and sell them to the bakeries? I bet they'd be happen to buy off students."

Haru smiled before looking at Legosi. Both of them agreed that this was one way to make the gardening club more presentable despite having only two members at the moment.

"You're onto something, Arthur," Haru admitted. "I'll see what I can do. Get better now, you hear? Don't worry, I hope to plant some poppy and we could cultivate the seeds."

Arthur's expression was something to cherish. "Wait, I didn't mean-"

"Hey, I'm just kidding!" Haru laughed, poor Arthur thinking that the club president was going to milk the poppies and sell them. "We have to go now. Get some rest!"

"See you soon, Arthur," Legosi waved at the bat goodbye but realised that Arthur couldn't see the wolf waving at him. But Arthur just smiled and decided to finish the breakfast the nurse had given him:

Warm porridge with green tea.

While in the process of finishing his meal, his ears picked up another set of footsteps coming inside the medical wing. He was trying to make out who it was but the footsteps were a little heavier than Haru's but not heavy like Legosi's.

"Hi, I heard what happened," the familiar voice he heard when he was in town said it awkwardly. Arthur was surprised that she's visiting him considering her status. He didn't hear the proud tone in her voice but rather...

Concern.

"I'll be alright," Arthur assured her. "It's just a tear in the membrane and cuts. How have you been, Mizuchi?"

"The same," she scoffed, thinking back about how her friends Riley and Tanya have been bombarding her with questions about her outing. She didn't revealed to them about meeting this bat.

It's not because she's embarrassed to be around him but...

She fears for his life. As a blind animal, the world will be their enemies even in the most tranquil setting. 

"I'm afraid I can't attend classes today," Arthur spoke up, making the harlequin rabbit look into his foggy eyes curiously. "Sure, it's a blessing but then the next day the teachers will ask us to recap what we learnt the day before or test us. It's such a demand when we could only grasp so little."

Mizuchi giggled at the bat's rambles. "Yeah, I know how that feels."

There was a silence between them until Arthur decided to break the ice. "So, do you have a hobby when you're relaxed?"

'Should I tell him?' she wondered. But then, he has nothing to lose except his sights anyways. His eyes don't look that disturbing now that she's close to him. 

"You know, just following some animals on social media, watching dramas on my laptop and read."

Arthur nodded, his ears giving their full attention. "Well, I might be old fashion but I read those adventure and fantasy novels. They're so descriptive, so detailed are the prose and the worlds that's been written."

Mizuchi looked around to listen if anyone is hearing their conversation. Sensing there's no one except the nurse, she gently grasped his two fingers. Arthur tilted his head by the sudden contact.

"That sounds nice, when you put it that way. Maybe next time... we should talk more?"

Arthur smiled, making the Harlequin rabbit look away. "I'd like that. If our paths ever crossed."

"Yeah...."

Again, there was a pause but this time Mizuchi spoke up. "I should get to class. I hope you recover. Really, I mean it."

"And, thank you for visiting me," Arthur directed his head at the source.

Mizuchi hoped that Arthur is not a mind-reader. Because the way he talks and how he accepted her holding his two fingers was something she wouldn't mind doing with him again.

In secret.

...

Arthur was back in his dorm, freshening up before checking the voice messages on his phone. He hoped to to finish his homework and notes before he could play some music for himself.

He was debating whether to play his harmonica or recorder since he's feeling a bit lightheaded today.

The bat sighed, knowing he has a lot to catch up. Which is why he brewed cardamom tea and turmeric tea to boost up the dopamine that will lift his spirits because he knew even during his Gryphon Cross years that homework is every student's worst enemy besides the exams.

Once he had completed at least half of his work, he decided to take a break by sipping a nice cup of turmeric tea with some ginger snap biscuits before he could play a song. He figured a harmonica will do because he's been thinking about an adventurous thought.

He wondered what would his fate be now that he's a Cherryton student. Will he have adventures even if it's as mundane as going grocery shopping? Will he explore places he's never been to? Oh, such possibilities even if he is confined in his dorm with the music he cherishes.

Suddenly, there was a knock on the door and Arthur placed an empty glass at the doorway to listen.

"I heard about what happened to you yesterday," the voice on the other end almost made Arthur's heart drop to his stomach. "Bill went on and on about his side of the story but I want to hear yours."

Arthur was hesitant. He had headbutted him on their first meeting and now he wants to talk to him. The bat slowly unlocked his door and let the visitor inside before locking again.

"Have I...done something wrong?"

"Well, it depends on how you would tell me. Then, I'll be the judge of that."

With his whole body quivering with fear, Arthur wrapped his wings around his body for comfort before he recapped the predicament that he and Bill got themselves in.

Chapter Text

Chapter 23

"....And after that, Bill and I were kicked out of there," Arthur finished his story about being captured by the Shishigumi. He sipped a bit of the cardamom tea he brewed, even offering some to his reluctant guest.

The bat kept his fingers close to him, being cautious in case they might be grasps and crushed.

"So Bill was right except he exaggerated some parts," his guest remarked. "So tell me, did they try anything on you?"

Arthur shrugged. "Besides bounding me like a marionette, no. So, how's your stomach? I hope I didn't fracture anything. And, I apologise for feeling you up since I didn't know what kind of animal are you."

"Please, you caught me by surprise but nothing was hurt, thankfully," his guest, Arthur imagined was waving it off. "Anyways, did those lions tell you anything at all?"

Arthur tilted his head in confusion. Why would Louis be interested in the Shishigumi? The Honduran white bat thinks that this deer was stranger than all the mysteries in fictional novels. Where was he going with this conversation?

"No...But they seemed to be fond of their boss. Respect him, from the sound of it."

"I see..."

Arthur was tracing the brim of his cup, waiting for what the deer was about to do to him. He had to think of something because the silence with the presence of Louis in the room was making him uncomfortable. It's not because he is afraid of Louis, but the bat hardly knows him.

"Arthur, what does your father work as?" Louis inquired. 

"An astronomer at the Manticore University," Arthur answered. "It may be exhausting and sleep-depriving but he managed. The planets, galaxies and theories to uncover and research about are his passions. He likes to think of it as communicating with the world beyond the ones we know."

He heard a shift in the seat, the sound of sipping tea made the bat's ears twitch. "My father runs a business conglomerate," Louis told him. "He wants me to take over his organisation once he retires. However, that's not stopping me from wanting to become a Beastars."

Arthur could hear the a small sigh in his tone. "Sounds difficult from the sound of it. But, we just try to make the best of things. Like the sea, the waves will crash or make a maelstrom but in the end things will be calm just like the tides that changed every night. It's how I imagined how things are..."

Louis was silent. He doesn't know what to say about Arthur's enigmatic thoughts. He guessed that it was something he had since the bat was blind and in a sense, this is their perspective of how the world is.

Poor, naive little thing.

"Well, I got what I was looking for," said Louis, the sound of the chair moving indicated that he was standing up. "Don't tear out that stitch."

"I won't." Arthur faced at the sound. Louis was slightly unnerved by those cloudy eyes that stared back at him. It reminded him of a cumulonimbus cloud that was starting to form a thunderstorm, the light kind.

"Oh, and one more thing."

"Yes?"

Louis leaned close to the bat's ear and whispered something which made Arthur covered his mouth in shock. It was something he didn't expect from the deer, let alone the main star of the drama club.

"Louis....Are you serious?"

"Yes. Can I trust you to not tell anyone about this?"

Arthur laughed dryly. "Most animals would already think that I am mad and have descended into the abyss if I say it out loud. Or maybe I'm from the funny farm."

Louis smiled, knowing that Arthur meant what he said. He surveyed the Chiroptera dorm, noting that it had a higher ceiling than most dorms he had known. Plus, the four notable instruments that were in different parts of the room.

...

Bidding the red deer goodbye, Arthur let out a huge breath of relief. He was alright and that's the way it should be. He decided to brew blackcurrant tea for its tartness yet fruity after taste. It was a mentally exhausting day for him and he could use another mug of tea.

Just then, his phone rang and he immediately answered it, wondering who it was.

"Hello Arthur~" the smooth, chuckling voice greeted him. The Honduran white bat smile at who it was. "Hope I am not interrupting your busy day, today."

"No, no, Sameer!" he assured the caller. "I'm just resting today after a hectic night I experienced ever since I moved here."

"Oh, do tell and don't leave out any juicy details. You know how we are with thrills and adventure."

So Arthur told Sameer about the events and animals he met during his first time in Cherryton. From the gardening club, playing music secretly in his dorm, Aoba and even the drama club. They talked while Arthur hung upside down between the gaps of the bed.

"You haven't change, my friend," Sameer chuckled, the back of his throat having that hissing sound. "Wherever you go, adventure follows. So, you haven't met a girl since your time there?"

Arthur thought back about Haru treating him like a little brother and Mizuchi.

Ah yes, that harlequin rabbit that was fascinating in terms of her voice and her interest.

"Well, well~" the voice of his old friend purred. "That silent indicates that you have a special interest in someone? Would you like me to translate 'Thousand Nights' in braille for you? There's a section if you want to do Drawbridge~"

Arthur blushed, his fur fluffed up more than when he dried himself. "N-no! There's no need to translate that book for me! You know I'm not into those romances no matter how descriptive it is."

"Relax, I'm just teasing you," Sameer laughed on the other end. "You leave the spice to me while the sweetness is yours to execute. By the way, I have some good news to tell you since your departure: Beppi has completed his chemo therapy and will be discharged soon."

"What? That's fantastic! That means he will return to school and you guys..."

Arthur remembered some of the great memories he and Sameer had with his other friends in Gryphon Cross along with the crazy adventures they used to do. He hoped to have a new adventure now that he's a Cherryton student.

"Hey, no matter where we are, you're still my friend," Sameer told him gently. "Who knows, maybe one day we'll have a reunion out of our busy life. You, me, Beppi, Maccus, Tek and Daymas. The six of us as a crew again."

"Yeah, thanks for calling me. I've been so busy with my new life here and hearing from you again is a breather today."

"Anytime, my friend. I have to go now ."

"Bye."

Arthur smiled at the thoughtfulness of his old friend and catching up with him. Now, he has to focus on the present with his new friends, adventure and life. Sometimes, it's not always easy to adjust to new places but what does he have to lose?

He decided to swing himself while listening to music on his phone before he continued to rock himself while upside down.

Arthur was wondering what does tomorrow have in store for him. To the bat, life can be an adventure.

"I wonder what Aoba's doing at the moment?" he asked himself.

...

Mizuchi was hanging out with her friends, Riley and Tanya.

The three of them were discussing about which band is better in terms of the attractive guys or the catchy music.

"Say, you ever wonder who is playing all of that music every evening and morning?"

Mizuchi sniffed. "Don't know but those tunes are beautiful, right?"

"Yeah!" Riley meowed while her tail was up. "Shame we don't know anyone here who plays instruments on a daily basis."

The three of them continued their talk until a certain someone walked pass them. It was Mizuchi's ex-boyfriend! He seemed to be carefree chatting with his own group of friends, not sparring a glance at the harlequin rabbit doe herself.

"Do you think she's going after him?" Tanya whispered to the black cat.

"I don't know, she seems to be daydreaming lately," Riley whispered back to the raccoon.

Mizuchi overheard what her friends were discussing behind her back. Honestly, that was the least of her concern right now or the fact that her ex just walked past them. Is she still going to pursue him? Maybe!

Yet...

'Arthur,' she thought to himself. 'He's such a strange yet whimsical thing to talk to. I hope he recovers soon since he's very interesting to hold a conversation with.'

However, her mind drifted back to the idea of her harlequin rabbit breed is going extinct. Would she have second thoughts about it?

Oh, life is such a game show with its choices and temptations!

Chapter Text

Chapter 24

Arthur was so thankful that he was able to return to classes the next day. 

Despite the fact that he had a day off yesterday, there's no rest when you are a student. He wondered if secondary schools like these are like a practice paper for students to buck themselves up for the real world.

But where does he stand?

He decided not to dwell so much on that idea and head straight to the gardening club, which became a routine for him before attending class. After all, he has packed some breakfast he collected from the cafeteria and has a thermos flask full of peppermint tea to wake him up today.

The soothing, wafting fragrance of the flowers greeted him the second he opened the door that let to the rooftop. He heard humming and the whooshing sound of the plants getting their natural  drink from the water. He still can't understand the incoherent chatter amongst all of the flowers. 

"Morning Arthur!" Haru called him. The bat smiled and his body was like autopilot when it came to tending the flowers. Haru was glad that he looked better, even with the stitch being so faint at the membrane. She was still trying to figure out how to hear her flowers just as easily as the bat was doing.

"So, did anything happen while I was absent yesterday?" asked Arthur, who was petting a flower's petal with a single finger. The dwarf rabbit thought he looked cute, cocking his ears at some of the bed of flowers and moving his mouth a bit without a sound coming out.

"Nah, the same things as always," said Haru, who was ticking off the tasks on her list. "Hey Arthur?"

"Yes, Haru?"

"Can you tell or know what colours are?"

Arthur's head faced hers, those eyes of his seemed to be like a thick fog at night. His expression looked neutral but there was a quizzicality in the mixture.

"Honestly, it's still a confusion concept to talk about. Even if you describe it to me, I cannot imagine it or understand why some objects are related to the colours since I can't put them together like a puzzle piece. An example would be if you tell me that the sky is blue and it's the same like ice, I still can't understand it. You know, because I can't see anything."

Haru never thought that even something as simple as saying the roses are red can be confusing to the bat. She never thought that having the ability to see was something to appreciate until now. Arthur, sensing the club president's disappointment patted her on the shoulder.

"Haru, it's okay. I learnt to accept the fact that I can never understand what colours are but it doesn't mean that I ignore it. To me, I can describe to you what certain sounds are to me or the direction of the wind changing when it howls. To me, I guessed that's my version of colours."

The dwarf rabbit sighed but nodded. Arthur smiled, his eyes were closed as his little leaf-like nose was snuffling about among the new plants she had planted yesterday. She smirked, placed both of her hands on her hips.

"You know what they are?"

"I didn't know you would plant these catmints and chamomiles!" there was a hint of giddiness in his tone. Haru couldn't help but smile at this strange bat. Arthur inhaled the scent of the new plants and nodded, his mouth moving but not a sound was uttered.

'A bat's thing, I guessed,' the dwarf rabbit thought to herself. She wished she could hear what her children are saying. After all, she's the one who planted them and watched them grow!

"I'm sure a bakery would accept these," said Haru. "I don't think either of us know how to dry them up before portioning them in bags. I just know that these two taste good when it's harvested."

"Plus, both of them are good for you to reduce stress," said Arthur, who was now taking off his shoes so that he can hang upside down on one of the rafters of the little greenhouse. "I wouldn't be surprised if those and the lavenders you planted are used in potpourri bowls and incense."

The dwarf rabbit was starting to understand why Arthur liked all of these types of herb and leaves. Not once has she ever seen him snap or lash out in anger. But he does get angry at some point in his life, right?

She might attempt to ask him if he knew that her bully was starting to have some interest in him. But right now is not the best time.

...

Arthur thanked Haru for the gardening tips and exchanging some plant stories to each other before he was ready to leave. He was not keen on the upcoming test for physics since the chapter involved light reflections and refractions...

Of course, not a day goes by now with some students commenting about him. This time, it wasn't just his eyes:

"Looks like the Vampyrum is back!"

"I heard that he and that tiger got into trouble! Do you think he ever bit that feline?"

"His eyes are more blurry than my own fogged up glasses!"

"Let's hope he doesn't turn all of us into the undead!"

Arthur shook his head at the nonsense these students were theorising. He bets that Bill was also facing the same problem both in and out of the drama club. He may not know the big cat well but just by his tone and sound of the body movement, he had a gut feeling that Bill was experiencing some sort of anxiety.

The Honduran white bat thought none of it and made his way to the auditorium where he was seated six feet away from other students since it was the perfect distant when doing the test. Unlike the other students, his paper was already translated in braille so all he had to do was input the answer through his brailler machine.

"How are we going to concentrate when grandpa over there is typing morse code!" he heard a student behind him hissed her whisper.

"That guy's either born too early or too late in his life," another voice mumbled.

Arthur had his ears back, trying to focus on his paper rather than the idle gossips amongst the other students.

...

The Honduran white bat was thankful that he had finished the paper before the time was up. He wasn't confident in the light refractions since he himself is bad at drawing and interpreting how the object was seen at the angle where the light rays were shone.

He decided to find a place to have a cup of tea from his flash when a large claw-like hand touched him by the shoulder.

"Hey Arthur!" the booming voice of Bill greeted him. Arthur turned around towards the sound.

"Hello Bill. Feeling better after that incident?"

"Fine. How about you? These herbivores kept thinking that I was going to eat you."

Arthur laughed. "I think you'd be coughing up more hairball if you do. So, I hope we don't experience that again."

"Agreed! I was going to be a rug and you are probably a trophy. Anyways, let's just have lunch to make up for that incident. Plus, I promised you ice cream, remember?"

Ah, Arthur almost forgot about that!

"There you are!" the sound of Aoba's voice made Arthur cocked his ears. "I could use something to eat after that test."

...

The three of them seated themselves at the cafeteria, having the carnivore meal of rice in a bowl with eggs simmering on top. Arthur listened to Aoba and Bill discussing about some scenes from their drama club.

The only time Arthur ever wished to see would be to understand films or theatres.

Just by the soundtracks and scores alone, Arthur could tell that the story will be amazing. Whether it's an epic adventure, a whimsical musical or a dramatic fanatic play with a soliloquy. He knew the music that accompanied the stories were enough to let him imagine.

Even though his imagination doesn't make sense!

"Anyways," said Bill after gulping his milk. "Do you think we might even get a chance to choose what kind of plays we're doing after Adler?"

"It's not for us to decide," the eagle spoke slowly. "You know that's up to Louis and Sanu, right?"

"Yeah..."

Arthur wished he could do something about this but it is not something he is capable of since he is not a member of the drama club. But it wouldn't hurt if he tried to cheer his friends up?

"Can you tell me the story about Adler?" asked Arthur, his cloudy blue eyes were wide with wonder but both eagle and tiger swore that they could see sparkles on the glassy surface.

"You wanna know the whole plot and the characters?"

Arthur nodded. "If you don't mind telling me. Is it like the Sharkspeare Company? They have a few tragedies and a setting that made you feel like you're in the Golden Age."

Seeing his friend's curiosity, Aoba told him what their play was about. The Honduran white bat listened with interest, turning his head back and forth from the exchanged conversation between eagle and tiger. He was starting to sense that Bill was slowly calming down even if he's masking it behind that confident boomed voice.

...

Later, Arthur decided to retire to his room with Aoba following behind. 

He brewed the both of them some Lady Grey tea with some honey to accompany it. He didn't sensed a small parcel near the door but the bald eagle certainly did.

"You got a package, Arthur," his friend informed him. "It's from your old school in Gryphon Cross."

"Oh? I wonder what is it," Arthur murmured curiously as he felt the solid frame of the unknown object that was wrapped in a crisp paper that he was so familiar with whenever he went to the post office.

Unwrapping it carefully, he used his two fingers to traced the object. He sighed softly.

"It must be a picture frame. It's nice but I don't think I really need it. I can give it to my dad when I have the time."

Aoba looked over the bat's shoulder and almost held back a laugh. He figured this picture was taken at least three years ago. 

Who knew he looked adorable in a scout's uniform!

Chapter Text

Chapter 25

"So, can you tell me who are these animals in the pictures?" Aoba asked as the both of them were hanging out on Arthur's bed. 

Well,  Arthur was hanging upside down with his feet holding the edge of the bunk bed while the eagle himself laid on his stomach to face the Honduran white bat while he still has the photo frame at hand.

"Sure, but will have to describe to me the animal and where was the photo taken," Arthur nodded, his ears wiggling to listen. He stretched a bit, letting his wings almost touching the floor where the faint stitch from the left-wing membrane was exposed.

Aoba smiled, seeing Arthur looking so relaxed after the whole ordeal he went through with Bill plus the fact that they had just taken their physics class test which will count towards their grade. He wondered, if Arthur does take failure well or not achieving the expected marks that most so desired?

"This photo looked like it was taken some years ago," Aoba described while Arthur had his ears fully erected. "Were you in some kind of camp before moving here?"

"Oh, the summer camp!" Arthur squeaked excitedly. "We had that every summer break unless our families had other plans. But there, we had some amazing adventures even if it's just us with the counsellors and the cabins."

Aoba wondered if the summers here should have some sort of activities like this camp so that they don't have to do just the homeworks all the time! In the picture, there was Arthur with  five other animals with the background of the forest and a cabin with a symbol the bald eagle guessed was water with the shape of a swirling wave. All of the six animals were wearing the same uniforms, some wearing hats but all of them had badges over their fronts.

"Each cabin can house six animals," Arthur explained as Aoba described what he saw in the photo. "We're all selected at random and those animals became our lifelong cabin mates. Mine's the Maelstrom Cabin."

Maelstrom? A very extreme name of a cabin for such a cute Chiroptera like him...

"Sounds interesting," Aoba clicked his raptor beak thoughtfully. He traced a feathered finger on one of the animals in the picture. "In this photo, the first animal I'm seeing first is a Spanish fighting bull. This guy looked like he's been working out."

Arthur's leaf-like nose twitched in amusement. "That bull's Daymas. He's Gryphon Cross' star athlete and the one who won't hesitate to fight. I remember Sameer spars with him a lot despite him using more brutal moves while my friend is graceful. The sound of their movements are very different to me. But, he has severe allergies to tomatoes which he guarded it fiercely or else it will ruin his reputation."

Aoba nodded and then decided to ask about the raven. But what's so bizarre about this Corvid would be the beak, which Aoba described as looking very synthetic. The Honduran white bat had a despondent look on his face. The bald eagle placed a comforting wing over Arthur's back.

"Ah, you mean Tek? He's always agitated and always prioritised his studies of science over small things like resting or even having a meal. He's really smart but I wished he wouldn't put himself in harmful situations either in school or anywhere really."

"Arthur, are you saying he-"

"Oh no!" Arthur assured his friend. "He doesn't subject himself to self-harm. It's more of an accident in most situations. That's why he wore a prosthetic beak to hide his injuries and a metallic right leg. I remember when I touched them, it felt surreal to know that it was on my friend. He was starting to become some future cyborg like in those sci-fi novels."

Aoba then looked over at the strange animal that looked like a dog but is not a dog with those red ears and some scars on his face. "There's also this one that looks like a dog but I've never seen one with round ears and face..."

"That's our Beppi," Arthur explained while swinging himself up to sit on the top of the bunk bed with the bald eagle. "He always finds a way to prank us even when the rest of us tried to be one step ahead of him. I think he laughs, tell jokes and all to hide the fact that he has aggressive skin cancer."

"Oh...I'm sorry to hear that..."

Arthur draped a hand-wing over his friend's shoulders. "Don't be. He's been in and out of chemo for quite sometime now. I just received news from Sameer that he's going to be discharged soon and will resume school."

Aoba was fascinated on how these animals are so different yet they get along so well just by how Arthur described them. He wondered if this camp and Gryphon Cross was like their drama club where carnivores and herbivores set their differences aside and be friends.

"I didn't know you have a shark amongst your group of friends," said Aoba, clicking his beak. "He has a funny-looking head and how can he be on dry land if they have gills?"

Arthur laughed. "Oh, Mr Serious A.K.A Maccus? Our marine friend has special gears that felt like headphones to put on their gills in order to breathe. Of course, Gryphon Cross had tunnel tanks and aquariums for the marine students to move around. Only those Cetaceans and Selachimorphas can set their caudal fins to act as legs when out of water."

"That's really cool," Aoba mused. "I bet we could practice our Marine language skills if we have more marine students here. So you say this...Maccus is serious?"

"Oh yes!" Arthur nodded excitedly. "He hardly talks unless it is necessary. So overtime, I sort of understood his grunts and mumbles. But he's good with chemistry, his knowledge of the sea life and even carpentry. But overall, he's a nice hammerhead shark."

Aoba laughed, imagining these group of animals acting like the relationship he had with some members of the drama club. Besides performing, there wasn't anything other than hanging out after rehearsals or even now with the Honduran white bat.

The final animal in the picture was something Aoba wasn't expecting. The only animal left on the photo frame besides Arthur was a very handsome Egyptian cobra with his eyes that resembled carnelian jewellery he had seen his mother used to wear while his slender body had sandy-gold and black scales with the adorned hood.

"You weren't expecting Sameer to be a snake, judging from your stunned silence?" Arthur teased, his cloudy blue eyes were twinkling with amusement. "Even though he is an Elapidae, Sameer is my first friend and almost like a brother to me."

"Really?"

"Oh yes, he was the first to make me feel comfortable on my first day at school and the both of us became fast friends, to the point our families visit each other. He may be smooth and charming, even an excellent fighter but all he's fascinated about are historical sites and artifacts since he wants to be a curator at the museum or travel to ancient sites."

Aoba was intrigued by the idea of Arthur having some kind of adventure with these group of friends. He would like to have these kinds of adventures as well. The both of them wanted to relax before resuming their homework before tomorrow.

"So Aoba," Arthur flicked his ears. "Would you like some tea and chocolate biscuits? All of this talk is making me hungry."

His bald eagle friend laughed. "Sure Arthur. Next time, I'm bringing bags of chips if we are going to keep having tea."

...

"Are you sure about this?"

"I'm positive, Tanya!" the black cat hissed. "I want to know if that bat had anything to do with changing Mizuchi. He could've hypnotised her with those bug eyes of his!"

"But he's with that bald eagle, plus there are other animals at the cafeteria," Tanya the raccoon told her. 

"We'll just have to wait," her feline friend insisted. "Mizuchi hasn't been herself lately and I don't think she ever wants to talk about her ex nowadays."

Both cat and raccoon were watch the Honduran white bat walking towards the cafeteria with his eagle companion beside him. Both of the girls were wary of that bird's sharp beak that could tear out flesh.

"But there's one thing I got to admit," Tanya sighed.

"What?"

"I've never seen Mizuchi smile in a relaxed manner and had a dreamy look on her face."

Chapter Text

Chapter 26

Mizuchi decided to relax rather than join her friends for dinner tonight. Lately, they've been acting strange for her to hang out around them. Not to lie, she loved her friends but their unnatural behaviours were starting to weird her out.

She figured maybe she'll call for takeout tonight to be delivered outside of the school's compound. She needed some time for herself and lately, the teachers have been firing more homework at her. Mizuchi wanted to slam her head on her desk.

How the hell was she supposed to know pressure and momentum when she is living in the moment?

She decided to complete her math homework tomorrow and she can't understand why her science homework needed her to learn physics on topics like magnets and electricity as if she was some engineer. Those aren't things needed if she wants to be a fashion designer!

"I won't even understand a thing if I tried to search for the answer online," she complaint to herself. But her mind was drifting off to other matters.

She wondered what that bat Arthur is doing right now? 

The harlequin rabbit was starting to suspect something out of that Chiroptera, with his attitude during their first encounter and now she can't help but smile at him. Has she thought about her ex and the idea of them getting back together? Yeah, but it's not as extreme as it was before.

Mizuchi has seen him hanging out with his friends, still bragging about cute girls but never about her. She remembered Haru's warning about staying away from that blind bat. It was an inner relief to hear that the Netherland dwarf rabbit only saw him as a little brother rather than be part of the bunny's string of harem.

She shouldn't think too deep into this because the last encounter was her visiting him at the infirmary, he sounded happy at her presence. She remembered how retold her about his favourite novels, a hobby she couldn't imagine him doing because of his blindness.

But then, that bat is proof that anything is possible. Well, most things...

She remembered her mother's words when she first enrolled into Cherryton: Be proud of herself and her efforts.

Efforts? Well, Mizuchi knew that wasn't the case with her ex, even if he was the only other harlequin rabbit in the school. But with Arthur, she felt like there was some sort of progress when she was around that Honduran white bat. She still has a pang of guilt on how she first treated him when she first encountered him at the cafeteria.

Bless that bat for being so forgiving!

Mizuchi wondered if one of these days, she will make time to talk to him. Something about his voice which complimented his fogged up blue eyes reminded her of those characters in children's storybooks. She had her ears down when she remembered how they both held hands at the medical wing.

It was comforting and she wouldn't mind doing that again.

Just then, her phone buzzed to notify her that her that her food order of veggie burger with sweet potato fries and cherry cola have arrived.

...

Arthur just finished his dinner with Aoba at the cafeteria. Tonight's menu for both carnivores and herbivores were udon noodles. Now for Arthur, he only knew the food by touch, smell and even sound. Noodles and pastas to him reminded the bat on worms, the most succulent annelids to eat. Rice is like those tiny maggots that wriggled in some of the leftover food as well as caterpillars with their leaves.

The only difference between carnivore and herbivore's udon is that carnivores have eggs inside while herbivores get lotus root and some boy choy leaves.

As Arthur was slurping his hearty bowl of noodles, his ears swivelled at the atmosphere in the cafeteria. Not many animals which he expected because he knew some animals would rather have dinner in their dorms or have takeouts.

"Whatever happens, Arthur," Aoba's voice broke the bat from his thoughts. "I know you can always find a way. You might not know it or maybe you have but I've seen you holding your head high and moving on when it comes to any situation.."

Arthur's fur fluffed up in embarrassment. "Oh, that's a very nice way of putting it. Most of the time I just move with the rhythm or go with the flow. I might not know how you look like, Aoba but I can tell that you really are mature and intelligent."

Now it was the bald eagle's turn to be flustered by Arthur's compliment.

The both of them chatted about some movies and game stories whether if there's anything to change about the plot or the music that accompany it. The two of them were so engrossed with their conversation that even Arthur couldn't hear the approaching footsteps coming towards their table.

Aoba noticed the black cat and raccoon approaching them. Clearly they have something in mind, specifically their gazes were at Arthur as if they were going to prey on him. The bald eagle placed a wing around his friend's back.

"Hmm?" Arthur tilted his head at his friend's gesture. He opened his mouth slightly to click and realised who were the two unknown animals standing at their table.

"Hi," he heard the purr from the cat. "Sorry to disturb you boys but can we borrow the bat after dinner?"

Arthur was not sure but he felt his eagle friend bringing him close. "And why is that?"

"No reason at all," Arthur heard the chitters from the raccoon. "Just need to ask him some questions." 

The Honduran white bat sipped his boxed drink of  ice lemon tea. "Would you like to sit down with us? You can tell me from there on."

"Thanks but no thanks," the heard the cat meowed. "We'll meet you outside of the herbivore dorm once you are done." 

With that, the sounds of their footsteps faded away. Arthur has heard of those girls before even if it was brief. They were friends with Mizuchi, the harlequin rabbit.

"Do you know those girls?" Aoba asked him in confusion.

"Sort of. Something tells me that they're having some kind of problem."

"Do you want me to go with you?"

Arthur gave the bald eagle a reassuring smile. "I'll be okay. So, see you in class tomorrow?"

"Of course."

...

Arthur had walked his way to the herbivore dorm, guided by Aoba before he left so that the Honduran white bat can talk to the girls. He wondered what do they want him for?

"You kept your word after all!"

"I have a feeling this has something to do with Mizuchi?"

Arthur could feel a pair of claws gripping his shoulders, a low growling voice was heard close to his ear. He hoped this is over soon or else he would lose his shoulder blades.

"Very good, detective," the cat purred. "Now that you know why you are here, tell us what have you done with our friend."

Now Arthur was baffled by this interrogation. He focused his head directly at where the cat's voice was. Riley was a bit unnerved by his lifeless eyes and the white fur shining under the moonlight made him resemble a ghost.

Or a phantom at least with those ears and wings!

"I've done nothing to her," said Arthur. "You can ask her that yourself. We only just talked."

"By talking you mean that you've hypnotised her!" the raccoon grasped his right hand-wing too roughly. "She's been acting strange ever since she met you in town. So what did you do, Vampyrum?"

Arthur wrenched his hand-wing away and shoved the cat that was gripping his shoulders. "I have never done anything! Like I said, you should ask her yourself before anything else happens. So if that's what you want out of me, then I am done."

Arthur stormed away, a bit aggravated by the girls' accusation. How dare they assumed he had hypnotised Mizuchi! Vampyrum? He should've been burnt by sunlight if they think he's a bloodsucker. 

He's going to need some chamomile tea, some songs to listen to on his phone and a plate of tea biscuits!

Both Riley and Tanya watched with disbelief that the bat had snapped at them. They were not expecting that sort of reaction out of him. The both of them decided to confront Mizuchi about this tomorrow.

They want to know what is their friend hiding from them.

Chapter Text

Chapter 27

Arthur was mentally drained from the whole ordeal with Mizuchi's girls.

He thought back about their assumptions of him hypnotising the harlequin rabbit which to him, is absurd since he wouldn't know if he is facing her at eye contact at all. He could only turn his head directly at the sound his ears picked up.

He decided not to think too much about it and fixed himself a nice cup of Earl Grey tea with a little milk inside that will compliment a small plate he placed a bit of the finger tea biscuits. He has some studying to do but his self-care comes first.

After all, a sound mind meant greater concentration for his studies.

He dunk his finger biscuits in his tea as he ponder at the thought of tomorrow. He sometimes wondered if he was far behind in his work or he is too much ahead. Shaking his head, Arthur decided to play a tune on his keyboard to get rid of his frustrations. He knew exactly what to play since he has listed to the original theme from the movie back when he went to the cinema with his dad and Sameer.

He switched the sound of his keyboard from piano to organ.

He started off slow, melancholic to represent the emptiness of the soul that yearned to be found in what he imagined to be a rough sea that could never be calm. The soul felt so alone that he was filled with rage that matched the storm and the sea to release the pent up frustrations he has bottled up years ago.

But then like the sea, the waves calmed down and the soul was finally accepting himself. Loving himself before he could learn how to share and present himself to others.

Arthur almost wanted to laugh because his mind was being too dramatic sometimes. 

Little did he know that the tunes he had pressed upon his keyboard was soon heard throughout campus. Those animals felt chill up their spines as the sound of the organ was bellowing out its rage.

...

The next day, Arthur was attending class as usual. Today was geography where this time they were learning about the different types of seas in the world. Arthur loved to listen and imagine the descriptions the teacher was explaining about how each location of the seas had a different current and resources.

He imagined the songs that those places might bring.

The Honduran white bat felt a note being placed in his hand as he was typing notes on his braille machine. He felt up the folded paper in his hand and read wha the braille dot message said"

'Are you okay?'

Arthur smiled at his friend's concern. He turned his head to where he assumed was the bald eagle. Moving his mouth a little, he got a rough estimation of a tall predatory bird animal to confirm his guess on where his friend is sitting.

"I'll explain later after class," he whispered with a toothy smile.

After class, Arthur's ears were swivelling up and down over all of the sounds around him while using his clicks to avoid bumping into anyone. He's a bit relief that no one suspects that he was the one playing instruments at night except his close friends and the drama club. Most of them assumed he was blaring out loud music from his computer.

Even Mizuchi doesn't know that he plays his instruments.

"Hey Arthur!" he heard the call from Aoba coming towards him. "I heard the notes played last night after you went to meet those two girls. What happened?"

So Arthur explained as the both of them walked to the poolside where the water has been drained so that the pool needs to be cleaned. The both of them sat down on one of the stairs. He was still a bit miffed at the whole accusation yesterday.

"I'm sorry to hear that, Arthur," Aoba gave him a comforting pat on the shoulder. "But you can prove to them wrong. In fact, you just did it with the drama club remember?"

"That's true," Arthur nodded slowly, his cloudy blue eyes was blinking at the realisation. "But Aoba, not everyone can be changed. All of us have our own thoughts and no matter how hard we want everyone to change for the better, we all have our deep roots inside that we learnt from our friends and family that becomes a part of us."

The bald eagle tilted his head at this little bat's philosophy. He wonders how can someone so small like him and think of something that is so extraterrestrial.

"Whatever it is," Aoba smiled. "You're my friend and nothing will ever change that."

Arthur felt so touched by the kindness this eagle has given him since the first day. Any female would be lucky to have a mature and humble male such as him.

"Say Aoba, do you have a girlfriend?"

The bald eagle almost choked on his bottled drink from that sudden question. "W-what? No! What made you think of that?"

Arthur's leaf-shaped nose wiggled in amusement. "Why, you are mature and humble despite us being the same age. Any girl would like you."

"Why the sudden interest in this?" there was a teasing tone in Aoba's voice. "Do you have one?"

Now it was Arthur's turn to have his white fur all puffed up like a cotton ball in embarrassment. 

"No! I don't think I have one. Even before coming to Cherryton, we have a rival school across the lake called Selkie School for Gifted Girls. In that all-girl's school, the ladies are very competitive with Gryphon Cross so I try not to get under their nerves."

The both of them had a good laugh before Aoba had to go because of rehearsals in the drama club. Arthur understood this because he too has a an upcoming task at the gardening club with Haru.

...

"I can't believe we've grown so much lavender!" said a muffled Arthur who was carrying three pots that contained the lavender plants. Haru could only carry two as the both of them made their way to the train station.

"Hmmph, it's thanks to your suggestion and my green thumb that made this work," the dwarf rabbit told him proudly. They were taking the train to town so that they could deliver the lavenders to a bakery that Haru's mother's friend has owned.

There was a promised payment for the delivery and the garden grown lavender for the both of them.

"So what would you do with your cut of the money?" asked Haru as she sat next to the Honduran white bat. Arthur pondered a bit.

"Maybe save up to buy a new instrument. I'd like to learn how to play a trumpet. How about you?"

Haru smiled. "Well, I've always wanted this one book I saw in the store about different plants and flowers all over the world with some guides on how to grow them from your own home."

That sounded like something he knew the dwarf rabbit would want. He believed that she could be a very good florist or botanist with her superb knowledge on all kinds of plants. The scent of lavender with the combination of the air in the train was making him sleepy.

Even the sounds from the plants themselves were whispering, as if they were coaxing the bat himself to sleep.

When they eventually got off the train, Arthur followed Haru from behind and focused on listening to her footsteps. He had to blocked sounds from others and the plants to concentrate and it wasn't easy at all!

"Okay, here's your cut!" Haru announced as she placed the money in Arthur's hand. "I'm glad we can sell other stuff besides flowers in our club. Who knows, maybe some of the famous restaurants here might want Cherryton premium herbs for their cookings."

Arthur laughed. "Let's not go overboard."

"Of course! We're gonna start out small first and then this whole thing will eventually grow on its own. Maybe before I graduate, I'm going to teach you how to be president of the club."

Arthur turned his head at her voice. "M-me? B-But Haru, I don't think I've ever been put into that situation!"

"Well, you are going to be the only member in the club after me so it's fair."

Before Arthur could say anything, sounds of rushed footsteps were coming close to them. He could feel Haru standing in front of him and held his right hand-wing tightly.

"What do you want?" Haru demanded.

"I need to talk to him."

That voice....

"Not after what your cronies did to him last night! I've heard all about it with those two whispering."

"Haru," Arthur tapped the Netherland dwarf rabbit on her shoulder. "I'll be okay. It will be just a few minutes so I can meet you at the train station."

Haru was hesitant about leaving Arthur alone with Mizuchi. But seeing the assuring smile from the bat along with those cloudy blue eyes that reminded her of a foggy morning made her to reluctantly let him.

"Fine but if I don't see you at the train station in ten minutes, I'm coming after you."

Mizuchi watched as the dwarf rabbit gave her the stink eye before walking away towards the station. Now that she is alone with the bat, she wanted to apologise to him about her friends' weird behaviours last night.

"Hello, Mizuchi," Arthur greeted her. "So, what would you like to talk about?"

"Look, I'm sorry about what those two accused you off," sighed Mizuchi. "It's crazy how they would think that you hypnotised me. So what I'm trying to ask if you are doing anything this weekend?"

Arthur tilted his head in confusion.

"Not too sure. Why?"

"Well....This is just an outing between us as friends, okay?" Mizuchi told him hotly. "But I found this really good place for noodles and there's a new movie out if you would like-"

"To follow you to?" Arthur asked with a small smile. "That sounds lovely but I will have to check my weekend plans to that."

"Great then!" Mizuchi straightened herself up but her ears are down. "So just let me know and we'll see how it goes."

"Yes and as friends, right?"

"Yeah, yeah as friends! Just the two of us as friends."

Arthur nodded and bid her goodbye but he felt a gentle paw holding up his two fingers, placing a folded paper between them. Confused by this, he felt up the paper and almost wanted to drink chamomile after he read the message.

It was a braille sequence of numbers.

Chapter Text

Chapter 28

Haru was getting suspicious when Arthur met her just as he promised back at train station.

He had a goofy smile on his face, but that's just his default expression, right? But what was weird was his gait, usually clumsy or ungainly was now giddy with a little bounce as if-

No...

No way!

'She can't possibly be,' Haru paused in her thought. 'Nah, she still has those stalker feelings for that useless ex of hers! Then again...'

"You look happy, Arthur," the dwarf rabbit remarked as the both of them boarded the train back to campus.

"Oh, just the idea of us earning money from our own produce," he sighed dreamily. "And the fact that I have a new friend."

Ah, so he's not hiding it! "Oh? And who is this 'new friend' you're talking about?"

Arthur's head was turned to her direction, his cloudy blue eyes sparkled under the train's harsh lighting. "You won't believe me but it's the harlequin rabbit who scratched me, Mizuchi."

Haru almost wanted to slap herself from hearing the news.

"Wait, you're meeting up with her?" she questioned, edging closer to the Honduran white bat's face. "As in like a date?"

"Sort of," Arthur answered hesitantly because the fact that the president of the gardening club was too close to his personal space. "We are just friends, Haru. I believed she's genuine about us being friends."

'Yeah right,' Haru rolled her eyes. 'Next thing you tell me that hedgehogs have wings under their spines!'

"Just from experience," Haru placed a comforting paw on his wing. "Be careful who you choose as your friends and enemies. Sometimes, they will just use you and will use what you lack as an advantage."

"I'm aware of that," Arthur nodded, his eyes blinked. "My dad used to tell me that even when I was only three. That animals without sight will have to find our ways into the world differently. It was frustrating at first but then I learnt the ropes. He told me that no one is going to pity me for being blind so I will have to find another way around to catch up with everyone But you don't have to worry about me, Haru."

Haru sighed, seeing that this bat has to learn everything by himself. After all, he did manage and has proven to her that he is capable even if he is blind. All she could do was pat him on the shoulder before checking her phone.

Arthur decided to wrap his wings around himself like a blanket before taking a quick nap. He has his ears slightly up in case.

Slowly, he drifted off into his dream.

Unlike other animals, his dream was just sounds he has never heard off or fragments of his memories.

... 

"Lysa! Be reasonable!" the frustrated sighs came from a voice. In the background, the sounds of  a baby bawling was echoing the whole room. The baby was either scared, hungry, or even wanting attention.

"Why must he be born blind?!" the shrill voice demanded. "I asked for a beautiful son but what came out of me was this blind bastard-"

There was a sound of some animal grabbing her, grunting was heard. 

"Y-you're hurting me, Kirk!"

"Not as much as you are doing it to our son. The minute he opened his eyes, you almost dropped him from where you were hanging. He could've been hurt, Lysa!"

There was firmness in  his tone that masked anger.

"So? We could always try for another one and sell him to those gypsies. I'm not having that THING for a son."

"Then I'm not having you as a wife," he clicked his tongue. "Blind or not, he's my son and if you don't want to be in his life, then leave."

There was a pause in the argument and the wailing from the baby became louder and more strained with coughs that sounded like it was strangling him.

"Kirk, you can't be-"

"I want you to pack your things, sign the papers I will print out for you and never come back."

There was pain and anger in his voice. He wants to comfort his sweet, bright baby boy but he has to deal with her first.

"What happened to you, Kirk? You've changed..."

"I never did. You flew too close to the sun and went out of orbit."

Once the grumbling and muttering left, the weak cries of the baby became his only priority. The baby could feel the warm laps of the tongue grooming him on top of his head. There was a rocking motion, making the baby cling onto the warmth. A small kiss on the cheek and a nuzzle was enough to make the baby's cries softened and subside.

"Shhh," the voice comforted him gently with love. "I'm here....I'm here, Arthur...."

...

Arthur was woken up by the sound of the train stopping just at the destination he and Haru were getting off.

His mind was still shaky of the shrill shoutings in his dream but he shouldn't pay much attention to it. After all, some dreams are so lucid that they don't make sense even when he could hear them clearly.

He returned to his dorm to try and decpiper what the numbers meant. He smiled a small smile before saving the number into his phone contacts.

He won't contact her now because he has other things to worry about today.

Arthur brewed himself some peppermint tea and decided to play his harmonica to sooth his soul. It was an exciting day today despite it being a trip to the shop to sell the herbs with Haru.

The song that resonated with the harmonica brought him a sense of memories he wished to cherish and create now that Cherryton is a new chapter in his life.

But then, how many chapters will he have before his own book of life is finished?

He was hanging upside down between the gaps of the bunk bed again to play the tune. Again, he had his window opened so that everyone could hear the beautiful melodies. He was amused when he eavesdropped other students wondering who was the mysterious musician.

Just then, there was a knock on his door.

Arthur placed an empty glass close to the door to listen to his visitor.

"Hey Arthur, it's me," said Aoba. "I thought of hanging out with you since it's still a slow day today. Jack's here too."

This made the Honduran white bat chirped a bit at the thought of hanging out in his own room. He wondered if he should tell them about his meeting with Mizuchi. Would they believe him? He would also wonder if his old friend Sameer would have anything to say about this?

Chuckling to himself, he opened the door to let his friends in.

Chapter Text

Chapter 29

Arthur invited his two friends inside the Chiroptera room, which Jack noted to himself that it smelled of brewed tea and some cinnamon. He wagged his tail to assure Arthur that he has nothing to worry about.

Then again, he doesn't know the bat as well as Aoba and to a certain extend, Legosi.

"You look happy," Aoba commented as Arthur poured tea into three cups for them. Jack had to agree with the bald eagle because the both of them observed the Honduran white bat humming a tune to himself as he was preparing the beverages.

"Why shouldn't I be?" Arthur turned his head at their direction. "Things are going smoothly at the gardening club now that we have grown quality herbs and flowers used for baking."

Jack could detect a change in the bat's tone under all that excitement. He knew what it was, he reckoned Aoba does too because the bald eagle had a small smirk on his face.

"So who's the lucky girl?"

Arthur almost chocked on his tea from that unexpected bombshell.

"G-girl? How can you tell if I may ask?"

"Well, you were humming to yourself," Jack explained, sitting on the bottom part of the bunk bed. "But it's kinda strange since you are the only bat in this school."

Arthur was dead in his tracks, speechless at how the Labrador retriever could deduced him so easily. Was he that easy to read?

"He's right," he heard Aoba agreeing. "Well, I'm curious to know who is the girl?  If you don't mind telling."

Arthur was hesitant about it. Not only was she not a bat, which was the least of his concerns. He was worried about the fact that she's older than him and will be graduating soon before him.

Oh, he has a lot to think about this!

"Well...I can tell you two but can you promise me you'd keep an open mind about it?"

Both the bald eagle and Labrador retriever agreed as Arthur took a deep breath before explaining about his encounters and talks with Mizuchi.

He decided to explain and described it while hanging upside down between the gaps of the bunk bed because it felt comfortable that way.

...

Both Jack and Aoba were surprised when Arthur described his relationship.

It turned out to be the gardening club president's class bully? That was a surprise for the both of them. Jack had some doubts about it since it was similar to how Legosi was acting around the rabbit girl who was in the gardening club. Then again, he's not going to pry much into this relationship. 

Aoba was happy for his friend but also felt the need to protect him. "Arthur, it's actually impressive that she went from being hostile towards you to being friendly. I wonder if it's your charm that made her interested in you."

Now Arthur was confuse.

"What do you mean, charm?"

So Aoba explained how Arthur seemed to give off a friendly vibe when he interacts with some of the animals. But what was the challenge was not the bat himself but other animals to look past his eyes and see him as another student. Arthur smiled, touched at the eagles words.

He's so lucky to have him as a friend...

"That's something I wasn't even aware of," he admitted, fluffing his white fur which both dog and eagle thought he was going to become a cotton ball. "I can only judge the animal's character based on their tone and how they've interacted with me. Much like how you guys would talk in a virtual reality game if I am not mistake."

Well, that was one way to describe it!

"Still, it's nice to hear that you are going to meet her this weekend," Jack told him slowly. "But you got to be careful, okay? It's just that sometimes things might not end well when you decided to build up on how it might turn out."

Arthur nodded at him with a reassuring smile. "I'll be okay, Jack. You can help me by worrying about Legosi for me. Where is he?"

"He's been busy lately," sighed Jack. "But it's not my business to know what he's up to if that means invading his privacy. I trust him."

"So Arthur," Aoba patted the bat's back. "Is this your first time going out with a girl?"

The Honduran white bat blushed. "W-well, aside from my grandmother and the president of the gardening club, yes. It's not something to fuss about, Aoba."

He heard the friendly laughter. "Don't worry, I was just curious. Hey, if you need any tips about dating, you can always ask me."

Arthur tiled his head, adjusting himself from where he was hanging. "Oh? You read eroticas and smuts as well?"

Jack wanted to laugh at the sudden shocked expression from the bald eagle. Arthur showed off his toothy grin. "I think you and Sameer would get along just fine."

...

When it came to the weekend, it was in the afternoon which was fine for Arthur. He himself doesn't want to stumble upon the Shishigumi after the outing with Bill. Speaking of which, that tiger seemed strange whenever they interacted.

He figured that Bill was still shaken up from being kidnapped and almost became food just as he was.

All so suddenly, he felt a gentle paw  holding his two fingers of his hand-wing.

"You came," the familiar voice made him felt a small shiver across his spine in a good way. 

"Of course, I would've texted you if I am running late or have other plans," Arthur laughed. "So how are we doing this? Movie and then something to eat or the opposite."

"I would go with the latter," said Mizuchi as they both boarded the train with their paws-fingers holding each other. The other animals who saw the both of them gave them questioning looks but shrugged it off as the blind bat having an aid or guidance into the city.

After all, animals without able bodies will struggle in the real world.

They head over to the udon restaurant where Mizuchi and Arthur decided to share a plate of tempura fried mushrooms and boiled snow peas as appetisers while the both of them had their own version of udon noodles sets:

Mizuchi is having the veggie curry udon with a glass of peach tea while Arthur had the miso udon that has seaweed and eggs with a cup of green tea. 

The both of them ate and Arthur almost want to fly to the moon when he took a spoonful of the noodles. 

"This is delicious!" chirped Arthur as he continue to slurp his noodles. "I think I would save this place as a go-to for a nice meal."

Mizuchi giggled as she took her chopsticks to eat. She was aware that the store owner and chefs were thrilled to know that their food tasted good from the bat's praise. The harlequin rabbit realised that the more she spent time around the Honduran white bat, the less she saw him disturbing because of his eyes.

She wished her two friends would see that this bat is kind, gentle and has an odd sense of perception.

Yet, she felt guilty for threatening him on their first meeting at the cafeteria. She was certain that he has moved on from that but she hasn't. The guilt has been eating her and watching him enjoying himself made her feel horrible for the words she had said to him.

"I'm sorry..."

Arthur paused and wiped the soup off his face with his napkin. "I beg your pardon?"

"About our first meeting," sighed Mizuchi as she twirls the straw inside her drink. "I realised what a bitch I was to you before."

"Yeah, you were." 

Mizuchi winced but glad that it was out of her system. Still, it was brutally honest of him to tell her that. Arthur patted her paw in a comforting manner. "But then, I guessed it's us as animals and our nature. When you discovered something unknown, you either are curious to get to know it or destroy it."

"You sure have an interesting way of understanding it," Mizuchi's ears were down, relaxed now that she could talk with Arthur. "So, you don't mind going to the cinemas after this?"

"Of course," Arthur nodded excitedly. "I'm certain that there will be different kinds of scores and music that will be played out. I want to know if I could get my wings on them and.."

"And?"

The Honduran white bat had a cheeky smile. "Oh, I'll tell you that for another time. Shall we finish this tempura plate together?"

...

Like most cinemas, the both of them sat in the middle rows of seat where it it not too far back or too in front. Mizuchi wondered if he could detect light if they had sat in front but she decided not to question it. Arthur had wrapped himself up with his own wings, making him looked like he brought his own blanket.

She doesn't want to admit it but it made him looked cute like a dessert burrito.

When the movie began to open, Arthur's ears were hit with the most beautiful notes that could make his eyes water. In fact, the score sounded like a communications between two animals underwater.

What was strange was that the main female lead was not saying anything.

"Mizuchi," he whispered to her, causing the harlequin rabbit to blush at how close he was. "Why isn't the female lead saying anything."

"She's mute," she whispered, her voice barely audible  but was clear for the bat to hear. "She uses sign language to communicate and she sure loves hard boiled eggs."

"Fascinating..."

As the film went on, Arthur slowly unfurl his wings, enjoying the moment in the cinema and the presence of the harlequin rabbit. Slowly, the both of them had their paws-wings held as they let the film carry on.

Mizuchi never knew that this goofy bat has the sweetest smiles every time a music score was played on screen.

She described some parts that sounded confusing to him and it felt interesting. Mizuchi thought she could write a comprehensible essay in her future homework if she keeps this up.

Arthur sighed, loving the way Mizuchi described certain scenes of the film and was surprised at how voracious her vocabulary was when he asked her some things he can't understand.

He figured that it must be from her watching her favourite shows and ZooTube channels.

By the time the film ended, a wonderful song was sung as the credits rolled. Mizuchi turned her head to find Arthur crying. With tender care, she took out a small tissue and gently wiped it off his face.

"T-thank you," he blushed at the sudden gesture.

"Are you okay, Arthur?"

"That was the most extraordinary experience,"he confessed. "The scores, the dialogue and even the sounds that creature was making sounded very much like our own. She really grew gills and joint him to his underwater kingdom."

"She did," sighed Mizuchi. "It was strange at first but their love was pure."

"It sounded like it was," smiled Arthur. "Mizuchi, I want to say I enjoyed this afternoon-evening with you. Hope we could hang out together like this again as it was lovely. Maybe breakfast some time? My treat if you are up for it."

Mizuchi wanted her ears to be long to cover her red face. "Sure! Just message me first before planning."

Before the both of them got up to leave the cinema, Arthur suddenly hugged her much to the harlequin rabbit's surprise. She leaned into his furry chest, hearing his gentle heartbeat as his wings wrapped her inside like a cocoon.

Seeing that most of the animals have left the cinema room, Mizuchi laid her head on his chest.  

Chapter Text

Chapter 30

This outing with Mizuchi has to be the most pleasant experience Arthur has ever had since he moved to Cherryton. He wondered if he should tell his father about the new friends he has made and the most interesting encounters he has heard and felt.

Both him and Mizuchi were walking hand-in-wing down the streets, having some time to spare before boarding the train back to school. He listened to how this harlequin rabbit described her favourite design stores and would have a small notebook for her to sketch some new designs.

"So are your designs just made for rabbits?" he asked, a bit curious.

Mizuchi smiled. "Well, for the rare kind of animals whether herbivore or carnivore. But I guessed if I want to be the top fashionista, I will have to see the bigger picture with all animals."

"Even creeping insects?" he asked, his leaf-nose twitched in amusement. Mizuchi snorted in laughter before Arthur could hear her cupping her mouth from laughing too hard. 

Shame, he found it adorable.

"Well, I don't have the right paws for those little guys," she flicked Arthur's ear playfully. "But I guessed even drawing and designing requires a bit of biology and stuff if I have to know my client."

"Sounds exactly like music for me," said Arthur, who turned his head a bit when he heard a child singing, probably with her family. "When I hear a tune whether it's a soundtrack, an animal singing or even a tune; I would use a bit of knowledge from physics to understand it. Music for me is universal where any animal can hear it and understand it even if we don't know the language."

Mizuchi was touched by Arthur's pure philosophy about music. She figured maybe he does listen to soundtracks when doing his homework. He was humming the tune to the movie's soundtrack since they left the theatre.

"I wouldn't mind experiencing that movie again," said Arthur, the both of them stopped at a traffic light. "I want to save the soundtracks tune in my memory."

Mizuchi smoothened her ears down. "It's that amazing, huh? I think so too and I love the dress the female lead was wearing and even her neighbour. I might want to draw some designs based on that for inspiration."

Arthur was half-listening because he was thinking of making something for Mizuchi as a thank you present for this wonderful outing. He has an idea on what to make but he might need some help because his lack of sight is going to be difficult to tell what sort of colour he would put.

Mizuchi wanted to ask Arthur for something but that will be for another time. She hoped that she is not rushing this new friendship. She wouldn't mind spending more time with him.

Yet...she's jealous that he spends more time with that dwarf rabbit, Haru since they're both in the gardening club.

'No, not going to happen!' she scolded herself. 'Haru did say that she thinks of him as a little brother.'

When the both of them sat down in the train, Arthur leaned his head against the window, listening to the sounds in his surroundings before he started whistling the tune from that movie. It was the most beautiful melody he has ever heard.

Mizuchi watched him with an adoring expression. He's so whimsical like those characters her younger siblings used to ask her mom to read for them every night. She wanted to give him something, as a token of their friendship.

She might make a second trip to get some colourful yarns.

"Well, here we are," Mizuchi laughed awkwardly as they got off. "So, I guessed I will see you around?"

"Yeah, I hope to hear from you again," Arthur smiled, then realised that the both of them still held their paw-wing. It was a bit sad that the outing had to end but Arthur knew that he would cherish that moment in his memories.

Before they parted, Arthur swore he could feel a gentle caress on his two fingers.

...

Back in his room, he had a message that was read by his computer about how the upcoming week in biology, he has to do his environment day homework where he has to go into the rooms in the school's basement and perform his species' natural behaviour.

He imagined that the room would be spacious like a cave where his clicks would echo and bounced across the walls. It would be a bonus if the room for bats' natural environments could have some stalagmites and stalactites for Arthur to experienced the cool water vapours and take advantage of the situation by making music out of it.

About the music he had hear at the cinemas, he can't memorised the whole melody but he could play something similar which was like a snippet of what he had heard. He decided to play it on his piano, since it sort of suited his feeling he is experiencing.

It must be the start of a new friendship.

Then again, he never felt these strong emotions when he had befriended Sameer, Legosi, Aoba or even Haru. With Mizuchi, it felt like it was something new that hasn't been discovered or studied. He was aware that his imagination can be out of control at times but now...

He would play this song to represent his curiosity and peacefulness.

He might want to check when was the next time that amazing film will be shown in cinemas again.

Chuckling to himself, Arthur played softly for only himself to hear.

...

Meanwhile far down from Cherryton, there was a group meeting around the Black Back Alley Market. Most of the carnivores were whispering and gossiping about the new animal that had came to the market with his friend.

"Do you think that little guy would come again?" one asked.

"I don't know," another one grumbled. "That tiger looked like he wanted the bat for himself. I mean, that cat could tear our throats out if we try."

"Do you think we'll be immortal or have powers if we eat a bat?" another, much younger carnivore asked. "I mean, from the stories my Ma used to tell me that all families of the Chiroptera never once had any issue with diseases. It's like they have a high-tech immune system!"

Before the carnivores could discuss their theories further, the slightly heavy footsteps made all of the vendors and patrons of the market halt. No one spoke until a deep rumbling growl made even the crocodilian vendors tremble.

"No one is going to eat that bat," the figure growl. "He is much too important for us and if any of you had a piece of him, we won't hesitate to turn you into our next meal."

"Yeah! We're not picky!" another figure added. "So, is there any questions or are we clear."

The silence was all the answer that the two needed. 

The both of them resumed their stroll around the market, trying out new foods and drinks.

"Wow, we sure scared them, huh? So, do you think he might come? I heard the boss had told him in private."

"We can never be too sure, Free," the other figure sighed. "The last time he was in our territory, he was as shaky as a leaf. I will admit that he has guts to make us something different and play a tune. But that kid has to learn that you can't change nature."

"Damn right you are! We gotta get back soon or else the boss might want to know where we are."

"I'm sure he can handle us being a way for a while. Now, I might as well check on my phone about informations we must expect from the Chiropteras."

Chapter Text

Chapter 31

It was the Environment Day where all students are required to complete their hour down in the basement where they will be stimulated by their natural behaviours. It was something familiar to Arthur because back in Gryphon Cross, they had something similar but instead of the basement it was in another building which was similar to a hostel.

He recalled from memory that they have special rooms for aquatic animals to swim and breathe like Maccus, who needs to use the electromagnets from his hammerhead or small yet comfortable crevices for serpent students.

"You ready for your first Environment assignment?" asked Legosi, who was walking beside him.

"Oh yes," Arthur nodded excitedly. "I hope before the hour is up, I still have time for tea. It's good  for the mind and soul."

"If you say so..."

Arthur was glad to hang out with the grey wolf but something has been bothering him. Arthur may not know what but he could hear a different shift in Legosi's tone. As if he was pondering about something or being woeful.

"Legosi," Arthur tugged the grey wolf by his shirt. "I need to tell you something after our hour. Is that okay with you? I just need to let you know about something..."

The grey wolf was curious but even those foggy blue eyes couldn't hide the pleads of the Honduran white bat. Looking around in case anyone was eavesdropping, he accepted the meeting.

"Wonderful! Let's meet at the poolside for lunch. I brought some snacks besides my sandwiches."

Legosi watched with amusement as Arthur moved his mouth a little, not a sound was heard but he found his room where he will spent an hour in their to do his bat behaviour. Once Arthur went in, Legosi entered his wolf's room.

...

Arthur was right when he used his click to estimate what the bat room felt like.

There were stalactites and stalagmites which were good substitutions for percussion instruments which he will use his two fingers to tap them. Kicking off his shoes, Arthur decided to hang over the room's ceiling to play with the notes he had thought off.

He can't fly until he graduates but simple wing flap exercises are a must for most bats.

Little did he know, some animals who have completed their Environment hour has heard him playing but figured it was just the bat playing music on his phone. They weren't sure if it's prohibited but since he's the only bat, who knows.

"I'm not staying around while the Vampyrum is here," one of the female carnivores whispered.

"That song he's listening to sounds like he's out for our blood," another commented.

"Weird, he only smiles everytime we see him. But there's no reports or news about any animal getting their blood sucked off."

But that doesn't mean that the student shouldn't take precaution. Most herbivores will feel tension around carnivores but with this bat, it might be something to unite of the animals to watch out for each other.

Once the hour was up, Arthur had completed his homework  and was planning on meeting Legosi at the poolside. Again, using his clicks, he found his way to the location without any trouble.

"You came," Arthur smiled when he used his clicks to find the grey wolf's presence.

"Of course," Legosi growled softly. "So, what do you want to talk about?"

Arthur sat on one of the benches close to the wolf and told him about finding some wood and some paints to decorate it. Legosi was confused by this bat's strange request. "Arthur, why do you need wood and paint? I don't want to sound rude but can you see colour?"

"No, I wouldn't even understand it if you explain it to me," Arthur laughed. "Need wood so that I can carve it into a pencil or a stationary holder. It's for a friend of mine."

"Is it Aoba?"

Arthur shook his head. "No, it's for a female friend. She likes to design outfits and clothes so I thought a perfect present for her would be something to hold her stationary."

Now the grey wolf was curious. Who was the girl that Arthur is talking about? He had noticed before this, he was very much like the grey wolf himself with only limited female friends. Ever since he met Haru, he has been feeling intense emotions around her but he wondered if Arthur felt the same towards this female friend of his.

"Is she a herbivore?" asked Legosi. Arthur nodded. "Oh yes, she's a harlequin rabbit."

Legosi almost choked on his egg sandwich. Arthur likes someone who is a rabbit as well?! He has so many questions to ask the bat and yet, he barely talked to him due to his work in the drama club along with certain things he's been doing with Haru.

"Arthur," Legosi tapped the bat's two fingers. "Since when, how, and all the other things."

Arthur smiled his dreamy smile, his foggy blue eyes looked like they were shining under the sun's reflection. "Oh, it's crazy how we met. It all started with me accidentally stepping on her foot at the cafeteria on my first day..."

So Arthur retold the whole story of how he met Mizuchi. He told every detail including the outing he had with her at the movies. Legosi was amazed at how easy it was for Arthur to slowly form this sweet friendship with the harlequin rabbit who was also in third year like Haru.

"But Legosi," Arthur's ears drooped a bit. "Can you please not tell anyone about this? It's not because I am ashamed or the herbivore-carnivore tension. It's just that the both of us are in different years and we both have our own group of friends."

"So the both of you will meet if there's no other animal around?"

"Precisely. Because the both of us want to focus on our lives and our little meetings are something the both of us will cherish. Well, I would but she is a mystery. But it's nice that she was at first hostile with me but slowly she is relaxed and we can talk. I like how she talks about certain designs and even us sharing the same interest in movies and certain stories."

Legosi wondered if he should be doing that if he wants to spend more time with Haru.

"I don't know if the school's store sells special paint or decorations that might sell what you are looking for," said Legosi. "But I might fine some wood in our production crew. But I'll have to ask Dom if it's okay."

"That is fine with me," Arthur poured a cup of tea from his flask before offering it to Legosi. "I can plan a trip to town to find the decorations and paint."

Legosi wagged his tail, feeling relief that there is another animal who has some care for rabbits beside him. "By the way Arthur, how do you know how to carve wood?"

The Honduran white bat twitched his ears. "Back in Gryphon Cross, we had this subject called Living Skills where we can get our hands on woodwork, cooking or electrical mechanics. We can only select two so I did cooking and woodwork."

"That sounds interesting," sighed the grey wolf. "You guys get to learn some things that might be useful for survival and I think we all should have a bit of that."

Arthur smiled and then the both of them bonded over the female rabbits they had become friends with and their so called 'adventures' they have experienced in town.

Arthur was happy that he got to spend some time with Legosi since he knew the wolf has a busy schedule, whether with the drama club, for himself or even homework.

...

The next day after all of his classes, Arthur decided to go to town on his own.

He would try to find the stationary or bookshop with his clicks or else he could ask for directions from the town's watchful police force.

Then again, he wasn't sure if the animals would be friendly but he has to tell himself to listen and understand. But even in town, he could hear some comments about him.

"Why can't he cover his eyes? No one wants to see those bug-eyes gawking everywhere."

"Is that the bat that almost became a meal at the Black Market?"

"Look at his funny walk! He thinks he's a penguin!"

But as usual, the bat shrugged it off because he knew that ever animal, herbivore and carnivore were always associated with specific traits to define their species. But he knew that from experience, they are more than what biology and history would labelled every animal as.

"Hey!" Arthur almost stopped his tracks. 'That voice, it sounds familiar!'

"Oh, I am sorry if I almost bumped into you," Arthur raised both of his hand wings in defence. "I was just looking for a stationary shop. Could you please tell me how to get there if you know."

"Sure," the voice replied, with a hint of a growl. "I can take you there. Do you know who I am, by the way?"

Arthur shook his head. "No, but you sound familiar. But thank you for guiding me, if it's no trouble at all for you."

"Don't worry," the voice chuckled as the both of them walked to what Arthur assumed was the stationary shop. "You are an interesting animal. By the way, do you have time after this?"

"It depends. Why?"

"I just want to understand something but I need your input."

This was making the Honduran white bat uncomfortable. "Well, I don't want to sound rude but who are you? Do you know me?"

There was silence except their footsteps. But then, the voice answered back:

"Yes, I'm Agata, from the Shishigumi."

Chapter Text

Chapter 32

Arthur felt like he was in a surreal atmosphere with the presence of this lion. He may not recognised him or interacted with him during his capture with Bill but when he mentioned the organisation was enough to make the Honduran white bat tremble like a leaf.

But the lion didn't make any attempt of dragging him or even led him into another direction which Arthur used his clicks to confirmed with where he was at the moment. So, the smell of paper and shuffling of books on the shelves indicated that this lion, Agata had indeed guided him to the bookstore.

He was about to ask if the lion wanted anything but decided to focus on his task of finding the right paint and decorations.

The problem was that all the cans of spray paint felt identical and it would be embarrassing to ask the animals working in the store for help because he had a gut feeling that they would think that the Honduran white bat was wasting their time when they could be doing something useful such as ringing able costumers or sorting out new items.

"Agata," Arthur called out meekly. "Do you mind helping me? If it's no trouble at all?"

Agata smiled. He was watching from one of the shelves on how the bat was handling himself. The young lion was impressed at how he could locate the stationaries that he wanted just by moving his mouth and his ears wiggled. Seeing the bat at the aisle full of paint, can spray paints and water colour, he understood why the bat needed him.

"Not at all," that was a mrow of amusement in the lion's tone. "So, you're at the paint aisle. You are planning on making something?"

"Yes," Arthur nodded. "Problem is that I can't and will never understand colours even if other would associate it with something or it symbolises something. So, I need your help to pick out a colour for me."

"First of all, what are you making?"

Arthur explained to him that he was making a pencil cup for his friend who loves to design and craft clothes. He figured a pencil cup would be useful for her and he admitted that he's not the best at colouring unless there was an animal next to him to tell him.

"Alright, I can pick out a colour for you. So, what are you thinking of when you want to paint?"

Arthur's ears wiggled to listen to his surroundings while his mind was wondering at how was he going to pick a colour when the word itself never made sense to him. Then, an idea popped in his head and Agata saw his foggy blue eyes becoming wide and full of excitement.

"A colour that matches the universe!" Arthur tapped the lion's paw excitedly. "Something that resembles the unknown galaxies, the whole different world above our stratosphere! Maybe, even an unknown language that has yet to be spoken of-"

"So, something that's like the night sky and the stars," Agata interrupted the bat from rambling on. "You like space or something?"

Arthur rubbed the back of his neck in embarrassment of his little rambles. "Yeah. I believed it to be like music with its theme of the universe and wonders."

"Okay, okay, let's see....how about midnight blue?" the Congo lion suggested. Arthur tilted his head. "What does it represent?"

"Well, I don't know," Agata shrugged. "But it's pretty and I guessed mysterious if you're going with that. Isn't outer space full of mysteries itself?"

Arthur nodded slowly, his voice was already in a dreamy tone. "Yes...I guessed it is. Okay, let's get this and I found some of these stickers that felt like they are shaped like moons and stars."

And right he was! Little did he know, those stickers can glow in the dark.

...

Arthur was not off the hook the minute he stepped out of the bookstore with Agata.

He wanted something from the Honduran white bat himself so he folded his wings across his body to form a protective barrier as they walked. It was common to hear passerby animals calling him a Vampyrum from how he protected himself.

"You wanted my opinion or help on something?" Arthur inquired as they walked.

"Yes, it's just some knowledge if you know of some groups."

"Groups?" Arthur tilted his head. "If you mean any crimes or anything involving bats, I don't think so. At least, not here from what I've heard."

Satisfied by this indirect answer, Agata led him back to the Shishigumi hideout. He was told that the boss wants to speak to him and the rest of them wanted some knowledge from him. Despite that they are adults, they are aware that the younger animals, especially those outside of this country have some information that they don't.

"So what crimes or stories have you heard of organisation involving bats?" asked Agata as the both of them stopped at a traffic light.

Arthur recalled old news when he was about thirteen years old about secret meetings that occurred at the witching hours where are no other animals around. Most of those Chiropteras he has heard in the news were mostly light-hearted but this one particular group...

It made him shudder just by thinking of it...

"I don't remember the group's name" Arthur lifted his head to where he assumed was Agata's face. "But all I know is that the crime they have committed was far worse than anything I could ever imagine."

"And what would that be?"

"...blood sacrifice."

'Ah, so there are actual Vampyrums after all!' Agata thought to himself. Well, the boss would be pleased to know that the bat had cooperated to share some stories. He was starting to like this odd creature that society would deemed as undesirable.

Arthur knew something was wrong the minute they stopped, not a single footstep was heard and his gut was saying what he was thinking. He moved his mouth a bit to listen to his surroundings but no other animals except the both of them.

Suddenly, Arthur was tackled from the front and he barely had time to react.

Thankfully, the figure that ambushed him didn't tear off his ears.

Chapter Text

Chapter 33

Arthur gasped when he was collided with a sudden blow to the stomach. He really thought that he was going to die before he could comprehend the situation around him. His eyes, despite not being able to see was shedding tears out of fear.

"Free! Get off of him!" a gruff voice stopped the animal from pinning Arthur down.

"Aw come on, his face was priceless when I pounced on him!" he heard the other animal named Free pouted. "You should have seen your face, bat! Your eyes were wide like saucer plates."

"Thankfully I can't," said Arthur, his heart was still pounding from the adrenaline. The lion got off him before helping the Honduran white bat on his feet. Arthur dusted himself before giving the direction of the voice a small smile.

"See? The kid's fine!" Free laughed. "I can see why the boss talks about you sometimes. Come on in! Don worry, we're not going to eat you unless you make an attempt to escape."

Arthur could only follow with a confused expression on his face.

"It'll be okay," he heard Agata leaning close to whisper. "We only want your input on certain subject matters. You're a student, right? You should know how to handle this."

Arthur heard murmuring of what he assumed to be other members of the Shishigumi. He opened his mouth to use his clicks to estimate roughly on how many lions are around him. So far, he could only make out only eight.

Awkwardly, Arthur bowed slightly in greeting. "Um, hello again."

He heard some chuckling but the tone bore nothing close to malice. It sounded like amusements which made Arthur even more concern.

"After all that has happened to him and his friend," he heard one of them commented. "He still has the manners. You really are something, bat."

So, what the Shishigumi wanted from Arthur was to know about his old home before he moved to Cherryton. The reason for this is because they have been receiving letters and unknown emails from different gang members outside of their territory that does not relate to the turf wars they had about the Back Alley Market.

"Oh," Arthur suddenly realised. "I've been telling you about what gangs I've heard of back at my old hime, I don't know much about yours other than you do control the Black Market and had to fight turf wars. Could you please tell me about that?"

The Honduran white bat heard some purrs from the lions, he figured it was something they like to talk about. So, the lion he recognised named Dolph told him the history of the group along with its history. It inspired Arthur a bit to play a song that reminded him about it.

He was sitting on one of the sofas with the lions, his wings still wrapped around him in a protective embrace. He understood that some carnivores can't change their nature to eat meat if  it means for them so much.

But he felt conflicted because all his life, he always thought difference between carnivore and herbivore besides their diet would be nothing. He only felt them to be the same, just have a different taste in life.

"Lions are always pressured and sought after," he heard the growls from Dolph. "Even if we don't do our best in things, many animals look up to us because of our position and species."

"Oh!" Arthur's ears twitched. Some of the lions were a bit creeped out by his cloudy blue eyes. "Just like cobras. My old friend is a cobra and in school, they are pressured to take up certain subjects to make them into lawyers and doctors. But my friend wants to be a curator in a museum or at least visit ancient sites."

The lions were impressed by how well Arthur listened to them and even put in his own opinion on things despite being blind. 

Just then, the door opened and Arthur heard all of the lions standing up and the sound of shuffling were heard. He decided to stand as well as he heard the footsteps coming closer.

"Hello Arthur," the familiar voice greeted him.

"Hello Louis," Arthur greeted back. "You weren't joking about you being in charge. I have to admit it is a surprise."

"Hmph, I'm glad you acknowledge that," said Louis. "Anyways, I have some things to discuss with you so please, walk close to me or else you're going to get lost in this place. You don't want those gangling legs to trip or those hideous eyes to caught on something."

Arthur nodded and used his clicks to avoid bumping into anything. He was nervous because not only was he back in the place he and Bill got kidnapped, he was going to talk to Louis about something that he might not be able to comprehend.

With that, both of them entered a room, the door was locked and shut after them.

...

Haru was busy caring for the new flowers that have bloomed.

She was wondering if Arthur was okay because he hasn't replied to her messages. She figured he is either busy or attending something. She remembered him mentioning about going to town to get some groceries.

'Geez, just how full is his fridge and pantry?' the dwarf rabbit thought to herself. She shrugged it off, deciding to harvest some of the grown herbs she and Arthur had done together. She smiled to herself, thinking that it was a good idea to sell herbs besides flowers to restaurants and bakeries that needed them.

Once she was done, she was about to head back to her dorm as soon as possible. After all, she has had a bad reputation among most of the Cherryton students for having affairs with different males.

But that changed when Legosi leaped into her life.

She thought of calling him soon but a lot was on her mind right now. Just then, she collided with someone.

"Hey! Watch where you're- Oh, it's you," the haughty voice made Haru looked up with a confused expression on her face.

Mizuchi regarded her but she looked impatient and disinterested in bullying her. She has a wrapped package in her arms. Haru assumed it to be clothes since it looked crumpled and soft.

"Not going to torment me today or is your to-do list full today?" Haru retorted, her arms crossed. Mizuchi rolled her eyes.

"Look, I'm not going to bother you," Mizuchi answered sharply. "I just want to give this to Arthur."

'Arthur?' Haru thought to herself as she eyed the harlequin rabbit. 'Is she out of her mind?!'

"Strange," Haru scoffed. "I thought you would've tear his ears off if he's near you. But then again, you are acting weird lately ever since Arthur helped me from getting scratched by you."

"I know that but here," she thrusted the parcel into Haru's hands. "Just give it to him if you see him. Pretend that we never talked or meet right now."

Before Haru could say anything, the harlequin rabbit left her alone to wonder what the hell is going on. She sighed, holding the package close to her.

"Oh Arthur," she sighed. "What kind of bat charm have you done to her?"

Chapter Text

Chapter 34

"So you just want me to give some input on your play?" asked Arthur, who was sitting opposite the red deer in his office. He may not know what it looked like but from the sounds that echoed through the room and his rough clicks for estimation, he figured it's very spacious.

"Yes so I don't want to ask you in school in case others might get suspicious," Louis told him. "Even when you are blind, you are giving quite a reputation to yourself."

Now the bat was confused. "Reputation? What did I do?"

"There's only you on campus," Louis pointed out. "That's one and the fact that you walk funny along with your eyes."

Arthur blinked. No difference in anything at all. "What's wrong with that? We all have different ways of walking. Think of it as you changing roles in your play. The sounds of the steps you make, your voice; even if I may be bold, your eyes."

Now the red deer was caught off-guard by the bat's statement. "What about them? You can't see anything."

"Yes," Arthur nodded. "But you can. Maybe try a different way on how to express yourself? I'm sorry, I'm not the best to ask about acting. But if you want music, I can try. You must have different plots and narratives for your upcoming plays?"

"Sort of," sighed Louis. "Yet, I have a feeling the other students are going to feel bored if we do the same act again and again."

Arthur tapped the arm of the chair he's sitting in. "What about some inspiration from books or other movies? I bet they would love to see you in different roles. I only know some musicals and some Sharkspeare plays. I'm not a big fan of tragedies but their music is on another level."

Louis got up and walked to the bat. He pulled Arthur up to that he could face the bat at eye level.

"Sharkspeare, huh? Care to tell me some of the plays that he has made? And why do you like musicals?"

"The songs of course!" Arthur told him as he moved across the room for some space. "Always interesting and upbeat even if one of the musicals was about every animal dying from forming a revolution. Because they dreamt a dream and hear their friends sing. In a way, musicals are a utopia of what we all want: happiness and a world with friends."

Louis was surprised by Arthur's interpretation of some plays. For a blind bat, he could really understood the plays, especially musicals. He could see why Arthur likes musicals since he's a musician himself after demonstrating his abilities backstage. He can't comprehend how this Honduran white bat is taking everything lightly.

"What's your family like?" 

Arthur smiled, explaining about his relationship with his father, his grandmother and even his old group of friends, especially Sameer. He remembered summer camps, weekend campings with his dad for some of his astronomy research and even get togethers with his friends' families for a meal.

Louis was intrigued that Arthur can get along so well with other animals despite their differences whether herbivore, carnivore or even aquatic animals. It's like his drama club except he brought the team together just like Juno. 

Speaking of which, the red deer noted to schedule a meeting with the grey she-wolf outside of school on of these weekends.

"Alright, that's all I need from you," said Louis with a small smile. "So one of the lions will send you back to the train station and pretend we never talked. Or you knowing about me being the boss of the Shishigumi."

"I understand, Louis," Arthur nodded, the both of them shook hands. "But one of these days, I'll be in the audience to listen to your plays."

"I know you will."

...

Arthur was escorted back to the train station by Agata, who changed from his usual suit and tie attire to blend with the surroundings with a loose shirt and some khaki pants. Any animal who saw them walking together would think of them as just friends.

"Sorry about Free," Agata tried to assure the bat. "He's always looking for trouble but he's a good lion. To me, him, the boss and everyone are like a family. Sure, we do eat things we're not supposed to but we respect and care about how our meat has been sent. Our boss is doing his best to work on the market."

'Louis must be an influence if he could bring down a dangerous group of lions and be popular in school,' Arthur thought to himself as the walked together. So far out of all the lions that he had experienced, he thought that Agata was the easiest one to talk to.

"Well, it's nice knowing you, Arthur," Agata chuckled as they made it to the train station. Arthur heard the whooshing sound of the train speeding by. "But just remember that you can always talk to me if you ever are in town. I'll be at the bookshop."

Arthur smiled and thanked him for escorting him to the train station. Both lion and bat shook hands before Arthur boarded the train to go back to Cherryton.

...

"So you not only made friends there but got captured by the lion mafia, got yourself in a tangle with the drama club while you are a member of a gardening club and to top it all, you are going out with a fiery harlequin rabbit who used to bully your gardening club president?" Sameer asked over the phone, trying to process his old friend's adventure.

"Yeah, something like that," Arthur laughed. "I find that hard to believe if I ever tell you or my dad."

"Where were you when we need an adventure?" Sameer teased, a hissing sound was heard. "We could have found a lost idol or have the edge against the Selkie girls."

"Oh, but we did have adventures," Arthur tapped his phone lightly, his smile bright as always. "Remember crashing Tek's brother's wedding to prevent their unsuccessful marriage? Or we all went to the abandoned tunnels that was claimed to be haunted? Sail on a ship as a family vacation together? Even trying to raise sales as a project for our home economics class?"

"Hah, you got me there," Sameer laughed. "But I'm really happy that you found someone, Arthur. Now that's that, I hope you are still playing your tunes.  You know, we should find time to catch up despite our distance. How about a video call and we can have a small horror movie marathon?"

Arthur shuddered, his white fur standing up like he was rubbed against a balloon. "With their eerie synthesisers and violins? That's more of your cup of tea, Sameer. But I can give that movie with the suspense theme of that hawk murdering the sparrow in the shower a pass because of the interesting dialogues."

"Of course, every of that director's films are a masterpiece," Sameer agreed. "Except for his treatment of the ladies off-set. A male's who cheats and harms others are not males at all, that's what Baba used to say when he had to break up the couples at court. It also applies to females as well."

Arthur fluffed up his fur. He knew Sameer's father was well-known back home both as judge and lawyer who is just on all animals. He was a strict yet supportive father to his children and even to the bat himself and his own father. He can be reserved but knows how to enjoy himself.

"I'm glad you and your family are okay," sighed Arthur, plopping on his back on the bed. "I hope we talk and meet again soon."

"Likewise, my friend," Sameer hissed. "Going to miss your little baked goods and music."

"And me with your take on falooda and historical artifacts of the ancient world."

With that, the line had disconnected and Arthur was thinking of reading one of the paragraphs he found interesting in his geography textbook. But before he could turn a page of the book, a knock was heard at the door.

As a routine, he listened to the other end with a glass pressed up against the thick, patterned wood. "It's me, Legosi," a deep, growled voice said on the other end.

Arthur answered the door and his ears wiggled excitedly at the grey wolf's shuffling footsteps entering his room. 

"Please Legosi, come and have some tea with me. I brewed some chai with milk and it will be complimented with warm buns and honey. Also there's butter and some toast if you would like."

"Thank you," Legosi had a hint of light in his voice. Arthur guessed the wolf was happy to have tea with him. "I got the wood that you've been asking for. But that's not all."

"Oh?"

"Haru wanted me to give you this package," the grey wolf thrusted a crumpled yet aromatic package into the bat's wings. "I can't read it but it has a nice smell."

Arthur used his fingers to trace the wrapped package and found a note taped to it. It was in braille which made him smile. The note read:

'I hope it fits you, Arthur. You can wear it whenever you like or when it's cold'

Slowly, he unwrapped the package, loving the crinkly sound it made when he pressed it as well as the satisfying ripping sound of paper. His leaf-shaped nose was hit with a sweet fragrance of a sort of citrus fruit and felt up the content. It made him puffed his fluffy fur out of excitement.

He has received a well-tailored sweater!

Chapter Text

Chapter 35

"The texture is so soft!" Arthur squeaked excitedly when he felt up the present.  He nuzzled it, feeling the warmth of the material before hugging it. "I must try it on."

"Okay."

Arthur decided to change in the bathroom since it's not decent to be changing in front of other animals. The sweater was comfortable and breezy, better than the stuffy ones he had tried on back at his old home due to his fluffy fur. Now, he can't tell if his clothes had a graphic print or not which he shyly had to asked the sales worker about it when he had to buy new clothes with his father. If he was around, it was no problem for him so long as the clothes let him breathe easily.

"Hmmm, this feels snugged," Arthur commented to himself before doing some stretches to try it out. How thoughtful that the sweater didn't have sleeves but had something similar to a cape to drape over his wings so that they won't freeze during the winter. His ears wiggled, satisfied with the size and the comfort of the sweater.

Legosi's eyes widened when he saw Arthur emerging from the bathroom in the sweater. The sweater had a particular pattern to which the grey wolf would consider it to be the night sky with the midnight blue colour and silver star patterns. 

How fitting since Arthur's music is universal and he's the best student in physics.

"What do you think?" asked Arthur, making Legosi think of the different things to say about Arthur's sweater. In the end, he decided to answer with:

"It fits you."

"Oh, I'm glad!" Arthur puffed his fur. "Now, I have to make the pencil cup gift."

Legosi decided to sit on the floor while Arthur laid down a towel to catch all of his wood shavings. The grey wolf was worried when Arthur brought a knife that he has seen to be used for carving wood. He wondered a lot of things as Arthur slowly carved the wood , feeling it and listening to something the wolf doesn't know of.

He was worried because it's a blind bat holding a knife and can't see what he is making.

Yet, he became fascinated by how steady Arthur was when he was whittling his way to form a hollow hole at one end while the other side he had smoothened it. It's really understandable to the grey wolf that Arthur's old school had classes for this.

In the background, Legosi heard Arthur's phone playing a song. He was unfamiliar with the tune but it sounded very light-hearted. Well, no surprise since the bat himself looked content despite that fact that he got bullied or be associated with Vampyrums.

Legosi mentally noted to himself that he and his roommates would watch the horror movie Alucard to try and understand why other students are wary of the Honduran white bat. He had mentioned in his history presentation that Vampyrum bats exist and are most feared even among the bat community.

"Arthur," Legosi flexed his claws to observe how his fingers move. "What kind of crimes do you have back at your old home?"

Arthur looked up from his wood carving and sniffed. "Well, similar to yours with the herbivore getting killed by carnivores, animal trafficking, fanatic cults and some cases underage flying that causes accidents. Your news here some have lighter news so it's a bit better."

"Ah," Legosi leaned back to watch his little friend finishing his carving by rubbing it with sandpaper. Now the bat has a confused expression on his face. He was holding a can of spray paint and the other wing had glow-in-the-dark stickers shaped of stars and moons.

Arthur tried to spray across the wood-carving but it landed on the spread out papers instead. Legosi decided to help the bat by spraying the paint and while waiting for the paint to dry, Arthur made the grey wolf some tea and marmalade sandwiches as a thank you gift.

"I can't thank you enough, Legosi," Arthur gave him a grateful smile. "Colours aren't my strongest suite as you can see. I understand why my old art teacher only gave me clay and wood in every art class..."

"What is it that you just made?" asked Legosi.

"It's a pencil cup. Suitable for Mizuchi since she likes to design and craft anything she can find. I would say that she knew what she was doing when she made this sweater for me."

Legosi noticed the sparkle in Arthur's cloudy blue eyes when he talked about the rabbit. The grey wolf feels relaxed to know that he's not the only one who has some strong emotion towards  rabbits now that Arthur had confided in him about his time with Mizuchi.

In a way, he would think that the both of them will have to be discreet about their relationship.

"Now," Arthur twitched his ears. "Can we go check the garden at the roof?"

...

"Are you still trying to get back with her?" Kibi the tamandua asked the brown and white harlequin rabbit. He had recovered after a bombshell news was dropped to him about the little 'date' he had with the Netherland dwarf rabbit who Kibi himself wouldn't want to talk with.

It was good to see Legosi not affected by her charms or else the whole drama club will be affected.

"Of course I am!" the male harlequin rabbit announced with confidence. "She must want me back after all. I am the other harlequin rabbit in the school. But everytime I met her, she seems to deflect everything I did. I tried flowers, buy her an expensive necklace and even want to take her to a movie but no."

Kibi found it weird considering he knew Mizuchi through him and she's the scariest rabbit he had ever encounter besides that seemingly innocent dwarf rabbit. He swore that Cherryton sure has some herbivores with guts.

"I'm sorry to hear that," Kibi gave his condolences. "Maybe after you broke up with her, she wants to forget about you."

"What?! She's too proud to even let me go," he insisted. "I've seen her around with her friends but every time I tried to make her talk to me, she threatened to slapped me. I still want her since besides her fiery personality let me tell you, she's hot."

Kibi rolled his eyes. While the tamandua stayed out of trouble, he had noticed the female harlequin rabbit talking to someone he wouldn't believe it would happened:

Mizuchi was chatting with the blind bat!

The last time he saw the both of them, Mizuchi was given a wrapped boxed with some dotted papers.

And she was blushing and had the kept the present in her bag before leaving towards the herbivore dorm.

Chapter Text

Chapter 36

Mizuchi hugged the wrapped gift that was passed to her by Arthur.

She was happy to know that he loved the sweater she made for him and despite the fact he can't see what the design looked like, him saying it's comfortable and soft was enough for the harlequin rabbit to know that she did a good job.

She will open the gift later at her dorm and for now, she wants to finish some homework in the library. Not the place she goes to often because of all of the seats being occupied and everyone takes everything seriously.

It made her feel guilty that she doesn't study as much as she should since she will be graduating soon.

But that also means that these moments will be the last time she will ever see or talk with Arthur again. 

"I shouldn't think too deep into this," Mizuchi muttered to herself as she sat in one of the seats in the library. It was a miracle that she found an empty one at the corner that's away from most of the animals. She wanted to bang her head at the questions she has to complete for her mathematics.

Now, she knew it's important since mathematics is somewhat needed to take measurements and estimation of fabric lengths. She sighed and decided to do some of the sums while she plugged in her headphones to listen to some tunes from her favourite movies or pop idols.

As much as she does love a bit of fame, she knew the pressures of stardom and the image they have to put up to present themselves and will never have peace. Plus, obsessive fans who stalked them and sent them fan messages with their own blood because they are 'dedicated fans'. That's what she remembered reading in her favourite celebrity news websites.

That's the reason why she never joint any clubs in this school and there was never an art or at least a fashion club.

Suddenly, she felt a large wing touching her arm which made her whipped her head around and almost fell from her seat.

It was a bald eagle.

"S-stay away from me," Mizuchi whispered harshly, her green eyes blazing at the calm eagle's expression. "What my friends did or what I did to you, I-"

"Please listen," the eagle raised a wing to stop her from talking. "My name is Aoba and I am a friend of Arthur. I just want to talk to you for a bit."

Mizuchi stopped from almost using her pen to stab the eagle's eye.

Aoba kneeled down until he was at eye level to where the harlequin rabbit was sitting. She was something alright and he can understand why Arthur wouldn't mind hanging out with her again. For a herbivore and a rabbit, she can carry herself like those classy females in spy movies.

"What do you want to know about?" Mizuchi asked, nervous if this eagle knows anything about her relationship with the blind bat. And if he does, is he going to leak it out to the others, even the nosy newspaper club?

"I just want to say that Arthur's a good bat," Aoba clicked his raptor beak. "With all the tragic things that happened here and even on the news, we need good animals like him. A light in our darkness."

This made the harlequin rabbit calmed down and smiled as her white ear drooped down while the black one was still sticking up. "Yeah, he is a sweet bat. A bit odd with his speech but it's his optimism and perception that's different than any of us could imagine."

Aoba nodded. "Yes, and there's one thing I need you to promise. Not to me but to yourself."

Now Mizuchi was confused by this request but she had her paws gripped to the seat as she waited for this eagle to tell here what she needs to promise. Aoba whispered softly into her ear and her eyes widened.

"I...I would never-"

"I'm not accusing you about it," Aoba told her sharply. "But do you understand?"

Mizuchi slowly nodded, her foot stamped the carpeted floor. "Of course I do. I'm not a stranger to this."

With that, Aoba left the harlequin rabbit to continue her homework in peace. It seemed like Arthur has been making some interesting connections for himself. Aoba chuckled to himself, thinking that Arthur may not be aware with the types of animals he had influenced with his presence.

He dared to say that Arthur's influenced on him, the drama club and even some animals like his gardening club president and the harlequin rabbit more than Cherryton Academy's star student, Louis the red deer.

...

"So you wanted me to do what again?" asked Arthur, who took out the violin he brought in his backpack. He was backstage with some of the production crew and Mokichi, the sound choreographer.

"We just want you to play the theme from the very famous high sea movie," Sanu the Australian pelican explained. "Louis has announced that the actors and dancers might change the type of plays to give our club variety. This time, he wanted something similar to an action movie."

Arthur smiled, he remembered the private discussion he had with the red deer while they were in the Shishigumi mansion.

Speaking of which, he hoped non of those lions are prowling around here or else it would end very badly for everyone.

"We will signal you with a beat," said Mokichi. He snapped his fingers once and Arthur lifted his wing to signalled that he understood what needs to be done. They were waiting for the actors and dancers to finish so that the Honduran white bat can play.

"I'm not sure about this," he heard one of the animals whispered. "He might trip over most of the things on stage."

"Nonsense! Bats are known to be the most cautious animals, even if they are blind like him."

Arthur wondered if they ever tried to close their eyes and be that way for a week to know what it feels like. He's used to it but it does get annoying whenever someone asked him about colours or speak to him loudly as if his blindness is equalled to having poor hearing.

Once the actors and dancers left the stage, Arthur was called to present his music to the centre stage. The bat was relief that he couldn't hear anyone in front of him so the sounds were mostly from the others backstage. 

He heard the signal of the foot tap that vibrated the floor.

Slowly with a deep breathe, he began to play the queen of instruments: the violin.

The drama club was watching the bat moving the bow as if it was another limb on his wings while his body moved along with the song. It was as if he was becoming one with the music despite it sounding very adventurous and jolly. Even with his wobbly walk, it's very similar to

It was as thought Arthur was in a trance.

"I've heard this song before!" Bill hissed, gripping both the shoulders of Aoba and Tao.

"Yeah! The Voyage of the Mariners are the best! Imagine sailing those high seas!"

"I don't know you can play the song on just a violin," Els whispered as she and the other girls whispered among themselves. "I always thought you need a whole band to form the song."

Shiira leaned close to the curtains. "Maybe Cherryton should invest in having a music club. So far, I don't think the school is making any changes. But that's just my opinion."

While Arthur was lost to his instrumental trance, he could hear some faint footsteps in the background that didn't belong to any of the drama club members. He could feel his heart drop and a swarm of moths eating his stomach away.

Someone was inside and now his secret of being the musician is exposed!

Chapter Text

Chapter 37

Arthur might as well be alone with his own fears and thoughts.

This unknown stranger who somehow snuck their way into the club might leak out about him and was the culprit behind all those musics played every evening. Now Arthur loved to play music, he just had some problems when he performed alone in front of a lot of animals. If he were in his old school band, he wouldn't have any trouble because he knew he could count on his bandmates for support if either of them were out of synch or had a different tempo.

But in Cherryton, he felt like a firefly among buzzing hornets.

And that firefly will soon have his light extinguished if he doesn't locate the unknown stranger!

He stopped playing his violin, despite hearing the disappointment of the others backstage. He too felt like this is his fault for being a bit jumpy over the smallest things. Besides performing alone, Arthur's other fears that made him feel uncomfortable were the crash from the lightning or the irritable drip of water from the tap that has not been closed properly.

"What's wrong with him?" one of the female students whispered backstage. "He looked like someone just told him that his grandma just died!"

"Arthur, what's wrong?" he heard the sound of Aoba's voice that held concern.

But Arthur couldn't say anything as if his body was paralysed. His ears were the only thing swivelling about, listening to find the source of the new sound. He moved his mouth a little bit to use his clicks to listen to where the stranger was and Arthur was surprised.

It was small, like a rodent or something.

"Someone's in the club uninvited," Legosi's report made some of the animal's jump from his growled voice. 

Poor Arthur was petrified until a tender hand was placed on his wing. "It's okay Arthur. The boys are looking into it," the was the gentle voice of the sheep, Els. "I wonder why someone would sneak in when Louis and Sanu had already put up a sign that says we are rehearsing."

Arthur focused on his breathing to calm his beating heart. His backpack was backstage with the thermos that contained his honey lemon tea and a bit of snacks. He decided to walk, despite his body feeling a bit heavy from the panic that has risen from hearing the unknown stranger.

The other animals saw his cloudy blue eyes were wide with panic. Bill the tiger knew that feeling too well. He himself knew that in situations like this, he had to put on a brave face before leaving to the bathroom to spray himself with...blood he had smuggled.

Needless to say, he was guilty of possessing such a thing but sometimes, a price will always be paid in order to pursue a stability in himself.

He stalked Arthur from behind before placing his large claw on his shoulder. The Honduran white bat was still having a panic attack. Until that sneak has been found, the priority now is to calm him down because seeing the bat having this sort of behaviour was disturbing.

"Listen to me," the Bengal tiger chuffed into Arthur's ear gently. "Stop what you're doing, breathe in and out. Think of it as you making tea."

Arthur slowly calmed down and fluffed his fur, hopefully it's thick enough to cover his embarrassed face from his meltdown if both of his wings were occupied. Arthur feel like he should leave the club before things get out of hand.

"Thank you," Arthur breathed, grateful for Bill's instructions and Els' compassion. "I-I hope I didn't ruin the club and everything..."

"Don't beat yourself up over it, Art," Bill comforted him. "Looks like you could be right with a sneak coming into the club uninvited. Come on, let's see who's here."

...

"Come on! Can't you guys co-operate on this?" a voice squeaked. "That bat's gonna make a mark for our school. Even represent us!"

Legosi was holding the small black rat in his claws before handing him over to Louis. The red deer knew this rat was the president of the newspaper club, who are notorious for getting the scoop over students without getting caught.

But this time, he failed because they have a bat in the theatre.

"You violated the rules we put up outside of our rehearsal,"  Louis told the rat off sternly. "What's worse is that you might as well caused harm to our guest over there!"

He jerked his thumb to a very nervous Arthur. He understood the bat's feeling of being exposed and sometimes, some secrets are best to be kept and buried. So far, he knew Arthur wouldn't give out the red deer's secret of being head of the Shishigumi. 

Considered this as paying the Honduran white bat's debt.

"Harm? Harm?!" the black rat exasperated, flailing in Louis' grasp. "The school needs to know that the bat's got talent! Washed up nobody now becomes a virtuoso star who will represent the school. Come on, this could be good for us and your club-"

"I suggest you don't publish it," Aoba stepped forward, his eyes locked onto the trembling rodent. His predatory beak clicked irritably at this rat who thought he could waltz in here just because he's the president of the newspaper club. "As much as what you say it's true, you should respect someone's privacy."

The whole drama club was starting to get chaotic until a slow stomp was heard to silenced all of them. It was from none other than the Honduran white bat himself. He looked stressed with his fur almost dishevelled and his cloudy blue eyes were close to become pupiless.

"Please," Arthur's voice  held a plead. "Stop this chaos this instant! Aren't you all supposed to be united as the drama club? And you..."

Arthur's gangly walk never looked so scary for the small black rat now that he was face-to-face with the only Chiroptera in the school. "Please respect our privacy and I understand your club needs the latest scoop but invading the drama club's rehearsal would surely ruin Cherryton's reputation as it's famous for the theatres. Or am I wrong?"

There were murmurs of agreement and Arthur swore he could hear the black rat's heart hammering like a drummer in a rock band.

"Also," Arthur continued. "I have a feeling that some of the students are well-connected. You don't want those who are close to the principal to find out and disband your club, would you?'

Arthur never sounded angry but here, he sounded frustrated and stressed. All of them knew if his secret of being the musician was exposed, there will be trouble for the drama club as well.

Once the black rat reluctantly agreed to not leak out the secret, there was still tension in the air. Legosi was ordered by Louis to follow the newspaper club just to make sure that they kept their word for it.

Arthur continued to play his music until the rehearsals were over. Needless to say, he still felt nervous about the black rat going behind their backs. So, he plugged his headphones to listen to his music as he walked back into his dorm.

He was humming to himself, thinking about what to have for tea before finishing his biology and marine language homework. Just as he unlocked the door of his dorm, he heard a familiar voice through his headphones.

"Hey, Arthur," the warm, comforting voice almost made him dropped his phone as he stood at the doorway. The voice that made him want to wrapped his wings around the figure that was all so familiar to him. His ears was now wiggling a bit and his tail as well from the presence in the dorm.

"Hi, dad!"

Chapter Text

Chapter 38

Without thinking, Arthur embraced the figure in his room. He was buried in his chest, his squeaks and clicks were heard as he smelled the familiar scent. His father was here and it felt so long since they last hugged or heard from each other.

Arthur was enveloped into a wing embrace, like a large duvet or comforter. The both of them didn't speak for a few minutes, just happy to hear from each other and hug each other physically. Arthur reached up to feel his father's face, trying to make out how his face might look like now.

Same as always, only feeling a few wrinkles close to his muzzle and the spectacles around his eyes.

"I missed you," Arthur murmured in the hug. He could hear his father chuckling and rubbing his back in a soothing manner. "I even missed our time cooking dinner together."

"Me too, son," his father sighed. "Life is very funny, isn't it? Like a box of chocolates, we don't know what we will get. How is school and settling in Cherryton for you?"

Arthur smiled and gestured his father to hang upside down between the gaps of his bunk bed. Once both Honduran white bats were settled, Arthur began telling him about his first day at Cherryton, to the friends he made and even the struggles.

"Arthur," his father assured him. "There's no shame in being a C or B student. I was a lot worst than you. Right now even, with the other professors and colleagues disproving my theory on studying the sound waves that can be decipher in the voids of space."

"Sounds? I thought you can't hear anything in space due to the vacuum and lack of particles to make even a whistle in the air."

"That's what I thought. Though, I might say it could be another layer of the universe that we all don't know. Like the sea, we don't know even with our aquatic friends. So Arthur, how are you settling with girls in the school?"

Arthur almost dropped from his hanging position. "W-what do you mean?"

"Oh, ever since we moved here and you exchanging from all-boys Gryphon Cross to Cherryton, was it difficult talking to girls?"

Arthur wanted to fluffed up his fur to cover his face besides his wings. "Well....they are nice but you know, just the same like the Selkie girls from my old rival school. I joined a gardening club and my club president is nice but tough. Her name's Haru but don't be fooled by the fact she's a dwarf rabbit. She can break our knees if anyone dare crosses her."

His father chuckled, encouraging his son to continue. Arthur told him about Haru, the drama club, his new friends like Legosi and Aoba along with the troubles he faced such as certain subjects and his run in with the black market.

"Hold on," his father paused him from continuing. "You went to the black market?"

Hearing the disbelief and horror in his voice, Arthur assured him. "I didn't know it was the black market until I smelled blood. You know we can't eat meat or blood like the Vampyrum bats. But we learnt our lesson when Bill and I were captured by the group called the Shishigumi."

The old bat just listened as his son told him how he got out and carried on. He noticed the scar across his son's wing membrane and cheek. He was glad that his son was okay and wasn't traumatised by the whole ordeal. Arthur told him about how those lions almost ate him but left out the details of Louis being their boss a secret.

"The news is you're safe and that's all that matters. I remembered when I first was tricked into going there with my colleagues, I assumed it's a market much like our farmers market back home with black produce. Of course, I just tried to make a bad impression of the Count to scare some hungry dogs off my back."

Arthur laughed but something was on his mind. "Dad, I don't want to sound rude but what are you doing here?"

"Ah, I was wondering when are we getting to that. I was invited here by the principal to give a talk for the seniors before they graduate. Mostly for preparation for them either to go to university or live out their life. Have you thought of yours yet?"

Arthur's expression then fell. "I...I don't know, dad," his voice held a waver in the sentence. "I think I know what to do but at the same time I don't. I love to play music but I also love making delicious dishes, mathematics and even physics in a sense."

"It will be okay, Arthur. As much as we are all rushing to grow up, none of them realised that we are just clueless at everything. Being an adult is like being a child with more workload in your life that you choose to take responsibility or not. All of us have different ways of dealing with it. If anything happens, I'll be there to support you."

"Dad..."

Just then, there was a knock on the door!

...

Aoba almost jumped back to see a Honduran white bat with glasses that answered the door. He could tell that this must be Arthur's father because he could see the resemblance minus the darker colours at the ears and muzzle that reminded the bald eagle of tangerines.

Plus, he's got those amber-coloured eyes that resembled the sun.

"Oh hello!" the bat greeted them cheerfully. "You must be Aoba, right? I'm Arthur's father, Dr Kirk but please call me Kirk."

Aoba was surprised by how pleasant this bat was. Almost like he figured Arthur would be like him as he grows older but who knows! He smiled and offered his wing in greeting as the two shook in greeting.

Arthur was already inside and wiggled his ears, his body language showed that he was excited but also a bit nervous. He figured the young bat thought there might be conflict between his friend and his father.

"Hello Aoba," Arthur greeted. "We were just making some cup of tea and dad brought his homemade trifle. Care to have some?"

"I'd love to," the bald eagle smiled.

So the three of them decided to chat while Dr Kirk spooned the trifle in the bowls for each of them. The trifle contained sponge vanilla cake, strawberry jelly, layer of mixed berries, custard and finally rich whipped cream. 

It was the most divine thing Aoba has ever tasted!

Arthur has brewed vanilla black tea, a fitting hot beverage for a berry dessert for the evening. He and Aoba were planning to help each other with their marine language homework. Arthur can speak the words but reading and writing were a different matter.

"I can't help but notice," Dr Kirk mused, nibbling his spoon of trifle. "That I saw a nice looking sweater on your chair. Where did you buy it from."

"Oh that..." Arthur's squeaked. "It's from a friend of mine. We recently exchanged gifts we made after our outing. I made for her a pencil cup since she likes to design and do tailoring."

"Technically, his 'girlfriend'," Aoba teased, which made the blind Honduran white bat flustered. 

"Why didn't you tell me you went out with someone?" Dr Kirk's amber eyes lit up. Despite his cloudy blue eyes, Arthur's head was directly at the sound of his father's question. "Are you a bit shy in telling your dear old dad?"

Aoba covered his beak, trying not to laugh at how cute Arthur was when he's completely flustered.

 His wings were wrapped around his whole body like a wheat crepe with the fluffy white fur looking like coconut shavings and those big ears pointing upwards.

"Please," Arthur pleaded, his fur already fluffed to cover his face. "Mizuchi and I are just friends. We had a rocky start in the beginning but eventually things are going slow but smoothly. She's very nice once she's relaxed. She has a lovely voice."

Dr Kirk wiped his glasses, his amber eyes were already sparked. "Alright, Arthur. Oh, look at the time! I must get back to my apartment. Please, feel free to drop by anytime and let's have our get together dinner."

Now Arthur unfurled his wings, nodding. "Yes, that sounds like a wonderful idea. I'll make my dessert this time."

"I'm looking forward to that, son," Dr Kirk laughed. Both bats embraced each other before he bid goodbye to the eagle.

"Well, a pleasure to meet you, Aoba," said Dr Kirk. "I'm glad Arthur has found a good friend in you."

Aoba was touched by the old bat's kind words. "I'm glad to meet a wonderful animal like your son."

"I can hear the both of you!" shouted Arthur, who was in the bathroom.

Both of them laughed before Dr Kirk took off into the night from Arthur's dorm window. 

Chapter Text

Chapter 39

Haru was rolling her eyes at Arthur's rambles about his dad. He sounded like a great bat, considering how well he delivered his talk to her and the other third year students during a special assembly in one of the auditoriums.

She was clear in her goals: to study botany and one day open her own flower shop.

When she sat with the other third years, she could feel a few eyes on her. No matter, once she has graduated, that will be the last time they'll ever encounter her. What was surprising was how during the talk she spotted Mizuchi sitting with one of her cronies at the corner of her eyes.

Lately, that harlequin rabbit was acting even stranger than Honest Legosi!

No matter how much Arthur insisted that Mizuchi is getting better, Haru was not convinced as she needs to see and hear from that bunny herself. Right now, the both of them were pulling out unwanted weeds and spraying some of the smaller plants with water.

Before this, it was just fine with her being alone in the gardening club but now with the Honduran white bat, she figured she should put her botany and biology lesson to good use. It would be nice to teach some animals who are enthusiastic and comfortable with plants like her and Arthur.

"I brought some jasmine tea after we are done," said Arthur, who was petting a lavender flower. "These ladies sure are crabby in the morning for their nutrients. I figured the cacti families might have the same problem despite having a water system in their stems."

Haru patted his shoulder. "I could use some tea. God, as if everyone is expected to grow up quickly! Sorry Arthur but I have a lot on my mind so if I snapped, it's nothing personal, okay?"

"Of course not," Arthur fluffed his fur from the chilly breeze of the wind. "All of us are pressured and stressed as we grow older. It's how we choose to handle it or let it handle us."

'Damn him and his philosophical talk,' Haru thought to herself. 'I can see that in Dr Kirk when he gave his talk and his words are crazier than a hare in March. Must be the tea talking...'

Anyways, Haru decided not to think too deep into it since they were supposed to arrange some flowers, collect leaves from the basil plants and even pick some of the lavenders to sell them to some bakeries.

"Still thinking of getting that trumpet?" asked Haru, while petting one of the rose flowers. Arthur nodded. "Oh yes! And I hope you are still thinking about another book about plants."

"You know me well," Haru huffed proudly. "Say, you've heard anything going on with Legosi? He's been awfully quiet lately and since you two share classes together, maybe you might know?"

Arthur's expression fell, his cloudy blue eyes closed a bit. "I don't know, Haru. Legosi keeps to himself and I don't think I want to press on if it makes him uncomfortable. I know how it feels like to have someone breathe down on your neck and demanding some answers even you are unable to answer. So I went with my gut and just listened to what I can."

Haru was stunned at Arthur's reasons. But as compassionate and she is, the Netherland dwarf rabbit wrapped an arm across his shoulder.

"You know something?" she asked, making Arthur lift both of his ears up. "I don't know much about Legosi too but I want to know him. He's so honest with himself and talks to me. Even with me being bullied and all, he was there for me. I want him to let me into his life...."

Arthur was silent since he wasn't the best at comforting. So, he lend her his wing to hold onto. Their bond was of an older sister and a little brother. As an only child, he wondered what it was like to have a sibling like his friends.

"It will be okay, Haru. Come, let's have a small breakfast at the cafeteria before everyone arrives. We both know that we're not the ones to hang around too much in crowded places."

"At least I don't do it upside down!"

With a small laugh, the both of them walked together.

...

"For the last time, no!" Mizuchi told her ex off before storming the other direction.

"But Mizuchi, let me explain!" her ex pleaded, following her from behind. "I know I fucked up but I'm still the same guy. Please, let me prove to you that I have changed!"

Mizuchi whipped her head back to stare at him with those icy green eyes that reflect the sunlight. "Remind me who broke us up in the first place?"

"It was the dwarf rabbit!" the male harlequin rabbit babbled, trying to fight off the unsettling gaze the doe was giving him. "She-"

"Enough!" Mizuchi held up her hand to silenced him. "You left me because she's cuter and smaller than me. And to think I used to gush over you because you're the only harlequin rabbit here besides me."

"You need me, Mizuchi!" he persisted. "Once the both of us graduated, we will have our own lives but no other rabbits can have a higher chance of survival compared to us. You need me, Mizuchi. Come on, at least go out with me and then I won't bother you again."

Mizuchi has no mood to answer him. Her mind was already swirling with emotions, her life as a student, her future and...

She felt like throwing up.

"Mizuchi?" he tried to approach her but she shoved him before stepping back.

"Just leave me alone..."

She can't go back to the dorm. No one must see her cry or crumbling like a helpless child from the kindergarten. She has to find some place to hide until she calms down.

In school, she scanned for an empty room to cry and luckily, there was one with the doors ajar. Quickly, she entered before closing the door behind her and let out a few sniffles. She has a good life, friends who stuck by her yet...

Why does she feel so miserable?

It seems like meeting her ex again face-to-face has crumbled her to the point even his text messages were deadlier than a scammer telling her that she has a virus on her phone. She pulled up her knees close to her face and silently sob, enjoying the cluttered but dark room.

Suddenly, her long ears caught a faint sound.

It sounded like those light keys from a piano.

'Great, I must have stumbled into one of the drama club's rehearsals,' she thought to herself. Feeling curious, she decided to follow the sound and watch a bit of the practice before she leaves.

She peered into the corner, hearing the source of the sound. She held her hand to her mouth, trying to prevent a gasp from emitting out:

The musician that was playing that beautiful tune was no other than the sweet blind Arthur!

Before she could have a closer view, the music stopped and Arthur's ears were already perked up. He turned his head, the look of panic in his eyes before he moved his mouth a bit.

"W-who's there?" he asked, moving his mouth to estimate who it was. He almost fell from where he was sitting when he deducted who it was. "M-Mizuchi?!"

"Arthur," the harlequin rabbit's voice was in disbelief but tried to approach him slowly. "So it was you..."

Arthur said nothing but was cornered by the wall when he backed away. Mizuchi felt something in her heart when she saw him shaking like a leaf. She wanted to hold him and tell him everything is okay.

"You're the angel of music...."

Chapter Text

Chapter 40

Arthur was petrified when Mizuchi finally put the pieces of the puzzle on the mysterious musician in Cherryton Academy.

Despite their growing friendship, Arthur was unsure if Mizuchi would tell this secret to her friends or maybe some animal might eavesdrop on the conversation. Even though Arthur loved playing music and composing songs he remembered by ear, the Honduran white bat was very shy and would often hide behind his wings even on stage.

Ironic for an animal that was born blind such as him.

"Arthur, it's okay," Mizuchi's soft tone assured him. The harlequin rabbit knew what it was like to hide the deepest secrets from everyone. After all, their friendship had always been a secret so it must be fair that she might as well not tell any other animal about this bat's musical talent.

This wonderful, sweet and extraordinary bat....

"P-please forgive me," Arthur stuttered, trying to compose himself. "Yes, you caught me and I am the one behind the music. But I played the musics when I am stressed or when I feel content with myself and the day I had experienced. I opened my window every evening to play music for all animals to listen."

Mizuchi wanted to hold those two fingers to comfort him but that might spooked himself with his shaky state.

"If you are shy," the harlequin rabbit began while sitting cross-legged opposite him. "Why do you let others hear you play? Wouldn't it be nice to do it for yourself?"

"It would be nice," Arthur agreed. "To play for myself but the second I was transferred to Cherryton and my first day in school, I realised that all the animals here are on edge. Even the large carnivores. So I want to help calm them down but I can't reveal myself because I don't like that much attention. I'm very well if I were in a band like in my old school but here....This isn't Gryphon Cross."

Arthur slowly reached out his right wing and without question, Mizuchi grasped it gently in her paw. Those foggy blue eyes that were staring at her despite knowing that he can't see and his ears twitching a bit made her want to reach out to touch his face.

But he had her beat to that.

Arthur was trying to imagine what Mizuchi might be like if he could imagine. He traced her soft, plush fur of her hand gently, trying the shape of her fingers and palm. He imagined her to be very careful with how she designed the clothes or even draw.

He wasn't very accurate but it was the thought that counts.

"Um....can I try something?" Arthur asked meekly, hiding his face in his fluffy white fur.

"Go on, Arthur."

With her permission, Arthur's two fingers slowly made their way up to the harlequin rabbit's face. Mizuchi was blushing at the close contact and thought the bat looked funny trying to make out what seemed to be him trying to imagine what she might look like. 

He traced her face gently, not applying any pressure. She allowed him to touched her ears, she closed her eyes at the touch. Arthur then felt his own ears to compare. It seemed like Mizuchi had long ears while his was big and disc-shaped.

"What do you think?" she asked in a whisper. Arthur smiled softly, a bit of his teeth showing.

"You are..." Arthur began, trying to put words he had concluded. "Lovely....there's no other words to describe what I felt. Of course, I will not forget about what you did to me but what animal wouldn't? I've enjoyed your company since that outing and I have yet to take you out to return the favour. I love the sweater by the way and how it feels like a warm blanket when I wear it."

Mizuchi was speechless as she still had one paw holding Arthur's two fingers. He really thought of that about her?

She felt an ache in her chest, she hoped it was because she was worried about her ex coming in here.

"I love the pencil cup that you made for me," she told him, stroking the finger and then his wing. "It glows at night and I felt safe to sleep with little stars in my own room. Arthur, again I am sorry about my first impression about you and of course I want to have breakfast with you."

The Honduran white bat was now flustered by her response. 

"I heard you crying. I was just in the practice room because I wanted to try out something with the piano before heading towards my dorm. I didn't know it was you, I assumed it was one of the drama club members so hope it doesn't bother you. The sounds I mean..."

Mizuchi shook her head and touched his shoulder. "No, it was beautiful. I can understand why you played in private. Would it be selfish to ask what song were you playing?"

Arthur now has a small grin on his face. "Why don't I let you listen? Please, make yourself absolutely comfortable if you must."

Mizuchi decided to follow him and watched him play.

She has never seen his fingers and wings moved so graciously considering the bat himself was clumsy in his steps. But the music, the notes on the piano sounded melancholic yet so hopeful. How can music do that without words?

She wondered if this was something about music being universal?

Needless to say, she was glad to be hanging out with Arthur for a little while.

...

"You got all the boxes, Legosi?" Kibi asked as both wolf and tamandua were walking to the practice room.

"All the boxes," the grey wolf echoed. But the canine himself caught the scent of a rabbit as they entered the room. Of course, both of them heard the music which made both Kibi and Legosi sought after the source.

Both of them were not surprised that it was Arthur playing that universal melody but the rabbit...

Kibi's eyes were wide when he saw the scary harlequin rabbit. But this was the first time the tamandua was seeing her not having that smug grin or haughty expression when she and her ex used to walk down the hallways together.

Here, she looked so peaceful, content, ears down and all.

"I-"

Legosi held Kibi's shoulder with utmost care and shook his head. He might want to have a talk with Arthur later at his dorm room and probably invite Jack to accompany him.

Little did all the the animals in the room knew, a brown and white figure had caught a glimpse of what he witnessed. He was sure to make plans to win Mizuchi back.

And he will guarantee to have a private conversation with that bug-eyed blind freak.

Chapter Text

Chapter 41

Arthur never knew he would be in this predicament.

Mizuchi was here and now sitting next to him on the piano stool to hear him play. With jittery fingers, he cringed when he accidentally played off-key but Mizuchi did not complain at all. So, he decided to play as if he was in his dorm all by himself.

"It's beautiful," said Mizuchi. "I could never play like that. And by ear too, that's really something."

Arthur blushed. "Why, thank you. But can you promise not to tell anyone about me playing on campus? I'm not much of a conversationalist or quick when it comes to large crowds."

Mizuchi wrapped an arm around him gently. "Sure, Arthur."

An animal clearing his throat made Arthur whipped his head around to find the source of the sound. He opened his mouth a bit and sighed, realising it was Legosi and that tamandua he can't recalled his name. He was around backstage and was the one who allowed him to play the piano anytime if he stumbled into this room.

"How long were you two listening?" asked Arthur meekly. Mizuchi was gripping the Honduran white bat tightly, probably because of the grey wolf. But Arthur assured her by draping his wing over her back like a blanket.

"Just your music and talk," Legosi reported. "Is this is Mizuchi?"

"Yes," both Kibi and Arthur answered at the same time. Arthur tilted his head at the direction of the tamandua. "You know her too? Oh, of course you both are in the same years and took some classes together!"

"That's right!" Mizuchi huffed but glared at Kibi. The poor tamandua was ready to hide behind Legosi. "He sent you here, right?"

Kibi blinked. "What?"

"Don't lie to me. He sent you here with this grey wolf to spy on me, right?!"

Legosi felt hurt, since he was used to herbivores and smaller animals being afraid of him since he is a large canine. But Kibi jumped into his defence much to his surprise. "Wait just a minute, Mizuchi! Did you just assume that your ex sent me and Legosi to spy on you?"

"Why else were you here?"

Kibi just pointed at the boxes that were at the corner. "This is the drama club's backstage and no one is allowed in here except drama club members. Well, Arthur's an exception since he plays the music."

Both Arthur and Legosi were standing at the side while Mizuchi and Kibi argued. The grey wolf crouched down to whisper to Arthur's ear about what was happening.

"She reminds me of Haru," Legosi murmured. "She's not afraid to say what she wants on her mind."

"Hmm, maybe more than that, Legosi. I'm sure you have some experience with Haru to give me an advice on this?"

Legosi almost had his fur shaved off when Arthur asked this unexpected question. "N-no! I am still trying to understand even these feelings for her. How about you?"

"I...I don't know..."

Arthur walked between Mizuchi and Kibi, gently spreading his wings out. "Hey, hey! There's no need to fight. Mizuchi, Kibi and Legosi mostly come here to unload the props. And Kibi, I am rather curious to know what is going on but I won't probe. Shall we head back and have some tea?"

...

It took some time but Arthur was walking close to Legosi as they head back to the Chiroptera room. The last time a herbivore has ever entered the room was Louis and his bombshell secret.

Both herbivores were very surprised to see how clean was the Chiroptera dorm. Then again, Arthur is the only bat on campus so it does make sense. What interested them the most was the four instruments at different parts of the room.

"Would you call your room your little studio?" asked Kibi with a laugh. "Because I've never seen any animal with a lot of instruments in the room."

Mizuchi was taking everything into detail. So this is how a maestro works in the evening! From the instruments, his computer and even the braille machine she remembered how he could read and write.

Also, there was the photo frame of Arthur and his old friends back in Gryphon Cross.

Arthur smiled with his tooth smile. "I would think so. I will brew some tea so please, make yourselves comfortable."

While brewing tea, he eavesdropped on the conversation:

 "I never knew he was this small when he was younger."

"I think I can carry him. Bats have very light bone structures so I guessed even a rabbit can carry him without problem."

Arthur shook his head and brewed matcha tea. Most would call it green tea but what is green tea when colour has been an unsolvable puzzle for him? And why does it have to be called green tea when clearly from the dried leaves and the smell, he could tell that it's either jasmine or or matcha leaves?

He was thankful that the four of them can drink tea and talked about something other than the incident backstage. At least listening to Mizuchi and Kibi talking about certain designs and costumes were a relieved. He could also listen to Legosi's tail wagging.

He made a mental note to arrange a meeting with his father to give him the photo and call his grandmother. He needs to check the timezone first or else she might be cranky. There are a lot of things he would like to discuss about.

...

After an hour, it was time for the guest to leave because of the strict dorm rules that applied to both carnivores and herbivores. Legosi was heading back to his dorm to deal with some things while Arthur decided to take a small walk.

"Arthur?" Mizuchi's voice made him jumped.

"Do you need something?"

"I..." she looked around to see if there are animals within earshot before approaching close to the bat. "I want to say thank you. For listening to me and not telling anyone."

"You're welcome," Arthur's ears perked up. "And likewise, I thank you for that too. So, I figured we part ways tonight before anyone finds out you are here?"

"I guessed so," Mizuchi laughed nervously. 

There was an awkward silence but before Arthur could comprehend his surroundings, he felt a pair of arms wrapping around his torso for a brief moment before they were released and the sound of footsteps faded. 

He wondered if this is how any animal would feel from that. Then again, he enjoyed her company and he had to keep it discreet because of the tension between carnivores and herbivores here.

He decided to whistle to himself the tune from the film he and Mizuchi went to. It was something other than tea or his music player to calm these jittery spasms he is experiencing 

Suddenly, he felt a force punching him on the right side of his face before he fell to the ground. He tried to use his clicks to help him identify the source but he felt a foot near his neck.

"I don't see what's so scary or special about you," a voice Arthur doesn't recognised remarked. "All I see is just a pale, blind freak who can't even walk right."

"W-who are you?" asked the pained Honduran white bat. If he ever struggled, there was a chance that his neck might snap.

"A warning," the voice told him before easing his foot off before kicking the bat in the face. Arthur held back the urge to scream because he doesn't want any animal to know or think he is the attacker.

Arthur was confused and could taste his own blood from his lips.

"Stay away from her," the voice warned. "If you ever talk to her, sit with her or even hold hands, I will spill your secret to the newspaper club."

"You wouldn't-"

SLAP!

"I would so be a good bat and be silent like the rest of your kind."

Arthur could only hold onto his pain, tears were forming into his eyes. 

How was he going to keep all of this a secret to anyone and even himself?

Chapter Text

Chapter 42

Arthur coughed as he felt a warm, damp cloth that was swabbing his forehead.

"W-where am I?"

"Back in your room," his ears picked up the reassuring voice of his friend, Aoba. He was glad that it was him and not some other students or worst. "What happened back there? I found you knocked out in the middle of campus a bit bloodied at the lip and you were shaking."

"Was I?" Arthur asked himself rather than his friend. He tried to remember the sudden impact and the warning he was received. Now, he has never interacted with Mizuchi's ex but it seemed like that has been covered.

"Luckily I was just walking back to the dorm and your white fur was that easy to spot," Aoba explained. Arthur lowered his head, sighed. He felt a gentle wing on his shoulder.

"Do you want to talk about it?"

"Well...I was wondering with me bleeding on the ground," the bat murmured. "I was afraid you were going to eat me. As you mentioned earlier, I'm really easy to spot."

Aoba blinked in disbelief. How could Arthur think of such a thing?! The bald eagle would never eat meat ever since that Black Market incident with Bill, Tao and Legosi. He has herbivore friends and the thought of eating another life disturbed him greatly.

Then again, he understood why Arthur would think such a thing: bats are both prey and predator in life.

"Arthur, I wouldn't do something like that. Besides, you and I both know that us eagles don't have strong sense of smells. We rely on our eyes for everything."

The Honduran white bat could only nod, wrapping his wings around himself like a blanket. It was going to be difficult because he doesn't want to be exposed for his music but he also doesn't want to upset Mizuchi now that she is on good terms with him.

"I'm in trouble," Arthur admitted, he felt a gently wing holding his two fingers. He knew Aoba would understand. "It started with me going out after having tea with..."

After Arthur told him of the situation, the bald eagle was concern on how much this was affecting his friend. To be beaten up by a male rabbit was one thing but if he ever defends himself, the school will view it as a bat attacking one of the herbivores.

"Arthur, that doesn't mean that you should block her out of your life for safety. Sure he is going to do it if you talk to here but...don't you have another way to communicate with her?"

Arthur suddenly had his ears perked up at a sudden thought. Yes, he remembered before his grandfather's death, he used to do this to communicate with his friends in secret! Arthur suddenly leaped up and hung himself upside down with an excited expression.

un"Oh Aoba!" Arthur grasped his friends wing. "You are brilliant! Absolutely bloody brilliant!"

Aoba was glad that his friend was okay but he had no idea what the little bat was talking about. He decided to go along with it.

...

"Morse code?" Haru questioned as she and Arthur were pulling some weeds from some of the plants. "And here I thought your braille was already hard enough. Why morse code?"

"Because not every animal here knows it and I have a feeling that her ex might know what braille is despite not knowing how to read it. But if I use morse code using the correction liquid for pens, there's a chance that I can pass on some messages to her. Plus, I can feel the liquid once it is dried out."

Haru rolled her eyes at the young bat's idea. "Look, sounds great but those guys will eventually know that you're the musician here. Besides, do you really have to go Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy on all of this? I thought bats are neutral in the war?"

Arthur giggled and petted a sunflower before turning his head at the dwarf rabbit's voice. "Well, my grandfather was enlisted in the war because he thought it was the right thing to do and if it meant protecting his family. But he was never the same when he came back with those stitches on his stomach."

Haru was now curious about his family. She knew Legosi has always been closed with his grandfather and Arthur definitely with his own father. But grandparents? This was something worth listening to!

So Arthur told her the story of his grandfather's service in the war where he was known as a Farrier: an aerial animal that were in charge of bombing and fights in the air. Like all bats who contributed, they had their stomach fur shaved off before a bomb was planted into their stomachs before it was sewn up.

Arthur stopped because he heard the door of the gardening club opened and it was a voice he did not expect.

"Can I talk to you for a minute?"

"And why the hell are you here at 7.30 A.M?" Haru demanded before Arthur could say a word. "I thought you need your beauty sleep to get rid of those bags under your eyes. Arthur and I-"

"Haru," the Honduran white bat interrupted. "Why don't I talk to her please? I'm sure this is a small matter."

Haru reluctantly agreed but glared at the female harlequin rabbit if she tries anything funny.

...

Inside the gardening club shed, Arthur decided to hang upside down on the ceiling with his disc-shaped ears pointing downwards. Mizuchi sat up as she stared at him with her jade green eyes.

"I know what my ex did to you and I'm sorry," the harlequin rabbit apologised. "And him threatening you not to speak with me or else leaking out your secret? That's just low even for rabbits! I don't understand why I used to date him besides the fact he's another harlequin rabbit!"

"But that's not stopping us from conversing like now," Arthur's ears wiggled as he talked. "I'm curious though Mizuchi, how did you know about the situation."

"Oh," Mizuchi's ears were lowered. "Let's just say a bird told me."

"Aoba," Arthur smiled, making a mental note to thank him. "So this doesn't change anything between us?"

"Of course not! I love- I love your company, Arthur," Mizuchi almost covered her mouth at what she really wanted to say. 

Arthur's fur fluffed up in embarrassment. "Me too. So, still messaging in morse code and braille?"

"Definitely."

The Honduran white bat felt touched that this rabbit, who used to hate him but now is comfortable in his presence. Though he cannot see or picture how she looks like, her voice was enough to let him know how beautiful she is.

"Well, I will talk to you again," said Arthur as he got down before the both of them went out. "I'm going to check on the morning glories. They may smell sweet but their attitudes are sour."

Mizuchi was confused by this until Haru nudged her. "He does that."

...

Arthur was ready for his history class when he was tackled from behind.

"Got you again, Arthur!" a boisterous voice laughed, holding no malice. "I haven't seen you in a while, not since....you know..."

"I know, Bill. Good morning to you too," Arthur greeted before adjusting his posture. "So, ready for history?"

"As if I'm going to pay attention to that," the Bengal tiger huffed. "Why do we need to learn about dead guys who have done something?"

Arthur laughed. "I guessed it's a reminder that we shouldn't make the same mistakes as they do. I mean, we are all lucky that we don't have to go through wars and famine."

"Let's not talk about famine," Bill swiped his tongue over his muzzle. "The portion for breakfast at the cafeteria was small today."

Just then, the school's announcement broke out:

"Good morning Cherryton! We would like to inform you that the swimming competition will be held this coming Friday. Members of the swimming club are informed to practice and train while others are welcomed to watch. They will be competing with international schools..."

Both Arthur and Bill listened closely to the names of schools until Arthur could feel all the end of his fur standing up and his ears almost detached from his head.

"...Selkie School for Gifted Girls and Gryphon Cross."

"Gryphon Cross," Arthur whispered, his wings gripping on Bill rather tightly. "That means...Oh, they're coming! They are definitely coming!!"

"Woah, what's up with you?"

"They're coming..." Arthur told the excitedly, a bounce in his step. "They're coming! They're coming!!"

Before Bill could ask what was it, the Honduran white bat was already waltzing his way into history class chanting "They're coming" as if he was joining a cult. Bill only shakes his head in disbelief.

"Who the hell spiked his tea?"

Chapter Text

Chapter 43

All day Arthur has been acting strange.

Not strange as some animals would depict Legosi but more like he was bouncing in his steps and even his voice is becoming a few pitches higher. Bill could only watch like any feline with a target that interested him.

Arthur was an interesting student to say the least.

The Bengal tiger shrugged before opening his textbook for his history class. It's boring but it's a required subject that he needs to get at least a C for it. Then again, history can be cool if it's about certain timelines such as the war or something to do with relationships between animals.

He can't shake off the feeling of being watched despite the campus being heavily monitored. He almost became stiff around lions lately despite the fact tigers are biologically the largest Pantheras in the world.

He opened his book, not without taking a glance at Arthur who was whispering to Aoba about something.

He has never seen the bat so excited before.

...

"So your old friends are going to be here?" asked Haru as she and Arthur were harvesting herbs such as basil and thyme they were going to sell at a local restaurant. It was own by a friend of her older sister's family.

"Oh yes!" Arthur nodded while portioning the amount of cut leaves into a bag. His cloudy blue eyes never looked so bright, according to Haru. "Let's see...Sameer and Maccus are definitely part of the swimming team but...I'm not sure...is it possible? Can he really participate right after his..."

"What are you babbling about?" asked Haru, with her hands on her hips. Arthur still tilted his head, face skywards.

"One of my old friends recently was discharged from hospital," Arthur explained. "I'm not sure if he is coming or not because of his conditions. He's got a weak immune system but he's always fighting to keep up with us."

Haru listened with interest. This bat sure has some interesting friends and it would be nice to get to know them, provided that they won't eat her or bully her like some who have nothing better in their lives.

Speaking of which, lately Mizuchi and her little group has not been picking on her for the past few days. It was weird but nonetheless Haru will still be on guard for anything. Needles to say, that was the least of her problems.

"Oh well, at least you'll be seeing your friends," Haru laughed before realising what she just said. "Shit! I forgot that you're-"

"I know," Arthur assured her by waving his wing. "I get that a lot."

There was silence but it's just because both rabbit and bat were carrying out their task before leaving for town. Before they board the train, the both of them had snacks which consisted of Haru sharing her strawberry pocky sticks and Arthur's banana chips with the thermos filled with jasmine tea.

...

After selling the herbs, both Haru and Arthur were about to head back to the train station.

"I think we should be able to get what we want," Haru told him. "I just hope we don't have a busy schedule this week because of the events coming up."

"True," the Honduran white bat nodded. "Still, I just hope the newspaper club doesn't cause a stir for most of us."

"Yeah..."

But before Arthur could buy a ticket for himself, his ears picked up a familiar voice:

"Psst! Arthur! Can I borrow you for a minute?"

Arthur knew this must be important so he told Haru to go back to campus first as he has something to take care of. Haru protested but reluctantly allowed him.

"If something happens to you," she began. "I'm sending out Legosi to help you. Don't forget to message me once you get back!"

Arthur smiled and gave her a little salute in her direction. "Yes, ma'am!"

Now the bat walked slowly to the figure who called for him and used his two fingers to feel up the hand. It was firmed and furry. Reaching up, he prayed he knew who it was without having to feel the face and whatever feature he would imagine.

"Hello, Agata. What do you need from me?"

"The boss wants to talk to you," the Congo lion told him. "He said something about history and the upcoming war."

"War?!" Arthur squeaked in horror, covering his wings close to his body.

"I'm not too sure. But that's the gist from what I've been told. Don't worry, I will send you back to the train station before midnight."

Nervously, Arthur walked alongside the member of the Shishigumi with his ears erected.

...

"So what kind of war are we talking about here?" asked Arthur, sipping a bit of coffee that was served in the Shishigumi mansion. It was too strong for him but the Honduran white bat drank it because it seemed rude not to drink.

"Whoever controls the Black Market," Louis puffed a cigarette. "You be confused as to why I am in support of the Black Market when it sells herbivores like me, right? You see, Arthur...I believe we need things to keep ourselves in check and in this case for carnivores..."

"Eat meat," Arthur answered.

"Exactly. Though, you can't stand the smell of blood or meat?"

Arthur shook his head, hoping that this question would be over. Despite having a neutral ground with the red deer and the Shishigumi, Arthur was afraid that he might be dinner too.

"Don't worry, bat!" a voice from one of the lion whom Arthur recognised as Free told him. "I have a feeling eating a white bat's going to bring us bad luck. Or carry a disease that might kill us all."

"Don't be dramatic, Free!" he heard another lion scolded him. "Bats are both predator and prey. There's no way they are going to cause a pandemic."

Arthur figured the lions became silent because Louis had done something. He felt a firm claw on his shoulders, making him stiff.

"Today is the Day of Depravity," Louis announced. "Only carnivores here knew about it and there are other gang members who are fighting for the Black Market."

"T-there's four?!" Arthur gasped. He was shaking badly and he was out of tea...

So the Shishigumi along with their boss explained to him about the other three groups: the Madaragumi (leopards and jaguars) , the Dokugumi (Komodo dragons) and the Inarigumi (vixens). Whoever wins will control the Black Market and the meat.

"But Louis," Arthur interrupted the story. "Why am I here? How am I a part of this war?"

Then, a sudden realisation hit him. His cloudy blue eyes became stormy and his fangs came out of anger.

"Am I here as a trophy?" asked Arthur, his tone dripped with appalled and betrayed. "Am I the prize or being used as a bargaining chip if you guys win or lose?"

"Arthur-"

"I trusted you!" he screeched, filled with hurt to the point the could feel tears coming out from his eyes. "I thought you are my friends and I-"

"SHISHGUMI!" a voice boomed from outside. "OPEN UP OR WE WILL FIRE! DON'T TELL ME YOU LIONS ARE CHICKEN ALL THESE WHILE!"

All members including Louis and Arthur felt the tension. Arthur felt a firm hand holding his wing, in a way trying to comfort the bat but Arthur doesn't know what to make of it. His mind was in frenzy but he knew one thing for sure:

The war had begun.

Chapter Text

Chapter 44

Meanwhile in Cherryton Academy, a certain harlequin rabbit was in a study group with her friends, Riley the black cat and Tanya the raccoon. Both of them were concern with Mizuchi's hasty demeanour.

"Did something happen, Mizuchi?" asked Riley, who was typing on her calculator. "Between you and him?"

"Obviously," Mizuchi snapped irritably while she scrolled through her phone. "How dare he! There's no way I'm going back to him after he pulled a stunt like that?"

"What stunt?" Tanya asked with hesitation in her voice. Anything could set this black and white rabbit off despite the fact that both her and Riley are supposedly carnivores despite the fact she has eaten berries and nuts.

Mizuchi sighed, not sure if she wanted to tell them. Because the both of them weren't too familiar with Arthur as much as her. Then again, they are her friends and there are times when Mizuchi doubted their loyalty to her.

"Mizuchi," Tanya placed a gentle hand on her friend's shoulder. "Please...you can tell us anything. We won't judge what happened."

"You have no idea," the harlequin rabbit murmured.

"It's that bat, isn't it?" Riley deducted, her cat eyes slanted. "You've been seeing him lately."

"Mizuchi, is it true?" Tanya prompted which made the harlequin rabbit nodded hesitantly. She was bracing for her friends to reprimand her and make her cut off ties with him but both of them were confused.

"So what does he have that your ex doesn't?"

Mizuchi blinked in surprise. Was this really what she heard? She stared at her friends who nodded, encouraging her to tell them about her interaction with Arthur.

"Okay, I'll tell you," Mizuchi looked around to see if anyone is hearing their conversation. "But if you ever breathe a word about me and him, I will claw you. I may be a rabbit but these claws are effective and I can bite."

Both Riley and Tanya promised so the three of them huddled together to listen to Mizuchi's relationship with Arthur. They never knew she was so fond of him and even exchanged gifts with each other. Or the fact that Mizuchi went to the motivational seminar that was hosted by one of the professors of Manticore University, which was Arthur's father.

"I don't know if..." Mizuchi began. "No, I'm not sure if it's possible. I'm a rabbit and he's a bat. I don't know if he feels the same way."

Riley purred softly to comfort her. "Hey, whatever it is I hope he can hear it out. Come on, let's discuss about the other schools coming to compete here. I heard the all boys school called Gryphon Cross is coming. I hope they have a handsome cat in there~"

"I thought cats hate water?"

"Shut up! I like to look at swimmers, okay?"

"Just kidding! Come on, let's see the gossip about that actor of that old show Horsin' Around. I heard he's been having another episode with vodka."

Mizuchi shook her head and listened to her friends talked. She will call Arthur later but for now she wants to hang out with her friends.

She hoped that Arthur knows how much she really cares about him.

...

Arthur opened his mouth to check and estimate the number of animals that the Shishigumi was facing. His ears automatically drooped and he wished his wings were large enough to protect him.

He could hear and feel so many of them!

"Stay close to me," he heard Agata murmur under his breath. "If anything, don't stray away and the boss will protect you. He's kinda fond of you."

Arthur was not convince now that he is stuck in this situation. First the Shishigumi with Bill and now this!

"Well, well," a voice growled that sounded male. "You decided to have a herbivore for a boss and use that thing as a peace offering?"

"Hey! That 'thing' is the boss' ally," Arthur heard one of the lions countered. He huddled close to where Agata was standing. Out of all the lions, he could trust the Congo lion since he knows this war more than him.

"He's kinda small," a female voice commented. It sounded so smooth and silky. "What's wrong with his eyes?"

"I'm blind," Arthur announced, risking the fact that he might as well seasoned himself for a tasty soup. "Please, don't hurt them."

"Now this is interesting!" Arthur's heart dropped when he heard the hissing voice that was assumed to be behind a mask. His ears picked up the sound of a tail thumped to the ground. "You would rather protect these pride of lions and their young boss?"

"I..." Arthur began. "I don't know...I do but after this whole war you all are having? It's a winner takes all sort of thing, right?"

He felt someone nudging him from the back to stop. So the Honduran white bat closed his mouth and tried to think of something to distract his mind from the fact that he is caught in Day of Depravity.

"Tell you what, Shishigumi," the first voice Arthur picked up purred. "We will stop this war if we have our time with him. Shall we say around two hours or so?"

Arthur almost fell back with his fur shedding. What does he meant by having their time with him?! It can't be-

"That does sound like a good idea," the hissing voice agreed. "It would be such a privilege to try him out. I hope he has the energy for the session we have in mind.

Arthur gulped when he heard murmurings and even snickering. What are they implying?

"Aww, so young and vulnerable," the sultry feminine voice cooed at him. He felt disturbed when a hand was running down his cheek to his chest. "Though I've never handled a blind animal before."

The poor Honduran white bat was shaking badly but he had his ears up and face forward at the source of the sounds around him. There was something he must ask before consenting to this sort of thing.

"Um, if I may ask," Arthur spoke up. "Could you please tell me what is the time now? I know it sounds rude but I can't tell what is the time from where I left off before here."

"Heh, a goodie goodie," he heard one of those voices commented in amusement. "It's seven o'clock on the dot, kid. Use your time wisely on us."

Arthur almost fainted before he was caught. His ears flicked from the whispery voice of the red deer.

"Arthur, listen to me carefully. There is a reason why I brought you into this. It may seemed like what you think it is but it's not. Go along with the plan and I am letting Agata follow you as your aid. Don't worry, it's an hour before curfew."

'Easy for you to say!' Arthur thought indignantly. 'But if this means me getting back in time and attending class along with meeting Mizuchi and Aoba, then I will bear with it. Rage, rage against the dying of the light....'

"Okay," Arthur gave a nervous toothy smile. "I will do it."

With that, he was whisked away with a drag on his wing towards the first group he will have to entertain with Agata by his side as his eyes.

He hoped no one in Cherryton recognised him here besides Louis.

Chapter Text

Chapter 45

During his walk, Arthur's ears were perked up to listen to his surroundings. He had to nudge Agata by his leg to ask him to describe where they were or the direction they are heading too. He was thankful that the Congo lion can lower his voice to what sounded like murmurs but very decipherable.

The Honduran white bat sometimes wondered if his hearing besides listening could construct an image in his head.

Alas, that was not the case! 

The first group he was dragged to were the Madaragumi with their weapon choice of katanas and from what Arthur assumed to be blade weapons just by the sound he heard. If these guys weren't so power hungry and threatening, he would like to introduce them to Sameer since he knows how to fence and use swords back in Gryphon Cross.

"You're awfully quiet, little bat," a member behind him commented. "You're not scared of us?"

Arthur turned his head around while walking. "Of course I am. I don't know what is going on but I'll keep my ears out for anything."

He heard chuckles and purrs around him. Was it something he said?

Arthur's wings could feel something similar to wood and the tapping sounds of their footsteps as they entered what seemed to be a building. Arthur was thankful to remove his shoes so that he could feel the texture of the floor and hopefully hang upside down somewhere.

He could hear something incoherent and high pitched which made the bat all the more curious.

The Honduran white bat didn't care that he was straying away because he heard something very familiar. He used his two fingers to feel up the source of a sound. It was something like a tiny plant or was it a tree? It had branches, leaves, and even the unique bark when he ran his fingers across it.

"Hello there," Arthur murmured with a smile. "You sound healthy. Did they give you special nutrients in the soil? Or trim you a bit?"

"What the hell are you doing?" he heard a growl from Agata. "You're gonna get killed if you stray away like that! Come on, before-"

"Hey! What are you doing fondling the boss' bonsai?!" an angry voice demanded. The voice was really deep that it made the bat jumped to the point he hung upside down on the rafter. 

He shouldn't have done that.

Arthur was suddenly grabbed by the neck despite hanging upside down. "Do you realise that us jaguars and leopards can climb? Answer me or I will have my group make a delicious soup out of you."

"Ack! I..I..." Arthur was struggling to explain when a claw was gripping his neck too roughly. Agata leaped up to bite on the jaguar's tail to release the little Chiroptera. He was surprised to see the leader of the Madaragumi not flinching but threw Agata down and beckoned his men to restrain the Congo lion.

Arthur exhaled once the grip loosened and rubbed his neck. This wasn't the first time his neck was a target to some animals. He turned his head to the direction of his attacker, swinging a bit to calm himself.

"I heard chittering sounds," Arthur explained slowly. "I didn't know you had a cherry blossom bonsai and from the sound I was curious. Please, I'm terribly sorry. It's a habit for me hearing the plants and flowers since they can be rowdy sometimes."

There was silence and Arthur swore he heard one of the members said: "Are you sure he's not drinking poppy milk?"

"You can't tell if I am a jaguar or leopard?"

Arthur shook his head. "I can't exactly feel your spots as I tried to picture my friend who's a tiger. Plus, it's hard when you aren't able to tell the kind of animals where sight is needed."

The head of the Madaragumi smiled softly at the bat. He was just too cute to be eaten! Then again, bats are just mice with wings. He'll need to test this little one to some tests. He checked the wall clock, noting that he has an hour and a half.

"Alright, I got something for you to do," he chuckled as he leaped down to the floor. Arthur was still hanging upside down and lowered his head to listen with those disc-shaped ears. 

"Bat, let me see you tend to my bonsais and in return, I won't eat you," the leader announced. Arthur focused his direction at the voice. Some of the leopards and jaguars were unnerved by his cloudy blue eyes as if he were a ghost.

"Do you think he's a Vampyrum?" he heard one of them whispered. "If he sucks one of our blood, we might be undead as well!"

"Don't jump into conclusions! I don't think he has the guts to even eat his own kind."

Arthur gulped, wishing he was back in his dorm drinking tea or even play a tune from one of his instruments. More importantly, he promised himself that he will take Mizuchi out for breakfast one of these days as she has done for him with dinner and movie.

He hope at least Mizuchi is okay and his friends in Cherryton.

Because tonight's going to be a long night for him....

...

Meanwhile on the other side of the Black Market, there was a building with a health sign dimly lit outside of the streets of blood. The smells of cooked meat, blood and even the sounds crackling skin was enough to make any carnivores go into frenzy.

All carnivores were enjoying their bloody supper and chatting away as if it were another day. Then again, the Black Market is for carnivores to let out their predatory desires upon their prey without getting into trouble since the meat are donated from hospitals and orphanages.

Suddenly, their bustling activities were halted as all of the carnivores gazed upon the moonlit sky.

A white apparition of a bat was flying past the market and all of the carnivores held their breath. It wasn't the first time they saw this bat and he looked menacing with the red liquid dribbling at the corner of his mouth and orange wings large enough like a tent to capture the smallest cub.

Once the figure was gone, every carnivore had a sigh of relief before resuming their night.

The white bat used his echolocation consisting of inaudible clicks to locate the place he was flying to. Finding a low roof, he hung upside down before knocking the door.

Out came a buffed giant panda with a scar over his right eye and another across his left cheek. The bat noted the bamboo strap draped on his body with his ammunition and the smell of the burning cigarette in his mouth.

"You came," he commented gruffly. "And to think I'd be getting some peace and quiet a minute ago."

"They were very terrified of me flying at night, Dr Gouhin," the bat laughed, his amber eyes behind his glasses were twinkling with amusement.

"Still believing in the Vampyrum crap despite them being adults, Dr Kirk?"

"Very which I am surprised. Of course, I do know a few Vampyrums in my life...But enough about me! Shall we have our conversation? Of course I'd bore you with my planet theories and about the universe."

The giant panda shook his head. He has never had an animal that rubbed him the wrong way like that grey wolf. Dr Kirk just has that feeling that made the panda a bit calm yet wary around him. Speaking of which, he hoped that magazine worked out for that pup.

"I'd rather let you come in here before anything happens," sighed Gouhin before inhaling his cigarette. "There's a turf war going on between four organisations and I am not getting involve in that."

"I reckoned," Kirk puffed his fluffy white fur. "Now, you want me to brew you the bamboo tea this time?"

"You are sure you're not a Vampyrum trying to hypnotise me?" Gouhin smirked as they both entered the clinic. Kirk laughed, his little fangs showing up at the roof of his mouth.

"I can see my own reflection in the mirror, thank you very much!"

Little did he know, a group of leopards just walked past the clinic with a Congo lion and a blind Honduran white bat.

Chapter Text

Chapter 46

Arthur's wings were definitely shaking.

It was not just the delicate care he had to do to the Madaragumi's bonsai collection but the nerves are getting the best of him. He wished that he had packed an extra flask of tea to soothe his nerves but alas this wasn't the case.

Not even the whispering, indecipherable talks of the bonsai plants could calm him down.

Any second now, he could be killed if he had misconduct his steps.

"Are you always this paranoid, bat?" one of the younger jaguars who stood to guard him asked. The boss had ordered one of them to watch over him and poor Arthur can't hear or locate Agata with his clicks!

'I hope he is okay...' the Honduran white bat thought to himself. 'I wished Aoba was here...Or Legosi....Or dad....Dad, please help me....'

Arthur continue to care and tend for the bonsais, occasionally murmuring to the plants. Now for bats, all of them can hear the plants and flowers but only a few could understand the gibberish those little things are saying. Unless it's a pitcher plant or a Venus flytrap because they have some traits like animals which makes them easier to understand.

"Is this okay?" he asked as he was trimming one of the bonsais. The member who was guarding him, a clouded leopard looked over and tapped his shoulder to give him the signal.

"Well, well, I am impressed," the bat's ears picked up the voice from the boss. "Bats are good with gardening after all. Is that a thing or..."

"My grandfather was a florist while my grandmother is a beekeeper," Arthur explained with a small smile at the memory. "They both tend a field of flowers together and that's how they met."

Both boss and the clouded leopard almost smiled at the bat's story. They were not sure if the legend of Vampyrums are true but this one is certainly putting his charm on them! But there's things to be done.

"I see," the boss cleared his throat. "You have spent the first hour tending my bonsais so the next hour's a bit easy. Let's see if you can handle our hospitality or else we won't let you or your bodyguard go."

"Agata! Is he okay?"

"The lion? He's safe for now. Come, you have another hour with us."

Arthur gulped but firmly grasped the paw of the Madaragumi. "Um, if I can ask...may I know your name?"

"It's Hanzo. Please to meet your acquaintance, bat."

Arthur bowed his head at his direction. "P-pleasures all mine."

...

The next hour was basically the members having their meals which consisted of wagyu beef from cows, grilled whale meat and raw sashimi. Arthur was so queasy over the smell of blood and meat, decided to hand upside down on the lowest branch of the tree while the Madaragumi sat outside for their supper.

"You okay, Agata?" Arthur whispered to the Congo lion. He knew the Shishigumi was under him so his ears could feel the brush of Agata's mane.

"Well, I only followed the boss' and other Shishigumi members when on a mission," Agata told him. "None of us has ever venture out of the Black Market unless it's for a mission. Like when I first found you at the store."

"You mean that none of you have ever travelled or been out of here? What about gangs like here and the other two?" Arthur asked in a whisper. He was curious to know about these carnivores.

"Nope and it's the same for any gang," sighed the Congo lion, who began to eat a medium rare beef that's well seasoned between a toasted milk bun with generous spread of butter. "Here, you looked hungry and I promise you, there's no meat for you."

Arthur took the small bite and almost fell off the branch from how soft yet crispy the toasted milk bread was! Also, the spread of butter on it was almost cream-like, the bat's leaf-shaped nose twitched in delight. He was still on guard but he could relax a little bit for a bread.

Once his hour was up, Arthur was escorted to the next gang member with Agata as his bodyguard and eyes. He was riding on the lion's shoulder with small headphones that was connected to his phone.

He had messaged Aoba to let the dorm mother know that he will be back late because he needs to take care of something.

While they were moving to the next gang, Arthur played a looped music that will calmed his beating heart. He hoped to practice this piece once he is back at the dorm. He wondered what the world would be like if it's as unknown as the universe in space.

He knows so little yet so familiar with the world he was thrusted into.

Sighing, he hoped the next gang called the Dokugumi wouldn't step on his neck or almost make him deaf.

Most importantly, he hoped these group of Komodo dragons don't breathe out fire!!

...

Meanwhile back at Cherryton, Aoba was rereading the message Arthur had sent him over and over again.

He wanted to know if his friend was okay because the message sounded urgent. Almost desperate if he had to put into words. He was at the cafeteria all by himself since Bill and Tao are working on something together. Plus, his roommates are out and about, leaving him all alone.

He sighed, eating the soup the carnivores are served which was onion soup with cheese and croutons.

"Hey! You're Aoba, right?"

The bald eagle lowered his head at who was addressing him. It was that black and white harlequin rabbit, Mizuchi! She looked worried and he had a feeling he knew why. He hasn't talked to her a lot much like the Honduran white bat. She sat on the opposite side of the table, her thumbs were twiddling.

"Yeah, Mizuchi I presumed?"

"Do you know what happened to Arthur?" she asked, her green eyes were wide with concern and fear. "If anything happens to him, I don't know what I'll do...."

Aoba felt sorry for her. He knew a bit about her relationship with Arthur but he never knew she would react this badly. It was 10 p.m. and still no sign of the fluffy white fur with wings.

"I don't know where he is other than his message that says he needs to take care of something," said Aoba, who ate a spoonful of the soup. "But whatever it is, I trust him."

Mizuchi nodded, knowing that's how the both of them felt. "Again, thanks for letting me know that my ex tried to harm him. Lately, he's been over his head in getting me back. I guessed in his world, 'no' means 'yes'."

The bald eagle clicked his beak. So far, no other animals besides the drama club along with Mizuchi are accepting the bat and overlooking at the fact that he's blind. He wondered if adults have more common sense and are sensitive about this situation.

"Whatever it is, I hope he gets back before midnight. Our dorm mother might as well scare him out of his fur rather than some things in town."

Mizuchi wanted to urge him to tell her more but stopped herself. She noticed Aoba had some bags under his eyes and his body posture was going to slump across the table. Mizuchi can't wait for another outing with Arthur, this time they both agreed on breakfast at a cafe.

A cozy cafe, smell of brewed tea/coffee and a platter of shared pastries as the both of them talked about their life.They can talk about music, stories, movies even if he can't see or the way his ears wiggled and his smile while she talked about her new clothes design.

So simply yet so satisfying....

"Aoba, could you please deliver this to him if you see him?" asked Mizuchi as she hands him a folded pink paper. "You can slip it under his door if you like. It's just a message in morse code I wrote in correction fluid."

The bald eagle arched a brow at what the message read. It was something he wasn't sure of since he has no experience with the idea of morse code. He might have to ask Arthur about teaching him morse code besides learning braille to help his best friend.

The message read:

..

.-..   ---   ...-   .

-.---  ---  ..-

Chapter Text

Chapter 47

Arthur prayed that the time was right because so far in his life, not once was he ever used as a bargaining chip to adult organisations, let alone carnivorous ones. He can't imagine what his own father would think of him, his friends or...

Mizuchi, what would she think of him now? 

He mentally noted to make up for lost time and come up with an excuse on why he was out late. Maybe he could say that he was visiting his dad and time flew by...

No! It would never work because the dorm mother has all the contacts of every carnivore's parents or guardian. Plus, he's still a minor compared to Agata or these other gang members.

If he ever made it out alive, he bet a cup of tea that Louis might want to speak to him again. That red deer had never been more of a mystery to the Honduran white bat.

Right now, he was riding on Agata's shoulders so that they could reach the Dokugumi's hideout faster before they could spit their acids. The other animals he knew who could spit venom would have been a spitting cobra.

Jokes on them since he's blind and won't be affected by those cobra venom!

"Do you know anything about the other gangs, Agata?" Arthur asked, his ears twitching to listen to the sounds of shoes scraping the stony pavement of the roads...or whatever it is. He could hear talks amongst the Komodo dragons, a bit eerie since he was told that they wore masks.

Was it for fashion or was it a vow if they are part of a gang?

"Only what they do," said the Congo lion. Arthur gripped onto his shoulders as he could feel the pace speeding up. "I don't know them in details unless it's about this war. You might want to ask the boss or Dolph for that matter."

...

Arthur and Agata arrived to the next hideout. Arthur's leaf-shaped nose caught a whiff of what he would consider as musky with a hint of a dry, copperish scent. Arthur felt sick to the stomach at the scent and he wondered if this is reason the Dokugumi wore masks.

"Not used to it, eh?" a chuckled was breathed into the Honduran white bat's ear. "I thought you bats have stronger stomachs, considering you have groups that live off on blood."

"But I'm not a Vampyrum," Arthur turned his head to the voice. "So....why am I here? Not to be rude but there's a time limit before the last organisation."

"Of course! Of course! Now before anything, my name is Savon. Ironic having that name for a group of venomous Komodo dragons?" the Komodo dragon huffed. "Of course if you decided to run or even fly, remember we can melt your wings with our acid venom."

Arthur lowered his ears. He doubt that he could fly without getting caught by the police.

He realised that these group of Komodo dragons didn't answer his question about his reasons or purpose for the next two hours. He fluffed his fur before holding onto Agata really tight.

"May I stand unshaken," he murmured to himself. "Amidst this crash of a world..."

He was soon lowered down before something was placed around his mouth. His cloudy blue eyes were wide with panic, wondering if this is some sort of muzzle. He tried to shake it off but was hit on the head. So he took a deep breath, before bowing his head.

"Sorry...I'm not used to wearing a mask this tight. But why on me?"

"In case you sneeze or cough," one of the Dokugumi explained. "I'm going to wash my hands since I just touched you."

"Wha.."

"This is insane!" Agata roared, not minding the Komodo dragons' stare. "He's not sick or carrying a disease. I thought reptiles are supposed to be immune to most diseases, even your own venom?"

"Correct but bats are different. After all, some drink blood, some eat their own kinds, some can grow up to seven feet and some can hear things from the next city."

Arthur listened to what the Dokugumi were saying and he was baffled. Do these adults ever leave the Black Market or at least interacted with a bat in their life? He felt sorry for these gang of carnivores. He figured if they stepped out of the Black Market without any sole purpose, they must have been caught by the law.

"...I suggest you stay close to him," said Savon. "None of us will ever touch him or go near him."

"Then, what am I here for?" Arthur raised his voice slightly through the mask. He thought he sounded like a robot.

"We need you to clean up our hideout so that we have a clear space. Tell me bat, you ever cockfight before?"

Arthur's ears perked up, his wings stretched a bit. "Afraid not. Should I be concern about what cockfighting is?"

"It's easy. You looked like a good candidate to fight."

"I never fought a bat before. Are they as resilient as some claimed they are?"

"Cockfight! Cockfight!"

Arthur turned his face at the direction he assumed where the Dokugumi were. He realised that they put a mask on him to prevent him from using his clicks. Clever and crafty, if he had to comment about it.

"Hold on!" Agata protested. "Aren't you being unfair. He's not exactly fighting material or your size for that matter. Hell, he's blind!"

There were sounds of hisses and huffs. "Of course. We want to know what he is capable of. After we are done, you will go to the last organisation while we disinfect ourselves."

"For you Komodo dragons who prioritise cleanliness," Arthur cocked his head. "You really need to get out more before treating other animals like a Patient Zero."

...

Meanwhile at the carnivore dorm of Cherryton Academy, Aoba was looking at the clock in worry. It was ten o'clock, two hours before the curfew ends for the carnivores.

Arthur has not return yet.

"Where could he be?" the bald eagle asked himself, clicking his sharp beak. He asked around from the drama club to the teachers. None of them have seen him. Where could that blind Honduran white bat be?

If he's not back into his dorm by eleven, Aoba will have to go out and find him. Sure, he hangs out with Bill and Tao but Arthur...Arthur is special to him. He wouldn't trade that bat for anything else. 

He has slipped the note Mizuchi had asked, still not sure about what the message said. He learnt braille to communicate with Arthur but morse code was something different. Throughout his school life, there was never a lesson about morse codes.

"Aoba," the deep gravelling voice almost made the bald eagle jump out of his feathers. It was Legosi.

"Hi Legosi," he greeted the grey wolf. "You don't happen to see Arthur around, have you?"

"No," he shook his head. "Even Haru, the gardening club president is worried because she told me that Arthur told her to take the train first and he will catch up. What do you think he meant by that?"

Now they're getting somewhere! Aoba felt a quest feeling in his gizzard.

"He can't....No....Could he- No, he can't...."

"What?" Legosi cocked his head in confusion at Aoba's worry.

"I have to tell our dorm mother that I'm going to be home late and ask for Arthur's spare dorm key. I was thinking of staying over with him in the Chiroptera dorm once I found him. I'm going to find him."

Before Aoba could make haste, his wing was grabbed. "Aoba, if you are going, I'm going. Arthur is my friend too and Haru's only club member."

The bald eagle nodded as the both of them muster up the courage to ask permission from their dorm mother before taking the train into the town.

Little did the both of them knew that a brown and white buck rabbit was listening to their conversation. He huffed before making his way to the female herbivore dorm.

"They can find him for all I care," he told himself proudly. "Now, to make Mizuchi mine again and forget whatever happened between us. I ordered her some expensive macarons. She loves expensive things after all."

With his confidence, he strides his way to the female herbivore dorm.

Chapter Text

Chapter 48

Arthur could hardly breathe when wearing the mask. He can't fathom the idea of wearing the mask the whole day without gulping a fresh breath of air. Nonetheless, he carried out the task because to be honest, he wouldn't want to live and breathe in filth.

After all, bats prioritise on cleanliness besides sounds.

He had Agata to help him and one of the members of the Dokugumi guiding him where he should clean. It was still difficult to make out what is his surroundings since the mask had blocked Arthur from using his clicks.

"Not bad, bat," the member commented. "You don't say much, do you?"

"Not when I'm focusing," Arthur murmured through the mask. "I hope it's okay for you. Since I'm blind and all, seeing isn't something I can achieve besides understanding colours."

Agata was kept aside but he was able to keep an eye for the Honduran white bat in case these Komodo dragons tried to backstab him. So far, the brownish-black Dokugumi member was instructing and talking with Arthur as he cleaned.

"So what is cockfighting?" Arthur enquired. "The ones I've heard about back in my old home were usually associated with male chickens having sickles on their feet."

"That was your first thought?" the member snorted a laugh. "You didn't think it would be about us males pulling down our pants and-"

"Nope!" Arthur shook his head before he could finish. "I'll shut up after this."

The Komodo dragon smiled behind the mask. It's a shame this bat is blind to read facial expression. Those cloudy blue eyes are very eerie when reflected in the dim light. They were similar to faded jewels that used to be worthy.

Like all animals, they all knew the blind ones were the first to go in the real world.

"Come, you will use your ears and hope your feet are ready for this," he tapped Arthur on the shoulder before scooping him up, much to the bat's protest.

...

'They can't call it boxing?'Arthur thought to himself as he relied on his ears to help him locate the sounds of swipes or even the thump of the scaly tail. Both of his wings were bind close together with straps so that he could fit. Poor Arthur was getting boxed by the ears and cheek.

"Come on, Arthur!" Agata roared. "Beat him down! He's just as small as you!"

"Hey! Don't talk about my son that way, lion!" Arthur heard Savon hissed through the mask. "Isaiah! Show the bat what cockfighting is!"

"Hit him in the eye! It's not like he'll need them!"

Arthur was utterly terrified at the idea of being eyelids. His blindness was one thing but becoming eyeless sounded like a horrific nightmare!

He could only listen to the footsteps and the tail for dodging while his punch was what he would rate as pathetic. He and sports were never in a good relationship. He doesn't mind workouts to be in shape or playing ping-pong due to the sound it makes but other than that, he's useless in sports.

"Come on, Arthur!" he heard the repetition from the Congo lion. "Just cling onto him!"

The Honduran white bat took a deep breath, listening to the oncoming steps and body shift before leaping onto the Komodo dragon's back. All he could do was hold on with his dear life as he tried to used his guarded wings to wrap around his neck.

"He's really doing it! He's doing it even with the mask and his wings are bound!!"

All Arthur wanted to do was end this because he just wanted to go home to a warm bed, cup of tea, his friends and talk to Mizuchi again.

Before he knew it, he felt the weight of the Komodo dragon crashing down on him.

...

Arthur groaned in pain as he tried to sit up. He realised that the mask was off his face, making him open and close his mouth to try using his clicks. He estimated that he was in a room, on a bed and his eyes widened when he detected a presence that's not Agata with him.

"How are you feeling?" it was the Komodo dragon that fought him! Arthur shifted to sit upright with his ears perked up.

"I broke anything?" he asked, voice was hushed in case anything happened. He felt a scaly hand on his knee.

"No, I rolled over before my weight could smother you," the voice hissed in amusement. "My dad said that he had a deal with someone about you. Heard a group of vixens but I could be wrong."

'The last group,' Arthur thought to himself. "So what happens now?"

"That's up to my dad. But to be fair, this is my first time seeing a bat and I never thought I would cockfight with you. I'm told to stay here until he comes back with that lion friend you had there."

"Okay," Arthur nodded, understanding the situation. "So, are you going to takeover the group once your dad retires? Just curious, no harm."

There was a hissing noise that came from the mask before Arthur received his answer: "It's expected. Us Komodo dragons have to look out for each other despite me wanting to do more fighting and enter a cage fight competition."

Arthur reached out and grasped the young Komodo dragon's clawed hand. He smiled when the scaly hand closed in his two fingers. He realised that some carnivores that lived or hangout at the Black Market don't really have a choice. He can't really changed them or the environment but it wouldn't be bad to learn all walks of life, right?

Because that's the way it is.

"Thank you for not eating me," Arthur chuckled, fluffing his fur. "With your dad and all thinking I'm a Patient Zero. Oh forgive me but I'm Arthur!"

There was a hiss-like laugh before his two fingers were shook up and down. "Isaiah. Nice to meet you, Arthur the bat."

Before Arthur could say or do anything else, the door was opened. With a swift motion, the Honduran white bat was scooped up into the arms of a familiar scent.

"Is it time, Agata?" asked Arthur.

"Yes, Arthur. One last group and you can leave if you succeed."

Arthur wished he had more time because he was starting to like Isaiah. He seemed nice enough to talk to and reason with compared to his father or the other adult Komodo dragons. Right now, he needs to complete the mission that the Shishigumi and Louis assigned for him.

With a squeak, he bids the young Komodo dragon goodbye before meeting the final gang: the Inarigumi.

...

Mizuchi wanted to roll her eyes at the box of macarons with a note that came from her ex.

That buck's head was as stupid as a sack of hammers!

The harlequin doe wondered why she fell for him in the first place besides the fact that they're both of the same species. Despite the time being almost eleven, Mizuchi was going out to get some fresh air at the steps of the herbivore dorm.

Also she's going to throw away the macarons in the trash.

How superficial does that buck think she is?! 

It doesn't matter how much money he spent on the fancy eggless pastries for her. They were nothing compared to the pencil cup Arthur had made for her with his heart and soul.

"God..." she muttered. "I really do care about him."

She was torn between the idea of falling for the blind bat but also the fact that they are both of different age. Once she graduates, she will either go to university that has the course of fashion designing or become an apprentice to a clothing company.

From there, she will not see her friends in school because they will have their own lives and...

Arthur....That sweet Arthur....

She wasn't sure if this was going to work and she wondered if he knew as well. Does he feel the same as she is feeling at the moment?

So where could he be?

"Taking a breather?" a voice almost made Mizuchi jumped out of fright before whipping her head at the sound. It was hard to see in the dark but the dim lights outside the dorm was enough to shine onto an animal with white fur and long ears.

It was Haru.

"Just throwing this out," she gestured at the box of eggless macarons that were meant for herbivores. "You want it?"

"Let me guess," Haru sniffed, her hands on her hips. "It's from him, isn't it?"

"Yeah...I'm not going to accept it," Mizuchi snorted. "I told him no a lot of times but still so persistent! Plus, he hurt Arthur! His friend that eagle told me about it."

"Tell me about it."

Haru watched the harlequin rabbit with interest. All this time, she will find every opportunity to belittle and torment the dwarf rabbit on a daily basis because of her reputation with the males.

Now, the both of them somewhat are having a civil conversation without tearing each other's furs off.

"You don't happen to know where he is?" Haru asked, leaning against the wall as the wind was breezing past the both of them.

"No. I thought he was with you? You are the president of the gardening club."

"We went to town," Haru explained, her dark eyes were filled with worry. "We were just doing a little errand and then Arthur wanted to stay back. He said he wants to 'take care of something'. What do you think he means by that?"

Mizuchi blinked. "Are you telling me that you left a blind bat into the town all by himself?"

"Hey! What are you getting at?" Haru snapped, appalled by the accusation. "He has done it before on his own! Besides, it's not my place to ask where or what is he doing in town. I'll do that once he gets back. If he gets back..."

Now this made the harlequin rabbit's heart race. The last sentence sounded like Arthur's going to...

"Legosi is going to find him," Haru placed a comforting hand on Mizuchi's. "He'll be back."

Mizuchi took a deep breath and looked down at her.

"Haru?"

"Yeah?"

"Thanks."

Haru smiled, knowing that Arthur has really influenced this stuck up harlequin rabbit. The both of them decided to loiter around outside of the herbivore dorm before heading back inside.

The first thing that both the Lagamorphs do is throwing the expensive macarons and the pathetic card into the trash!

Chapter Text

Chapter 49

This is it.

One more organisation and Arthur could finally hang upside down in his dorm to sleep. His mind was too tired to deal with the consequences of the dorm mother or homeworks he has yet to finish.

Has he finished all of them? He can't recall.

"What time is it now, Agata?" Arthur enquired as he decided to cling onto the Congo lion's back like a backpack.

"It's about to be eleven," Agata reported. Arthur mustered up the urge not to groan but face-plant himself into Agata's mane. It was like a forest of hair conditioner that smelled of spearmint and charcoal. If he has another two hours, that meant...

"I'll be home by one.." Arthur murmured to himself before his cloudy blue eyes widened in panic. "That's an hour pass curfew!"

"When you are an adult," the lion growled in amusement. "You can decide your own curfew. You want to sleep in after an hour, just go for it! Just don't tell the boss though..."

Arthur smiled a bit. At least with Agata, he was starting to realise that adulthood was somewhat like childhood but with more homework that are more hands-on rather than written in books or in his case, typed out on a braille machine.

This whole event on this one night was taking a toll on him. He wondered if he has the energy to even carry his phone out of his pocket or taste tea again. Alas, he silently chanted his 'Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night' mantra to give him strength.

Arthur listened as they entered the final hideout that consists of vixens. Agata described to Arthur about how the hideout reminded him of the temples from the very old eras. Arthur was baffled when the Congo lion described the colour red as something to do with prosperity and passion.

"Interesting...but let's finish this last mission before I can hang myself."

"Arthur!"

"I mean go to sleep," Arthur assured him, feeling a bit grumpy. "Bats hang upside down whether to sleep or to calm down. I rock myself when hanging in a tree once."

"Oh yeah," Agata chuckled in embarrassment. He forgot that bats can hang upside down.

The sound of clicking heels on the cobblestone pavement was enough for Arthur to slide down from his lion companion to greet the final members. Ears perked up, his leaf-shaped nose twitched while he wrapped his wings around his body like a security blanket.

"Thought you wouldn't show up," he heard the remark from the vixen. He could only describe her voice as smooth, similar to those sparkly grape juice he has had from a party once. Refine, elegant and has an edge.

"We kept our words," said Arthur, bowing his head in greeting. He would very much like to wave but he felt awkward considering he wouldn't know if these animals will ever wave back at him. "Not like I would be your midnight munchies if I had said otherwise."

He could hear several giggles from females around him. He guessed that this final group is an all-female-only organisation.

"Look at his ears!" he heard one of the younger females cried. "They wiggle a lot!"

"Do you think he'll bring good luck?" asked another. "Even if his eyes are defected?"

Arthur opened his mouth to use his clicks to give him a rough idea about this final organisation. He knew that they were foxes from what Louis had told him earlier this evening but he wondered if it's just a certain type or any fox can join. So long as they are females.

"So, shall we start?" Arthur asked, trying to hide the nervousness in his voice. He wouldn't know what these vixens will do to him or Agata.

"So eager for a little bat," the first voice Arthur heard purred. He was feeling a bit uncomfortable when she placed both of her paws onto his shoulders. "But you and that ugly brute are going to need a makeover before you start."

"I-I-I beg your pardon?"

"Okay, we need to strip them out of their clothes first!"

Before Arthur could feel the paws trying to tug his shirt and pants, he immediately bit them with his sharp fangs before backing away. 

"He bit me! He bit me! I hope I don't get sick from coming into contact with him!"

"I-I'm terribly sorry," Arthur raised both of his wings in defence. "It's just that we don't mind but could we at least change in a room? It feels-"

SLAP!

"You males don't make the rules here," the sharp voice of the vixen was enough to make Arthur bury his face into his fluffy here. "I will decide who wears what and as mentioned earlier, two hours. Understand?"

"Yes, ma'am," Arthur lowered his head, cupping the stinging sensation on his cheek. 'Just because I'm blind, doesn't mean that I don't have any modesty!'

"Hmm, I have an idea for the lion," the vixen murmured before tutting. "You're a mystery, little bat. I can't tell what kind of season suits a bat. Especially a white, blind one."

"Let's try different things on him, Ten," another vixen suggested. "He's got really soft fur before he bit me. I'm going to disinfect my paw now thanks to him!"

Agata held Arthur close to him. Both bat and lion knew that this final organisation was going to give them a different treatment compared to the other two....

...

"Any signs of him?" Aoba asked as he and Legosi ventured into town. The grey wolf was sniffing for a scent of the bat. Aoba has sharp eyes to see from far but alas, he couldn't locate his friend who had white fur and those blue eyes that reminded him of a light blue marble.

"No," Legosi reported with a sighed. How could he not detect Arthur's scent when he is always at the gardening Club with Haru or always drinking tea?

"If I were Arthur," Aoba murmured to himself as he was pacing at the sidewalk while Legosi sat down to watch. "Where will I...Where will I...Legosi?"

"Hmm?"

"I think I know how to find him. But I'm going to need your tie for a while."

"My...tie?"

Legosi was confuse at the bald eagle's intentions. But if this meant finding Arthur, he was willing to let the raptor bird have his tie. Aoba thanked him before blindfolding himself. Now the grey wolf was starting to understand.

Only a little.

"Wow, it's oddly calming," Aoba commented with a click of his beak. "Arthur relies on sound when it came to going about. Since I'm blindfolded, I can somewhat understand how Arthur 'views' things in his world." 

"So where should we look?" Legosi prompted, thinking about finding a shop to get Haru something.

"I hear a lot of animals coming from my right. Since Arthur's ears are very sensitive to a lot of noise, he would want somewhere secluded and has a lower decibel."

Legosi could not understand what Aoba meant by that but nonetheless he followed the eagle by holding his wing while Aoba pushed forward.

The grey wolf's heart dropped and his ears were pinned back, in case there was an attack.

Aoba's blindfold plan had led the both of them to the Black Market!

...

"Thanks for your time, Dr Kirk."

"Please, call me Kirk," Dr Kirk squeaked. "These small hours are rather interesting would you say, Gouhin. It's the least I could do since you saved me from other carnivores during my first night here."

"Heh, typical other carnivores are tricking you into coming here," Gouhin grunted before lighting another cigarette. "You want one?"

"Oh, no thank you," Dr Kirk declined the offer politely. "I have tea for that matter. Though after spending a few hours here and using my clicks for ultrasounds, I'm beginning to realise something."

"What's that?"

"We can't change nature," Dr Kirk chuckled to himself, wiping the fog from his glasses. "Any animal, carnivore or herbivore have something that marks them as their species and the genus that they are stuck with. But it doesn't mean that we should be close off from ideas. Everyday's an open window for me and I'd risk flying into one that might damage these old wings."

"What are you saying, Kirk?"

"The kids like my son are teaching me things I didn't know. I never knew it was possible to have alternatives to satisfy the carnivorous hunger or how us animals view each other in a society. It's like a Wonderland where things are curiouser and curiouser. How lost are we but to the path we take."

Gouhin scratched his head at Dr Kirk's statement. His words are just as jumbled as those word games he recalled playing with some of the older residents. "You have an easier way of saying it? You sound..."

"Batty?" the old Honduran white bat asked with a cheeky grin." You were going for batty, weren't you?"

"I was going to say nutty but that works too!"

Dr Kirk only laugh his humorous laugh that bore no malice. The giant panda has never met an animal like him. He was still baffled at how Dr Kirk looked younger despite his age. Gouhin himself looked old at 39 but Dr Kirk seemed to be free at the age of 46.

Could it be a Vampyrum thing?

Just then, the panda listened to something outside of his clinic. Dr Kirk who noticed this, followed his Ursidae colleague.

"You again?"

"Aoba? Why are you blindfolded?" Dr Kirk inquired, tilting his head. Hearing the voice of the old Honduran white bat, Aoba removed the blindfold before blinking.

"What are you doing here, Dr Kirk?"

"Wait, you know each other?" both Legosi and Gouhin asked at the same time.

The four of them were in a double standoff until Aoba breaks the ice. "We don't have any intentions. We have a feeling that Arthur's here."

"Arthur?" now Dr Kirk's eyes were wide with disbelief and then narrowed. "Why would my son be here?"

"We're not sure," Legosi growled. "But we both have a feeling that he's been kidnapped."

"Shit," Gouhin grunted. "Not another one!"

Chapter Text

Chapter 50

"I look stupid in this," Agata grumbled. The poor Congo lion was stripped out of his suit, his weapons confiscated just to wear a yellow ballroom gown with his shoulders bared and his mane was tied into a messy bun. Few of the vixens were laughing at him.

Oh yes, they made him wear heels.

"Stop complaining," one of the vixens growled. "You will get your original, boring suits back once the time is up. Your blind friend is almost ready. No sure what Ten has in store for him."

Agata prayed that none of the vixens had their phones so that they could snap a photo of him. He doesn't want the boss or any of the Shishigumi teasing him about wearing a dress!

"I've done it!" Ten announced, walking out of a room with her bushy tail swishing. Agata finally noticed the red vixen and realised that she has an eyepatch over the right eye and wore a red cheongsam. In fact, most of the vixens do along with high heels.

"Where's Arthur?" Agata asked. "He better not be-"

SLAP!

"Shut up, lion!" a younger vixen silenced him. Despite foxes are very petite, their slaps are almost as painful as getting stung by a bee. Ten nodded in approval before snapping her fingers. Agata covered his mouth, trying not to laugh or even gasp at the sudden change of the little Honduran white bat.

Arthur was dressed in a puffy dress with floral patterns. He wore the boots that Agata would expect from a toddler. What stood out was that he was forced to wear a baby blue bonnet with ribbons to be tied to his neck like a bow.

"I think my lack of sight is sparring me from wondering what sort of dress am I in," Arthur showed his toothy grin.

"You look like a baby, Arthur," Agata blurted out before laughing. "At least yours made sense more than mine! Only thing missing is a pacifier!!"

Arthur fluffed up his fur before burying his head in embarrassment. His ears could not poke through the bonnet and that was bothering him greatly. He was thankful that the vixens did not make him wear a corset...

"It was easy for the lion since they have the summer look," Ten told her fellow Inarigumi. She circled the two males, ready to pounce on them.

 "But for the bat....it took me almost thirty minutes because I can't tell which season is suitable for him. I've never dealt with bats, a white one nonetheless! His fur is perfect for a winter look but he has those orange-yellow wings and ears that reminded me of spring. His nose is shaped like a fallen leaf in autumn with bits of orange at the muzzle. However, his smile and glassy eyes reminds me of the warm summer that's partially cloudy."

"Um, if I may," Arthur began to speak, his ears twitching for any movement. "That's a very interesting insight on how you would describe us in terms of fashion."

Ten smiled. This bat was different than most male animals who viewed vixens as sexual creatures. She figured that his blindness was the reason for this. She would keep this bat as her personal doll if things went her way.

Arthur opened his mouth to use his clicks. He imagined the vixens were all smiling amongst themselves about him and Agata in dresses. He figured that if this was the final task, he will handle it with care.

"You are not to leave our hideout or else we will harvest your most...valuable assets," one of the vixens purred. Arthur did not need any context to know what they were talking about!

...

In the Inarigumi hideout, Arthur could only waddle in his new dress, which was more difficult than his usual walk. Big wings and a puffy dress were the best to make him stumble.

"I smell different herbs in here," said Agata with a contented sigh. "You recognised any of the smells or hear any plants, Arthur?"

The bat shook his head. His cloudy blue eyes were watery. "I don't hear any plants in here but I hope we don't take the herbs. I don't want to bang the gong while we are here."

Agata tilted his head in confusion. "Bang the gong? I don't see any gongs in here."

"No," Arthur corrected him gently, taking his claw with his two fingers. "Bang the gong is a term back in my old home for a specific drug. It gives you a sense of euphoria but will kill you and permanently gives you sharp anxieties." 

Agata nodded as they both explored the hideout while hearing the vixens laugh at them. As much as it is humiliating, Arthur understood that this organisation must have been built based on an oppression they shared with one another.

They must have a resentment for males if they keep hitting him and Arthur all the time.

Arthur was adjusting well in his dolled up dress. He was opening his mouth, not a sound out of him before he waddled his way into one room. Agata was not surprise that the bat's curiosity has led him into the room with a white piano.

"You can't help it, can't you?"

"Oh, I just had the urge," Arthur admitted shyly. "I want to feel the quality of the wood and test it out. I'm sure there's no harm done. I'll stop  if they hit me again. I just....I just want to play one song."

Arthur sighed, praying for this hour to end. He has to mentally prepare himself for class and the amount of homework he will receive. Plus, he hoped he could make up for lost time with Haru, Aoba, Mizuchi...

The Honduran white bat sighed. He flexed his fingers and his hand-wings before testing out the keys of the piano. He wanted to play how he felt about this whole experience. His exposure to the dark side of carnivore-adult life. He realised that no matter what happens, he can't judge who could eat what. 

Nor change the fact that as adults, they seemed to have make questionable decisions that not even they themselves can comprehend.

Oh, it felt so good to play an instrument again! Arthur's mind was already flowing with creative juices and making up a scenario. Though, stringing words were a lot harder than playing a tune he can recall by ear.

Little did he know that he has attracted an audience besides Agata in the room.

...

Dr Kirk's ears perked up when he faintly heard something. Sounded like a melody but he wouldn't know from which era or genre.

Despite being a bat of science, arts such as music and films were very universal. He loves to mix a bit of both in his field of study.

"Kirk?" Gouhin shook the bat's shoulder gently. "You spaced out for the last ten minutes. No pun intended but what's eating you."

"I hear someone playing music," Dr Kirk opened his mouth to use his inaudible clicks. He was trying to locate where the source of the sound was coming from.

"Um...I don't hear anything," said Legosi slowly.

"Me neither," Aoba agreed. "But you can track down anything from far, Dr Kirk?"

"Oh yes!" the old Honduran white bat nodded. "Our echolocations are use to search for things while we have big ears like these to listen to the sounds. I'm hearing a piano but I don't know the song. It could be him. And it's almost three kilometres from where we are!"

Without any explanation, Dr Kirk took off into the sky, making the other three carnivores watch him in bafflement. They could hear the chatters of the other carnivores died down as the white bat flew over them.

"What's up with them?" asked Aoba to Gouhin. "They looked scared of Dr Kirk."

"Those idiots think that he's a ghost bat," explained the giant panda. "They looked the same except Honduran white bats have leaf-shaped noses and are fat."

...

Arthur was so in-tune that the sound of clapping made him fall over the seat he was on.

The poor bat was so unprepared for an unexpected audience that he began to fluff his fur to make himself look bigger. Hell, he's already puffy in the dress he was wearing!

"I-I'm sorry," he stuttered. "I-I found this room and I c-couldn't help but play. Just to relieve stress! Please, I won't do it again!"

"No, no," Ten silenced him. She approached the bat and placed her paw on his furry head. Arthur thought that the vixen's paw was delicate but soft. "You played beautifully."

There were murmurs of agreement amongst the other vixens. Agata watched, in case these tempting vixens were going in for the kill. Ten sat next to Arthur, who was trembling. She was about to conclude about how even blind males feel nervous around vixens until...

"Sorry," Arthur apologise again. "Having an unexpected audience catches me off guard. So, is it okay?"

"More than okay," she told him gently. "Is this what you like? Playing music with your heart out?"

Arthur nodded. But he was wondering about something. "Ms Ten....with your permission, can I feel your face?"

This made the vixen stiffen her posture. Arthur explained that he wants to know what she 'looks' like in his perspective. Reluctantly, the head of the Inarigumi guided his hand-wing towards her face.

Arthur traced her face, trying to figure out how does Ten 'look' like with his rough estimation. Her facial structure was that of a typical red fox but he could feel something over her right eye. His expression softened.

"You lost your eye too?" he asked, ironic since he was born blind.

"I did," Ten nodded. " An accident with a male I once loved. I gave him my all and it crushed from there. I don't know why I am telling a child like you about this but since you've been with other organisations, you might as well know."

Arthur listened attentively, his feet kicking involuntarily.

Suddenly, there was a loud bang from outside. Arthur wrapped his wings around himself to calm down.

"Inarigumi!" a growling voice shouted from outside. "Open up! We know you have him in there!"

Agata brought Arthur close to him.

"We know you have Dr Kirk's son in there!"

Arthur's cloudy blue eyes widened with shock. "Dad?"

Chapter Text

Chapter 51

The door bursted open and the Inarigumi saw four males in their way: a giant panda, a bald eagle, a grey wolf and finally another Honduran white bat but with spectacles that enhanced those amber eyes.

Ten has never seen such eyes that reminded her of the sun.

"Alright," the panda growled. "Where is-Oh, you have got to be kidding me! Please tell me that I'm not seeing a lion and a young bat dressed up in drag!"

"I-it's not what you think!" Arthur raised his his wings in protest. "We were told to wear dresses."

Arthur opened his mouth and nothing came out. His cloudy blue eyes widened and he had a sharp tooth smile that revealed his fangs. The older bat, Ten assumed to be the father, smiled before he hugs his son.

"That was a bit loud, Arthur," he told him. "But don't worry. We're here now and do you mind telling me why did they dress you up like a baby in the 19th century? More importantly, what are you doing here, getting involved with organisations?"

Ten and even the other animals were confused at why the middle-aged bat has not lash out over the fact that his own son was in a dress or getting involved with the most dangerous organisations in the Black Market. The grey wolf's fur bristled with anticipation, crouching close to the little bats. The bald eagle glared at the vixens, not caring if the younger members had seductive expressions. But the giant panda, he was the most intimidating!

"It's a long story, dad," Arthur had his ears down in embarrassment. "Aoba...Legosi...you're here too? And am I detecting a bear with you?"

"Damn right you are! Geez, Kirk! He's got a few things from you except his eyes."

"Arthur actually looks like a doll in that dress," commented the grey wolf. The bald eagle who kneeled down to Arthur's level was assuring him something. The little bat's fur was not fluffing up.

"A friend-colleague of mine," his father chuckled. "Dr Gouhin, the giant panda that runs the clinic here. Now...what have you foxes done to my son? And what is this lion doing here?"

Ten's fur bristled in frustration. How dare this male assumed that they would do something deviant to the young bat! She was starting to warm up to the little pup. This old bat thinks that he could stare her down with those amber eyes?

He's shorter than her!

"Listen, Kike-"

"Kirk!" the middle-aged bat interrupted her. "Dr Kirk if you please. I don't know why my son is here but we will be taking him from here. It's getting rather late, isn't it?"

There was a disgruntled growl from the panda. "Kirk, these are the Inarigumi. Do you really think they are going to give him back so easily? Especially him and a member of the Shishigumi are dressing up for their gala?"

"Wait!" Arthur raised both of his wings, the expression he had was a mixture of worry and fear. "Agata, this member of the Shishigumi has been protecting me the entire time. It's my fault, really..."

"What?" the bald eagle clicked his beak, trying to understand the whole situation. "You were involved in a carnivorous gang?"

"Hold on!" Agata roared, making the grey wolf bare his teeth to defend his friends. "I'm the one who dragged Arthur into all of this. You see, it's our boss' orders to dissipate the war that's been going on here in this Black Market. Since this little bat's been giving us an alternative, we thought he could so the same for the others."

"Not like a pawn," Arthur assured all of them, the nervousness in his voice was creeping in. "It was also a benefit for me to understand a different side of life."

"Chose the wrong place, kid," Gouhin huffed. "Well then, aren't you going to change out of that doll dress?"

"Is it time yet, Ms Ten?" asked Arthur, turning his head to the direction of the red vixen. Ten was impressed at how Arthur's hearing is making up for his blindness. "What is the time now?"

"12.30 A.M," Ten answered. "Another thirty minutes and he will be done. If you males are going to stick around, you better wear a dress. Or we could settle this in a duel."

"Absolutely not," Dr Kirk told her firmly. "There's been enough excitement for tonight. Arthur, you told me about your experience with the Shishigumi with one of your friend and now you are doing it again. You feeling alright after all of this?"

Arthur shrugged. "It's fine with me, dad. But yeah, I learnt a lot from spending time with all of the gang. Don't worry, I did not bang the gong or cause a ruckus."

...

So, it was agreed that Arthur and Agata will get changed while Legosi was sitting out with Dr Kirk and Gouhin among the Inarigumi. Aoba has gone to check on his best friend.

"To be honest," Ten grumbled while adjusting her eyepatch. "I don't really care about these pointless wars. I just want to make things better for us vixens."

Dr Kirk, who was offered a cup of Jasmine tea sipped while listening to her carefully. "To prevent mistreatment and abuse? I'm asking because I noticed your eye."

Before Ten could answer, the giant panda gestured the grey wolf to get up. Dr Kirk turned around to watch them. "Where are you going?"

"There's something I need to discuss with Legosi here. Don't worry about us, Kirk. Just get your son back home."

With that, both wolf and panda exited the compound, leaving Dr Kirk alone in the living room with the leader of the Inarigumi along with her followers.

"To answer your question," Ten interrupted the Honduran white bat. "Yes, it's to change how males view us female foxes. Every animal, whether herbivore or carnivore would view us as temptresses that seduced any male and only exist to look pretty."

"I see," Dr Kirk nodded, his amber eyes pitied her for having a single eye. "But you managed to build a reputation for yourself and the other females here. That's quite an accomplishment even if it's not a civil one. Civil is a very broad term if you ask me since for us in the field of science, it's not about questioning things but trying out the questionable things."

The red vixen's ears lowered and her fur fluffed up. The other members noticed this but a raised paw from Ten prevented them from stepping any further.

"Your wife must be very lucky to have you for a husband and a talented musician as a son," Ten geckered. "You have an interesting way of seeing things."

But Dr Kirk's expression changed and his amber eyes lowered. He took off his glasses to wipe them as he talked. "Ah...that. She and I never met ever since Arthur's eyes opened..."

Now all the foxes stared at him, clearly wanting to know why his wife left him just because their son was blind.

"I'd probably bore you if I tell you," Dr Kirk's voice was distant as he got up, dusting himself. "Well, there's my son and his two friends. Thank you for not eating any one of us or turning us into what we would call a 'giggolo'."

Ten was trying to stifled a laugh but composed herself. Both Arthur and Agata were dressed back in their former attire and needless to say she would want the little bat to stay longer.

Arthur smiled as he was holding Aoba's wing and bids goodbye to Agata. Dr Kirk hugged his son and then looked at the gang.

"Well, thank you again," said Arthur who bowed his head.

"Shall we leave, son?" asked Dr Kirk, watching his son and his eagle friend getting ready. Nodding, the three of them left with Dr Kirk flying to lead them out.

Ten let out a sigh of relief before leaning back into the chair. She has never met such bats such as Arthur or his father.

...

"We moved here and now you had a lot of adventures," Dr Kirk chuckled as they entered Cherryton Academy. No one stopped them because Dr Kirk is a parental guardian and also a respected astronomer from a prestigious university. 

Not even the scary dorm mother Doriru, who is a mandrill.

"As crazy as it might sound," began Aoba, patting a tired Arthur on the back. "You were very brave to handle all of those gangs without fighting."

"Well, I did fought once," Arthur laughed nervously. "It was something similar to boxing but they called it something else."

"Ah..."

The three of them entered the Chiroptera dorm and Arthur was glad to be able to shower and change into his pyjamas. When he opened his mouth to detect the presence in the room, he realised Aoba was still here.

"Aren't you going back to your dorm, Aoba?" enquired Arthur. "It's getting late."

"You're not going to believe this," the bald eagle smiled, a hint of excitement in his tone. "I'm sleeping over here with you! I've been granted permission before Legosi and I went out to find you."

Arthur has the biggest smile his father has ever seen. He was happy that his own son is adjust well to Cherryton. And having Aoba as a friend was something special. He watched as the both of them hugged before discussing about where to sleep.

It was time for Dr Kirk to leave but he wants to talk to his son about something. The both of them hanged upside down on a nearby tree branch that's a wing away from Arthur's window.

"Whatever happens, Arthur," Dr Kirk began. "I support you as a father and as an explorer. I may not be able to explore the galaxies but I still cling onto hope one day. I heard about your Gryphon Cross friends coming here."

Arthur tilted his head, was feeling the warmth of his father's earlier comment. "How did you know about that?"

"Judge Nadir told me."

"Ah, Sameer's dad still keeps in touch with you?"

"Of course! He and I are friends outside of work despite the number of cases the Supreme Court's been giving him. No matter what, you are you. Gryphon Cross, Cherryton, you are the one to decide where your heart belongs to."

"I understand," Arthur nodded. "Dad....can I ask you something?"

"Of course, son. What is it?"

"Would you ever remarry again?"

This unexpected bombshell of a question almost made Dr Kirk fall from the branch. "Son....I'm a very old bat with an unhinged schedule. I won't have time to start another relationship. Also, if I have free time such as now, I'd rather attend to my hobbies."

"Oh....just curious, that's all...."

With that being said both father and son bid each other goodnight. Arthur climbed back into his dorm through the window. He felt something beneath his feet that was crumpled. Picking it up, he traced the paper and his eyes widened in shock. 

"Aoba?"

"Hmmm?" his friend's muffled voice answered.

"Is this morse code from you?"

"Yeah, it was. Technically it's from Mizuchi but she wanted me to give it to you. What does it say, Arthur?"

"I-it says," Arthur stuttered. "It says 'I love you'."

Chapter Text

Chapter 52

The next morning, Arthur couldn't stop thinking about the morse code message. He wondered if it was just a friendly 'I love you' instead of a very intimate 'I love you' he has heard from romantic movies and audiobooks.

"Hey Arthur!" Aoba called out to him from the shower. "How come you have three brushes besides your toothbrush? I think one's enough for your fluffy fur."

Arthur laughed as he was drying his fur. "One's for my fur, one's for my wings while the last one's for my ears. I'm a bit particular about how well I'm groomed. Oh, and I used apple-scented shampoo with peach-scented body wash."

The bald eagle has never met an animal so careful about his well-being. Aoba wondered if the message was bothering him. Because Arthur has been mumbling to himself and kept making himself three different types of tea in the morning.

He wondered besides the letter, what did those gangs do to him last night?

...

Once both bat and eagle were done, they walked out of the carnivore dorm towards the main building. Aoba mentioned that he has to attend a meeting for the drama club, leaving Arthur to walk upstairs to the roof of the gardening club.

He was tackled to the ground by an unknown force.

"Arthur!" the angry yet relieved tone from Haru made the Honduran white bat smiled. "Don't you scare me like that! Not a text? Not even a call? You could've been a carnivore's dinner!"

"Haru," Arthur hugged her tight. "I'm fine. I obviously had the most interesting experience last night but you know school and this garden is more important. I hear the flowers and plants murmuring their mornings."

Haru rolled her eyes. "You were missing for the rest of the evening and all you can think about are the damn flowers?! Hell, you have a few bruises and marks on your face!"

"I do?" Arthur blinked his cloudy blue eyes before touching his face. "I never knew."

Haru sighed and hugged him. "I'm just glad that you're okay and not a single limb is missing from you."

Arthur laughed. Haru really acts like an older sister to him despite their height difference. The both of them chatted along with tending the garden. They were so close to their target goal of raising enough money to buy whatever they desired. For Arthur, it was his trumpet.

When the both of them were having their break, Arthur was hanging upside down while Haru was reading the school's paper. She was commenting on how the newspaper club likes to sensationalise the littlest things.

"I hope they don't expose me for playing the music throughout campus," Arthur shivered. Haru looked up at the Honduran white bat with a tilted head. "I don't get it, Arthur..."

"Don't get what?"

"Why won't you play in front of a live audience?" Haru questioned. "I mean here during assembly or even at the drama club? You're really good."

The Honduran white bat fluffed his fur. "Well...I like the gardening club. Also I'm not too familiar with Cherryton and the customs despite being here for at least a month now. Back in my old home, I knew the animals there and even the places where I feel less alone. Plus, Gryphon Cross had a band which I had no issue playing with other members. So in a sense I'm not comfortable playing in front of anyone here because of you know..."

"Yeah, I get it," Haru nodded, still remembering how all students still warned each other about her going out with any male in the school. But she was past that for now!

"Anyways, have you talked to Mizuchi yet?" asked Haru, watching the bat's expression become totally flustered just by the name. "She was worried about you last night."

Arthur lowered his ears close to his face. "No...I haven't. I received a note from her via Aoba though. And..."

When the Honduran white bat explained what the note had said, Haru's beady black eyes widened in shock. She decided to write that to him?! She wanted to tell Arthur not to get his hopes up because as far as the dwarf rabbit knows, Mizuchi is a desperate doe who would do anything to please her guy!

She decided to let Arthur talk to her about it without getting noticed by any other animal on campus.

...

"And you survived the whole night? Arthur, this new place is going to turn you into a coarse bat!" Sameer laughed over the phone. Arthur was talking to him during lunch break at the bench. Most of the other students stared at him, hoping not to get too close because of those fangs.

Vampyrum or not, most students are aware that bats are known to carry certain diseases. It's best to avoid them!

"Well, I realised that adulthood isn't like what we were told or are as good as our parents are," Arthur admitted. "Adulthood from what I have experienced is ruthless! You will have to fight for everything with whatever you have on you. Like a gambling, some get the lucky number while some don't."

"Interesting way of putting things," Sameer hissed with a smile in his tone. "Very stressing, yes? To think our parents made it sound so easy and yet we never got training in school about how to pay bills, get a license or plan a family. I think you and me have covered the cooking since we took Living Skills, yes?"

"But we try to make the best of things," said Arthur, kicking his feet absentmindedly. "I can't wait for your visit to Cherryton."

"I can't wait too! Beppi and Maccus are enthusiastic about coming over. Don't worry, that hammerhead shark is smiling despite his grunts. I have to board now so I will see you there, Arthur."

"Tell the guys I said 'hi'," Arthur chirped before hanging up.

Arthur knew he has to get to his next class but then he has a voice message on his phone:

Hi Arthur! I hope we can meet after school. I will be in front of the carnivore dorm. Don't worry, I will be wearing my hoodie and jeans. I will tap your hand to let you know

All he could do was gulp.

Little did he know that a certain brown and white rabbit was watching his every move...

...

Meanwhile on the other side of town, Dr Kirk was reviewing his notes in his apartment. His desk was cluttered with different books, papers, his laptop and printer. The apartment was clean except for his desk and the unwashed mug he will reuse for tea later.

Lately, his theories were conflicted at the university and he wanted to form some backups for his arguments. He checked his clock and it was close to five in the evening. He mentally note to himself about ordering something for dinner for a change.

He himself is alone with only his Venus flytrap plant to talk to. It was a good thing that the plant he chose was not picky in terms of eating any insects.

He figured he might as well finish the leftover eggplant moussaka he had made yesterday, only to have large amounts since he wanted to save his budget.

Just then, there was a knock on the door. Dr Kirk used a stool before peeping into the keyhole. The animal he saw was the one-eyed red fox from the Black Market. The one who held his son captive!

He was debating whether to let her in but opened the door ajar.

"Evening," he greeted with a small smile. "How did you find me?"

"Oh, your panda doctor friend gave it to me when I was getting my left eye checked," explained Ten, from what Dr Kirk recalled her name was.

"Sorry if it's a mess since I wasn't expecting visitors," Dr Kirk invited her inside. "Please, make yourself comfortable! I'm just finishing my work shortly and I will attend to you soon."

Ten covered her mouth to hide giggle at how wobbly he was when he walked. She began to look around the apartment, seeing how clean it was and noticed a few picture frames. She traced one which had two Honduran white bats in a faded colour. Another was a recent one where it was him and Arthur hanging upside down together.

She doesn't have a real reason to visit him but she felt the need to because of their encounters.

"Ah, I see you're looking at a few family photos," Dr Kirk came out of the room. "Those two are my mum and dad. My dad used to be in the war while my mum kept herself busy with the honey farm."

What an interesting life!

"They looked cute together," Ten commented, her bushy tail swishing.

"They are," he murmured softly. "If you are here, do you want some moussaka? I'm planning on having some dinner here and I cooked too much than what I estimated."

Ten smiled to which Dr Kirk has never seen one that fits her: beautiful yet so comfortable. "I'd love that."

Chapter Text

Chapter 53

"I hope I didn't keep you waiting," Arthur laughed nervously as his two fingers were grasped by the familiar paw he has associated with. He used both of his fingers to hook onto the paw, feeling the softness of fur.

"No, you're just in time, Arthur," he heard a smile in Mizuchi's voice. "Don't worry, I brought my messenger bag with me. If we don't have anything to talk about, we can just do our homework."

"Not doing it with your friends?"

"Well," Mizuchi's ears lowered under her hoodie. "I want to spend some time with you. After all, these moments are rare, right?"

Arthur laughed. He had to agree. Also he wanted to ask her about the note she sent via Aoba. When the both of them entered the carnivore dorm, Arthur wrapped a wing around the harlequin rabbit. Mizuchi felt like being in a sleeping back when the large wing enclosed her body close to him.

She doesn't mind if he does it again.

"Alright, we are at my dorm and I hear a few carnivores on my left....about a few feet away."

"I can hear them too. So your ears can tell how far the sounds are?"

"Well, I just make rough estimations that at least make sense to me," Arthur explained as he unlock his dorm door. "My dad can since space and the galaxies are his level of expertise. My grandmother could detect the type of animals just by their footsteps while my grandfather could detect concealed items when he was still around."

Mizuchi is still amazed at how clean the room was. She wondered if he is particular about cleanliness like her. She doesn't want to sound creepy but today, Arthur smelled of peach today with a hint of apple.

"Would you like a cup of tea?" Arthur asked as he was taking off his shoes. Mizuchi does the same and helped him put his bag away as she accepts his offer.

She watched with interest at how he boils the kettle before mumbling to himself when opening the top shelf that was filled with different types of tea boxes! From Earl Grey matcha, cardamom, jasmine and even exotic vanilla.

"You have a lot of different tea flavours," she points out, kicking her feet as she sat in a chair. "Do you ever take decaf?"

"Oh no!" Arthur smiled, turning his head at her direction. "Tea's caffeine is special for me. Some makes me relaxed while some helps me get through my day. How about you? Do you have a favourite beverage?"

"I love coffee," said the harlequin rabbit. "Mocha, soy lattes, you name it! Like you, I use it to get through my day too."

Arthur poured the hot water into the cup with the teabag. He lets it set while he took out a jar of honey. He had always preferred honey to sugar since it's a natural sweet to enjoy. While wait for for of their teas to set, the both of them tried to finish their homework.

"Geez, you ever wonder if teachers have a sick pleasure for making us students do all of this? They preached about mental health yet don't do anything about it!"

"Hmmm, I don't know," Arthur shrugged before eating Maple Mite on his crackers. "Life is like a box of chocolates since we don't know what we'll get."

Mizuchi smiled and tapped his finger lightly. "Mizuchi, can I ask you something?"

"Sure, Arthur! What is it?"

The Honduran white bat slowly passed her the folded paper that has the morse code. The harlequin rabbit blushed but saw Arthur's cloudy blue eyes twinkled. "I...I feel the same too..."

Mizuchi grabbed his right wing to hold it, trying to process what the bat just said. "You mean it?"

Arthur smiled and nodded. "But you know this is going to be difficult since I'm younger than you by a year. So..."

Mizuchi's green eyes softened before she strokes his cheek to comfort him. "You're afraid that things might change after I graduate, right? Arthur, we don't know what might happen but it doesn't mean that we shouldn't enjoy our time together. Like you said, life is a box of chocolates."

Since the both of them felt awkward about the kiss, Mizuchi and Arthur settled for a nuzzle between both of their noses. Arthur turned his head and sneezed, making the harlequin rabbit giggle.

Arthur was just too adorable!

"I still owe you a breakfast," said Arthur who fluffed his fur. "So, does Saturday morning sound alright with you?"

"Yeah, it does."

Since that was settled, Arthur was planning to play a song on his piano. While he was practicing, he could feel Mizuchi sitting close to him. He smiled, ears wiggling in excitement.

"Can you teach me?"

He stopped. "To play a small note?"

"Yeah, a little bit."

Arthur felt honoured but he will start slow with a song that was simple enough for two animals to play. A duet, if you might put it.

Throughout campus, most of the students were listening to the songs with the poor notes in-between. No one except the drama club knew who it was.

Along with a certain brown and white buck, narrowing his eyes at the carnivore dorm.

...

"Aren't you pushing him too hard?" asked Dr Kirk, who was drinking a glass of bamboo tea. He was called to help his friend/colleague Gouhin sort out some notes. He has a few papers to review once he gets back to his apartment.

"If he really wants to be strong, he should sacrifice whatever he has. That pup's young and really pushing my buttons. All because he wants to protect this rabbit he loves, thus making him want to protect all herbivores."

"Sounds noble," Dr Kirk commented. He was also recalling the story Arthur told him last night about his encounters with all of the gangs. "Can he take on most of the organisations?"

"If that pup does something stupid, yes."

Dr Kirk before bidding his friend goodbye. Again, the Black Market became silent whenever he flew over them. He grinned, thinking that this scenario reminded him of a scene in a movie about a Vampyrum who lives in a castle and comes out to feed.

Though, he is not a bloodsucker since actual Vampyrums need blood to survive since their biology cannot accept other food as nutrients in their bodies.

Just as he was flying over to escape the Black Market, he heard a cry that resembled a screaming  banshee. Now being a bat of science, there has to be some logic over supernatural but Dr Kirk has experienced some paranormals in his younger days. 

Curiosity got the better of him and he used his clicks to locate the sounds before hanging under a roof. 

It was just the foxes from the Inarigumi having a sort of screaming competition!

He was about to leave when a vixen leaped on the roof. "Hello, Dr Kirk."

"Evening," he greeted the vixen. "I thought I heard a scream and was curious about it."

"We're having our screaming competition," one of the members explained. "It's something only vixens do. Do you want to join us for tea?"

"Thank you but no, I have to leave. I have some papers to review for tomorrow."

The Inarigumi were disappointed since they never allowed any male to get close to their hideout or make sure they leave without a mark to ward others off. The two Honduran bats that have entered their lives were a different matter...

They were planning on having them over if they ever make time for it.

Chapter Text

Chapter 54

Dr Kirk never thought things would get so stressful.

Not only was he swamped with the datas collected from the observatory but he had to mark a lot of papers from his students' first assignment. There were a total of a hundred students in his class but each of them have their own takes of tackling the assignment.

"I can understand why my old professor almost murdered all of us," he chuckled to himself before adjusting his glasses. "I feel sorry for those who pursue Masters of pHDs at this rate."

Marking the papers are his least favourite things to do but he can't second-guess himself now. He looked at his laptop which presented the progress of the probe that was launched into orbit. Despite being middle-aged, Dr Kirk still felt like a pup.

He wondered if there was any life on another planet or another dimension just like the film he loved so much, Outerstellar. He wondered if there are planets where a minute had passed and it's a year from where he was.

Oh, the universe is such a wonder to explore!

"Dr Kirk!" a deep growled like a distant thunder interrupted his thoughts. It was his work colleague whom he sometimes have lunch with and discuss each other's work. He was a nile crocodile with a missing right claw so he had to wear a prosthetic that matched his murky green scales. His yellow-green reptilian eyes held a lot of emotions, mostly exhaustion and his large tail had a few scales missing from fights.

"I forgot you're here, Dr Connor," the old Honduran white bat laughed to himself. His colleague was not amused. "How can you not hear the sounds of my footsteps or sense my bulky figure?"

He shrugged. "My mind's thinking about something else and I might have blocked my senses. Is that possible? Does your biology class cover that?"

His colleague rolled his eyes but sat opposite the little bat. It's funny how most of the professors and researchers stared at them because similar to the society on the streets, the adult animals at the university have to sit with their own kind: herbivore with herbivore and carnivore with carnivore.

"Typical of bats," Kirk heard one of the raptors scoffed. "Neutral to the end."

"Being neutral doesn't solve anything. You have to choose a side in life."

"Let's hope he doesn't sneeze on us or turn us into Vampyrums!"

The warning bellow emitted from Dr Connor was enough to silenced them. Dr Kirk gave a grateful smile, seeing how much emotions this reptilian colleague of him was expressing. They were finishing some papers at the cafeteria now that it's almost six in the evening.

"Say, have you been seeing someone?" the nile crocodile enquired, making Dr Kirk chocked on his chai tea from his flask. 

"What made you say that?"

"Just a gut feeling," Dr Connor shrugged. "I think you deserve to find love again. I know how busy you are with your work and your son but..."

"But?" The old Honduran white bat's ears flicked with anticipation, amber eyes behind glasses gazing at the large Crocodylus whose ancestors were once revered.

"I'd be worth a shot. You reacted differently at the Black Market when our other carnivore colleagues invited us. Then you flew, I never knew you could silenced the place with your presence. But then again, I could be wrong but....You found a female there?"

Dr Kirk became quiet, fur fluffed which was a signal Dr Connor understood. Then again, he wondered if the bat ever heard of the phrase: Never smile at a crocodile, because they would know the answer for a while.

...

"Connor is just being nosy," Dr Kirk grumbled to himself as he flew over to the park. He decided to hang himself upside down on a thick, twisty tree branch of a tree with orange-autumn coloured leaves that reminded him of home.

Even the undecipherable whispered from the tree itself soothed him.

He wondered if his mother was well in her little cottage, still dancing and selling her honey at the  farmer's market? Or his old friends who've helped him through thick and thin when he was starting out as a single father? 

Manticore University and the new environment was different then his usual hills and glen with the wide moors that could stretched out to the thick forests. Or the giant lake that separated two distinguished schools and how there were different songs sung by the plants around them.

"Hello."

A familiar voice made the bat craned his head down to get a better glimpse. It was Ten, the red box! Instead of wearing her group's cheongsam, she wore a white shirt with a slit short skirt. Her eye patch over her right eye was intact. He noticed a few males were staring at her as she approached the tree.

"Evening, Ten," Dr Kirk greeted, imagining if he doffed a top hat. "Not busy with your group today?"

"Oh we are," Ten nodded, sitting down on the bench. "We're having a small outing later at night."

By outing, she means a heist!

Gesturing to the empty spot next to her, Dr Kirk slowly landed himself onto the seat. Ten giggled and poked his fluffy white fur. "Is that what you learnt in astronomy? How to land safely after a journey to the stars?"

"I wished," he flashed back a toothy grin. "But we leave that to the astronauts. I just handle the research of the galaxies from the observatory. Also communicate with those in outer space. Enough about me! How is your day today?"

When Ten described her day to him, Dr Kirk paid attention to her voice and the way her hands moved. They were so delicate yet so deadly. Her smile was something he will remember but for now, her day was alright.

"So who won that turf war at the market?" he whispered to her, not wanting to scare other animals at the park. Ten leaned over, snout barely touching his ear as she answered back.

"Shishigumi. Then again, I never knew their boss was a young red deer. He could be a Cherryton student for all I know."

Dr Kirk's heart almost dropped to his stomach. Has Arthur been going behind the school just to join a gang? No, he shouldn't jump into conclusion! He trusts his son on his decision because life can be unpredictable.

"Looks like you don't have any new battle scars."

She huffed. "No male is going to touch me while I'm still kicking." Her expression softened when she met Dr Kirk's amber gaze. "So, do you normally cook after work?"

"Sometimes," he nodded. "Recipes from binge watching Hell-Ram Kitchen and some recipes from my family."

For a brief moment, the both of them decided not to say anything. They want to enjoy the chatters from other animals and the gentle breeze of the evening. Slowly, both their hand-wings and claws held each other.

...

"Are you done?" Arthur laughed as Mizuchi's delicate paws tickled him.

"I didn't know you had so many brushes!" the harlequin rabbit giggled. The both of them were taking turns grooming each other. It was difficult for Arthur since he has never groomed anyone before and his constant asking because he was afraid of accidentally hurting her.

She assured him that she trusts him and lets his two fingers stroke her cheek, ears and occasionally her back.

"Alright, I'm done," Mizuchi announced, making Arthur stretched a bit. "Don't you look like a marshmallow."

"Do I?" he smiled, feeling a bit embarrassed. "I never knew."

Arthur never had this much fun with her due to their school timetable and the fact that she's older than him. This moment was something he will cherish dearly.

When it was time to go, he decided to escort her out until they reached the herbivore dorm. Without any warning, Mizuchi pecks the flustered bat on the cheek, thanking him for a wonderful evening.

"Wow," Arthur thought to himself as he wobbled a bit in his walk. He wanted to play a song for this moment and brew chamomile to calm himself down.

Suddenly, he was collided to the brick wall, his heart almost up to his throat. He wanted to use his clicks but his mouth was clamped shut. Arthur had no choice but to use both of his legs to kick whoever attacked him, hearing a groan.

"I thought I told you to stay away from her!" he heard the voice grunted angrily, he imagined getting up. 

"Why are you attacking me!?" he cried, clutching his stomach with one of his wings.

"Why the hell would she settle for a raggedy rat like you?" he sneered, grabbing him by the neck again. "I heard that bats are super sensitive to sounds. I wonder if you can be robust without an ear for music~"

"No..." Arthur whispered, cloudy blue eyes wide with fear. He hoped that he's facing the buck rabbit's direction. "No..."

"Oh yes I am!"

With that, there was a loud bang!

Chapter Text

Chapter 55

The sound of the loud bang had awoken every student on campus. Herbivores began to turn on the lights in their dorms while carnivores began to come out to check what was going on. There was a crowd circling something and among them was the Bengal tiger, Bill.

"What the- Oh shit!"

There, was a battered up Arthur with a bloody ear and his breathing was ragged.

Instinctively, Bill pushed over the crowd to scoop up the poor Honduran white bat. He was going to take him to the infirmary and then wonder who the hell beat him up. Now Bill wasn't the type to beat up small animals and those like Arthur don't sit well with him ever since the 'incident'...

Whoever did this must be sick in the mind!

"Hang on, Arthur," Bill whispered to the small bat in his arms. "We're almost there..."

"Bill!" a feminine voice cried. It was Els, the Angora sheep. She came out of her dorm in her pink pyjamas, looking scared. "What's going on?! I heard a bang-"

"Arthur's hurt," there was urgency  in his tone. Els said nothing but followed him. Although she never talked much with him, she liked him listening in the drama club during their practice. It was scary yet sad to see how his cloudy blue eyes became so dim and his white fur was painted with his own blood.

She doesn't want another animal to die here like Tem...

...

Arthur was struggling to breathe.

He was certain that Mizuchi's ex-boyfriend has left a message for him. Not a very good one if he had to think about it. Right now, the constant ringing in his head was going to kill him if he decided to struggle.

So he relaxed.

But when the Honduran white bat opened his mouth, his eyes widened at the sudden change. He tried it out again but could hear or felt nothing coursing through his ears. His nightmare was about to become a reality. His cloudy blue eyes started to water, not sure if it was from the pain or the new changes he was given. The moment of realisation of what was happening was staring to sink into the pits of his stomach...

Arthur was temporarily deaf!

He was panicking with his wings flailing, trying to make sense of his surroundings while trying to use his clicks again and again. He was suddenly grabbed and was pinned down to what he would assumed to be a soft mattress.

It was so difficult to understand what and who were the other animals in the room he was in. The loud bang he remembered was something he feared the most. That and if anyone decided to destroy his beloved instruments.

He can't tell if the words he spoke made sense since all he could hear were ringings.

He might as well speak in the Vampyrum tongue if he carried on talking without listening! Could this be a monologue or a soliloquy? Does a soliloquy have an audience to begin with? He must know since he loves musicals and theatrical words in literature!

Since it was useless  to understand his surroundings now that he is temporarily deaf.

With a shaky breath, Arthur began to sing songs he learnt to at least get his hearing back.

It was a weird theory but it's worth a shot, right?

...

Mizuchi and Haru rushed into the infirmary together when they heard the loud bang and the shouts coming from students. The harlequin rabbit feared for the worst. Haru also thought of the same because they both saw a Bengal tiger carrying a limp body of a fluffy animal with wings...

'This is my fault!' Mizuchi thought to herself, tears coming out of her eyes. 'I should have asked Riley to escort me out of the carnivore dorm when I had the chance. Arthur is going to die because of me...'

"...In the lamp light," a tenor-like voice echoed the infirmary. "The withered leaves collect at my feet..."

The voice sounded melancholic yet very nostalgic. Mizuchi felt like she has heard the song somewhere before. The voice was a bit off-tuned as if he doesn't have an ear for music-

Ear for music....

"Oh no..." Mizuchi covered her mouth and pushed out of the way to see a swaddled Arthur in the infirmary bed. How long has he been in the infirmary since his enrolment of this school? 

"Arthur?" Haru approached the battered bloodied bat. She tried to tap his shoulder, making him turn his head at her direction. His cloudy blue eyes looked puffy. Has he been crying?

"He's been singing for a while now," the Bengal tiger huffed. "I don't know what kind of song he was singing. But I found him like this. Someone must really hate him to do this to him. I'm Bill, by the way. You two are friends of his?"

"Yeah..."

Haru nudged Mizuchi roughly. Mizuchi just nodded as her answer. Both rabbits didn't question why an Angora sheep was with a Bengal tiger at this hour. Mizuchi can't bear to look at the sight of how Arthur looked now. She was starting to cry when Haru grabbed her arm roughly.

"Go to him," Haru instructed. "He's probably scared right now."

Mizuchi was hesitant but Haru decided to nudge her forward. The harlequin rabbit's eyes watered at the sight. Slowly, she kneeled down to touch his cheek with her paw. Arthur breathed slowly, his wings were wrapped tight around his body. He began to nuzzled into Mizuchi's paws for comfort.

Haru approached them and snapped her fingers close to the bat's ear.

No response.

"I tried that too," said Els sadly. "The nurse said that he's temporarily deaf for now. We don't know how is he going to recover. Poor Arthur..."

"Say tiger," Haru called out, making the large Panthera lean down. "Where's Aoba? The eagle that's always with him?"

"Oh, he was making a call," Bill growled. "I think he's gonna call Arthur's dad or maybe the police. I don't know! He looked pretty pissed if you ask me."

Haru pulled both of her ears in frustration. She has a very good idea of who might be doing this to her little helper of the gardening club. She wished Legosi was here so that he could help track the bully down. So far, he's been...strange lately....

"I guessed herbivores can be just as bad as carnivores," she muttered to herself.

...

"Hello? Oh hello there- What?! Are you certain about this? When, why and how? Okay, okay, I will come by this week...please look after him. Bye."

Dr Kirk pressed the screen of his phone before planting his face on the table. He received a phone call from Arthur's friend, Aoba. He couldn't believe it.

He couldn't believe that someone would physically attack his son and turn him deaf!

He was frustrated. There was work with the conducting experiment of the space probe launch and now the severe bullying his son was receiving. It made him worried because the other schools he has scouted out before settling into Cherryton had a strict segregation rule.

It is the twenty-first century! No animal should have separate water fountains to drink or colour coded tables for each species! they preached about diversity and unity yet the execution was messier than what happened to the prisoners who were waterboarded.

He thought about Gryphon Cross but it might be too late...

"Oh, Nocturna..." he clasped both of his wings close together in a prayer. "Please hear my cries...Please let my son be safe....I need you to give the both of us strength to handle the matter..."

With teary eyes behind his glasses, he began to dial the number to the school's principle.

Chapter Text

Chapter 56

The next day, news was spreading like wildfire all over campus!

News about the loud bang at night with the bloodied, battered bat was a sight to behold on the school's headline. Most of the animals were gossiping about who could have started it and coming up with nonsensical theories about the case.

"Maybe a carnivore got to him? Those wounds look deep..."

"He didn't 'see' it coming! Get it?"

"Shame his fangs were still intact. I would-"

'These guys can't give him a break?' Aoba thought irritably. The minute the bald eagle began to turn his head, most of the smaller animals stopped their chittering. No one wants to be close to a raptor with a sharp beak.

Aoba immediately called Dr Kirk after he saw Bill carrying his friend to the infirmary. He can't believe that this is happening to a blind bat! It's bad enough that carnivores are treated differently because of their nature but all animals doing this to a disabled animal?

Aoba ruffled his feathers. He was heading to class, planning to record for Arthur. Then again, how can he hear now?

Today, he will check on Arthur again after lunch. He wasn't sure if the constant worrying for his friend was something most birds do.

Ever since he met the Honduran white bat, Aoba has never felt such peace within himself. Arthur in a sense, was his inspiration to be comfortable with his own instincts and who he is as a carnivore. Then again, he figured Arthur's blindness were both a curse and a blessing.

A curse because he couldn't see the beauty of the world while a blessing due to the fact that he can't tell the difference between a herbivore and carnivore instincts.

Plus, his old friends from Gryphon Cross are coming to compete with Cherryton this coming Friday. A lot has been happening in Cherryton over Aoba's second year on campus. First was Tem's death, then Louis' absence, Arthur becoming deaf and...

He doesn't want to think more about it!

...

"Oh Aoba!" Arthur used both of his wings to feel the bald eagle's face, sharp beak and gently over his eyes. "It's you..."

Arthur's voice sounded hoarse, making Aoba feel guilty for not saving him in time from the attacker. 

"Arthur, I'm sorry I did not get to you in time," Aoba clicked his beak. He felt the tiny two fingers grazed his beak as he said his apology.

"It's okay..." Arthur had a sad smile. "I didn't expect the attack either. Mizuchi's ex must be extremely angry with this whole idea..."

Aoba said nothing but held his friend's wing. He was curious to know how Arthur can hear him when the nurse told the others of his temporary deafness. Depending on the animal and their hearing sensitivity, some can recover within a day while other could take weeks.

Arthur felt Aoba's throat while one finger was close to his beak. Ears erected, Aoba was curious at what he was doing.

"Are you trying to hear me?" he asked with a smile. 

"Hey! What are you doing?" a female voice cried. It was none other than Mizuchi, who came with two other females, a cat and a raccoon. Aoba narrowed his eyes at the other two animals, knowing that they have picked on Arthur before.

"Relax," Mizuchi raised up her hand. "They want to know Arthur. If anything happens, they will be my problems."

Both Riley and Tanya sat next to Arthur's right. Since Arthur is temporarily deaf, someone has to hold his wing or tap his shoulder to get his attention. Both of the females were caught off-guard when Arthur began to trace their faces to identify them.

"Look at their faces," Mizuchi snicker, whispering to Aoba. The bald eagle laughed. One way or another, Arthur will always find a loophole to whatever happens to him. And those two who followed the harlequin rabbit around were starting to warm up to the fluffy bat.

That was something Aoba really admire about Arthur.

...

Meanwhile at the principal's office, Dr Kirk hung upside down on the roof of the ceiling while Cherryton's principal, Got told him about his son's case.

"Your son will be okay," the Siberian tiger assured the older Honduran white bat. "We have the best nurses and medics to ensure all our students are treated well."

"Not in this context," Dr Kirk muttered, his ears twitching. Principal Got stared up at the Honduran white bat in confusion. "I beg your pardon?"

"Principal Gon," sighed Dr Kirk. "I may not know you personally but from the way you put things into action, you do love your students but that does not cover up the fact that one of your students have been murdered while one will be completely disable due to unruly behaviours of the others."

The Siberian tiger adjusted his glasses before blinking. "I...don't quite understand where you are going with this, Dr Kirk. Are you saying that I have been neglecting my students' well being?"

"With all due respect," Dr Kirk dropped down to sit onto the chair opposite the principal. "I know it must be difficult to handle students from all walks of life, either carnivore or herbivore, but it seemed as if you lacked the awareness for mental health."

It was interesting how a tiny Honduran white bat could intimidate a large Siberian tiger with those careful amber eyes.

"Can you please elaborate?"

"Certainly," Dr Kirk nodded, folding his wings close to his body like a blanket. "Like you, I also teach at Manticore University. Even though my class is small compared to those in the school of medicine or engineering, my students' mental health is also my top priority as a lecturer as well as an astronomer. I don't want them to feel as if life is a chore for them and they feel as if their lives are being threatened. I understand if the both of us old males can't grasp what youths are into nowadays but we must always be there for the students."

"I see...So you are saying we must make the school feel welcomed for all students?"

"Precisely!" Dr Kirk nodded with a soft smile. "Bullying is a serious crime that is so overlooked. It doesn't matter if the perpetrator is male, female, carnivore or herbivore. They knew exactly what they are doing because being in control meant more power. Sure some of them may have bad homes and upbringing but it doesn't excuse their behaviours!"

Principal Gon was surprised when he eyed Dr Kirk's fingers trembling when he was explaining. Something must have affected him years ago?

"Well, I will go and check on my son now," Dr Kirk confessed. "I trust him but right now, he needs me. In terms of the bullying and his conditions, let him be here for another month and we'll see how it will go from there."

"Are you certain?" asked Principal Gon. "Our school policies are strict once students are pulled out and those that want to return."

"I understand, sir. Now, thank you for having me here but I shan't waste your time. So good day, for now at least..."

When Dr Kirk left, he heard a lot of whispering among the students. He felt bad for Arthur experiencing all of this. He wondered if it was his fault to bring his son here when he could be staying with his grandmother and still be at Gryphon Cross.

He wondered if he himself was too impulsive with certain ideas...

Dr Kirk had another bombshell he needed to tell Arthur but how can he hear when he is temporarily deaf? He hoped the news he was about to tell his own son would change something about their lives.

He wanted to tell Arthur if he was alright with the idea of him meeting up with Ten during some weekends.

Chapter Text

Chapter 57

Dr Kirk was surprised to find three females surrounding his son. A black cat, a raccoon and a rabbit with a dual colour holding Arthur's wing. He spotted Aoba at the corner, his wings crossed. He decided to approach the bald eagle.

Aoba was surprised when Dr Kirk arrived. Then again, it was good since he could discuss with the principal about how to handle the matter. Despite being a carnivore, Aoba cares about his herbivore friends just as much as Legosi.

Lately, that wolf has been acting strange from his new fur cut to looking so haggard each day as if he never had any sleep.

"Dr Kirk," he bowed in greeting to the old Honduran white bat. The three females' chatter stopped when they realised who it was. Dr Kirk had a small smile because he knew out of the three females, one of them has captured his son's heart.

"Thank you for calling me, Aoba. Sorry I haven't come here sooner since I had to discuss some things with the principal."

"It's fine," Aoba looked down on him. "Arthur has been in the infirmary ever since the attack. The nurse told me that his hearing will recover but try not to expose him to really loud sounds."

Dr Kirk nodded in understanding. He approached the three females and smiled at them in greeting before grasping his son's two fingers. Arthur gently traced his fur and then tried to make  out the shape of his face. Dr Kirk watched his son's cloudy blue eyes blinked, his mouth slightly agape. Arthur began to laugh in disbelief but tears were streaming down his face before he hugged the figure tight.

"Dad? I-is it really you?"

"Yes son," he smiled. "I'm here."

"He's been learning how to 'hear' by placing his fingers close to our throats and mouths," the harlequin rabbit explained. "Sorry, I am-"

"Mizuchi, right?" Dr Kirk enquired with a smile. "I didn't know my son found a beautiful rabbit for a friend. So what kind of spell have you put on my son, hmm?"

Mizuchi covered her mouth in shock. She was taken aback at Arthur's father's question where he had a humorous twinkle from those amber eyes. She could see how Arthur is very similar to his father in terms of how they carry themselves:

Whimsical and soft-hearted.

"Y-yes," Mizuchi managed to to speak up. "I've attended your motivational speech, sir. It was very deep."

"Oh please," he chuckled, seeing that the other students were curious about him. "Call me Dr Kirk! What is funny is that I was very nervous when I made that speech. You could say that the caterpillars in my stomach are undergoing a metamorphosis."

Aoba shook his head. Yep, like father like son!

Dr Kirk's expression suddenly became serious as he lifted his head to talk to the nurse. Apparently, Arthur will be staying in the infirmary for a bit while a letter was written to be sent to his teachers. In terms of homework, he will received the print out copies in braille that will be delivered to his room. For now, he needs to be recover.

"Well, I should head back to the university," said Dr Kirk. He reached into his bag where two containers were handed to Aoba. "Here, for your trouble and please give it to Arthur when you have the time."

"Oh, Dr Kirk! I-"

"I insist, Aoba. Right, I have to go before my superiors asked me about my whereabouts."

With that, Aoba and the three females watched the old Honduran white bat take flight, as if he was going straight into the sun.

...

Arthur was very glad to feel his father's presence after all those attacks. He was thankful to have a father like him and a wonderful friend like Aoba to help him get the notes from class so that he wasn't behind with his studies.

In the infirmary, he felt as if he were trapped in a dungeon. Maybe it was because he was bored since his instruments and books are back at the dorm. Plus, he missed the different types of tea he has. He wasn't sure why but he had a feeling that it is evening already!

"Nurse?" he called out meekly, a wing was flapping to sense the presence. He felt someone grasping his two fingers firmly. Arthur began to trace where the throat was.

"Yes?"

"May I please go back to my dorm? I'm sorry but I just want to take a book to read if it's alright..."

But Arthur felt a small vibration at the throat and the nodding movement. He tried to wiggle his ears to listen but some things were difficult for now. He could hear ringing echoing his thoughts while feeling a sort of hissing sound when something passed in his ears.

Before he knew it, he was whisked away by someone. He wished his hearing would recover because he can't use his clicks to make out who it was that was pulling his wing. He felt the two fingers on the animal's throat.

"It's me...Haru," he detected the vibration. "I'm taking you to the train station....your bag..."

Arthur tilted his head as he walked. In his other wing, he felt the weigh of his bag. "Why?"

"Can't tell you. Will let you know once we reach the train."

Arthur smiled and walked close to the dwarf rabbit. Many animals saw them together with expressions of disbelief and disgust. The former because all of them assumed that the bat was dead while they eyed Haru in disgust due to her reputation at the school.

"I can't wait to graduate," she muttered to herself. "I don't have to deal with all of this shit."

The both of them arrived at the train station, there Arthur wiggled his ears. So far, he could pick up on some sounds such as footsteps and voices close to him. It was a progress yet not enough.

"I had to bring you here," Haru explained while tugging on the Honduran white bat's wing. "Because Mizuchi asked me to bring you here. If she does anything, just kick her."

Arthur tilted his head in confusion. "I'll be alright, Haru. Have a little faith, will you?"

Haru simply rolled her eyes before passing Arthur to Mizuchi. Despite not being able to see her, Arthur managed to flash a toothy smile that has become very endearing in Mizuchi's eyes. She had to asked her friends to distract her ex from coming close while she snuck away to the train station.

"Where are we going?" asked Arthur. He was walking close to the harlequin rabbit since he is not fully recovered. He figured it would take at least a week, provided that he will not expose himself into areas with loud decibels.

"Someplace," Mizuchi whispered to him. Arthur wanted to turn his head since her whispering was so ticklish! "I think you might like it Arthur. Good breeze, spacious and strong trees for you to hang."

...

When the train arrived at their stop, both of them got off.

Mizuchi leaned against the wall, taking in the beauty of the sunset. She has her sketchbook and stationaries in her messenger bag. What made this moment even more beautiful was the sweet, fluffy Honduran white bat folding his wings close, feeling the gentle breeze.

"Something wrong?" he asked with concern.

Mizuchi approached him and cupped his cheek gently. She placed two of his fingers on her throat. "Just thinking how beautiful the sunset is with you in it."

Arthur fluffed his fur. "Heh...is that so? Well, just by feeling your face and from your voice, you are quite stunning."

Mizuchi's ears flopped down. "Flatterer..."

Eventually, they reached the location Mizuchi wanted to bring it. It felt peaceful since no animal has ever crossed this path. She has been here before to hideaway when she was younger to come up with new drawings and just relax.

"Shame I can't hear the trees or flowers yet," said Arthur glumly. "I hope one day I can tell you what they are saying. Even if they don't make any sense."

Mizuchi giggled and kissed the bat's cheek, making his fur bristle. "I'll wait for it. Come on, we got a little picnic to set up."

The picnic was basically just packed container of penne arrabbiata that was made by Dr Kirk, rice balls and their water bottles. Arthur gently tapped Mizuchi's hand to get her attention.

"Yes?"

"Do you...remember the night that I was missing?"

Mizuchi frowned at Arthur's sudden question. Of course she remembered! Taking a deep breath, she asked if there was anything wrong.

"Well...I basically got kidnapped by four crime bosses and.."

Mizuchi listened with awe at how Arthur handled his situation despite being blind. She never knew he was very resilient and optimistic about his situation. It was something that she admired about him. Hell, he even shrugged off her bullying in the past yet calls her out on it during their movie date.

"And I met Ten...who dressed me up like a doll," Arthur covered his face with his wings. Mizuchi wanted to imagine how adorable he must have been.

"Oh, were you a pretty doll?" she teased, poking his cheek. Arthur huffed.

"I can't tell. From the giggles and snickers, I probably was."

"What's important is that you're in one piece. Wings and all," Mizuchi held his right wing gently. Arthur leaned close to whisper something into her ear, making her tremble.

"Their leader seemed to be into fashion," he told her. "She determined our attire based on our species and the seasons. Example, I heard her saying that lions have the physique meant for summer while I am somewhat all the four seasons. Thought it might be something for you to think about...ideas for your fashion designs?"

Mizuchi was touched. He remembered what she had told him about her dreams. And yet...

"What about yours, Arthur?" she murmured into his ears. "You played your music well. Are you planning to pursue a musical career or something?"

The Honduran white bat turned his head at where he guessed her face was. He smiled his toothy smile yet his cloudy blue eyes seemed dim with the setting sun. "Maybe. I am not too sure, to be honest. I'd like to work on soundtracks for movies, shows and games. Something about their tunes, struck a chord within me compared to someone singing."

Mizuchi nodded. "I know what you mean. Well, here's to us and our dreams."

Both of them clinked their water bottles together, with some help from Arthur's part since his hearing is slowly recovering. There was something Arthur wanted to try now that the both of them found the time to spend with each other's company.

"Mizuchi...can I try something?" Arthur asked meekly, his whole fur was fluffed up. The harlequin rabbit held the shaky bat by the wing. Something must be troubling him if he sounded so nervous!

"Sure. What is it that you want to try, Arthur?"

Before she knew it, Arthur has pressed his mouth on hers as a kiss.

Chapter Text

Chapter 58

The kiss something Mizuchi did not expect but was glad that it was Arthur who broke the ice between them in their relationship. She was very hesitant about kissing him not because of how he was a bat while she was a rabbit.

Oh no, she doesn't want to disappoint him or hurt his feelings. 

It was a real blessing to meet someone like him and to be forgiven for what she had done. If someone had told her in the past that she will be dating a bat, Mizuchi would have hit herself in the head. For now, she wants to cherish this wonderful evening she is experiencing with her bat boyfriend.

"Mizuchi?" Arthur's voice broke her away from her thoughts. "Am I...hurting you? If I am, please let me know!"

Mizuchi silenced his mouth with her hand and kissed his nose. "I trust you, Arthur. I know you will never hurt me. Besides, this place is perfect to spend time without prying eyes."

"Well," Arthur gave her an amusing grin. "My ears can detect most of the sounds once they have recovered. Do you like the pasta?"

Mizuchi was just having another spoonful of it! "It's delicious! Your dad's cooking is really good! Do you cook sometimes?"

"When I have the time. How about you?"

"I can cook a few. My mom taught me and my sisters how to cook if she was out."

Arthur realised that Mizuchi has not talked about her father but decided not to pry as that would be rude. Both of them didn't realised that they were in an embrace, with the harlequin rabbit leaning into the Honduran white bat's chest while his wings acted as a blanket over them.

"So cozy," she murmured into his fluffy fur. He smelled of peaches and mangoes. Arthur smiled, closing his eyes before pressing another kiss on the rabbit's forehead.

 Since the light was coming from the full moon and a few firefights fluttering about, Mizuchi decided to take out her sketchbook and pencil. She wanted to sketch her new boyfriend in this wonderful moonlight. Most of her drawings were of clothing designs.It would be a hassle to bring her colour pencils so these charcoal ones are alright.

Arthur's ears twitched when she began to sketch. "Hmm, my hearing is slowly getting better. May I ask, are you drawing or writing something? Your pencil has a wonderful scratching sound on the paper."

Mizuchi smiled at Arthur's question. He's just so whimsical in terms of how he phrase his words! 

"I'm drawing, Arthur," she told him. "I mostly draw clothing designs. From what you told me just now, I think I'll get some inspirations if I want to design clothes based on the four seasons. Does my sketching soothe you?"

"Very much," Arthur nodded, closing his eyes. Mizuchi giggled, scooting close to the bat who began to take out a braille book from his little bag. Without saying anything, the both of them enjoyed each other's company despite the silence.

The scratching sound of the pencil and the turning pages from the book were the only sounds that synch into this atmosphere besides the humming crickets. Mizuchi sketch Arthur with such passion that the bat himself looked intense reading the book.

"What are you reading?"

Arthur lifted his head from his book. 

"I'm reading 2002: Space Odyssey. Have you heard about it?"

"No. Is there a film about it?"

"Yes, the one in 1963," Arthur explained. "The book is very detailed and descriptive but the film is another level. Soundtracks can explain the story without sight. I think that was the reason I fell for music composed in shows, movies and even games."

Mizuchi couldn't help but agree. Lately, she hasn't catch up with any shows due to studies. ZooTube videos were the closest thing now to watching something and their movie date was something she would remember.

She wondered if he would remember the memories they were making.

...

Walking down town with their hands held, it was out of the ordinary for most animals of different species. However with Arthur, most of the animals saw the couple as a disable with his aid or seeing-eye friend. In a way, Mizuchi noticed this to be an advantage since not many animals cared about those who are disabled and handicapped.

It was the sad truth in this reality.

"How's your hearing now?" Mizuchi asked, leaning up to talk into his ear. It was adorable how it twitched everytime he heard something.

"A bit better. Let me try something..."

He began to open his mouth to make those inaudible sounds. He smiled slightly and did it again. "I can hear...I can use my clicks again! I can 'see' if you know what I mean!"

Mizuchi laughed at his ironic humour. The both of them walked into the beautifully lit street with some background music. Different animals coexist minus the fact that there are dangerous gangs that lurked in the city despite being almost eight at night.

"Oh!" Arthur's cloudy blue eyes widened. "I can make out a piano! Is there a piano just a few feet away from us?"

Mizuchi scanned the area and found a beautiful ebony black piano placed at the centre of four fountains at the park. There weren't many animals as they are either in restaurants having dinner or at home. It was a beautiful sight to see, wishing Arthur could imagine the image she could describe to him.

"Yeah, a big one and there's no one playing. Why?"

Arthur smiled, leaning over to whisper something in the harlequin rabbit's ear. This made Mizuchi flop her ears and blushed. Was he really going to do this? Just for her?

He sat onto the stool, flexing his fingers before he began to play. Mizuchi gasped at the first few melodies he played. It was the soundtrack from the movie they watched!

More animals gathered around to listen, Mizuchi noticed that Arthur's nervousness disappeared as he focused on playing the tune. She figured that it was because his hearing was focused on the sound of the music while he blocked the other sounds surrounding him.

The music was so calm, it made most of the stressed animals halt in their steps to listen. Hell, even some members from each of the well-known gangs were also around to be able to listen to such beautiful art.

Once Arthur finished, thunderous applauses were heard and some whistles. Arthur immediately covered his face with his wings. Mizuchi approached him to assure him.

"Sorry," she apologised to the adults with a smile. "My friend is keen on music. He can't help but play."

"And he played it beautifully, yes?" one of the voices hissed behind her. This made her jumped out of shock.

Arthur cocked his head at the sudden contact from Mizuchi before opening his mouth to detect the source that scared her from the crowd. His cloudy blue eyes widened before he blinked.

"No..." he shook his head but approached the figure to trace the smooth, delicate scales. "Is it really you?"

"Yes, Arthur," the figured chuckled. "I am here. So are the others."

Chapter Text

Chapter 59

"Sameer," Arthur let out a shaky breath. He used his two fingers to trace the smooth, intricate texture of the scales just to be sure. With that, he wrapped his wings around the scaled body in a hug. He felt a comforting squeeze around his waist. "It is you! Oh, why didn't you tell me that you were in town?"

"Jetlag," the Egyptian cobra replied, Arthur detecting a smile in his tone. "After all, we are competing with your Cherryton school, yes? And who is this pretty black and white rabbit next to you? Is this the girl you mentioned to me, hmm?"

Mizuchi blushed a bit. She never knew that even a snake could find her beautiful. "I-I am Mizuchi. It's nice to meet you..."

"Sameer," the cobra introduced himself with a bow. Mizuchi got a good glimpse at the cobra from the lit town lights. He was breathtakingly beautiful for a snake. Of course, Arthur is the one for her but she could understand why some animals including adults began to stare at him as they walked by.

Sameer had those sandy-gold scales that reflect the desert with some black accents. His hood that most cobras have made him look more regal than a typical snake she has seen in her textbook. Let's not forget those jewelled eyes that are the same colour as the carnelian gems. 

They are so hypnotising....

"Um...Mizuchi?" Arthur tugged the harlequin rabbit. He was confused by her silence. "Sameer is still here."

"Oh! Yeah...of course he is here," she cleared a throat, noticing that the cobra had an amuse expression. Even in a limbless orange cardigan, he still looks good.

"Arthur told me a lot about you, Mizuchi," Sameer hissed, slithering next to his old friend. "It was difficult to believe him until he told me everything."

Mizuchi felt her stomach dropped as the three of them walked together in town. "Everything?"

Sameer nodded before glancing at the Honduran white bat. Arthur's ears were twitching a bit, indicating that he is listening. But there were red tips which shows that he is embarrassed. He fluffed up his fur as they walked to a bubble tea stall.

"S-sorry Mizuchi," Arthur apologised. "We're friends and I just-"

"It's alright, Arthur," Mizuchi assured him with a pat on his cheek. "I get it. I tell my gals about us too."

Sameer watched the harlequin rabbit touched his old friend with such affection. If he was back home with the group at Gryphon Cross, the both of them would be much happier than here. From his arrival to compete with the Selkie Girls and Cherryton, Sameer noticed that the segregation between herbivores and carnivores are very strong.

Especially if the animals are disabled.

He won't even mentioned to anyone about the subtle glares and disgust he received just because he is a snake. He hoped that this trip is worth all of this. Besides competing for his school's name, Sameer would love to explore the ancient temples, learn more about the haunted forest where animals go and never come back.

"Sameer!" Arthur's voice broke his thought. "What kind of bubble tea do you want? It's my treat."

"Oh, no need to pay, Arthur," he protested with his tail. Mizuchi smiled, watching the both of them interacting. Sameer was actually pretty cool once she got to know him. She understood if Arthur needs more time to talk with him before they could board a train back to Cherryton.

In the end, they ordered for him a taro bubble milk tea, match tea with red beans for Arthur while Mizuchi has a soy milk tea with tapioca bubbles. They sat at a bench while talking about their school.

"...And there's a few events, mostly from the drama club," Mizuchi explained. Arthur was swinging his legs, listening to the conversations. His hearing was slowly improving, making him relieved. He didn't want to tell Sameer or the other guys about his sudden deafness.

"No music club, Arthur?" Sameer asked, sipping his taro milk tea. "You used to religiously go to the music clubs after school back in Gryphon Cross. I'm telling you Mizuchi, this bat was at the top of his game."

Arthur blushed. "Oh please! I was just playing what I have to play."

"I'll have to agree with Sameer here," Mizuchi giggled. "He's the Angel of Music at our school. He wouldn't play in front of everyone so he played in his dorm."

"I see," Sameer gave his old friend a comforting pat, when he sensed Arthur's discomfort. "It's okay, Arthur. Besides, we will meet each other during the competition, yes?"

"Of course, Sameer," Arthur smiled, drinking more of his tea. "So where are the others?"

"Scattered in this town," the Egyptian cobra shrugged. "I'll let them know that I have talked to you. However Tek and Daymas aren't here since Tek is taking psychology as his new subject while Daymas is in the boxing championship against Windego Academy.

There was a hint of pride from the cobras explanation. Arthur and him chatted a bit before he excused himself to board the train with Mizuchi. The two old friends embraced each other before bidding each other goodnight.

"Well, he seems nice," Mizuchi commented as they sat down at the two empty seats.

"He is. Oh, the swimming competition is going to be intense! I won't be able to see it but I hope my ears are well to listen to the whole event."

The harlequin rabbit was wondering about something. If she gets to meet Arthur's old friends and get Aoba to join in too, she wanted to let them model for her in some clothing for her to post on her social media.

Needless to say, she had a wonderful evening with this sweet Honduran white bat.

...

"That bug-eyed freak!" a figure watched both the couples in disgust. He clenched his fist, ready to punch the lights out of that Honduran white bat.

He can't fathom on why Mizuchi would rather be with that blind Vampyrum than him. He doubted that the bat is on a steady income family despite his father being an astronomer. Blind animals will never succeed anywhere in life.

He knew that all too well.

Whether they are disabled, have a weird name or a mixed species, they will never accomplish anything in life.

After all, it is a favour to society to ensure that the misfits stay where they are. For now, he will let that bat enjoy his night.

The next few days, things are going to get ugly....

Chapter Text

Chapter 60

This is it.

Today is the swimming competition between five different schools that Cherryton has invited. So far, it was Cherryton Academy against Olivier academy, Andre Academy, Gryphon Cross and finally Selkie School for Gifted Girls.

Two of the schools they were competing against were foreign, which drew most of the students to meet with the swimmers.

"I don't know about you but those Selkie girls are hot~"

"I'll say! I want that leopard seal to step on me," another male student growled lustfully.

"Mmm, but have you seen that cobra from Gryphon Cross?" a female student gushed. "I never thought I want to be wrapped into those coils..."

"I'm into females but that snake made me question my taste."

"I've never seen a shark before...is this what a shark looks like on land?"

Arthur rolled his eyes as he manoeuvred his way towards the benches where others were about to watch the sport. Of course, he was walking between Haru and Legosi. Aoba mentioned that he has to attend to something before joining them.

"You excited about this, Arthur?" Haru asked with a smile, watching the bat wiggle his large ears before opening his mouth to use his clicks.

"Oh yes!" Arthur nodded. "It's been how many months since I last talked to most of them except Sameer on the phone. I hope they are all well."

"It has been exactly six months since your arrival," Legosi stated. Arthur made an 'o' shape with his mouth. The times he had spent in Cherryton seemed so fast...

"Time is an odd thing, isn't it?" Arthur turned his head at Legosi's direction, not before Haru steered him away from getting bumped into a wall. They grey wolf tilted his head, forgot the fact that Arthur couldn't see anything!

"I guessed we were so busy that we forgot time flew by," Legosi answered with a wag of his tail. He was glad that Haru was here and the fact that Arthur seems to be recovering from his shock was good enough for him. He didn't really care for the fact that his fur has been cut and he was lacking sleep for a few days now.

"Huh," Haru wiggled her nose. "Looks like the other schools have both male and females on their team except for your old school, Arthur. Also that gifted girl school."

And Haru was right! Several of the students were commenting on both Gryphon Cross and Selkie because they never knew an all-boys/all-girls school existed.

Arthur used his clicks to try and makeout who was here. He could imagine the outline of Sameer's slender frame without his hood, the T-shape of Maccus' head and the misshape form of Beppi, he assumed after the chemotherapy.

"Hey, it's Arthur!"

Legosi and every animal present at the swimming competition were completely baffled at how the blind Honduran white bat was laughing and smiling with an Egyptian cobra, a Tasmanian devil, a hammerhead shark and a leopard seal from the Selkie School. They were embracing each other in a group hug.

"You haven't changed at all, Artie!" the Tasmanian devil cackled before locking him in a headlock. 

"Beppi!" Arthur laughed, before wriggling out. "You may be taller than me but I'm older than you. Also, I think I have gotten wider."

"Really? How can you tell?"

Arthur shrugged with a toothy grin. "Good to know that you're out of chemo. Missed anything?"

"Aside from you moving to Cherryton, I feel alive," Beppi grinned. "Nothing's gonna keep this devil down and this place's not too shabby. Doesn't have an aquarium for poor Maccus, eh?"

The hammerhead shark responded with a grunt.

"Come on and say something you moving hammer," a harsh female voice tried to shake the hammerhead.

"I'm glad to hear from you too, Maccus. Naia, leave him alone." Arthur approached the shark to greet him. His skin felt like sandpaper. He knew that Maccus would use his fins to briefly return the hug.

He always knew that the silent hammerhead has a warm heart.

"And where is this Aoba and Mizuchi?" Sameer asked, noticing that some of the female students along with some males were gazing at him.

"Yeah! I hope it's not an imaginary girl you've been imagining!" Beppi giggled.

"When has Arthur ever lied?" 

 Just then, the barking order from their coach made the swimmers relay back to their respective team. It was Arthur's cue to join Legosi and Haru at the bench.

However, even a simple greeting with his old friends has sparked rumours amongst the Cherryton students.

"How the hell is that Vampyrum friends with those guys?!"

"A freak hanging out with a bunch of other freaks."

Haru was used to people calling her a slut but hearing how they keep badmouthing Arthur really irked her. She could tell that Arthur was trying his best not to let the words get to him. Like an older sister, she wrapped an arm around his shoulder.

"Ignore those dumbasses, Arthur," Haru huffed. "They're more blind than you."

Arthur had a crooked smile on his face. He can't feel down now when his old friends are here. The one thing he feared would be if Sameer or others who knew about him playing music would be leaked out all over Cherryton.

Because today the newspaper club are hovering all over the competition!

...

Meanwhile on the otherwise of the town, Dr Kirk was making records of his observation of last night's research on the sounds above the stratosphere from his home. Space is eerie yet fascinating. He wondered if there was another dimension where they could actually hear sounds in space.

That would make his colleagues think that he has gone mad.

Then again, madness and insanity is about repeating the same experiment to expect different results. Dr Kirk has done different types of experiments, observations and readings to back up his claims.

His real reason for taking up astronomy was because he loved life beyond the galaxy and the stories about space explorations when he was a pup.

He can't recall the last time he had read a science fiction novel or a documentary.

Work has been a typhoon to the old Honduran white bat along with his concern for his own son. He trusts Arthur but as a father, it's his duty to ensure that his son is well and not feel miserable.

Sometimes he really questioned his parenting.

Arthur never had a mother figure except his grandmother, his mother in his life.

"Fucking hell," he muttered, hanging upside down from his ceiling. He slammed his laptop shut before placing it on the bed. "I might as well have grey fur by now from all this stress."

Even the sound of the doorbell almost made him fall.

Adjusting his spectacles, he began to answer the door. He was surprised by the visitor at the door.

"Ten? What brings you to visit me?"

The leader of the Inarigumi swished her bushy red tail, ears lowered. "I don't even know myself. Am I interrupting you, Kirk?"

Dr Kirk shakes his head. "I am just taking a break from work. Oh where are my manners! Please, come in. Have you had anything to eat?"

Ten assured him that she was fine and asked about why he was at home instead of at work. Dr Kirk cocked his head to the side. "Today is my day off. May I ask why are you asking me if I was home instead of texting me?"

Ten fluffed her fur out of embarrassment.

"It's just...I like talking to you. You're a good listener," she admitted, helping Dr Kirk place some of the groceries in the cabinets. Dr Kirk smiled his mischievous smile.

"Is it because I have large ears?" he asked, wiggling them a bit, making the red vixen giggled. "And won't your girls be concern that their boss isn't around?"

"No, they know. My group will carry out our heist later tonight. I decided to test my luck to find you in your apartment. Kirk, do you trust me?"

Dr Kirk blinked behind his glasses. "I beg your pardon?"

With a swift motion, Ten cupped his face close towards her snout, her breath  was tickling his ear he couldn't help but squirm. With one wing, he began to grip her paw firm to avoid crushing his cheek bones.

"Do you trust me?"

"....Yes...."

Chapter Text

Chapter 61

"We're so beating you girls down!"

"Don't come crying if you lose, boys!"

"Keep telling yourself that, little princesses~"

"You boys are nothing without Maccus on your team! At least we are built for swimming!"

That was the conversation Arthur heard while Legosi was observing the two schools arguing: Gryphon Cross and Selkie Girls. The other three academies watched them with utter confusion because those teams were the only ones where both carnivores and herbivores seemed to co-exist.

Their argument was more gender-based then anything.

Arthur swivelled his ears to absorb every single sound that was around him. Slowly, his hearing was getting better. It was a blessing to know that the speakers were very far behind while Arthur felt that he and his two friends were sat in the middle row.

Of course, he could be wrong!

Arthur clapped and cheered when the whistle blew and the sounds of swimmers splashing into the water were heard. Cherryton's students were shouting and encouraging their swimmers to win the competition. But the voices behind him said otherwise.

"Typical of bats," a female student scoffed. "They can't choose a side even when it hits them."

"He's blind but he's a traitor!"

"Traitor! Traitor! Traitor!"

Arthur whipped his head behind to the source of the sound, his fangs protruding out. "Stop it! I am not a traitor!"

But Arthur was only responded with jeers and cruel laughter. He lowered his ears, fumbling in his pockets for his small earbud headphones to at least block the sounds with music. He will have to ask Haru or Legosi about who won.

He doesn't mind on whoever wins so long as his old friends are alright and not starting another brawl with the Selkie Girls. He remembered their squabbles all-too well during summer camp when he was younger. Mostly, Sameer tried to be the peacemaker while Naia the leopard seal and Maccus the hammerhead shark would be the ones fighting.

Honestly, he wondered all these years if those two have a thing for each other?

Needless to say, he would like to talk to his friends once the swimming competition is over. For now, he wants to clear his mind by playing his favourite movie soundtracks while drinking his hot milk tea in a flask.

...

"Hah! I had you beat!"

"Just by a nose away!"

The swimmers had finished the competition, which was the mid afternoon. Some of the students have dispersed for lunch while Arthur remained in the seats. Only after he was tapped on the shoulder, the Honduran white bat unplugged his earbud headphones.

"So," Arthur perked his ears. "Who won?"

"You won't believe it!" Haru chuckled, lifting Arthur up to stand. "Your old school won and Cherryton was third in place. The crowd went crazy! Also the nosy newspaper club took some photos and videos about two of your friends fighting."

"Oh? Which one?"

"Arthur!" a booming voice almost made him jump. "So, these are your old friends, huh? Aoba, you're not going to believe this! Hurry up!"

"Hello, Bill," Arthur chuckled, using his wing to feel whoever was close to him. It was the comforting smooth scales of Sameer. When he opened his mouth, he could make out a bit of the shape of an eagle and a sheep with horns.

"So, these are your Cherryton friends, Arthur?" Sameer enquired while gazing at them with those carnelian eyes. Somehow, the animals feel compelled under those gaze. Arthur didn't know that he was standing between his friends from both school.

"Oh yes! Guys, this is Legosi, Haru, Bill, Els and Aoba," Arthur introduced each one of his Cherryton classmates he considered as friends. "And everyone, these are my friends from Gryphon Cross while Naia is from Selkie. We meet during summer camp."

"Yep!" said Naia proudly. "I love my girls but I'd rather hang out with these guys. More excitement and adventures. Shame this place doesn't have a lake that leads out into the open sea..."

"But it was Arthur would made everything like an adventure!" Beppi added.

But the Cherryton students were surrounding the hammerhead shark and Egyptian cobra. Bill chuffed softly. "Damn, I didn't know aquatic animals can walk on their tails. Hey, can you understand us?"

Maccus said nothing.

Arthur smiled, patting his friend for assurance. "Bill, Maccus is a bit shy with others. It'll be a while before he warms up."

"So this is Aoba," Sameer hissed, craning himself so that he is the same height as the bald eagle. Most of the students were shocked when Sameer flared his hood a bit to make himself more intimidating. "You've been taking care of our Arthur, I hope?"

"Arthur's my closest friend," Aoba clicked his beak, in case this cobra was about to strike despite his tone meaning no harm. "He's been good adjusting here despite the chaos."

"Plus, he's good with music," Els added, making Arthur fluffed up his fur in embarrassment. The Gryphon Cross boys murmured in agreement.

"So, Arthur told me that you three are from the drama club," said Sameer with a smile before lowering his head towards the dwarf rabbit. "And you, must be Haru, yes? The bossy bunny whipping Arthur into shape?"

"What?!" Haru exclaimed incredulously making everyone step away a little bit. "Arthur, you think of me as a bossy bunny?"

Arthur raised his wings in protest, fur bristling and ears down. "Haru, I-I only said that because I think of you as an older sister. Older siblings are supposed to be bossy to keep everyone in check?"

Haru softened her expression and held Arthur's wing. "Of course. Sorry Arthur."

"It's okay. So, shall we head to the cafeteria before a small tour around the school?"

"Sounds like a good idea," Aoba pipped in. "Maybe we can also show you the drama club since we are rehearsing. I bet Sanu doesn't mind some guests."

"What I really want to see is Mizuchi," Beppi teased, patting Arthur on the head much to his annoyance. "Where is she?"

"She has some thing to take care of before joining me," Arthur explained.

Just then, everyone of them heard a crash and a scream following after.

...

Dr Kirk had not expected this.

If Ten could've told him earlier, he would've wore something that wouldn't restrict his movement. They were at the jump centre where animals go to have their exercise involving jumping on trampolines or just plainly have fun.

He was clearly exhausted physically but was feeling refreshed mentally!

"I never had this much fun since a family gathering," he laughed, hanging upside down on one of the tree poles. Ten was resting under him, panting from the workout. She was smiling at the sight of the Honduran white bat.

"I come here sometimes to relieve some stress. So, I can tell you are very close with your son. But don't you think it's dangerous that he doesn't have a guide or an aide to help him around? No offence."

"None taken," Dr Kirk smiled. "Ever since Arthur was a pup, my parents and I decided to teach him the basics even when he was blind. On top of that, learning braille was an experience for me since it is like decoding a message. So not to worry! I trust my son and how he manoeuvres around."

Ten's tail swished slightly. She would never consider a male to be this caring about their child. She knew from experience with her ex and the cost of her eye. But there was an air of sadness lingering on him. She placed a single finger under his chin.

"Are you okay?"

"I am but I have some thoughts about what to expect once Arthur graduates. He will get his flying license and can decide whether to work or go to university. If anything happens, I am going to do my best to help him because I love him. What if...what if it is not enough?

"Kirk!" Ten scolded the old bat. "I may not know you both personally but from what I saw, you are a good father. Other males should follow your examples and any female would want that in a a male."

Dr Kirk adjusted his glasses before leaning down close to her face. Their faces were inches away from each other.

"Ten..."

Looking around, Ten was making sure that there was no one looking at them because she was about to do something they both might regret or accept it later. Slowly, she brought his face closer and kissed him on the lips briefly.

Dr Kirk's amber eyes widened but began to  kiss back, even biting her lips a bit to tease her.

Little did he know that someone was watching the both of them!

Chapter Text

Chapter 62

Arthur's heart was pounding.

His ears could recognise whose scream it was. He hoped it wasn't something serious to the point his ears were ringing with the sounds of the scream. The Honduran white bat can't really tell if it was either his wings or legs dragging him but the sense on adrenaline inside of him surge towards the sound.

He used his clicks and ears to picture who was screaming at whom.

"I told you to stay away from me!" Mizuchi told off the other animal shrilly. Arthur's fur began to puff up slightly. He knew all-too well who it was.

"Mizuchi, let's go," Arthur found her paw to grasp onto. He could sense the shakiness was starting to subside, his head turned towards the figure he could make out through his clicks. He was going with his gut at this point but he hoped that he shot that animal a narrowed expression.

"If she says no, don't even bother," he told the perpetrator. He was aware of who it was but it doesn't mean that he should change how he carries himself. Carnivore or herbivore, Arthur is still who he is.

"You stay out of this Vampyrum-"

"Is this Long Ears giving you a problem, Arthur?"

Arthur cocked his ears , hearing approaching footsteps- no, slithering and dragging of a body approaching him. Mizuchi gasped with awe at the sight of the animals that came to defend her Arthur. She recognised Sameer with those carnelian eyes but his other friends from Gryphon Cross were quite shocking too.

"It's okay, Sameer," Arthur assured his serpent friend. "He was just going away. Aren't you?"

Mizuchi noticed her ex was starting to sweat at the sight of the terrifying carnivores, especially Sameer who extended his hood to present himself.

"I-I..fine!" he huffed, backing away from the group with his ears lowered down. "You're lucky that you have others to back you up, blind freak. But the next time, it won't be!"

When her ex left, Arthur let out a sigh of relief despite the chaotic questions that were vibrating in his ears from both Cherryton and Gryphon Cross friends.

"Vampyrum? Arthur, you can't let him call you that!"

"Can I beat him him up? Herbivore or not, he's nothing but an asshole!"

"Guys! Guys!" Arthur waved his wings, hoping he didn't hit any of them in the face. "It's okay. At least I'm alive and have a few bruises but at least there isn't another tragedy."

Everyone became silent, realising what this little bat was trying to say. The Gryphon Cross and the only Selkie Girl were baffled but the rest knew he was referring to Tem's death. Only the drama club were affected by this, especially Legosi.

"Arthur's right," Legosi grumbled. "If we retaliate, we're going to cause more trouble."

Everyone murmured in agreement, with Bill and Els excusing themselves to go to the drama club while Naia was heading towards the cafeteria to meet up with her swimming team. This left Arthur with Legosi, Haru, Mizuchi, the Gryphon Cross boys and Aoba.

"So," Sameer hissed softly. "Could you tell us about the clubs around here? We have heard it from dear Arthur but we don't know how it looks like."

Haru, proud as she was of her garden decided to show the guests her club first before they could see the drama club. Mizuchi was walking with Arthur while Sameer fell behind to speak with Aoba privately.

"Aoba?"

"Yes?" the bald eagle turned his head towards the Egyptian cobra.

"Thank you for taking care of him," Sameer gestured to a smiling Arthur who was chatting away with the two rabbits and the grey wolf. "It's been hard for him to adjust to a new environment but he learnt to adapt and make friends, yes?"

Aoba smiled. He was touched at the fact that this Elapidae trusted him to look after the blind bat. He cared for Arthur not just as his closest friend but as a little brother as well.

"So, later you want to see the drama club?"

...

"So you're still nervous about this?" Mizuchi asked incredulously at the grey wolf who towered over her as they sat down in the gardening club. The two of them have not spoken since the apartment episode.

The both of them were watching Haru explaining to the guests about her garden while Arthur cocked his ears, probably listening to the flowers arguing or something.

"I.." Legosi hesitated, his ears drooped a bit while his tail did not wag. "I don't understand how easy it is for Arthur to talk to you. I mean to say a herbivore! I mean-"

"It's okay, I know what you mean," Mizuchi stopped him from stumbling with his words. She has pondered over the idea before. But spending time with Arthur has opened up new perspectives on her views over carnivores and bigger animals.

"I guessed, Arthur's blindness is the reason that he can get over a lot of tensions. He can't tell what we look like and yet, his way of telling me how I am towards him and how he figures about things in his own ways really warms my heart."

Mizuchi smiled, looking at a photo of her and Arthur on her phone when they were at the park.

"So I guessed you just talk to Haru like she's a friend that means a lot to you," she advised. This resulted in Legosi wagging his tail for a brief moment.

Just then, the hammerhead shark  Maccus decided to sit next to them. Legosi couldn't help but sniff the shark curiously from his distance while Mizuchi took out her sketchpad to draw him. She wanted to take in his appearance and his attire for some inspiration.

"Um...your headphones," Legosi tried to break the eyes. Maccus turned his T-shaped head at the wolf, eyes not blinking. "You listen to songs or it- Oh wait! I mean bloorbuuborp."

Mizuchi raised a brow at the wolf's attempt at his marine language skills. The harlequin rabbit on the other hand knew how to read them but her lingo was bad. But the both of them were surprised when the hammerhead shark revealed his serrated teeth as he made some sort of sound.

Was that a marine animal's version of a laugh?

"Oy, yer a wee bit off, Wolfie," Maccus chuckled, taking in both of the animal's shocked expression. "It's blurbububoorbouus, by the way. And little bunny, yer lookin' bonnie for our Arthur, aye? Both of ye had a bevvy before trolley up the relationship?"

Both wolf and harlequin rabbit were speechless. All this time, Maccus can talk and when he does, they couldn't understand what he just said! Not with how thick he sounded as if his mouth had a few gargles.

 Is this how marine animals learnt land animal's language?

Before they could question, Aoba had called all of them to head towards the drama club.

Chapter Text

Chapter 63

Arthur was walking between his old friend Sameer and new friend Aoba as they made their way to the drama club. His ears swivelled around to listen to the chatters of the club members and the different shifts of footsteps around him.

The chatters stopped, to the point Arthur imagined he could hear the trapped air.

"Hello," Arthur greeted the club members meekly, he folded his wings close to his body. "M-my friends from Gryphon Cross are having a little tour of the school. They want to know about the drama club because-"

"Of course! Of course!" he heard the voice of Sanu the pelican with a small flapping sound, probably gesturing with his wings. "It is very nice to meet the three of you. Legosi, Aoba, don't you two have things to attend to?"

With that, both bald eagle and grey wolf resumed their tasks at the club while the rest of the members began to crowd around the three foreign students. He heard some of the carnivores sniffing at either Maccus or Sameer since he figured that they have never met their species before.

"Wow, you really have fins!"

"Do you kill a queen in your past life?" one of the smaller animals asked Sameer, which Arthur could tell from the shifting sound of his limbless body. He smiled, wondering if more literatures could be introduced in the syllabus or the drama club for more plays besides Adler.

Then again, who was he to judge?

"Wow, this is amazing!" Beppi gushed, earning a few giggles from the female members. "So what kind of plays do you all do? Is it like Sharkspeare? Is there anyone singing?"

"Beppi, you are going to make their heads explode," Sameer scolded him humorously. He coiled around the Tasmanian devil to prevent him from going overboard. "I have to say that performing arts is what unite us because we want to tell a story, yes?"

Most of the students murmured in agreement until:

"What the fuck is that cobra doing in here?!"

It was at that moment that the drama club was filled with gasped. Arthur could hear Sameer's hood being expanded when he's either nervous or angry. He used his clicks to at least grasp his old friend's tail.

"I should ask the same about the discount weasel," Sameer sneered.

"You eat your own kind and killed others when they trusted you! You disgust me!"

"I am an Egyptian cobra, not a king cobra. And why aren't you acting in this club? Were you kicked out because you were too slippery of a mammal to even understand the intricate beauty of a play?"

All of the animals were confused by this sudden display of hostility between the two. Kai was held back by Legosi and Ellen the zebra while Sameer was held by both Arthur and Maccus. Aoba who was shocked by this sudden conflict, realised something.

"Hey, remember in history class, Bill? About one of the border wars in 1930s?"

The Bengal tiger suddenly swished his tail impatiently. "I feel asleep during that part. Is it another turf war?"

"Not exactly," Aoba clicked his beak before getting in-between them. "In 1930s, there was a broken alliance between the mongooses and cobras. Even to this day, both sides are still bitter about each other to the point it's like an instinct."

Arthur knew he had to do something before this could end in a blood bath. Knowing that Sameer has drained his venom before coming here, he doesn't want to risk another casualty on either side.

Wobbling his way frantically with his clicks, Arthur tried to find a piano to play a tune to calm them down. He had to think quickly since he knew all-too-well that this school's conflict is very strong compared to the gentle wave laps that Gryphon Cross has given to him.

Stretching his wings, he let his fingers fly on the keyboards. Each struck from the chords was enough to stop both the mongoose and cobra from biting each other. Still, Arthur could feel the tension but it was enough for him to know that it's working so far.

He prayed that once everything was over, he was going to make himself Earl Grey tea while listening to his favourite ASMR videos he has saved on ZooTube.

"Nice job, Arthur," he heard Els praising him, making the bat fluff his fur proudly. His feet began to swing slightly into the beat as his ears were too focused on the music that was composed.

In the background, Sameer and Aoba watched him with pride. Both of them exchanged some places, knowing that Arthur has that sort of effect on all of them. Even Kai, who reluctantly calmed down and went to the boy's locker room.

"Well, that does the trick," Sanu adjusted his spectacles while writing down a few things on his clipboard. "Now then, Sameer, is it? Can you tell me what sort of plays or shows do you know around Gryphon Cross?"

Sameer smiled. "Of course! Would you like to here a tragic Sharkspeare classic of Queen Cleo and her snake lover Antonio, or about a sad ghost that lives under the opera house? Tragedies are a part of life, yes?"

Sanu glanced back at the students who were mesmerised by Arthur's piano solo. "It is. Only we can feel sad before experiencing happiness."

...

Meanwhile down at the seedy Black Market was another section that was closed off from the rest of the world where the roles of carnivores and herbivores were reversed.

There were some clinics that were selling body parts of live carnivores to be used as drugs for herbivores.

Why, you might ask? Because only the most desperate and most unsatisfied would come here to gain some sort of power when they inject carnivore-flesh drug into their bodies.

In this particular clinic, carnivores who are desperate for money would sell their own body parts to the point they were tattooed for herbivore clients. For example, the quack doctors would labeled a crocodile's tail for sheer strength, a lion's eye to have better vision in the dark or a tigress' breasts can be use for fertility.

It was something that this wealthy doe rabbit was looking for.

"Are you certain about wanting these parts of the carnivores, ma'am?" a male nurse guinea pig asked, preparing a knife and some other surgical tools. The chained up carnivores were struggling in their chains. They were a mane wolf and a rare Javanese tiger who could be nearly fifty.

"Of course I am sure!" the doe rabbit replied haughtily. "My son has got to have the best and this needs to be as discreet as possible. I would like nothing more than to see my son happy and with a powerful female by his side. He decided to call since he kept telling me that the girl that he had wanted was seeing a different species!"

The nurse only rolled his eyes. He only wanted this rabbit's money since he has heard of her family's fortune from rumours. 

"Do you want to look away, ma'am?" the nurse asked cheerfully.

"No, I want to see these filth of society scream in pain! Just like the pain my poor Genji had to endure in Cherryton. Don't ever deny a mother's request to see her child happy!"

Chapter Text

Chapter 64

Meanwhile down below the city, Dr Kirk decided to head back to his apartment. He wanted to clear up some of the works he has been reviewing and analysing. It was tedious but it pays off if he gets to go on outdoor expeditions to observe the stars and solar system in nature.

Based on his findings and observations, Dr Kirk would imagine if he would ever reach out into the galaxy and discover more things than what life has to offer. But he shouldn't be so ambitious or else he would have a greater length of disappointment.

He never regretted any moment he has built for himself. Whether it is his career, his family and the things he does to make each day worthwhile.

While writing his paper about the sound particles in space, he thought back about the kiss that Ten has given him at the jump centre. It was so sudden yet so right when their mouths closed in for the kiss. He never felt that way for a female for so long since his divorce.

He worries about the future if he pursues this and his son's concern. Would Arthur be fine with the idea of him dating? All this time, Dr Kirk has adjusted well to raising Arthur all by himself with some help from other fathers on their parental advice and his own parents. Would he ever marry again at very old age of forty-six?

Then again, it was his son who asked the question in the first place.

Once he felt as if he was done with at least three pages, Dr Kirk decided to take a break. He was impressed yet intimidated by the work culture Manticore University had to offer. Unlike his previous position at his old university with its observatory, Manticore's work culture was lifeless if he had to describe it.

Of course all staffs and professors are professional when it came to teaching but he was referring to free periods where the professors would just be in their office to work until they left for home. Even so, Dr Kirk has never seen them taken a break once in a while.

He wondered if he was breaking the rule by having his flask of tea or headphones to listen to his favourite poems?

He shouldn't think about that or else he might get older than he is now! He decided to watch something on the television, scrolling through the channels for something exciting. His attention was on an odd romantic comedy movie.

He hoped that he could at least get some work done after this interesting story. Dr Kirk wondered if there was a way to catch up with Arthur, just to be sure that his son was well as the last time he saw him.

'Already a new student and he is affecting any animal he comes into contact with,' Dr Kirk giggled to himself. Nonetheless, he was proud of his son and to fully use the best of his abilities despite being blind was an accomplishment he would want to cherish.

Suddenly, his ears perked up and an excited smile was etched on his face. Oh he knew how he could catch up with his son through their busy lives! What better way to bond than an afternoon tea! 

"Yes," he murmured to himself. "Splendid idea....some sandwiches...cakes...scones...Oh, maybe a few friends from my side and he can invite his friends if he wants to..."

With that, he began to send a voice message to his son, his coworker he considered as friends, then hesitated before sending a text to the vixen that made his heart flutter. Just then, he received a phone call that made his heart dropped when he saw who was the caller.

"H-hello?" he answered meekly. He never called unless it was something such as using ultrasounds. 

"I saw you and her at the jump centre, Kirk," he heard the gruff tone of Gouhin on the other end. "What the hell were you thinking?! You know damn well that she is from the Inarigumi gang, right? Not only will you affect her but her whole gang as well!"

"Gouhin," Dr Kirk sighed, he started swinging slightly from the ceiling he was hanging on. "I am aware of her gang and how much she cares about them. You're right to say that I am dancing with death but I'll be fine."

"Kirk..." there was silent on the end. The old Honduran white bat wondered if it was something he said. "I'm not trying to stop you but I know the gangs at the Black Market. If you mess with any member of their gang, you will have the whole package deal coming at you."

"I understand," Dr Kirk told him. "But you have to trust me on this. I have been learning some training thanks to you. Only thing now is to tell my son the news once he is here."

"Well, good luck with that." 

With that, the line hung up.

...

"Besides the plays, Gryphon Cross have always competed with the Selkie Girls," Sameer explained while coiling himself up to stay warm. "It was a coincidence that some of them had to be in the same summer camp as we were. Is that right, Arthur?"

"Of course," Arthur reminisced, closing the piano. "Camp activities, you telling horror stories while we were out in the woods to explore and then there's the cooking. How are your sisters, Sameer? Also you still have that pyramid-shaped plushie?"

"Don't mention that, Arthur!" Sameer hissed in embarrassment, the others in the room chuckling. "Anyways, my sisters are well. Talia is still travelling for her journalist work while Dahlia is alright. I hope she doesn't do anything to my tarantula, Dante..."

"Wait," he could hear Legosi's confused tone. "You have a pet arachnid?"

Arthur was only relieved to know that the fight between Kai and Sameer have subsided but the both of them kept their distance. Now, he could here Sameer and Legosi conversing about insects along with the lines of ancient history, he picked up the boast from Bill and the female members talking to Maccus, who only grunted his answers.

He was really shy around new animals.

However, he couldn't detect Beppi's form with his clicks. Deciding to step outside to leave his friends to get to know the drama club, he received a voice message on his phone. While listening to the message with his headphones, he hoped that none of the animals are close by.

Because he can't always hear things while on headphones so he will have to rely on the vibrations on the floor he stood on. While listening to the message, Arthur was mentally prepared to invite whom to the afternoon tea at his father's apartment.

"Arthur!" he heard Mizuchi calling him, feeling her grasping his wing."

"What happened? What is it?"

He could hear the excitement yet exhaustion in her voice. "You are not going to believe this..."

"What?" he began to hold her paw tenderly.

"Your Tasmanian devil friend is flirting with Tanya! I swear to god I am not joking!"

Chapter Text

Chapter 65

"W-what?!" Arthur squeaked in disbelief. So that's where his Tasmanian devil friend was. And boy he wasn't going to let Beppi off the hook on this!

"I'm not kidding, Arthur," Mizuchi whispered excitedly, pulling Arthur's wing to make him walk with her. On wobbly feet, Arthur followed his rabbit girlfriend to where the unexpected drama was. He used his clicks to make out the figures of the animals so that he has a clear idea of what they are doing.

"Oh Beppi," Arthur covered his mouth, trying to hide a laugh. "I bet it was Sameer or Daymas that taught him how to flirt."

Mizuchi shook her head at her raccoon friend's direction. She knew that it was about time that she was talking to someone. Only now is to pair up Riley with a male that could compete with her intelligence. When they were twelve, the three of them would make  their pact of having crushes before graduation and Mizuchi suggested that if her idea did not work out once they graduated, she will pay both of them.

"Seems like I am not going to be the only one getting teased for having a girlfriend," Arthur laughed. Mizuchi stared at him in shock at his words. All this time, their relationship has been building up gradually, to the point that they did their first kiss.

His confirmation made the harlequin rabbit's heart ease since she doesn't know how to refer to Arthur without raising any problems between them. Now that's out of the way, Mizuchi wondered if Arthur would ever consider of introducing her to his father and the same with her and her family?

"Yeah," Mizuchi giggled. "Well, I have to get to my final class now. I'll talk to you soon, Arthur."

"Take care," he murmured, receiving a small kiss on the tip of his ear. Arthur stumbled a bit before finding the paw of his Tasmanian devil friend. The sudden gasp from Beppi was enough for Arthur to have a toothed grin.

"What is this I am hearing about you 'wanting' her number, hmm?" Arthur asked in a teasing tone. "Aren't you always the one teasing about me not having someone in my life?"

"H-hey!" Beppi snapped, unable to mask the embarrassment in his tone. "Tanya and I were just talking. She's got a great laugh and has same sense of humour as I do."

"Right but aren't you a little too young?"

"So what if I like older females?" Beppi huffed, Arthur's ears could pick up the Tasmanian devil plucking his fur when he is slightly stressed. He puts his wing on his arm to prevent him. "Tanya's just three years older than me. Hell, your bunny is older than you right, Arthur?"

"She is," Arthur nodded. "And I'm just telling you to be prepared. Tanya, like Mizuchi will be graduating. Who knows where they might go and form newfound relationships. All I'm trying to say is prepare yourself if you lost contact over the years..."

Beppi didn't know what to say. Something about how Arthur phrased his words made him realised that the poor bat is not trusting himself or his partner. Has Sameer not taught him anything?! Beppi noticed that Arthur has a faint scar on his cheek and on his wing membrane.

He figured that Arthur has went through a lot since his enrolment here in Cherryton.

Before any of them could say anything, the bell rung. Arthur knew it was time for most of the competition teams to leave. He knew that he had to say goodbye to his old friends but there was a small ache in his stomach.

His walking was becoming slower on each step so he will have to rely on his clicks to make his way to the entrance of the school.

...

"Well, it was nice while it had lasted. We are not going back yet but we have about another day to explore the city before boarding the plane. I might want to visit the dead forest due to the history behind it. It was nice seeing you again, my friend," Sameer chuckled as he was bidding farewell to some of the females who were talking to him. It was the first time in Cherryton that they have met a snake, a cobra to be exact.

"It is," Arthur agreed, his ears slightly drooping. He could pick up a few conversations from other students. Mostly the female students are gushing over Sameer while he heard Naia and Maccus having a small argument to which none of the students understood what they were saying.

"You know Arthur," he felt Sameer's body shifting. "You are always welcome back in Gryphon Cross. We'll be waiting for you if you do return."

Arthur laughed. "I would but I have my new adventures here. It's dangerous but I'll be okay."

"Mmm, you really have grown Arthur," Sameer commented. "You used to be timid but you have friends here and forming new bonds, yes?"

Arthur could only nod, a small tear dripped down his cheek. He was going to missed his dear old friend very much. Hell, he should at least make a call for his grandmother back home to update her on the latest news. He missed the memories he shared with Sameer, everyone really.

"I'm going to miss you," said Arthur, raising his head to where he would assume Sameer's face would be, just by the sound of his voice. "Gryphon Cross and our time together will be something I will never forget. Also your mother's egg biryani and the bakeries there."

He felt Sameer's body coiling him into a small hug. Arthur wrapped his wings around his childhood friend, who he considered as a family. He heard ragged breathing coming from the Egyptian cobra. All Arthur could do was hold him for a bit.

He didn't care about what others in Cherryton would think of him. Sameer is his childhood friend and this might be one of the times they might feel each other's presence.

"Once you've met someone," Arthur murmured. "You never really forget them. I will always remember our time, Sameer."

"Yes," the cobra hissed embarrassingly. "Keep in touch, yes? I will let Tek and Daymas know how are you. Also, please tell your dad I said hello. Your grandmother is well, just to let you know.  Do you want the contacts to your cousin Luca?"

"No thank you," Arthur pushed his friend away, hearing him chuckle. He wouldn't want anything to do with his cousin for the time being. With that, he heard the sound of the bus and the competitors from different schools were whisked away.

Arthur sighed deeply. A lot was on his mind lately and this time he wanted to distract himself from being too nostalgic about the past. He felt a looming presence behind him before opening his mouth.

"Oh, Legosi!" Arthur squeaked, straightening himself. "You are done with the drama club for today?"

"I am," the grey wolf answered. Arthur detected exhaustion in his tone. "You must really have good time seeing them again. I mean, meeting them!"

"Yeah, I did. Legosi, do you want to finish our homework together at the library? I thought maybe we could finish our work a bit early so that I can go to the gardening club. Don't worry, I have pomegranate tea that can make things a bit easier."

Legosi wanted nothing more than to get closer to Haru. He had some difficulty over the past few days due to the issues he was dealing with. He thought Arthur had experienced something similar but he was really baffled at the Honduran white bat.

How can he managed and went through the same thing as him, yet he continued to enjoy his day as if nothing was ruined?

Just then, Arthur heard a buzzing sound from his phone. He placed it near his ear to listen and he noticed the bat's cloudy blue eyes became wide with excitement. Or it could be a form of him coping to stop himself from becoming scared.

"What is it?"

"Legosi," Arthur began, stumbling onto his words. "Would you like to join me and some others for afternoon tea at my dad's place?"

Chapter Text

Chapter 66

It has been some weeks but both Dr Kirk and Arthur managed to find a weekend that they could both agree on. Arthur was excited yet nervous to meet his father at his apartment for afternoon tea. He mentioned in the voice message that he is inviting some of his work colleagues, which made Arthur a bit nervous.

He hoped he doesn't make a fool of himself embarrassing his dad in front of his workmates.

"To be honest, this is the first time the five of us got out together," Haru commented. She was right, since Arthur has invited her, Legosi, Aoba and Mizuchi to accompany him to his father's apartment. In his mind, he hoped that everyone will get along or not get into trouble.

He knew all-too-well since his encounters with the gangs at the Black Market.

Arthur wondered if Louis is adjusting himself well to the Black Market? Life as a herbivore among carnivores. Then again, he got lucky that he survived the night with some newfound respect to the four groups.

"You are going to like it," he heard Aoba explaining in a calm tone. But he knew that this visit was making the bald eagle excited, trying new food and the idea of afternoon tea that is not from an expensive cafe. 

"So Arthur," Legosi's voice wavered, making everyone stopped chattering. It was always something important if the grey wolf begins to speak. Arthur turned his head directly to where Legosi's voice was. He was hanging upside down on one of the upper bars in the train.

"Yes, Legosi?"

"What was Camden like growing up? You mentioned during our history class that the town you lived in used to have a lot of crimes. Is it like what's here?"

Arthur rocked himself slightly, ears already twitching. Mizuchi still finds that gesture adorable when the Honduran white bat was in deep thought.

"Well, it's lively with the musics performed on the street or at the market. I remember the sounds of vendors calling out what's on sale at the market from food to furniture. The crimes were usually stealing or the worst blood cults from what I heard in the news."

This made all of the animals shuddered. Even other passengers on the trains were listening with interest. Mizuchi held Arthur's wing while Haru stood between Aoba and Legosi, who both were holding on the bars.

"Used to help my Nana sell her honey and if I saved enough money, I'd go to Muffin Lane."

"Muffin Lane?" Mizuchi questioned in disbelief. All the streets and town Arthur lived in sounded like a child's storybook.

"Oh yes!" Arthur nodded, smiling as he was having a small nostalgia trip. "Muffin Lane was famous for their theatres, musicals and their delicious curry restaurants. I can name you a few songs since they are catchy."

"Really?" he heard a chuckle from Haru. "I didn't know you'd be into that. I always assumed you prefer uppity mansion stories"

Arthur folded his wings in embarrassment. "I don't mind all sorts of plays even if I can't see them. But their dialogues and music ensembles are the key to making the play successful, wouldn't you agree?"

Aoba and Legosi exchanged glances, since they are both drama club members. With Louis' disappearance, they need new ideas for plays or else their club was going to suffer. Not to mention the recent news of segregation between herbivores and carnivores in the school.

Luckily, majority of the clubs at the school rebel against the idea because no one wants to live in fear. Sometimes in life, risks are important because it helps with their growth. And just by meeting Arthur, both of them could tell that he has taken risks due to his lack of sight.

With that, the train stopped to their destination and the five Cherryton students decided to get off.

...

"I'm glad you can all make it. You're just in time!" 

Dr Kirk embraced his son before shaking the hands of his friends. Mizuchi noticed that the other guests were adults, mainly a nile crocodile who was wearing baggy clothing and a vixen in a beautiful cheongsam with an eyepatch. 

"I heard two more animals here," Arthur commented. "Are they friends from your workplace?"

"Well, you are familiar with-"

"A member of the Inarigumi!" Arthur heard Aoba's exclamation, making his ears drooped a bit. He heard some shuffling, probably the two rabbit girls hiding behind either Legosi or Aoba. All the Honduran white bat could do now was spread his wings to make himself bigger.

"Hey, hey, it's alright!" Dr Kirk assured the young Cherryton students. "Miss Ten is here for a visit. My other guest is Dr Connor from Manticore university. No fights now!"

Arthur said nothing but used his clicks to make out the figure of the leader of the Inarigumi. He grasped her paw gently and shook it. Her giggles made Arthur smile since he wasn't sure if this gesture was the right one.

"Hello, Miss Ten," Arthur greeted her with courtesy. "I don't think we need to introduce ourselves. But the two rabbits are Haru, the head of the gardening club and Mizuchi, one of my closest friend."

"Really, Arthur?" Dr Kirk laughed, pouring cups of brewed pomegranate tea. "You don't want to tell them that Mizuchi's your girlfriend?"

"Dad!!" Arthur covered his whole face and body with his wings. He may not see it but he could feel his face heating up towards the tip of his ears. He heard everyone in the room laughing but not in a mocking way.

"It's alright, Arthur!" Mizuchi assured him by rubbing his back. "I don't mind if they know that we're together. After all, our friends know about it. We're both seniors while the boys are our juniors, by the way."

From there, he heard a cough-like laugh that was similar to a small thunder. It was probably his father's colleague. The young bat approached the hulking figure that was lounging its way on a sofa. He can't tell the animal but from the size and features his ears picked up, it must be a giant reptile.

"You're a crocodile," Arthur deduced, reaching out to shake his claw when he realised that the right hand felt more rubber than scales. He heard a snort of amusement coming from the reptile. "I'm sorry if I sound rude but your right hand feels rubbery..."

"So you felt it? Yes, my right arm is a silicone prosthetic. It's connected with a prototype to help it move. Lost it in an accident some years ago."

"Oh! So I take it they plant a microchip into your head so that your brain activity synchronises with the nerve in your prosthetic arm?" Aoba concluded, unsure if his answer was right. It was like something he learnt in both physics and biology.

"Precisely! You're fascinated with the world of science, young eagle? And little bat, you really are what your father told me."

Arthur's ears lowered as he was rummaging in his backpack to feel for something. It was too much if anyone puts him on a pedestal.

"You need help looking for something?" Legosi's voice almost made Arthur's ears crinkled. Arthur just patted on the wolf's leg from where he assumed the voice was.

"I'll be alright. I know what I am feeling for."

"Um Kirk?" he heard the voice of Ten calling his father. "Can I talk with you about something?"

"Of course! Please everyone, feel free to have the tea and food that has been laid on-"

Arthur's ears perked up when he heard his father squeaked before a door was closed and then looked. Arthur tilted his head in confusion. "What happened? Is my dad okay?"

"He's being dragged into his bedroom I think," Haru answered, seeing everyone except Arthur's shocked expression. "Must be a private conversation."

"It might not be private for long," Dr Connor snorted before pouring another cup of tea with his left hand. Legosi was a bit preoccupied with his surroundings but his mind was running wild with the idea of a gang member at this apartment.

"Um...what do you mean by that?" Arthur asked in confusion. Both Mizuchi and Aoba exchanged glances. They are aware that Arthur was not ignorant to the world of intimacy.

"Your dad might be meeting something," Mizuchi chose her words carefully. "Meaning that Ten lady could potentially be someone he's dating at the moment."

Everyone was waiting for Arthur's reaction to the bombshell. Instead of disgust or shocked, Arthur's mouth formed a smile.

"So, my dad has finally found someone?"

...

Meanwhile at one of the rooms of the boy's dorm in Cherryton, a young buck harlequin rabbit was checking around the rooms so that he could be alone. 

Satisfied, he began to take out a small pill bottle that contained a yellowish liquid. He was very grateful that his mother went through all the trouble to help him. She didn't need to but that doe went all out just to obtain a special drug for her beloved son.

"I love you, mom," he whispered before opening the cap. With a swift motion, he gulped down the entire liquid, waiting for the results.

Nothing so far.

"Why isn't it working?" he asked out loud. "This carnivore drug is supposed to give me strength I need to finish that blind rat."

"Genji," he heard one of his rabbit roommates yawned. "Tone down, will ya? Some of us are trying to sleep."

Apologising while feeling disappointed, Genji thought that he might as well as some sleep. Maybe the effects will take place tomorrow. 

'Mizuchi must be out of her mind if she prefers that Vampyrum over her own kind,' he thought to himself. 'If she doesn't want me, then I'll make sure no one can have her!'

Chapter Text

Chapter 67

"...And some of the staffs are annoyed with his fickle attitude," Dr Connor recollected a memory of a particular professor at the university. "We respect him for his intelligence but he is very much poor when it came to delivering the lesson to the class."

"Then why does he still stick around?" asked Haru, surprised by the stories of staffs and professors. She has applied to several universities to pursue her studies in botany since her goal is to open a nursery of her very own. Little did she know that Mizuchi was also listening with her ears perked up while she was focusing on finishing her sketch.

"He has a high IQ when it came to his research papers and dissertations," Dr Connor answered before helping himself to another sandwich. Arthur decided to hang upside down on one of the perch on the ceiling. Legosi was listening attentively while his eyes were on Haru while Aoba was more absorbed with the knick-knack photos of what seemed to be Arthur's childhood.

He'll admit that Arthur is just as fluffy as he was as a baby.

"I guessed adults are almost the same as us," Arthur concluded before fluffing up his fur to get rid of the shivers that he was feeling. "Only difference is that as we grow older, we have more responsibilities."

The nile crocodile grunted. "Would be a dream to have a clone of myself to take half of my responsibility. I take it you girls have already applied to your chosen universities?"

"Sure did," Haru puffed her chest out proudly. "The universities that could help me study botany."

"I'm going to be an apprentice and study at a designer school," Mizuchi answered hers with grace.

Arthur, meanwhile on the ceiling, was listening to everyone's conversation but at the same time trying to decipher what the potted plant was babbling about as well as the whispers from the tree outside of the window.

He felt a weight of a cold stone in his stomach. The Honduran white bat was nervous because he himself deep down was uncertain of his own future once he graduates. Will he achieve his dreams of creating music and composing the tunes based on the stories he has heard?

He too had to brush up on other skills that might help him if his ideal dream failed. Something where even a sightless bat like him can handle.

For now, he wouldn't worry about the future just yet. He wants to cherish and enjoy the present moment.

"Ah, Kirk!" Dr Connor's boomed, causing a vibration in Arthur's ear similar to that of an organ. "You have got it out of your system?"

Mizuchi wished Arthur could see how red his dad's face was from the nile crocodile's comment. Then again, Arthur's probably didn't know how fortunate he is to have a caring father like Dr Kirk. Besides him, the vixen with the eyepatch, Ten was also fluffing up her fur in embarrassment.

"Enough about that!" Ten dismissed the crocodile's comment hotly. "So Arthur, how old were you when you started to play your first instrument?"

Arthur wiggled his ears to take in the question but also minding his friends' murmurings. "Well, I was five when I first started playing. It was at kindergarten and our teacher just gave us any instrument she could find." 

"And I never took him to perform in any concerts just yet," Dr Kirk told everyone proudly. "He does play a lot with his grandparents."

Arthur smiled but he hoped no one caught the fact that it was a sad one.

... 

The afternoon tea was almost over when Arthur heard his dad mentioning that it is five in the evening.

To be honest, he was enjoying this visit. Besides the food and drink, they chatted about what he would describe as gossip from what's going on in Cherryton to even at the workplace of Manticore University. He understood why Ten was quiet throughout the conversation.

"Um...Miss Ten..." Arthur's voice was meek. "C-can I tell you something?"

"Oh, of course, Arthur," the leader of the Inarigumi sounded surprised but nonetheless glad. Arthur was hanging upside down close to the window sill while Ten looked up at the curious bat. She could see the resemblance of him and Kirk with how they carried themselves: humble yet curious.

"Do you love my dad?" 

That made Ten opened her mouth before closing it, not sure of how Arthur could tell what was going on. Arthur smiled a bit. "I know because when the both of you talked, my dad sounded happy. And you, you sounded relaxed just like when you asked me about my skills in playing the piano."

Ten sighed in relief and then giggled at the memory. "You know, I still kept a photo of you in the dress I made you wear. You look adorable in it."

This made Arthur fluffed his fur in embarrassment. "You're going to show everyone?"

"Only my group," Ten replied, tapping Arthur lightly on his leaf-shaped nose. "I'm curious though, Arthur. You are really good at playing music but you look scared whenever you have an audience. May I know why?"

Arthur lowered his ears and his expression became serious, to the point his cloudy blue eyes could be described as stormy. "Well, I am more comfortable with my old music club mates back at my own school. I only played alone with confidence if it's with someone I am familiar with. If not, I'm just shaky as a leaf in autumn. Not to mention Cherryton seemed to be scared of me because they think that I'm a Vampyrum."

Ten felt sorry for the poor bat. She knew how he felt being stereotyped for her own species. Since meeting this bat during that night, she thought he was nothing more than a naive rodent with wings that will be a snack. 

Oh, how wrong she was!

Ten gently rubbed Arthur's head in a comforting manner. "Arthur, you're more than what others would tell you. Even if we just met briefly that night, I can see that you're a bright young bat with such talent. All I could advice you is keep playing. If the crowd is making you nervous, try to play your tune louder than any orchestra. Your ears might thank you for that."

Arthur cocked his head. "Really?"

Ten smiled before kissing the young bat on the cheek. "I'm certain, Arthur."

Little did the both of them know, Dr Kirk and Mizuchi watched them with awe. Both of them had the same thought: Arthur has finally found himself a mother figure.

...

"That was a good afternoon-evening outing," Haru commented while stretching in the passenger seat of the train. "Don't you think so, Legosi?"

"Yeah, it was," the grey wolf growled lightly. "Arthur's dad is very nice."

"He sure was," Mizuchi agreed. "Not to mention Miss Ten is very knowledgable about fashions correlating with the seasons. I might keep in touch with her to get some advice on some of my designs."

"I might consider what Dr Connor said," Aoba murmured, gazing out at the window where it was nothing but the passing walls of each subway station. "His way of seeing biology as something to cherish and cared for really opened a new perspective for me."

"Maybe you should join the gardening club," Haru teased, making him chuckle. While everyone including Legosi was chatting, Arthur was hanging on the upper bar, in deep thoughts.

So far, the talk about applying to universities or what to do after graduation really terrified him. Will he be kicked out just like what he heard from audiobooks or movies? Will he be living somewhere all by himself without knowing any skills that he might not experienced? Is he going to be rejected by anywhere he applied to?

His thoughts were interrupted when he felt the buzzing sound from his phone. When he murmured a voice command to help him listen to the message, his heart dropped to his stomach and his grip almost loosed from the bar. The unknown message said:

I know you're the mysterious musician. Try and find me before I leaked out recordings of you playing.

Chapter Text

Chapter 68

Arthur's heart was pounding.

It was not because of Mizuchi who was holding his wing as they were walking to the herbivore dorm. 

Oh, no! It was because of the voice message he received from an unknown sender. Usually, unknown numbers would made the Honduran white bat immediately block the callers because he wasn't too familiar with them.

This particular voice message had a familiar voice that Arthur was crossed with ever since he came to Cherryton. He has an idea on where the voice might be and it was the very reason he was walking  between his girlfriend and Haru who was telling him about what is expected at the gardening club tomorrow.

Arthur just nodded while his left ear swivelled to detect where the sender of the message might be. If he could make out his shape without letting the two rabbit does suspicious, Arthur let out a yawn, big enough to use his clicks.

He could detect a figure at the corner of the dorm, long ears. It must be Mizuchi's ex. 

"Um, I'm going to go for a walk," Arthur cleared his throat, trying to hide the shakiness in his tone. Haru and Mizuchi both noticed a change in his demeanour.

"Do you want us to accompany you, Arthur?" asked Mizuchi, concern about her boyfriend acting stiff. Arthur rubbed his girlfriend's back to assure her.

"I'll be alright. Please, I need to think about something alone if you don't mind."

Both Lagomorphs were hesitant about it but decided to respect the Honduran white bat's wish. "Fine Arthur. But if you don't show up tomorrow at the Gardening Club, I will hunt you down."

"Yes, ma'am," Arthur did a small salute at where he would think Haru's voice might be. Reluctantly, both rabbits left the blind Honduran white bat to his own device. This gave Arthur a sense of dread but he knew he has to tackle the problem.

It took him some time to use his clicks to locate where the sender of the message was. It was somewhat behind the building or was it the front? He couldn't tell because the doors on both ends felt and sounded similar.

"So you got my message?"

"I did," Arthur nodded, his ears drooped a bit. "You've heard me playing. Was it bad?"

There was silence but then a laugh of disbelief was heard. "I threatened you and you were concern about how bad you've been playing? You really are a Vampyrum since they can manipulate minds."

Arthur couldn't help but be irritable by these accusations. "Do you know what I find funny? You can't seem to let go about what has been done. Mizuchi has moved on, I want to continue my school life and you seemed kind of obsess with bullying a junior."

SLAP!

"How dare you assume that, disgusting rat!" the voice seethed. "Mizuchi would never love or go out with the likes of you. I know her and her family. They will never accept the fact that their daughter is dating something ugly from another species or the fact that he's blind."

Arthur became quiet. From his interaction with Mizuchi, he could tell from her tone and her mannerism of speaking that she has been genuine. With her ex, he could unfortunately tell that he too was telling the truth.

"So," Arthur decided to change the subject. "How did you get my number?"

"Eh, someone from the newspaper club knew."

'Bloody rat!' Arthur thought to himself. All his life, he only played his music to those he was comfortable with or with the band he joint back at Gryphon Cross. But here, he has experienced a different life and impossible obstacles he must overcome. With a deep breath, he replied: "Do it, then."

"What?"

"You can post it on social media or share it with everyone. I don't care anymore."

With that, Arthur brushed himself off, trying to ignore the stinging pain from his cheek. He wanted nothing more than a good amount of tea to calm him down.

Little did he know that someone has been recording his and Genji's conversation. It was about time that justice is to be served.

...

"I don't believe this."

After that fateful night, suddenly every student in Cherryton has been greeting him and even wanting him to join them for lunch as if he were a celebrity now. He had a feeling that it had something to do with Genji posting the revelation of the mysterious musician. Right now, there were more chatters amongst students while they were at assembly.

This was something Arthur knew it would happen eventually.

"Ignore them, Arthur. These guys here are as shallow as fruit flies at the garbage dump," Bill scoffed. "Honestly, if you didn't have any musical talents, they'd probably be back to normal."

Arthur could hear the Bengal tiger yelped in pain. "Bill, that's really inappropriate to say!"

"What? It's the truth, Els. I'm pretty sure you'd believe that too."

Arthur smiled, feeling grateful for Bill giving him some insights. Despite his brash attitude, Bill is an honest classmate. He was disappointed that Aoba was absent today and he couldn't detect Legosi' form.

"Well, I'll just learn how to adapt and get it over with," he concluded, wrapping his wings close to his body. "Bill, I wanted to thank you about that night."

He heard chuffing coming from the Bengal tiger. "Of course! Consider it as a paid debt to you saving me. Geez, I could see some of the girls in front staring at you like you're some big shot."

"I thought you were going to be the big shot, Bill," Arthur teased him to lighten the mood.

"Shh! Be quiet, the principal is about to speak!"

Arthur perked his ears up to listen. It was mostly updates of the school's policies, announcements from different clubs and introductions to new subjects in the upcoming semester. However, the next speech made his stomach churned, hoping that it was the caffeine from the pomegranate tea.

"As far as our school policies are concerned," Principal Gon continued. "There hasn't been any awareness for those who have become the victims of bullying or experiencing mental health. I understand that as students, we are the future to our society however we earned our place at a price."

Through his hearing Arthur could hear murmurs of disapprovals while some held their breaths to listen.

"From a video I was sent, there has been some bullying not just between the carnivores and herbivores but on those we deemed different from our norms. I'm referring to those born with disabilities, abnormal physical traits or a culture different from our own. Now, it has come to my attention that those problems need to be addressed. The first step is to introduce our counselling sessions which will be available during meal breaks and after schools, where you will have to make an appointment first via our school's website."

"Where's the justice for the perpetrators?" Bill muttered into Arthur's ear.

"As for those who were the bullies," the principal finished his speech. "They will be suspended for a month before coming back into school. I believe in correcting them since everyone deserves a second chance. However, if they resumed back their tactics, they will be expelled, privileged or not."

Arthur heard nothing except his own breathing when that happened.

"Will the student Arthur from Year 2 please come up on stage?"

Arthur wished he was a statue or hang himself on one of the hidden corners of the ceiling. Instead, he hid behind Bill while closing his ears to block out the voices from the others at assembly.

Chapter Text

Chapter 69

Arthur gulped as he awkwardly walk towards the stage. He was capable of walking all by himself but Els offered to walk beside him only because she told him that he looked nervous. The Honduran white bat was grateful for the sheep's help.

Plus, his ears were picking up various sounds from the students murmuring, to the deep rumbling of the principal to even the slightest breeze inside of the room.

"Almost there, Arthur," Els whispered. "You can go on from here?"

 Arthur nodded. He could feel Els' hand slowly letting his wing go. He made his way on stage carefully, trying not to trip while his wings were folded to avoid bumping into anything. The Honduran bat didn't have time to react when he was hoisted up gently.

"H-hello Principal," Arthur bowed his head, trying to stop himself from shaking like a leaf. He recalled eavesdropping on how some students wished they were blind so that they don't have to feel embarrassed.

Try having sensitive ears where it could pick up ultrasounds!

But Arthur pushed those feelings aside so that he could get over with whatever he was called up for.

"The school and I would like to know why you like to play music in the early morning and evening close to nighttime," Principal Gon explained. "You see, the sounds of the melodies you played has brought some positive outcomes for all of us."

Arthur said nothing but he felt annoyed to know that the students' sudden change of attitude towards him was because of his music rather than who he is. After all, he can recall some of them still think of him as a Vampyrum due to his species as a bat.

"Well, I'm glad my music is comforting to others," Arthur finally spoke up, his fur fluffed up to resemble him puffing out his chest. "I...only played it during those days because it's one way to calm myself besides tea of course."

His ears picked up a few laughs and chuckles.

"Interesting! Yet you don't join the music club or drama club for that matter. May I know why?"

Arthur's ears drooped. He dreaded a question like this was ever asked. It's not that he doesn't want to join but he wasn't too familiar with anyone unlike Haru, Legosi, Aoba, even Bill or Els. He doesn't want to come off as rude towards the principal or the students.

"I...I wasn't too familiar with most of the clubs," Arthur admitted, which was half-true. "I just heard the flowers talking and thus led me to join the gardening club."

There was a dead silence, making Arthur tilt his head in confusion. He hoped that he hasn't offended anyone.

"Of course he would say that," his ears picked up a mutter from a familiar voice.

"Well!" the principal cleared his throat. "That's one way of knowing your reason. But enough about that. The reason why I asked you to come up to the stage is because all of us want to hear you play."

Arthur wished his stomach was sewn with a bomb like his grandfather at this moment.

"We have the piano that one of our music club members play before the assemblies. Why don't you try before we are all dismissed."

There was no way Arthur is going to back out. Not when he could feel all students and teachers were expecting him judging by their silence. Well, it was going to happen anytime soon, right? What's life without a risk that will either make you regret it or cherish it?

With a sigh, Arthur ruffled his fur before nodding. "I will do it."

...

While the students and teachers are waiting for the Honduran white back to play, a figure was sitting on one of the rafters at the ceiling. It was none other than Ten herself. She had wanted to learn more about Arthur and the school he enrolled in.

It was no different than the one she experienced when she was a young girl.

It took her some negotiations for Cherryton's security guard, a large rattlesnake named Roukume to help her get a better view of the assembly. She could spot the fluffy white fur of the little bat. Poor thing was shaking but managed to hold eye contact with the principal despite being blind.

"What is the bat to you?" Roukume hissed softly. "You know him?"

"I do," Ten nodded, remembering the night when he and that Shishigumi lion arrived at her territory. "I thought he would be an annoying child trespassing but I was wrong. He proved to anyone that he can be content with himself despite his differences amongst other animals. Maybe that's why most of us feared and are in awe of bats: they are two sides of the coin that made them part carnivore and part herbivore."

"Hmm, you do have a point there- Shh, he's about to play."

On cue, Arthur was gliding his wings on the keys as he started to play. The tune sounded sad yet it was uplifting. It was a song Ten could describe as a journey to find a meaning in life in this hustle yet cutthroat world.

Something about the build up and repeating tunes made her cry from her single eye.

Needless to say, she came not just to see him but to also send him a letter at his dorm. She asked Roukume if she could show her where is the carnivore dorm.

"Certainly," the rattlesnake nodded before gazing down. "It's as if he could see every time he plays music."

Ten only smiled, gazing down at Arthur with adoration that similar to a mother proud of his son. Then again, it could wait for a few months or even next year before she could officially call Arthur her own son.

Before she leaves, Ten could hear the thunderous applause of students and teachers cheering for the Honduran white bat.

...

"Are you okay, Arthur?" Mizuchi asked. The both of them were under a tree with Arthur hanging upside down from a branch.

"It feels strange," Arthur commented, flicking his ears from the harlequin rabbit's poking. "One minute everyone here is calling me a Vampyrum and now they want me to play for them song request. I don't even know half of the songs they want!"

Mizuchi stroked him on the head. "You don't have to cater to everyone's needs, Arthur. You play beautifully. It was your choice to let Genji spread the message. Other than that, he's already suspended from school so he doesn't have to bother the both of us."

Arthur knew she was she was right. For now, he will carry on with his life.

"Are you working on another design?" he enquired, his leaf-shaped nose wiggled from the scent of fruit coming from Mizuchi's markers.

"Yep. Just trying to trace the rough sketches with my coloured pens. Trying to design what is suitable for amphibians and reptiles. But, we only learnt through our biology textbooks about their body structures and ideal temperatures."

Arthur pondered a moment before stretching his wings. Mizuchi was impressed by his wing span, which was orange like marmalade with specks of black as if someone had splattered ink along with long fingers acting like mast for the wings' membrane. It was the first time she has gotten a good look at his wings.

"I was thinking maybe for amphibians like frogs, you could try to make the clothes waterproof   since they have moist skin while reptiles, they might need a type of fabric that won't tamper with their poikilothermic bodies. My old friend Sameer mentioned to me that for snakes, you don't have to make sleeves."

Mizuchi smiled before briefly pecking Arthur on the lips when no one was looking.

"I love you," Mizuchi spoke softly. "You know that?"

"I love you too," Arthur giggled, puffing his fur in embarrassment. "Excuse me, I am going to make a call, okay?"

When Mizuchi resumed her drawing, she heard him plugging the headphones for his phone before using voice command. His voice sounded so quiet.

"Hello Nana, it's been a while..."

...

"Are you sure you want me to be here?"

"Of course!" Dr Kirk insisted, gesturing to the empty spare bedroom. "You can stay in the spare bedroom there. I was going to use that for Arthur if he ever comes to stay but I think he wouldn't mind having you for a roommate, Legosi."

Legosi had just recently told the astronomer professor that he had left school because of a brawl with the school's killer. He figured that he would need to find work and a place to stay instead of going back to his only surviving family member.

He happened to bumped into Dr Kirk while trying to buy something at a convenience store. He was buying iced tea and some onigiri. He figured that besides Gouhin, the grey wolf can trust the old Honduran white bat and maybe learn some advice about surviving the working world.

"I've been thinking," Dr Kirk's voice wavered, making Legosi tilt his head. "Maybe I can speak to Animal Resources at the university about you becoming my lab assistance."

The grey wolf almost fell from the chair he was sitting on. Getting a job this instant? His tail wagged automatically at the thought.

"However, you might need to write your resume first before you can apply. I will help convince the university about this. It's not that difficult to be an assistant for an astronomer. I will give you a bit of a run down."

But Legosi was quiet, waiting for Dr Kirk to finish before asking: "Why are you doing this?"

"I beg your pardon?"

"I'm...I'm just a wolf you barely know only through your son. Why do you go through all the trouble helping me?"

Dr said nothing but spread Maple Mite onto his toast. Legosi hoped his question doesn't come out as aggressive since it was something he's trying to avoid when talking to small animals. Then again, most animals feared him because he is a wolf.

"Because...I was in the same position as you when I was little. To be honest, I am much much lazier than my son. Some role model I am to him! But I never regret it and I sort of saw that in you."

Legosi slowly form a small smile. Just then, Dr Kirk's phone was ringing to which he answered. The grey wolf observed the body language of the old bat becoming stiff, then his ears drooped as he answered.

"Hello mum...Yes...Yes...Arthur told you? Yes, I am well, I hope you are alright too....That's great! Um...Mum, please don't bring that up!"

Legosi was surprised. Arthur did mention his grandmother was still around but he never knew the details.

"Mum, when I have time, I will introduce you to her. She's a very nice vixen and intelligent as- What?! Mum, you shouldn't be asking me that! No...I don't know any handsome animals in their sixties or seventies...No, I don't know any handsome widowed males here...Okay, love you too...Bye."

Dr Kirk adjusted his glasses, his face was red with embarrassment. "Sorry you had to hear that, Legosi. Now then, let me show you how to write a resume."

Chapter Text

Chapter 70

Arthur was going to need more than peppermint or ginger tea to pull through for the rest of the week.

No, for this two whole weeks since that assembly!

Not only did he received a braille letter from Ten, inviting him to the Inarigumi hideout for lunch with his dad, he had two exams coming up which he needs to study and on top of that, the drama club has requested him to be a guest star for their upcoming play.

Arthur felt like his mind was going to shatter at the though of all of the tasks he was assigned to do this week. He admired how some animals can multitask without breaking a sweat but he himself had a slow pace due to...minor setbacks.

His ears were plugged with headphones, listening to two hours of rainfall in the forest or the breeze of the wind while the crunching of leaves were heard. There were no music except the feeling of his fingers typing on the braille machine. 

He was so deep into his work that he did not hear the sound of his dorm door opening by the dorm mother, who led in the visitor.

The minute Arthur felted someone tapping him on the shoulder, the poor Honduran white bat squeaked in surprise, falling off the top of the bunk bed where his feet was hanging. He unplugged his headphones.

"Y-yes?" he began to open his mouth to use his clicks, cloudy blue eyes widened at who it was. "H-how did you get into my dorm, Louis?"

Arthur's ears perked up when he could detect a laugh in the deer's tone. "The dorm mother did. Are you sure you are really blind? How can you tell it's me without touching my antlers like the last time?"

"Oh, I just use my clicks which roughly estimates what you are and knowing you're the only deer who has ever come here..."

He could hear Louis let out a breath. Arthur couldn't tell if his answer had offended the red deer or not. Arthur decided to stumble in the dorm, feeling his way for the hot kettle.

"Would you like some tea? The water is already boiled since I'm going to be drinking a lot this week."

He only heard silence. Arthur decided to just pour for two since he can't really tell what is Louis' expression. The last time he ever chatted with the deer was during that faithful night where all four gangs of the Black Market were at war.

"I've heard a lot about what you did back at the Black Market," said Louis. "Not only did you manage to survive the four gangs but rumour has it that the leader of the Inarigumi has been eloping with a Honduran white bat?"

Arthur lowered his ears, clearly flustered. "My dad loves her and likewise. Honestly, it's awkward since my dad and grandparents have been raising me up all my life besides my friends so having a mother might be nice."

"Don't you find it weird that she's a fox and you're dad's a bat?"

Arthur tilted his head. "What's wrong with that?"

There was silence again before he heard Louis sigh. "Anyways, I heard from other students that they know you're the mysterious musician and played during assembly. I bet you enjoyed the praises and recognition."

Arthur would rather not answer that since all the students suddenly act nice around him just because they want to hear him play. Not only that, he has been stressed out about being a guest star for the upcoming play at the drama club.

"How fitting," he heard Louis chuckle and the sound of paper being held. "Your roll in the play is a  ghost who plays music in an underground lair of the opera house? That's a big roll for something as small as you."

Arthur only nodded in agreement. "I don't know how to act since I can't really tell if my expressions are correct or vice versa. I can only detect their tones at best."

He felt two hands cupping his cheeks. He flapped his wings in protest but Louis' grip was so strong, he could easily crush the poor bat's head. 

It's a curse since most Chiropteras have brittle bones that made them very vulnerable. Hell, a rabbit could easily lift him up!

 "Arthur, since I am back in school, I might help you with your acting. Think of it as paying back for  the Black Market incident."

Arthur slumped his body backwards to relax. It was a relief to know that he has help. He can't help but feel guilty because of his blindness, other animals helped him despite the fact that he's old enough to handle a lot of things.

He felt like a burden sometimes getting help.

"It's very hard to read the little dots," Louis remarked, hearing the pages flipped. "I guessed this is why you don't study at the library?"

Arthur smiled a toothy smile. "Books and I have a strain relationship. Audiobooks or braille helps very much. So, when are we going to practice, oh grim reaper?"

"At night in the empty gym, hideous phantom~" he heard a teasing tone from the red deer.

All Arthur could think about was how much the Black Market has changed the both of them...

...

"So you are filling in for Kibi? Arthur tilted his head as Mizuchi was taking in his measurement. She was in charge of the costume designs and makeup.

"Yeah, he said he's not feeling well so he asked if I could take over while he's away. Since this might be a chance to prove my fashion skills!"

"I'm sure you'll do wonderfully," Arthur laughed, making the harlequin rabbit blush. She was nervous considering she never joined any clubs during her years in Cherryton but now, she wanted to if it meant helping her with her dream career.

"Hey, is he ready or not?" Bill called out. "Everyone else is ready for the rehearsal!"

"You don't rush art," Mizuchi told him off. "You want this play to bring the house down, right? Give me a few minutes!"

After the last makeup was done, Mizuchi helped to put on the mask for him.

All the chattering from the drama club stopped as Arthur assumed that they were staring at him. His ears drooped. "I'm sorry is the costume crooked or something?"

"No, Arthur," Aoba's voice was heard. "You look...regal."

Arthur smiled, did a mock bow. "Why thank you, dear eagle. Is that tone okay?"

"More than okay, you do sound like an old ghost!" Bill laughed. Everyone in the room murmured in agreement. But Sanu clapped, signalling that it is time to rehearse. Arthur's first task was to move in his costume towards the piano.

The Honduran white bat was thankful that the mask was easy for him to use his clicks to locate the piano. Fingers tracing the wooden structure before resting onto the keys. He adjusted himself before playing the music for the show.

It was a haunting melody that blends the melancholic theme of the play as well as the sense of comfort it brought. The stage crew including Mizuchi were monitoring the situation in case anything happens.

Mizuchi has never been so proud of him and her handwork on the costume. She can't wait for everyone's reaction on what Arthur looks like under the mask.

"Not bad, this bat," one of the youngest member, Pina the Dall bighorn sheep commented. He was one of the leads in the play in Louis' absence. Speaking of the red deer, he was leaning against the wall with his arms crossed.

"A bit wobbly if you asked me," said Louis. "Would be better if he fold his wings more as he walks. Don't want him to trip on stage. The thing can only see darkness."

"No matter so long as he gets the job done. To be honest, I've never worked with a blind animal before. Would it boost my popularity with the girls? I remember during the sports event, I can't help but admire that cobra though. No horns but such delicate scales..."

'He won't,' Mizuchi thought to herself. 'Not all animals trust Arthur yet...'

Without anyone noticing, she slowly push the doors of the drama club  with her foot to allow other students to listen. He may not hear them due to his focus on the music but it was exactly what Mizuchi had intended.

He may be a blind bat but he's more than that!

Chapter Text

Chapter 71

"Hey! Aren't you listening?"

Arthur felt a rough hand pulling his wing to snap himself out of  his trance. He was currently listening to a podcast that was hosted by his old Gryphon Cross friend, Sameer. Lately, he's been narrating horror stories on the podcast while doing history breakdowns and ASMR on ZooTube.

His friend was doing well and he was proud of it.

"Sorry Haru," Arthur smiled a toothy smile. He turned his body to where she was below him as he was hanging upside down. "I got carried away with the story that I didn't hear you."

"Excuses, excuses," he heard the dwarf rabbit tutting. "How are you going to be the president of the gardening club if you keep daydreaming? We gotta count the flowers and grown tomatoes that we're going to sell. You still thinking about getting that trumpet?"

The Honduran white bat's ears lowered. "Um, probably...I might change my mind if I go to the music store. It's like with clothes but  music. Anyways Haru, I'm awfully a nutter today."

Haru cocked her head to one side. "What?"

"I think I'm going mad," Arthur sighed, rocking himself to calm down. "With the upcoming play, dinner with my family later this evening and don't get me started on understanding colours! Bloody hell, as if biology wants me to know what cell colour is!"

He heard Haru giggling and patted his fluffy head. "I'm sure you'll find a way, Arthur. I wanted to let you know that I won't be around during the release of the play. I will be going back home to spend time with my family so I want you to take care of the club and new members."

This made poor Arthur almost drop from his hanging position.

"New members?'

"I thought you might wanna know. You're lucky that the first one is coming after I graduate and she's an exchanged student, so make her as comfortable as possible."

Ah, it didn't sound too bad now that Haru has explained it. But this does not ease the ache in his stomach. He wasn't sure why...

"Also she's a bat so that's something to look forward to!"

"Haru," Arthur lowered himself down. "Not all bats know each other and I'm pretty sure I am facing forward from where I am."

He heard nothing but silence. Arthur figured it might be something between her and Legosi. He didn't want to pry but it doesn't mean that he shouldn't place his arm around her shoulder to comfort her. Haru has been an older sister to him and it pains him to sense her being upset.

"Sorry, I thought you might needed it."

"Yeah...I do...."

...

The sounds and smells were overwhelming Arthur's senses. 

How he got himself into the Black Market was through Legosi, who told him that he's living with his dad temporarily. Arthur had never felt so grateful for his dad helping his fellow classmate after he was given details about what happened.

"It's a bit uneasy that most adults are staring at us," Legosi commented, letting Arthur ride on his back. Arthur covered his nose since he can't stand the smell of blood despite being trapped in the Black Market before and met all four of the gangs.

He was damn lucky that he did not end up as dinner himself!

"Maybe it's our fur clashing?" asked Arthur, opening his mouth to use his clicks. "Yours is very coarse and rough while mine is airy like cotton."

"We are here," said Legosi. "Dr Kirk said that he came here a bit early to help out. I'm still trying to imagine how he managed to make the leader of the Inarigumi fall for him. Most of the carnivores here are vicious."

"You don't say," Arthur chuckled as he heard a door opening. He was suddenly scooped up and was pressed close to something that's jasmine-scented. Perfume maybe? But Arthur felt up the face, feeling a familiar piece over the right eye.

"Hi mum, sorry that we're late."

"No, my sweet," he felt Ten nuzzling him by the ears. "You're just in time. Come inside before anyone else finds you."

To Legosi, the Inarigumi's hideout were more elegant compared to the Shishigumi when he first went there to find Louis. Most of the vixens were wearing interesting red dresses with slits, figuring that's their signature clothing. He noticed Arthur was chatting with the other members as if he were talking to his relatives.

He felt awkward being a tall carnivore amongst the group.

"Is there anything I can help you with ?" he asked a nearby vixen to which she shook her head. The poor grey wolf felt lost despite how the world seemed to be big for him now that he is expelled from Cherryton.

"You okay, Legosi?" a voice below him asked. It was Dr Kirk, who happened to be in casual attire. Too casual if he had to say it.

"Yeah, I'm okay. Don't worry about me. You got something on your left cheek."

Dr Kirk realised this and rubbed it with his wing. "So sorry you had to see that, dear boy. I can't help but be affectionate with her."

Legosi gazed at the leader of the Inarigumi and then back at the old Honduran white bat. He couldn't understand how can interspecial relationship be easy among the bats while he himself is struggling with his relationship with Haru?

Not only that but he and her had a final talk before she stormed off. 

"Dr Kirk?"

"Yes, Legosi?"

"Why did your wife leave you? Hope that's not awkward to ask since you are dating-"

Dr Kirk silenced him with his wing. His eyes looked tired and pained despite the smile he was giving the grey wolf.

"I...actually left her. Because I didn't like how she reacted to Arthur when he was born. Lysa was always a spitfire back in my youth. Never thought she would pick me amongst other bats but after Arthur was born, she changed..."

"Well, she could be in pain after that," Legosi argued. "I mean, giving birth and all..."

"Oh yes, she was screaming and I thought the whole windows at the hospital would shatter," Dr Kirk laughed, his fur fluffing up. Legosi noticed that Arthur does the same thing when he is nervous too.

"The minute Arthur was dropped down, she immediately checked his eyes, hoping he might inherit hers. He's got my fur alright but the minute Arthur opened his eyes, she almost threw him to the ground."

Legosi scratched the back of his neck. How could a mother be so cruel to reject a baby immediately after they open their eyes?

"So I told her that if she was going to act like this because Arthur was born blind, she can leave. And by Nocturna she did without hesitation. I didn't understand what was our relationship back then but I knew I have to focus on my work and my family. Especially Arthur."

Legosi patted the old Honduran white bat on the back. "I'm sorry you had to go through with that. But what it's worth, Arthur is a good bat ."

Dr Kirk only nodded. "Well, best you enjoy yourself now. I'm going to the kitchen to check if they need any help. After all, I am soon to be a member of the family."

Legosi didn't understand what that meant but he knew one thing's for sure: Both father and son found happiness.

...

Suspended.

The word that dreads all parents when their child was sent home and with a letter. Knowing Genji, his parents were well-connected despite being small Lagomorph herbivores. He knew exactly how he could get back at that bat!

After all, his family aren't the only harlequin rabbits.

"My daughter is dating  a what?!" the voice on the phone shrieked in disgust. Genji smiled, his plan was coming together.

"Yes, she was so distressed from our breakup, she resorted to that," he explained, eyeing the bottle of the drug his mother had ordered from the Black Market for him.

"But please do not be angry with her. I tried to apologise and tell her about our status as harlequin rabbit and yet she rejected me."

"I understand. You're a good boy for telling me about this, Genji. How far down has my Mizuchi gone? Breaking up with the only other harlequin rabbit and now dating a disgusting animal outside of our species? On top of that, he's blind?!?!"

"Sad, isn't it? I'm only doing this to help her for her own good."

"I will speak to her about this and maybe have a word with that bat."

The end of the line hung up. Genji knew that his time during suspension was paying off. If he could ruin that bat's reputation, he might give him a final beatdown with some enhancement from the drugs.

"No world should ever tolerate those omnivorous Vampyrums," he told to himself. "Especially white ones."

Chapter Text

Chapter 72

"Kristie, why?!" the anguish cry of Arthur as the phantom echoed throughout the auditorium. It was the biggest performance Cherryton has ever produced besides the female version of Adler led by Juno.

Mizuchi was watching in awe behind the curtains with the other stage hands consisting of Dom, Kibi, Kai, Fudge the red panda and Mina the giraffe. The harlequin rabbit hoped that her boyfriend will be okay since he has never acted before and in order to move on cue, there was a tiny earpiece in his left ear where he was given instructions from Sanu.

"He's never acted before and yet he's good at it," Kai scoffed. "Let me remind you that it took hours to make him understand facial expressions and emotions through hearing. It was weird!"

"Shh! We're getting to the good part."

And this was the part where Kristie, played by Els, handed the Honduran white bat his porcelain mask back. Mizuchi has done the makeup for most of the actors, even sketching their expressions in her little sketch book. Peaking at the guests, she could spot Riley and Tanya sitting somewhere at the back and hanging on the high ceiling was none other than Arthur's father.

It wasn't hard to spot white fur after all.

What was interesting was a figure hanging upside down beside him that was big enough to be the same size as a tiger.

She shook her head, resuming to watch the play. Arthur has never looked so regal in his costume. She could've designed her own outfit and maybe one day they both could go out together for Halloween.

"Night time sharpens, heightens each sensation~" his voice sang the lyrics. It seems like the audience were trapped by his voice. It wasn't like a famous singer but it sounded like an animal that poured his heart out. Mizuchi figured everyone in the audience also felt it.

She wondered if Arthur knew he has that effect on her? It would be funny if she teased him about how it was similar to the Vampyrum novels she has read. Lately, she was getting into a female Vampyrum novel called 'Camilla'.

Arthur, the bat that stole her heart and in his winged embrace, opened her eyes to things she was blind to see due to her reputation as a harlequin rabbit.

Just then, her phone buzzed in her hand. It was a message from her mother to come home after the play for dinner. What made Mizuchi feel an anxiety build up in her stomach was the fact that her mother INSISTED on her bringing back Arthur.

"Hey!" Kai's hissed snapped her out of her anxious thoughts. "We're getting to the part where Kristie removes his mask again before the viscount rescues her."

The viscount was played by Pina, who looked like a prince in his purple suit. But when the mask was removed, Mizuchi could hear all the audience gasped in horror. She knew that her makeup work has finally paid off.

"Holy shit...he looks terrifying!"

"A grotesque monster...."

"Ugly....So ugly...."

Mizuchi was nudged excitedly by Dom, who was pleased by the arrangement of the lighting, the costumes and makeup of Arthur's grotesque face. All Mizuchi had to do was take some inspiration from her Vampyrum novels to make some magic.

However, the unsettling emotions came back crashing like ocean waves. She was told to meet her family at a very expensive restaurant that requires formal attire. But more importantly:

Who told her family about her date with the Honduran white bat?

...

"Mizuchi, it's quite alright," Arthur assured her as his girlfriend was fussing over what he was wearing. After the performance, there were thunderous applause, especially when it was his turn to bow.

Once the curtains closed, he was greeted by Mizuchi with a kiss. Arthur loved it but was embarrassed that it was around most of the drama club members. Knowing the bat, Mizuchi whispered something to Arthur before he was whisked away to the changing room.

"It's just that my mom wouldn't stop pestering me until I give what she wants," she explained, straightening his tie. "I'm so sorry that I'm dragging you into this."

"Like I said, Mizuchi," Arthur smiled, cupping her cheek before using his thumb to stroke her. "I voice messaged my dad about it and he's alright with it. I think it's about time your family knows about me to clear up a few things. Also, you mentioned to Riley and Tanya about it."

Mizuchi sighed, of course he would say that. Despite his disabilities and what he endured, Arthur still managed a smile and make the day fulfilling. She knew it would be different once she graduated since there will be new people, new friends and relationship.

She has finally applied to a university that contains the course she was looking for: fashion design.

"Come, let's get to the train station before your family gets iffy about it."

Mizuchi hugged him. "Alright. Just mind your wings when we get there."

Arthur folded his wings to his side as his answer. The harlequin rabbit wanted to kiss him multiple times because of how adorable he was but there was one thing on her mind. 

She was going to confront her family on how do they know about their relationship.

...

Meanwhile, the members of the drama club were baffled by Arthur's sudden departure. They were all going to celebrate together about the play's success.

"I'm sure he has plans," Aoba assured an agitated Bill. Like most cat species, Bill's tail was swishing rapidly out of irritation. "After all, Arthur isn't the type to be in crowds."

"Still, he should at least listen to feedbacks about his performance before he left," Bill grumbled, gulping a bottle of MaiMai milk. It was a popular milk drink that was sold at the convenience store. "I swear, some of us carnivores are leaving left and right like Legosi or Riz. I still can't believe he quit school."

"We can't really tell," Els came up to tap his arm. "I'm sure it's something private that he's dealing with and we should respect it."

"Oh well, at least I can know about him through his old friend I followed on ZooTube," Pina chuckled. "He's quite a good narrator and historian if you ask me~"

Aoba found it odd that Pina would be the type to listen or watch those kinds of videos. Then again, he shouldn't be judgemental about it.

Just then, there was a knock on the door. Ellen the zebra answered the door but her expression paled as she stepped back. Aoba was confused by this since he knew the zebra was a tough herbivore that never backed down. He figured it must be a large animal.

When the bald eagle went over to talk to the visitor, his beak almost dropped to the floor. He was tongue tied when he saw who it was. Judging from the clothing, it must be a new student that's probably fifteen or sixteen years old.

He honestly can't tell but what strikes Aoba the most was the type of animal this guest was. It was a large bat that was almost the same height as him with russet fur, black wings and those big round eyes.

"Excuse me," her voice asked meekly yet so regal. "Is the phantom actor around?

"Oh, he's out at the moment," Bill answered, smiling. "You want us to relay a message to him?"

"Yes, I'm interested in joining the gardening club so could you please let him know?"

"Of course we will," Bill laughed, nudging Aoba to say something. But the bald eagle was stunned as if he were a statue. The guest bowed her head down before turning away to leave.

"Aoba? Aoba!" Bill waved his large paw across his friend's face. "Hello, earth to eagle?! Say something?"

"Oh my," Pina giggled. "It seems as though someone has shot the bird down."

Chapter Text

Chapter 73

'Do not go gentle into that good night...Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light.' 

Arthur was mentally reciting the poem his has learnt from his dad to calm him down. He was nervous about meeting Mizuchi's family since he knew he can't see his own reflection to tell whether or not his social cues were appropriate.

"Are we there yet?" Arthur asked, puffing out his fluffy white chest. He hoped he could make a good impression as he doesn't want any conflict. He felt Mizuchi's paw grasping his two fingers, curling them.

He sensed she was nervous as well.

"Almost there, Arthur," she whispered, steering him as they walked. Oh, Arthur wished he could fly soon because he had some thoughts about taking her somewhere. A place where they could have tea, the sound of pencil scratching paper and indecipherable noises coming from the trees.

Mizuchi noticed Arthur's stiff posture, poking his ear gently to assure him. She decided to wear her red dress with some matching boots since they are going to a posh restaurant. The harlequin rabbit felt proud of her choice of outfit for Arthur to make him look presentable.

Of course, most of the adults paid no heed to their direction since they looked like a herbivore presenting their kindness onto a blind animal.

When they both stepped inside, Arthur could detect several musical instruments being played, the clinking of cutleries and glass, and the wafting smell of delicious food being rolled on a cart. He straightened his ears and folded his wings tight to his body.

"So...this is the Arthur we have heard about?" a shrill voice sneered. Arthur assumed that to be Mizuchi's mother. "You're five minutes late, Mizuchi. I thought I told you to be on time?"

Arthur would love to tell her mother off but he doesn't want to cause any trouble in public. So, he hoped to steer her mother from reprimanding her even further.

Politely, the Honduran white bat bowed his head. "Hello. Do forgive me if we are late since my wings are a bit big when I walk. Please don't scold her as I wouldn't have got here without her."

There was a pause. He felt Mizuchi tightening her grip on his wing. He wanted nothing more that to hold her in his embrace. Despite being blind, even he knew that embracing her in front of her family would cause an uproar.

He sat at his designated seats, his ears picking up conversations amongst the family. 

"Ew, it's a bat! Don't they carry disease?"

"What's up with his eyes? He's blind! Mizuchi, I thought you said blind animals will die first?"

"So our big sister really is dating a bat?"

Now, this made Arthur's ears pin back. Sure, he and Mizuchi had come a long way in their relationship but her family has no right to insult her at the table. In a public dining area on top of that!

"Oh yes, I am a bat. A Honduran white bat even if I can't tell what colour I am," Arthur jumped into the conversation quickly. "And yes, I am blind since I was born and I am very much capable of performing tasks just like any other animal. Well, shall we order then?"

All of the harlequin rabbits at the table were stunned by the bat. As if their words really deflected off him and turned into something positive. Regardless, all bats are deemed abnormal not just physically but mentally as well.

Mizuchi wanted nothing more than to kiss Arthur for trying to steer away her family conversation. 

Since she was sitting opposite him, she can't really whisper what's on the menu to him. It was as if her family had planned this before that dreaded message she received. However, she was impressed when the waiter approached her boyfriend, Arthur simply asked if there is anything with cheese and to his delight, there was something called a Croque Monsier.

It's a type of hot sandwich with three different cheese and a runny egg on top plus garlic buttered snails inside.

The rest of the family including her were eating ratatouille, a vegetable dish that is refine and elegant to match their breed.

"So Arthur," Mizuchi's father spoke up from the fourteen siblings and mother. "You're a junior?"

"Oh yes!" Arthur nodded, carefully dabbing the napkin on his chin after a drink. "Member of the gardening club, standard school syllabus and friends."

"Is it true you can hear things far away?" one of her brothers asked curiously.

"How can you cut your food perfectly if you are blind?"

"Do you drink blood?"

Mizuchi thought Arthur might be overwhelmed by the bombarding questions but he answered them carefully, even quipped in some of his jokes. She relaxed a bit when her siblings were getting more curious about him but her parents still weren't convinced.

"What are you planning to pursue once you've graduated," asked her mother. Arthur fluffed up his fur, a sign she has known for embarrassment and fear.

"Well, I'm planning to land myself in art school to learn music so that I can be a composer for mediated soundtracks. If that doesn't work out, I might use my back up which is either in experimental physics. Got to give my dad credit for teaching me the ropes on that one!"

"Great, a homeless bat in the future without a real job," she heard her mother muttered. Mizuchi had a feeling Arthur heard it too.

Mizuchi used her phone to sent a video in the family chat group. It was the recorded performance of him playing the piano, violin and harmonica. She smirked, seeing the looks of awe on her siblings' faces when they watched the videos quietly.

However, her parents still weren't convinced.

After dinner, Arthur bowed his head in thanks. "It was a lovely dinner. Thank you for having me but I have to go. Oh, please I can find my way to the station just fine. I have echolocation, remember?"

"But Arthur-"

"Mizuchi, I will be alright," the Honduran white bat smiled at her direction. "Go spend some time with your family."

With that, Arthur walked away, his wings were out to stable himself. The last thing Mizuchi wanted was to be around her parents but there was a nagging feeling on who might have told them about her relationship with Arthur. All her life, she has followed her family's wishes and promised to have steady work and a harlequin rabbit boyfriend to keep the bloodline strong.

But those ideas changed the moment she met Arthur.

Her sweet, Honduran white bat.

"Mizuchi," she heard her mother sighed. "You better leave him once you've graduated and enter university."

"What?! Why?"

"First off, he's a bat. Second, he is blind which is going to make your child a defect and finally, do you see anyone in this society having a different animal as a partner?"

"Mom, I-"

"Enough!" her mother cut her from speaking. "Focus on your studies and leave that bat as he's not going to make you financially stable. Musicians never make good money, let alone a blind one. He'll die before he can reach forty."

Mizuchi did not say anything as she was tired arguing with her mother. She won't let anyone see that she was struggling to hold back tears.

...

Meanwhile on the other side of the world, Dr Kirk felt useless after Legosi left.

The grey wolf had mentioned moving to his own apartment where he could work at a place that will suit him just fine. He recalled Legosi having certain withdrawal symptoms he has heard every night due to eating meat.

He knew what that felt like during his youth.

Then again, he worried for the wolf just as much as he worries for his own son. But he knew deep down inside he has to trust his son's and Legosi's decision if it helps them to grow and learn how to be an adult. If they are ever in need, his doors are as wide as his wings to welcome them.

Ah, adulthood. Responsibilities, bills and taxes were things that should be taught in school before being thrown into the real world.

He was still a bit culture shocked by how this country has strict laws against those who are inter special-couples or the idea of carnivores walking alongside herbivores. Then again, he grew up in a town where carnivores and herbivores co-exist, even having hybrid offsprings.

Let's not forget the types of animals his father and mother befriended with during the war before he was even born.

"Kirk," a sleepy voice murmured. Dr Kirk gazed down from his hanging position to where his bed was. Ten was sleeping, hugging the pillow close to her. He dropped down gently and wrapped his wings around her to enclose her like a caterpillar in a cocoon.

"I'm here, love," Dr Kirk chittered softly, nuzzling her head. Her giggles were something he would cherish from the Inarigumi leader. What touched his soul even more was when she removed her eyepatch and revealed herself to him.

He wanted nothing more than to love and protect her.

Even if he was not built for combat, there are other ways to fight. But for now, he decided to rest next to his beloved, tracing his two fingers to calm his red vixen down. He paused when his two fingers traced her stomach.

He opened his mouth to use his clicks.

"You two better not fidget so much if you want her to sleep."

Chapter Text

Chapter 74

Arthur was disappointed.

He believed that he did not earn Mizuchi's family's trust. Probably because of his choice of food or how he acted. He can't really tell due to his blindness so he relies on his hearing to listen to feedbacks and shift of tone.

From what he gathered, Mizuchi's family are an aristocratic type that he was familiar with back when he was in Gryphon Cross. Then again, he has no right to judge since he hardly knew them as well as his girlfriend.

He was hanging upside down on the train's railings, aware of the fact that some of the passengers were commenting about him. 

'If they think I am scary, I feel sorry for them if they ever met my cousin,' Arthur thought to himself, shuddering at the idea of his cousin. He shouldn't dwell too much on the past since he has a lot of responsibilities given to him now that graduation is close.

The gardening club, checking his next semester's subjects and his above mediocre grades were enough to make him drink a few tea mixtures that could screw up his body. Then again, he could  play some tunes with his instruments but he hasn't got any motivation for a song.

The train stopped at his destination, his thoughts still wrapping around certain issues which made him unaware that someone was following him. His mind was thinking about if Mizuchi was alright and everything with her family went well with her.

Before he knew it, he felt a blow to the head.

...

"Wake up...wake up!" a demanding voice shouted, giving a ringing sensation to the poor Honduran white bat's ear. Arthur wished that his body would give up on him now because he was too exhausted to even stand up.

"My eyes are open," said Arthur, slightly annoyed that his head was ringing, giving him a headache. "Why did you hit me, Genji?"

The silence was enough of an answer for the Honduran white bat to know that he has caught the harlequin rabbit in his act. There was no use struggling since Arthur knew it would harm him more than it would help him.

"Is this about Mizuchi?" he asked, tilting his head. "You know that you are shooting yourself in your own foot if you pursue her? I'm not trying to stop you because we both know how carnivores are treated-

SLAP!

"Shut up! Oh my fucking god, just shut up! You took away everything from me. Do you know that you're ruining Mizuchi's status as a harlequin rabbit? Our species is rare enough in this world but for her to mingle with a bat, let alone a blind bat? She's going to be shunned not only by her family but other rabbits as well."

Arthur's ears drooped, face still in the direction of the voice. He didn't want this harlequin rabbit to know that he has taken those words to heart. He was not strong. 

Words of insults about his species? He can brush those off. 

Sympathise him about his blindness? As if it were something as common as pouring tea in a cup.

But affecting someone's life just because of his actions? It was something he could not forgive himself. One of his worst fears is burdening someone with himself.

When he formed friendships back in Gryphon Cross, his default attitude was politeness since his lack of sight limit him from perceiving an animal through their facial expressions. Sometimes, he does feel like a burden towards his friends whenever they are in a group because they had to be extra cautious with him despite their reassurance.

He doesn't want Mizuchi to feel the burden of aiding him or the sense of embarrassment because of him.

"If you want to really finish me," Arthur spoke up quietly, hearing the intense breathing from the male harlequin rabbit. "Do what you have to do."

Arthur simply waited for the moment, thinking back about Mizuchi. The passionate harlequin doe that captured his heart. Of course, things were very rift in the beginning but like music, the frictional interactions between them slowly intertwine to create a melody.

A beautiful yet haunting melody of a rabbit and a bat.

Tears slid down his cheek as Arthur began to close his eyes, accepting his fate. He could relieved the burden he has bestowed upon animals he met and experienced in his life. Was wold many times on how he won't survive or succeed in this world due to his limits.

He has held onto a small hope that a nobody like him has at least contributed something to help others. Arthur cherished those memories he had made with his friends, family and even this predicament he has landed himself into.

Music has always been something so complex yet so complete to him.

Whenever he played, he was glad that he was helping someone much more than himself. Even if he doesn't have a position in this ever-changing society, he hoped his music and songs have touched others.

With that, Arthur felt nothing but a sudden impact and a sound of something ripping across his throat.

...

"You're quiet there, Aoba," Bill commented, gulping down a bottle of cold milk. The two of them were eating at the cafeteria for dinner. Carnivore menu consisted of omurice, a rice dish covered with a blanket of omelette with a side of warm bread roll and milk.

"I've always been quiet, Bill. I thought you know that?"

"Yeah I know but...How do I put this...You hardly touched your dinner, you avoided eye contact with most of the drama club members ever since that super-sized bat came and now you're turning into a bird Legosi! Seriously the nerve of that guy advising me when he is a dropout!"

Aoba clicked his beak. "Well, I guessed I'm just worried about Arthur. I mean, after his guest appearance during the play didn't you notice the rawness in his tone when he was the phantom? I know it sounds crazy but I swear I could feel Arthur grieving about something."

Bill tilted his head, tail swishing when he is irritated. "You think? I would say it's because the phantom is a lot like him just like how Louis is Adler. Both are tragically born with things that made them ugly, using music to save themselves and found love. Aoba, Arthur's strong for a blind white bat and you know it. He will be okay."

Aoba smiled and then laughed. "Since when are you a philosopher, Bill? I bet Els would want a bit of your parting wisdom."

Bill gently cuffed him by the head. "Shut up. Hey, isn't that one of Legosi's roommate? That spotted hyena guy?"

Both carnivores were staring at the said hyena, who was strumming his guitar. A few students gathered around to listen to his music. It was soft rock music that gave an uplifting ambience in the cafeteria. They figured it was something to relish after the play.

Suddenly, Aoba's phone began to vibrate. He checked to see what was going on, scrolling through his messages. His throat tightened and his eyes became dilated. Bill got up to shake his friend, asking him what was wrong.

No response.

The Bengal tiger peered over to see what had shocked his friend and it made his jaws dropped.

"ARTHUR IS IN CRITICAL CONDITION?!?!"

Chapter Text

Chapter 75

Beep...Beep...Beep...

The sounds of the heart monitor echoed the hospital wing. Several animals gathered, worried about the scrap of white fluff that was laying in the hospital bed. An oxygen mask had covered his face while a few wounds were sewn, especially at the throat.

Dr Kirk had dropped everything from work since he knows when to prioritise family over his gruesome work hours. He was thankful to have Dr Connor submit some of his files and papers to Manticore University's science department since he trusted the Nile crocodile with the spare keys. He wanted Ten to stay at home because of her condition but despite feeling lethargic, she insisted on coming with him to the hospital.

He was hanging upside down on the hospital ceiling, observing his son and the monitor next to him. The old Honduran white bat received the news from his fiancée's right hand vixen, who was  at the Black Market. Of course Ten still gives orders despite her condition. She was sitting on a chair on the opposite side, holding Arthur's wing while a tear slides down her face.

She really loved Arthur like a son.

Besides the two of them, Dr Kirk's visitors were a leopard in a casual t-shirt and slacks, a Komodo dragon donning a face mask that covered most of his snout while in a tank top and shorts; and finally, Agata the Congo lion in a rather loose plain shirt and pants.

'These must be each member of the gang at the Black Market,' Dr Kirk thought to himself, recognising the lion with a nod. These large carnivores had to crouch to take a look at the poor state of his son. Arthur must've impacted them somehow because he could sense anger, pain and disbelief in the room's atmosphere.

"I will hunt that rabbit down," the leopard growled, his hand was tightened into a fist. "That idiot didn't even bother to brush his fur off. I'd say it's an expensive type of species."

Dr Kirk pinched the bridge of his leaf-shaped nose. "It's that harlequin buck, isn't it? I never knew someone would go great lengths just because Mizuchi rejected him for cheating on her. I don't blame her for leaving him."

"Males are so dense that they threw a tantrum when things don't get in their way," Ten huffed, her tail swishing irritably. She looked at the other males in the room, noting their expressions. "No offence, though."

"None taken," said Agata, raising both of his paws. "So should we do something about that rabbit? His scent is very strong, surprised that he decided to put cologne when he assaulted Arthur."

"For once, I agree with the hairball," the leopard nodded. "We should hunt him down and kill him when we get that long-eared Lagomorph. I heard a harlequin rabbit's foot is almost as lucky as a bat's presence."

"I hope you are not referring to us," Dr Kirk twitched his ears, a small smile formed on his face. "You know that his family would be after you and the police as well?"

The four gang members that were present became silent. They were unsure how to tell Dr Kirk that the police tend to stay away from gang wars. Some of them even had the police on their side for a few reasons.

The heart monitor was still beeping slowly.

The Komodo dragon, still leaning his back against the wall decided to stand straight. "I think the first thing we should do is capture that harlequin rabbit and send a message to his family. If he goes on to pursue the little lady and Arthur, his foot is coming off. After all, I heard that he used a carnivore-induced drug to enhance his body to give the bat that kind of damage. I think one of the members had the video captured on his phone."

Everyone in the room stared at him, especially Dr Kirk in disbelief. "You sound young. Well, I might not like the techniques but I agree he can't get away scot-free. Those are some vital information, er..."

"Isaiah," the Komodo dragon bowed, his eyes crinkled. "Arthur's a good bat. He's nice to me even though the Dokugumi gave him hell that night."

The other gang members murmured in agreement. Dr Kirk was touched by how his son has been a good influence on them. And this Komodo dragon might as well be the same age despite the size. Then again, he shouldn't criticise how these animals do in life.

"I think," sighed Dr Kirk, removing his glasses to clean the fog before placing them back on. "We should capture and apprehend the young harlequin buck. Since you have the evidence, it is important to show it to the police and let the law decide."

Agata stepped forward and gazed up at the old bat. "I think you should be the one to talk to the police. Because you know..."

"Ah, I forgot about how you lot are from gangs. It's odd actually but then again, so is life! If it's alright, Ten and I would like to spend some time with our son."

The other members blinked until Agata noticed a slight change in the Inarigumi leader's body. He bowed politely, gesturing the others to leave. Dr Kirk even requested the nurse to not have anyone visiting for now.

"Oh, Arthur," Ten nuzzled the poor bat whose shallow breathing reflected the heart monitor. "Please wake up...Please, my son..."

Dr Kirk had tears welled up in his eyes since Arthur is his precious boy. He joined his fiancée, gently holding onto Arthur's other wing. He watched Ten traced his two fingers close to her belly.

"Hey, can you feel that?" she asked, voice quivering. "Arthur, you're going to be a big brother. Your siblings want to meet you. Please, Arthur...Arthur wake up..."

The only sounds that they heard right now were the beeping of the heart monitor and the wrecked sobs of a vixen. Dr Kirk had to be strong in this moment. He grieved not only for his injured son but the fate that fell upon him.

He will ensure that no matter what happens, he will be there to help.

'Nocturna,' he thought to himself, silently praying. 'Please wake him up...I can't lose my son...I can't...'

...

"YOU DID WHAT?!" Mizuchi demanded, shaking Genji by the shoulder. That buck HAD the audacity to show up in front of the house just to get back together with her. Of course her parents let him in since he is from another well-to-do family.

"Mizuchi, give up on him," Genji insisted, his ears drooped down to make himself vulnerable. "A blind animal's not the kind of life you want. He's going to ruin you in the future!"

With that, Genji's face was met with a tight slap.

"Get out," Mizuchi told him firmly, her voice was barely audible. "If I ever see you ever again, I will call the police. If you try to harm Arthur or any one close to him, I will sell you to one of the gangs."

Genji's eyes widened. "No...Mizuchi, you wouldn't-"

"I will and make sure you don't bother me again," the moonlight behind her while they were outside made Genji stepped back. It was like half of her face was covered by the darkness while the other was glaring at him with those dark green eyes.

"Open your eyes, Genji. I love Arthur because he's kind, funny and respects me as who I am. I don't care that he's a bat or the fact that he's blind. He...He opened my eyes to understand there's more than what I have been taught. Carnivore, herbivore, Arthur showed not just me that we all have our limits but we make the best of it. In a sense, his blindness may be his limit but he has touched upon so many including mine. Something you would never think of if it's right in front of you!"

She stepped forward and grabbed Genji by his ears, not caring that he was wincing in pain. She threw him out of the gate, her foot stamped the ground. It wasn't the first time she has had that habit to which her parents disapprove of.

"Leave me alone and never come back."

When Genji eventually left, Mizuchi began crying. First the dinner with her family has caused some rifts, giving her determination to leave for desired university, Genji's appearance at her doorstep and finally the news about Arthur.

The harlequin rabbit damn well knew that her family was trying to protect her but she has to take a bit of risks. After all, she has been observing both carnivores and herbivores from afar to sketch their bodies so that she has a rough idea on what style they could wear.

Risking life is what herbivores do since they are minutes away from death, intentionally and unintentionally.

She took out her phone, still teary-eyed to search for the animals that could help her. Her mind was already running and sleep was not going to help. Mizuchi hoped that her plan would be complete before tomorrow's graduation ceremony.

Chapter Text

Chapter 76

Dr Kirk was hanging upside down, observing his son while his fiancé is sleeping next to the hospital bed. He thought back about how much Arthur has grown and the journey he has made so far. It was hard to believe that the same pup who was crying in his wings because he can't see was now a wise bat beyond his year.

He wondered if the decision to move to Cherryton has affected his son greatly just as much as his new workplace?

The work was not the issue since he was used to pressure and intense work hours but the social interactions? His old workplace was a lot lively and so was the prison. While Ten was hugging their son, he thought back about something he had advice his son in the past.

...

11 Years Ago

 Dr Kirk sighed when he received another call from the school he had registered Arthur to enrol into. However, it has been months and still most of the schools he tried has rejected him. It was because they were not equip to accommodate a blind animal.

He watched his only son, who was tapping on the wooden toy xylophone he had bought for his birthday. As a first time father, he wasn't even sure if it was the right decision to held him from attending kindergarten due to the fact that most children he knew can be cruel.

After all, he had his fair share of bullying back in his youth for being bookish and socially awkward.

Divorced, debt and deadbeat tired, Dr Kirk wished he had the energy to continue his work which was marking most of the exam papers his students have sat for. He winced a bit when he heard a small thud, getting up immediately to pick up his crying son.

"The wall hit me!" Arthur bawled, getting his head a small bruise. His cries really broke Dr Kirk's heart since he never had any experience of fatherhood. His parents were a few kilometres away from his city life but he doesn't want to disturb them.

Certain things were best learn alone.

"Just be careful, son," Dr Kirk soothed him, placing an ice pack on his little head. "Have you tried using your clicks like I taught you?"

"Uh-huh but there's so many things and I don't know where to go!" Arthur continued punched his father in the chest out of frustration. "I heard other kids outside say that I never go to school because I can't see. Dad...why can't I see?"

Dr Kirk sighed, holding his son close before he rocked the both of them upside down on the ceiling. "I don't know, son...I've been asking myself that too. No one really knows how we all turn out once we are born. Everything's a surprise."

"Then my surprise is a disaster," said Arthur glumly, wiping his tears. "I cannot do a lot of things like other kids because I can't see! I wished I never-"

His mouth was clamped shut by his father's wing. Dr Kirk's eyes were already with tears. "Don't say that! Arthur, I know you must be angry and frustrated with the world but believe me there are people who would like to meet you. Some may even like you when they get to know you. I love you, son...I never want to change anything about you."

Just then, their house telephone rang. Kirk picked up the phone, holding his son close to him.

"Hello? Oh, dad! I- What? Take Arthur to the Veteran's Home...Dad, you do realised that he's only six?  Oh...Are you certain it might work? Okay, I might try....But I have to be there to make sure nothing goes wrong! Yes, yes...Goodbye, dad."

"Dad, what's going on?"

"We're going to the Veteran's Home," Dr Kirk explained, his voice trying to sound calm. He was unsure about the whole idea but will have to trust his gut on this one. "Pops has a friend there that might help you how to do things without seeing anything."

Arthur tilted his head, his cloudy were still filled with tears but they held curiosity. 

"His old friend goes by the name of Ol' Hersh, a veteran just like your grandfather. He's been alone far too long and can't see much as he used to. In fact, I think your little fingers can tell that he has holes for eyes."

"He can't see like me?!" Arthur asked incredulously. Dr Kirk chuckled, not wanting to let the anxiety in his gut affect him. Being optimistic was something he has to put up for himself and Arthur.

"Oh yes. I think he'd appreciate if you show him how you can make tea and play music. Do you think you can do that?"

Arthur nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah! I want to show what I can do!"

Dr Kirk smiled, ruffling  him between his ears. "I know you will. Now, do you remember the poem I taught you if you feel scared?"

"Do not go gentle into that good night," Arthur recited hesitantly." Rage...Rage...dying of the light?"

It was enough for Dr Kirk to give his son a cuddle. "That's right. Just be careful about sitting near Ol'Hersh. He's born without fur and he's just cranky as any cat."

...

Back in the presence, the following day was greeted with an unexpected guest. Dr Kirk wasn't expecting a dark brown horse entering the room with a familiar face.

"Mizuchi?" the old Honduran white back tilted his head. "Who is your friend here?"

"I'm Chief Yafya," the stallion introduced himself, briskly shaking his wing in greeting. "This young lady reported a case that I didn't expect. So just to be clear that the bat on the life support is her boyfriend?"

"Yes, he's my boyfriend and am proud of it!" Mizuchi huffed indignantly before Dr Kirk could say anything. "I just can't understand why my ex can't take no for an answer. After all, he was the one who cheated on me behind my back."

"S-she's right, Chief," Dr Kirk stammered, intimidated by the stallion's stern gaze. "My son and her do care about each other. I've known their situation before-"

"I see," Yafya nickered, writing down some notes with his pen. "Are you aware of the consequences of inter-special couples?"

Both Dr Kirk and Mizuchi exchanged glances. The harlequin rabbit rushed over to Arthur's side, holding his wing tenderly. Dr Kirk held a sad smile. "Of course but there's no harm in that. Where I am from, we do have hybrid neighbours, co-workers and friends. They may be different but that's what makes them unique, isn't it?"

Yafya sighed, rubbing his temples. "Most cases of interspecies couples don't end on a good note. There's a good reason why same-species couple are encouraged once we all reach adulthood."

Dr Kirk wasn't sure if he was accurate but he could detect some sort of bitterness in the stallion's tone. He could hear Mizuchi whispering something to his son while Ten was still sleeping on the chair with a blanket around her.

"I understand, Chief," Dr Kirk nodded, feeling a bit weary at the sudden confrontation about the situation. "Life is full of pain but there's also love and beauty. I just have to trust my son and my own gut on this one."

"And are you aware about your relationship with the head of the Inarigumi?" Yafya questioned, eyeing the old bat as if he were a time bomb. Dr Kirk nodded, smiling fondly at his fiancé.

"I am. Not changing anything about it, Chief. I know it sounds risky but then again, life isn't always straight, is it not?"

"Me neither," Mizuchi added proudly. Dr Kirk noted at how her voice was kept at a low volume, since she was very close to Arthur. He wanted nothing more than to comfort both of them since this police chief's presence. "Chief Yafya said that he's sending one of his police squad to find Genji since he's been harming both of us."

Yafya said nothing but his ears were pinned back. He'd like nothing more than to talk to this young teenage bat that caught his attention. First it was the wolf and now this blind rat who caused a few ruckus in the police force.

He hoped he could answer some questions when he wakes up. For now, he will observe this circus of a family he is experiencing first-hand. Bats from his experience are two sides of the coin. They are either indifferent about their situations or they are outright hostile.

'I feel sorry for those hybrid children,' Yafya thought to himself. 'I guarantee that no one wants to look at them, let alone hear them. Bats with other species are sure going to be a disaster!'

Chapter Text

Chapter 77

While waiting for Arthur to wake up, Yafya was listening to the stories Dr Kirk was telling him. From his old workplace, his son's all-boy's school before moving here. He was surprised to know how their old hometown welcomes hybrids and inter-special couples as if they were just normal animals.

He honestly couldn't understand why can't animals just marry with their own kind? Isn't it easier and the hybrid abominations they called 'children' wouldn't have to deal with the prejudice this world has to offer?

It reminded him of his old partner. They were supposed to be Beastars together but he just HAD to put everything aside because he has a baby to take care of. And look where that go him!

'Inter-special couples think they know everything!' he thought to himself, snorting indignantly. Bats were one of the animals he'd rather not deal with due to their nature. From the history books he has read, bats never contribute anything to stop the world war.

It took a whale to do that!

Honestly, he can't fathom how can one be neutral in the war and still be safe from future threats.

"Oh, you finished your tea!" Dr Kirk's voice snapped the stallion from his thoughts. He gazed upwards at the old Honduran white bat who was using his feet to cling onto the ceiling while sipping tea.

'Another thing about bats,' Yafya thought to himself. 'They have no sense of decency or hygiene!'

Just then, his phone buzzed. Dr Kirk dropped down with the teacup in his wings. He too was curious about what was going on. Apparently, Yafya's assigned squad has captured the harlequin buck but...

"I must be drinking because my squad just informed me that they found the buck but..."

"Must be with a few members of the gang, I reckoned?" Dr Kirk answered with a small smile. Yafya was still baffled at how this old bat took everything as if it were normal. There is nothing normal about this sort of situation! The very idea of the police working with lowlife criminals were out of question!

"Dr Kirk," Yafya addressed the old bat politely, hiding his annoyance.  "Once this harlequin rabbit has been captured, your son will be put on trial. Both of you, actually."

The stallion swiftly turned his head, feeling the presence of both the harlequin rabbit doe and the awaken vixen of the Inarigumi. Mizuchi was furious at what the police chief just said. "Are you crazy?! On what charges?"

"For disrupting the peace," Yafya replied nonchalantly. Dr Kirk began to assure both of the ladies that they will be fine. But deep down, he was terrified at this whole ordeal.

"I will be heading out to meet up with my squad. I will come back tomorrow to see whether or not your son's awake. Goodnight, then."

With that, the only sounds that were heard were the door closing shut and the beeping monitor connected to Arthur.

...

The next day, there were visitors that came to visit. At this time, Arthur was already awake but felt a throbbing sensation to his head. He tried to speak but the more he made a sound, his throat just hurts.

He had a feeling Genji wanted to severe his vocal chords so that he doesn't get a chance to use either his clicks or voice out his concerns.

'Then again, maybe it's for the best,' Arthur thought to himself glumly. He felt as if he made matters worst not just for Mizuchi but for his parents, his friends, everyone in general. So this lack of voice was somehow a punishment he would gladly take.

Those that visited him were some of the students from Cherryton, mostly the drama club and a few of his friends. As much as he was happy to hear from them again, he wished he could wrapped his wings around his body to cover himself.

"Hey, Arthur?" it was his close friend, Aoba. He could feel the bald eagle kneeling down next to his bed. The small pressure of his feathers closed around his two fingers. "Are you okay?"

Arthur opened his mouth but then closed it again. He didn't want to drag Aoba into this mess. Last night while he was feeling groggy, he could pick up a few words spoken by Mizuchi and an unknown voice, the police chief obviously.

He was going on trial and he shall follow through, hoping it would solve everything.

Instead, his head turned to the direction of the bald eagle, giving him his toothy grin and nodded. There was silence until he felt both of his cheeks were cupped gently by feathery hands.

"Arthur," Aoba began again, his voice was quieter than ever. "You really are bad at lying. Your eyes were trying their best to blink and your head was slightly tilted. Please, tell me what's going on."

Arthur could only sigh, taking Aoba's wing in his and tapped inside of the palm in a sequence of dots. He could hear a few confused murmurs from other drama club members but Aoba knew what it was.

They were communicating in morse code.

"Arthur said that he's going on trial," Aoba translated, earning gasps from others in the room. The Honduran white bat was nodding solemnly. "About what happened to him and the situation with that senior student."

"But that's not fair!" he heard Els stamping her foot. "Arthur didn't attack him."

"Els is right," growled Bill. "This whole system is fucking bullshit! Arthur's too young to even go to jail. Hey Arthur, say something! You can't just be silent about this!"

But Arthur only raised his neck to show the scar that was stitched across his neck. He was terrified of touching it since it could easily tear the wound open. That silenced the room. Other news update was that there's a new member that wanted to join the gardening club.

Ah yes, Arthur forgot that he has so much responsibility. If this is what both Nocturna and Cama Zotz want him to experience, then he shall take it with stride! And yet, he felt like a burden amongst his classmates and friends fro dragging them into this.

"You have to meet the new member! She's a bat that's just as tall as Aoba. Hell, I think he's been tailing her since they first met."

"Shut up, Bill!"

Just then, the door to the hospital room was opened, the chaotic chatter amongst the students soon died down. Arthur detected footsteps but couldn't make out what sort of animals are they. Since his throat has been slashed, it was difficult to use his clicks at this point.

"Herbivores, please step outside of the room this instant," an authoritative voice ordered. This made Arthur's stomach drop, wishing he had a sip of tea or at least listen to his favourite music before all of this. He was thankful that Mizuchi wasn't here to experience this or his parents.

After all, it is his responsibility to handle this now that he's going to turn eighteen.

He felt something wrapped around his shoulders. "Don't you dare hurt him, officer."

"Unless you want to be tased, eagle, I suggest you back off. Now, I don't care if you can't talk or see but I need you to answers some questions, bat. Understand that there will be consequences if you don't cooperate."

Arthur answered with a nod, holding onto Aoba as he was being interviewed for the first time.

Chapter Text

Chapter 78

In all his life, Arthur has never been interviewed before.

The closest thing related to this situation would be getting questioned by the principal for something he got into trouble with Sameer. At this moment, all Arthur could think about were his friends from the grey wolf that helped him on the first day to the harlequin rabbit that captured his heart and soul.

Whenever Chief Yafya asked a question, he either nods or shakes his head. But if certain questions needed a specific answer, he simply tap on Aoba's open palm to talk in morse code. His throat still hurts whenever he tried to utter a should.

"You think this is a spy game?" Yafya snorted incredulously. "Can't say a word, bat? Don't tell me that you used to be a child soldier in your old town before coming here. We have laws on those kinds of animals."

Arthur only lifted up his head, hoping that the officer could at least see the stitch across his neck. He simply tap on Aoba's hand to convey his message. But before he could continue, Yafya grabbed his wing so that he could tap on his palm. The stallion has studied morse code before during his youth when he was training to be the next Beastar.

"Arthur taught me how to read braille and understand morse code," Aoba admitted, trying his best not to click his beak since some herbivores are afraid of how sharp it is. Yafya merely nodded, eyes paying attention to the tapping motion Arthur was making.

It took up at least two hours of their time to finish the interview. By the time it was over, Arthur sipped the cup filled with water while Aoba rubbed his back. Yafya was leaning against the wall, watching the whole ordeal. So the father of this blind bat was telling the truth after all.

"I see," Yafya murmured more to himself than to the two flying animals. "So ever since you came here, you've been trying to keep a low profile? How ironic for a flying rat that hangs upside down and can't see."

Aoba just couldn't believe how harsh this police officer was treating his friend! Then again, most of the police have the right to be wary of carnivores since some of them have caused accidents intentionally or unintentionally.

But Arthur kept a default smile but the bald eagle could see his cloudy blue eyes struggling to hold back tears. So, he continued to tap in morse code on the stallion's palm, telling him about his life back at Gryphon Cross, his love for music and fondness for tea. He decided to leave out the details about his relationship with Mizuchi.

'And he has a venomous reptilian friend too,' Yafya rolled his eyes, thinking about how things might have been different if a certain circumstance didn't occur. Seeing the young bat's expression, the police chief involuntarily nickered softly.

"Thank you for answering most of my question," he sighed, rubbing his temple. "I won't take much of your time any longer since I have a busy day ahead of me. And eagle, give him this."

He passed a card that had a number and the police chief's email address. Aoba thought this is pointless considering Arthur is blind and he has never been to the library to study. Needless to say, he will do whatever he can to make sure Arthur is alright.

...

Later that evening, Arthur has received some visitors, mostly the teachers sending their regards or some students such as those from the drama club. Aoba had to act as a translator while the Honduran white bat's vocal cords are healing.

"The lengths that buck is taking," Haru tsked, arms crossed. "He might as well change his species to a weasel for all I care. So how long until Arthur can talk?"

Aoba glanced at his friend, who was tracing the ceramic plate of his finished hospital meal. Arthur was listening but his expression said otherwise. Haru sat across the bed, tapping him on the knee. 

"Did something happen during your encounter with Genji?"

Arthur fluffed his fur, ears drooped before he took a deep breath. He lifted his head to face where the Netherland dwarf rabbit's voice was. He nodded, tapping on Aoba's palm hesitantly. There was nothing but silence as both the eagle and dwarf rabbit focused on Arthur's tapping motion. 

"My god..."

"What? What's wrong?" Haru demanded, wanting to know what's been bothering the only member of the gardening club to whom she viewed as a little brother. When Aoba translated what Arthur just said, she immediately covered her mouth in shock.

"Arthur...no...no!"Haru's voice wavered as she grabbed both of the bat's wings. "Who said that you're a burden to us? None of us think so and the same can be said with Mizuchi! Arthur, if she thinks you're a burden, she wouldn't go all the way to call the police on Genji and go against her parents' wishes. She loves you, Arthur and we all care about you."

"She's right, Arthur," said Aoba. "I enjoyed your company and you are never a bother to me. Please, Arthur...You have done so much ever since you transferred here. From your music, your whimsical nature and you don't realise how much you impacted others around you."

Arthur lifted his head, his cloudy blue eyes has never looked so glassy from shedding tears.

With that being said, the both of them embraced the bat who was crying silently. He was careful to not make a sound for he fears he might ruin his stitched up throat. Aoba rubbed his back to comfort him while Haru petted him between his ears.

"It will be okay, Arthur. It may not be now but I wished you could see how far you've come. We'll be there for your trial and who knows what might happen. Oh yeah, since I will be going to university, I'm giving you this!"

Haru gently placed something in Arthur's wing before closing it. Arthur shook it gently, ears perked up and his eyes widened. Aoba chuckled a little bit.

"Your cut from our sales. Now you can buy the trumpet that you wanted. Just try not to buy any poppy seeds or catmint, you hear me?"

Arthur presented them a toothy smile after wiping his tears. He knew that there's going to be a trial coming up for him soon and what the police chief has mentioned. The Honduran white bat was not going to let that harlequin buck ruin Mizuchi's or his life.

Genji may takeaway his voice, spread rumours about him and ruin Cherryton's reputation but Arthur knew too well what he can't take away:

Hope.

He will not go gentle this time. He will cling onto it, rage against the dying spark of light he has left!

Chapter Text

Chapter 79

The trial had begun after a few days. During this moment, various animals poured in because they were curious to see the perpetrator and the victim. All animals were sitting according to their own species.

At this point, Arthur's throat has healed and he was back to talking. Not in full sentences since he fears for his vocal cord. He recalled the words of the police chief, his friends and his parents. Even so, Arthur knew there was so much to be done and this trial with Genji is just a small obstacle.

He was listening to the entire courtroom that consists of nervous herbivores and boisterous carnivores, judging by their tones. He tried to estimate how many animals were there but it was difficult considering that he is small. Arthur wished he could hang upside down to rock himself while listening to music to soothe his soul and tea to calm his nerves.

For now, he will have to wrap his wings around himself like a makeshift blanket.

"Now, this is an odd case, I must say!" the judge silenced the room with a single tap on his gavel. "A herbivore attacking a...I'm not even sure if the bat's a carnivore since he has teeth. Anyways, we have this young buck, Genji to the stand."

There were a few whispers, making Arthur fluff up his fur.

What he didn't know was that there were a few other bats in the courtroom too. Most of them were curious since it was rare to see a bat in court or made it to the news outlet. The bats that were gathered were of brown, black and a mixture of orange.

Not only that, a few members of the Shishigumi were present wearing their casual clothing, his parents and a handful of Cherryton students with the principal was there too. Ten was sitting next to Dr Kirk, who was in-between her and Dr Conner; and . Most of the animals were baffled by the mixed species sitting together.

"That bat has been nothing but trouble since he transferred to Cherryton," Genji sniffed. Murmurs were made amongst those present. Arthur slowly unfurl his wings, hoping that he was facing at where the sound of Genji's voice was.

"And how has he been troubling you when he can't even see?"

"Well...He's been scaring most of the students with those bug-eyes of his, stealing my girl under whatever Vampyrum spell he has hypnotised her with and let's not forget how weird he talks with his babbling."

Arthur droop his ears, unsure of how to react. Was he really that off-putting and he did not pick up the subtle hints all this time?

"Plus, his music is too distracting day and night! He nearly ruined the harlequin rabbit name and my entrance to university!" the harlequin buck rambled on, pointing a finger at a very horrified Arthur. The Honduran white bat was slowly recovering from his self-deprecating thoughts about being a burden, only to be rammed with a snip about his music.

It wasn't the first time he was told that his music was rubbish but to be revealed in court was something he wouldn't want to experience again. He could just stop making music if it bothered everyone so much. It's rather rude if anyone doesn't tell him upfront.

"Hey, who are you to say that?!"

"Order! Order in the court!" the judge hit his gavel again to silence the building uproar in the courtroom.  " I don't care about your personal vendetta with him or his circus of a family. Does the perpetrator have any evidence we can all see to argue against this buck's statement?"

One by one, Arthur was listening carefully to his parents telling their statement, Aoba's, some of the Cherryton students and the principal. To him, he was swivelling his ears to listen to the only one he needs right now.

'Mizuchi...' Arthur thought to himself. 'Where are you? Please help me, I'm scared!!'

Arthur took a deep breath and told his side of the story. At this point, the court and beasts can believe whatever they want. All Arthur wanted was a cup of tea and Mizuchi by his side. He figured that she and her friends were probably busy for their university.

The silence of the courtroom was making his ears picked up ringing sounds. Arthur held his stomach with a hand-wing. A tensed atmosphere with the constant ringing in his head was going to overwhelmed him. During his speech, he picked up on a few remarks such as:

"I think he's innocent  since he's blind."

"Don't be fooled! His other senses are heightened to commit such crimes!"

But all of that were paused when the doors of the courtroom opened, hearing collective gasps amongst the beasts. Arthur may not know what they look like but he knew who they were. From what he could gather, there were some video evidence on the night Genji attacked him and how the poor Honduran white bat was close to giving up.

He could count how many times the clock was ticking since it felt like the trial went on forever!

"Y-you c-can't prove that!" Genji stammered, hearing the rabbit suck his teeth in frustration. "Those beasts are criminals! You can't trust a criminal compared to us. We're proud harlequin rabbits and our species is rare compared to the rest of the rabbits!"

"But assaulting a blind animal?!" he heard a feminine voice countered. "That's low, even for a herbivore!"

"He was going to suck on her blood!"

"Do I have a-"

"Silence!! I have heard enough," the steady voice of the judge immediately silenced the room. He reminded Arthur of Sameer's dad when he was back in Gryphon Cross. Only difference is that this judge needs to raise his voice to control this cacophony.

...

Another day was needed before the judge could make a final statement. For now, Arthur will be returning to the hospital for another night. During that time, he was grateful for his parents to be around.

"You were brave out there, son," Dr Kirk patted him on the head. Ten was sitting by the young Honduran white bat's side on the hospital bed. Arthur's fur fluff up in embarassment.

"I only did what's right."

"And you did," Ten encouraged, placing her son's two fingers on her swollen belly. This made Arthur smile a little bit. "I'm sure your siblings would agree with me too. Any ideas if they are boys or girls?"

Arthur shook his head. "I can't tell and neither does dad. But what's important is that the babies and you are alright, mum. Thank you for having a small snack with me of shortbreads and tea."

Both of his parents hugged him, feeling one of them kissed him by the ear.

"Oh yes, I almost forgot!" Dr Kirk's voice made Arthur perk up. He felt something thrusted into his two fingers. His eyes widened in shock.

"Dad..."

"I asked Aoba to collect your harmonica from your dorm. I thought it might keep you company for the night since music has always calmed you down besides a spot of tea, of course!"

"But...I can't play it," Arthur whispered, still tracing the instrument. "There are other patients here that might not like this sort of noise."

"You can play for a little bit," Ten encouraged, ruffling his fluffy fur. "I think these beasts would appreciate it if you play something to ease the tension of this hospital. The harmonica's was your grandfather's, wasn't it?"

Arthur nodded. "The very one he would play amongst the flowers. That was how Nana met and fell for him. Right, dad?"

Dr Kirk laughed, his face was clearly embarrassed. "It is."

While the family was sharing some moments together, a figure was standing at the doorway, head tilted to listen. He was clearly baffled by what he had witnessed and heard.

'I might bring this bat and his family for dinner at my rooftop. I wonder if they do like carrots, since their son is dating a rabbit.'

Chapter Text

Chapter 80

"For the last time, Mizuchi," her mother told her firmly. "I am doing this for your own good. I don't mind if you become friends with that bat but loving him? I have to destroy that before you even- Mizuchi, stop crying! A grown lady should not cry like a child!"

But the young harlequin rabbit's eyes were hot with tears streaming down her face, both of her arms were crossed as if to protect herself. She really can't believe her mother would say all of this to her. A mother should at least try to understand her daughter's point of view before jumping into conclusion.

She has no one in the family to talk about this kind of situation she is in!

Her mother, sat next to her on the bed, her paw on her daughter's shoulder. "I just want you to broaden your horizons over the animals you interact with. You are now a university student so act like one. As harlequin rabbits, we must have some self-dignity or else you're nothing but easy prey rather than a priceless species."

"But mom, Arthur-"

"Is not right for you! A blind, penniless animal without a proper job cannot contribute anything in this society. I'm doing the right thing because I love you, Mizuchi. I expect you to forget him the minute you begin your semester. Is that understood?"

'How dare she....Seriously, how dare she?!?!'

Mizuchi wiped her tears, nodding at her mother with an air of grace she has carried whenever she is at Cherryton. She was not going to let her mother get the best of her when she had already planned ahead:

Study and get her apprenticeship at her accepted university, thus making a living for herself so that she could remove herself from this neurotic environment.

Once her mother left her room, Mizuchi allowed her tears to resume their flow. Her heart was pounding while her mind only thought of the Honduran white bat that entered her life, opened her heart to new opportunity and view the world from his cloudy blue eyes.

How ironic that a blind bat has helped opened hers?

Riley and Tanya were also getting ready to attend the courses at their chosen universities. No matter what new life is in store for them, the trio will try their best to meet up. For now, she was busy making something for Arthur to present to him as a gift.

A sudden kiss in the morning, a tender gaze in the evening 

Beyond my range of comprehension until you brought to attention

 Greetings always followed by sweet goodbyes, yes, all must meet its end 

Baby, can't you just relax? Don't look back, don't hurry! 

The song playing from her phone somehow knew what she was feeling when she decided to turn on some music while working. Sure, her parents would arrange her with another harlequin buck or convince Genji to get back since his parents are friends with hers.

'I'm coming, Arthur,' Mizuchi thought to herself, drawing the design for Arthur's top while a biology book was opened to be use as reference for the types of animals she wants to design her fashions for.

...

The next day, the trial continued with Arthur feeling a bit more confident after playing his heart out at the hospital. Of course, there were a few nurses and doctors that told him to tone him down to which he decided to play it outside at the window.

It really warmed his heart that his music at least brought a bit of comfort to some of the patients. He has read online that music can benefit various parts of the brain from the cortex and its limbic system. A wonder that the songs he played can be processed into a sort of therapy.

He hoped that no matter the outcome of the trial, he will still be able to play again or at least drink a cup of tea with Mizuchi. 

'Nocturna's ear, I hope you're listening, Mizuchi,' the blind Honduran white bat thought to himself after he played a small song last night. He really missed talking to her and his friends. Knowing that he has a lot of responsibilities, Arthur prayed that it doesn't affect his father or his mother.

"Now then, can the final witness state their testaments?"

It was nerve-racking to the point Arthur's ears were tuning out the situation at court. His mind was flying elsewhere where he was planning to meet Mizuchi if the situation is in favour of him. How the both of them would have breakfast together at a cafe or work on something together in the same room.

"Arthur....Arthur!"

"Y-yes?" he finally snap back to reality. "Sorry, I was thinking about something."

"We have concluded that you are," the judge paused, making the entire courtroom silent. "Not guilty! As for the harlequin rabbit Genji...Let him experience some honest work. He is going to be a university student, isn't he? A community van will be coming tomorrow to pick him up to work at the soup kitchen."

"That dirty old place?! How dare-"

"Oh, you won't be alone," the judge had a smile in his tone. "Your parents will be joining you too. And no, there won't be any bribes necessary for this. A parent should know what sort of lesson they have passed on to their child."

Hearing the anxiousness in their voices somehow made Arthur feel bad. However, if he will stop bothering him and Mizuchi, then it is a relief.

Once he was free to leave, Arthur was suddenly tackled into a tight embrace. The scent of the animal's fur was that of vanilla and strawberries. Arthur's nose did not deceive him on who it was. A tender kiss was placed on his cheek while the bat rests his head on hers. 

There was nothing in this world except the sounds of choked up sobs between them as they embraced with large wings wrapped around her like a cloak.

"I'm free, Mizuchi....I'm free..."

...

"Are we there yet?"

"Almost there, Arthur," said Aoba, who was letting the blind hold onto his wing. The young bat was swivelling his ears around as they left the train station. The both of them were going to visit Legosi at his new apartment that was close to the Black Market. Arthur was wearing a new shirt that was designed by his girlfriend.

Arthur was feeling nervous since it's been a while since he last talked to the grey wolf. He was the first to be kind to him, thus leading him to the life he has made for himself. In a sense, he felt guilty for not reaching out to Legosi after he has heard the news about the wolf leaving school.

While walking, Arthur heard a few vendors calling out to on-going passerby. That's when Arthur knew that the apartment was very close to the Black Market. After experiencing everything ever since the Shishigumi incident, the Honduran white bat understood the Black Market as another route for carnivores when the world turned against them.

Then again, he wasn't used to the scent of blood nor did he recall ever hearing about them during his Gryphon Cross days.

"Oh, Aoba and Arthur!" the gravelly voice of the grey wolf made Arthur turn his head at the sound of the voice. He hoped that he did clean himself up before meeting him.

"Hello Legosi. It's been so long and I'm sorry that I haven't called you! I-"

Arthur was engulfed into a hug with the sound of a tail wagging. This made him smile, trying to stop the oncoming tears from seeping out of his cloudy blue eyes. In return, his large wings barely wrapped around Legosi's back.

"I'm so glad to see you again, Arthur! I mean, I can see you but you know..."

"Don't worry, I know what you mean!"

During their catch up, both the wolf and bat exchanged stories about what have they been doing in the past few months. Aoba was busy setting up the food they have brought to visit the wolf, which consisted of homemade pasta and sandwiches.

"So Genji has been punished to do community work?" Legosi asked incredulously, sipping his cup of tea. "Wow, you have been busy! Well, it's better than what I have been doing which is working at this udon shop that serves all animals and trying to pay the rent here."

Arthur tilted his head, ears twitching. "But it sounds like you know what you are doing. I'm just a student trying to get by each day while playing my music. You on the other hand Legosi, have made a living for yourself alone and braved yourself with everything that came at you."

The grey wolf was silent at what Arthur had described. He shook his head and gently took the bat's two fingers in his large hands.

"You're lucky, Legosi," said Arthur quietly. "You're eighteen and already independent. I understand that you made mistakes but what adult doesn't? I'm your age and I haven't found my footing in life. Where would I live, how will I survive on a income and I haven't gotten my flying license yet!"

"You still have your music, Arthur," Legosi reasoned, letting the bat sit on his lap. "Surely you can make money off of your music? I know Miguno, my old 701 roommate is in the band called the Leftovers. Maybe you can join them?"

Arthur wrapped his wings around himself. "I don't know....My choice of music isn't up to par with theirs. I'll just continue to do what I have to do until I graduate. I'm not sure if I want to continue with university or get a job. Then again, not many places would accept me if I don't have any experience or because I'm blind. I guessed it's the same with Mizuchi and I. I don't want her to be tied down to me since she has a new chapter in her university life. I loved her but I don't want her to feel burdened by me."

This made Aoba paused in his actions while Legosi was staring down at him as if he was holding a fluffy time bomb. But Arthur simply smiled and then laughed.

"Well, I shouldn't be so selfish to talk about myself! I want to know more about you and did you happen to know a horse called Yafya? He invited my family for dinner but I declined because I have some things to you."

Legosi didn't know how to tell his blind friend about his encounters with the stallion that was feared at the Black Market and his personal encounters with him. He simply petted the bat between the ears.

"I think you should go since he is an important figure. Tell you what, are you going to play a song? I saw Aoba bringing a keyboard on his back."

Arthur blinked, his expression shifted from nervous to relief. "Oh yes, I hope you don't mind?"

"I'm okay, Arthur. I have to warn you that the walls of my apartment are thin so my neighbours could hear you. But don't worry, I'm sure they don't mind!"

The Honduran white bat smiled his toothy smile before setting up his keyboard to play a song. It was a song he has heard Mizuchi singing and how it captured her beautiful voice, her emotions and everything that made his heart swell.

When he played the keys to the song, Aoba decided to open the windows so that the whole complex could hear him. Arthur deserved the recognition with his music. Because he knew some musicians might not get the recognition they deserve until they die at the age of forty.

He doesn't want his dear friend to experience that!

The music has really done wonders to him and Legosi, watching Arthur playing it with his eyes closed. Music has always been the bat's strongest suit, since it changed him into someone confident. The song was what Aoba would describe as melodic, a little jazzy, and the least bit monotonous.

"You might go far, Arthur," the bald eagle whisper. "Further than where you are now."

Little did they know, the melodies that was produced by the Honduran white bat has attracted a few silent audience. One that happened to be a perp while the other is the protector of the city.

Chapter Text

Chapter 81

"Alright, new members!" Arthur announced excitedly. He was hanging upside down, ears listening to excited murmurs and the whispers amongst the plants. Ever since Haru is in university, he has take upon the role of becoming the head of the gardening club.

Even if it consists of six members including himself.

Hearing nothing but the chitter-chatter of the flowers, the Honduran white bat smile. "First activity of the day is an icebreaking session and a small test I'm about to do. Oh, don't worry! It's not like what the teachers throw at us or need a textbook."

"Oh, I hope I don't get kicked out..." a voice murmured with a gulp.

"He better not be pulling tricks on us!"

Arthur cleared his throat, getting the new members' attention. "You do know I can hear you, right? I'm blind but my hearing's well-off. Now, please put your blindfolds on and I will be sure to  check."

In order to check, he asked his members to queue up in a straight line to where he is hanging. Using his clicks, he was satisfied that the students followed his instructions. A lot has changed ever since his trial with Genji.

He could feel each member tensed up when he was feeling their faces for the blindfold. Besides checking the blindfold, Arthur wanted to estimate what sort of animals are going to be part of the club.

"Well done! Now, let's break the ice, shall we? I can start first and then follow suite with the macaw in front of me. My name is Arthur, a third year and a Honduran white bat. Don't ask me about colours though!"

He smiled when he heard the bewildered gasps amongst the members.

"Hey, how do you know I am a macaw?" asked the bird in front of him. Arthur giggled, angling his body so that he is approximately at everyone's eye-level.

"While I was checking your blindfold, I was also feeling your face for features I should be aware of. Macaws have a distinct beak for cracking shells without using a nutcracker, yeah? However, it's just a guess since my lack of sight is stopping me from guessing what sort of macaw are you."

"I- Yeah, I do have a strong beak for that! Alright everyone, name's Tulio. I'm a hyacinth macaw and a second year."

"I'm Lusa...." the next member spoke shyly. Arthur was surprised by how rough her voice sounded despite the shyness that encased it. "Second year as well and I am a moon bear."

"Wow! I thought you were a shaggy dog but a bear? You must be very small for a bear," the third voice gushed excitedly. Arthur could imagine Lusa crossing her arms to protect herself. "I'm Yuri, a Sunda pangolin and a first year! What are we doing to do after this? Are we planting something new? Are you going to teach us something the biology teachers don't know? Why do you have a silver band on your right wing? I-"

"There will be plenty of that," Arthur stopped the excited pangolin. "But today, I want all of us to introduce each other before I can plan the activities for our next meeting. Don't want to keep everyone waiting."

The fourth member was silent until Arthur heard one of the members shoved him, judging by the sound, to make him talk. He might be the most interesting member to work with. Despite his noncommittal noise, Arthur could hear the name 'Kane' uttered out.

"It's very nice to meet you, Kane," Arthur smiled. "You remind me of an old friend of mine whose not much of a talker himself. So from checking your blindfold, are you an iguana or a horned lizard?"

"Fiji banded iguana," said Kane. "Second year."

Now everyone's attention was on the final member. Arthur blinked when he heard the sound of leathery wings unfurling themselves. "My name is Kalliste, a first year and a Livingstone flying fox."

He could hear the members gasped in awe. Arthur smiled, knowing that Cherryton has allowed every Chiroptera to enrol into the school. Ever since the trial, most of the animals at school has been treating him differently. He didn't mind the sudden change but he still has his guard up.

After all, fear has been the sole ruler of survival, right?

"Right, shall we start our first activity for today? The reason why I asked all of you to wear a blindfold is to understand if you could identify the flowers without sight. This will help especially if we are going to be working in the dark."

Arthur only took a deep breath as he started the club with their first hands-on activity.

...

"Mr Yafya, I have spotted the ghost!" one of the mouse spies squeaked through a walkie-talkie. 

Ever since the trial, the Beastars himself has been monitoring the Honduran white bats. He insisted that both father and son must wear a silver band on their wings so that he could at least know their whereabouts. Both of them were referred to as ghost due to their white coloured furs and Arthur's cloudy blue eyes.

Bats were not known to be present in news or any media outlet until now.

He has some bats in the police force but those beady-eyed freaks are more nervous than his mice squad. So far, Arthur and Dr Kirk has been making the stallion question his views about them.

Both of them have been visiting the Black Market for some odd reason. He knew the father's flying to meet the head of the Inarigumi since rumour has it that she has given birth to twins. What monstrosity has the parents created? 

Can't they understand that a mixed-species child would limit their chance of having  medical care, car insurance, pension, and maybe home simply because they are not the same species?

"Like father like son," Yafya muttered to himself. "Their blind optimism must be their pathetic trait. Literally and figuratively. Okay, I will check on the boy while you spy on the parents. Over and out."

It was a bad night for him since a mission failed and now his personal sidekick, Legosi is in hospital after getting shot. Now a hybrid murderer is on the loose and the police force is as useless as ever.

The stallion followed the bat, careful as he treads on top of the roofs to see where he was heading: The Shishigumi hideout.

"Boss!" one of the Shishigumi members called out. "He's here and Agata's steering him in."

Yafya lowered his body on the roof, his ears flicked at the sound coming from below. He was shocked when he realised what this bat was doing. It's also eerie how well he could play the violin as it sent shivers down his spine.

He was playing a tune that sounded similar to a chant for a funeral.

"Hmmm, very nice," he could hear the figure below nodding. "Well, I don't have to pull your whiskers again if I need a little music in the room, Agata. Odd little fella, ain't he?"

"Arthur's been in this hideout before," Agata, he assumed was talking in a hushed tone. Clearly, the lions are afraid of their boss. Yafya knew he has to act fast and yet...

His mind would tell him to wait and listen. Like a carnivore about to pounce his prey....

"I bet he can't hear a thing if he's so warped up in the music," their boss commented above the violin tune. "Would be a waste if I just used him for target practice. Oh, I know what to do!"

The music abruptly stopped at the sound of Arthur yelping in pain. The small clattered sound indicated that the violin was dropped too. Yafya inched closer to the edge of the roof to listen while preparing himself for a fight.

"I didn't ask you to stop playing, bat," the boss chuckled. "What's wrong? Cat's got your tongue?"

"Well, you caught my fur," Arthur replied, a quiver in his tone. Yafya has never met such an idiotic animal in his life. Then again, bats are not known to take sides as far as history is concern. Stopping a war is one thing but to avoid war and conflict for such a long time really irritated him.

'Those that don't want to get involved are often the most useless members of society,' he thought to himself.

"Isn't it wrong if I keep pulling them?" he asked, playfully. "I've never seen a white bat before so I gotta have some samples out of you. You've got enough fur to last you before winter! Hey, I bet you taste like a lamington cake with an orange aftertaste."

He heard the bat laughed lightly. "You can but I can't guarantee that it will taste like coconut. Ow- Oh, please don't pinch my leaf-nose! I might actually sneeze...."

The boss' laugh made Yafya clenched his teeth. A growl of a leopard's with the high pitch tone of a gazelle's.

"It's almost time so keep playing, little lamington~ I'm not going to ask you again if you want all of your fur or that silver band ripped off. Miguel! Dolph! Fetch us some melons and the money. Unlike most professions, musicians don't care about who they are working for so long as their tunes are heard."

Yafya was tempted to snort in indignation.

Arthur resumed playing his violin, this time the song was accompanied by sharp sounds of pain he was receiving, from getting his fur plucked.

"Also, go and check the roof. I hate those that eavesdrop."

Chapter Text

Chapter 82

"And that concludes the meeting for today," the Dean of Manticore University, an ermine stoat switched off the presentation slides from his computer. The lecturers were given a short meeting about the upcoming changes at the institution after certain events.

Dr Kirk wished his ears would at least block out the constant sounds of his colleagues questioning him ever since the trial that took place. He noted that he was the only bat at the university that had to wear the silver band on his wing.

'We may vary in age but it takes a certain experience to be mature,' he commented inwardly to himself. Carnivores bare their fangs slightly at him while herbivores whispered amongst themselves to take precaution. 

Do these animals know that he could hear their gossips clearly?

"Still can't believe the Dean had to remind us to behave ourselves," Dr Connor grumbled, rearranging a few papers into a folder. "Us carnivores know when to hide our claws and cover our fangs. And to top it all, other staffs are probably talking about us. We're not in high school anymore!"

Dr Kirk covered his ears while he was riding on the Nile crocodile's shoulder. Dr Connor has never raised his voice until now. The whole news about his son has become the latest gossip at the university. 

"Well, we're just children trying out more responsibilities as we get older," said Dr Kirk. "None of us, carnivore or herbivore can escape a few gabs thrown at us. Which is why it is our job as teachers, let alone parents to educate these students about what to expect in the real world."

Dr Kirk heard a low rumble within Dr Connor, who was flexing his right robotic arm. It never stopped the large reptile from carrying on with life despite a few incidents. "So, are you planning to make a serum to regrow your arm?"

Dr Connor laughed, causing a few smaller animals to scurry away while the primates huddle each other. "Dr Kirk, I'm not a miracle worker. Even if I managed to make a breakthrough with my thesis, a few would've experimented on me to see if other parts of my body would grow back."

The old Honduran white bat laughed along with his close friend. "The same can be said for my paper. The very idea some of the professors think that I'm a nutter for saying Pluto contains a few sounds that broke the space's vacuumed atmosphere."

"I wouldn't be surprised if it does happen," Dr Connor grinned, as they walked along the main campus. "Some can disprove our papers while it takes a few seat-warmers to take it into consideration. So, are you going back to the missus and kids?"

Dr Kirk nodded. "I'm going to spend time with them before going back to the apartment. I'm staying over during the weekends where I won't have a crazy schedule to keep me awake. Arthur will be joining us this weekend. If I have time, I will drop in on Dr Gouhin."

The Nile crocodile nodded, checking both sides of the road before crossing the street. The both of them were at the Black Market, where most of the patrons regarded them with a mix of awe and fear. "Send my regards to them, Kirk. Next time, come over to my place for cornbread and walnut sausages."

Dr Kirk tapped his friend's head before hanging himself upside down on a poorly lit streetlamp. "Please don't be a stranger as well. But are you going back home?"

Dr Connor shook his head. "Heading to the Muscle Bar. One of the dancers and I go way back. I just hope she doesn't wallop me this time around. See at work, Kirk."

Dr Kirk bids his friend goodbye before taking off to see his family after leaving his son a voice message.

...

"I'm b-b-begging you without you, I'm done f-f-for~" Arthur struggled to sing the song without choking onto his tears. It's been Nocturna knows how many hours already!

"Hey, hey, what's with the tears?"

Arthur, tasting the saltiness of his own tears immediately wipe them to avoid any embarrassment. While he was playing the piano, a memory resurfaced. He was thinking about her while he was playing a song that describes loneliness.

From keyboard to harmonica to his violin and his trumpet.

As a habit, he does play his instruments the early morning and evening as a way to comfort and express himself. Though it may have impacted on Cherryton, none of them except his friends knew why most of his tunes carried a bittersweet tone.

"Oh, please forgive me!" Arthur chuckled nervously. "I-I can't remember the last time I played a song that has affected me."

"Ah ah," his client tsked. "I may not know what sentimentality is but I know a liar when a hear one. Come on, bat! You're not the only one with lie-detecting ears."

Arthur was trying not to shake or let more tears fall from his face. He lifted his head to face where the voice was. He sighed, knowing that he has no other options yet, told him why.

"Eh, interspecies? You know that's gonna end up with a heartbreak! Sure the news are breaking out about it but by the end of the day, one is going to devour the other. I'm a by-product of it and look where that's got me."

"I can assure you Mr Melon, I'm not a Vampyrum," Arthur had a toothy smile. "I'll be happy to let you speak to my cousin but then again he won't be back for another twenty years."

He heard nothing except the tapping of fingers, probably impatient about something. Arthur tried to imagine the fall of rain to soothe his mind. Mizuchi and him still talk via voice message but he knew she needs to concentrate on her studies if she wants to be a fashion designer.

Other than that, he has more responsibilities since the trial. Yafya has been monitoring him and his father through the bands and has to think about what will he do once he has graduated.

"How do I look, bat?" Melon asked, hearing his shoes scrape the floor.

"With your eyes, Mr Melon."

"Fuck, I forgot you can't see shit!" Melon laughed, Arthur imagining him clutching his chest. "Oh well, you're more useful that those kitties that grovelled at my feet. Here's your cut and I expect you to keep your side of the bargain."

Arthur nodded, thanking him before he was escorted out by a lion named Dolph.

Just then, his phone rang. Plugging his headphones, he began to answer who was calling him close to midnight.

"Hello?"

"Arthur! I haven't heard from you for a while. At least I don't have to see your face. So have you heard anything about Legosi?"

The Honduran white bat's expression dropped. The red deer's voice sounded scared about the grey wolf. It made him anxious as well. On top of that, why call him?

"No, what happened to Legosi? Louis??"

"Arthur....He-"

The line was hung up.

Chapter Text

Chapter 83

"Seriously, do the professors do this for their own amusement?!" Mizuchi rubbed her temples in frustration. She was highlighting a few important lines from her textbook. Her course in university is related to her goals on becoming a fashion designer.

Despite the course not having any exams, the amount of assignments could might as well be a new sea in the open ocean. 

Mizuchi only has another rabbit as her roommate since this university doesn't have a lot of smaller animal students. She didn't mind so long as she gets through her assignments. Her side of the room has various sketches of various dresses, shirts, pants of different sorts.

On her desk, her laptop, her stack of textbooks that might as well be kettle bells and a sewing machine with an unfinished skirt. Besides her laptop, the wood-carved pencil cup Arthur has made for her was filled to the brim with various stationaries.

She misses her boyfriend very much. Ever since she entered her university, she has been tired from her assignments, constant lectures and hands-on projects that made her more critical for perfection. Her friends Riley and Tanya were also busy with their own applied courses in this university.

Riley was studying chemistry and food science while Tanya is doing hospitality and hotel management.

The last time they ever hung out was when they slept over at Riley's place where they had karaoke and had a marathon watching Peaky Blinkers. She loved the dresses the ladies wore while the males looked sharp in their hats and coats.

Just then her phone rang. Her heart skipped a beat until she saw who was the caller. Fixing her ears, she answered: "Hey, Haru."

"Mizuchi! I never thought I'm glad to hear your voice," the dwarf rabbit sighed in relief on the other end. "I just called because- Oh, I hope I'm not interrupting you with your assignments."

"Save your apology," Mizuchi clicked her tongue, a hand twirling with a pencil. "I want nothing more than a chat. Anything to catch a break besides the endless streaming on my laptop."

Hearing Haru laughed made her smile, realising that she missed talking to her. Ironic that the both of them used to hate each other over an inconvenience she will have to deal again and again. Genji was still accepted into university however on probation.

"I know the feeling! Anyways, I called because I'm feeling frustrated with everything really...I don't know where the hell is Legosi since he hasn't return my calls and whenever I visited his apartment, he's not there. On top of that, everyone at my university thinks interspecial dating is a trend. You know how difficult it is when the animal that likes you is a carnivore?"

"I do," Mizuchi nodded, bringing the wood-carved pencil cup close to her. "I may not know him but I'm sure Legosi has something on that he doesn't want to pressure you."

"Oh yeah? Does Arthur do the same thing with you? Do you guys even talk after you graduated?"

"We do," the harlequin rabbit smile, smoothening the fur on her ears. "Voice messages and sometimes call during weekends. He's got a lot of things to do ever since the trial and so do I. But we try to make time. Besides this new life, I sort of have a side job that gave me enough money to spend on what I want."

"Oh?"

"Some of the students here asked me to sew and fix their clothes at a fair price. It gives me a lot of practice and get to know the types of animals I want to work with. Some even give me fabric so that I can make something for them."

There was silence that hung in the air. Mizuchi hoped she didn't offend Haru by telling her about how she settled with her new life.

"To be honest...I'm jealous of interspecies couples that wandered around," Haru spoke quietly. "Seeing them smiling and laughing made me realised that I want to spend time with Legosi- No, I WANT Legosi to talk to me."

Mizuchi sympathised with her. She knew the struggles about two different species in love. Arthur's news about how his parents have twin girls made her realised how much she wants to make this work.

" How about writing a letter? I mean a real handwritten letter to tell him how you're feeling. Haru, we have to look out for each other. Two of us are Lagomorphs that date boys outside of our species. I guessed we both have to prove to ourselves that we care about them and be here when they fall. Love is scarier than what we herbivores have to face. It's not easy but it will passed."

Hearing her giggle on the other end made Mizuchi stretched herself to relax. "You know, you're starting to sound like him. Thanks for taking the time to talk to me, Mizuchi. I'll be okay for now."

"Anytime, Haru. Anytime."

...

Arthur was sipping on his milk bubble tea while hanging upside down on a tree branch.

He was thinking back on how he ended up working as a musician for three Black Market gangs. All because Agata approached him at the train station when he decided to wobble his way through town. His flying lessons will start soon, making him quiver in excitement because Aoba will be joining him.

Just then, his phone buzzed, making him plugged in his earphones to listen.

"Hello?" he answered.

"Arthur! I haven't heard from you in a while," the smooth voice of Sameer hissed happily. Arthur's ears perked up, his smile was formed. He's never been so happy hearing from his old Gryphon Cross friend. 

"Oh, Sameer! It's good to hear from you too! So much has happened ever since the trial. I'm sorry if I haven't called or-"

"No need to apologise, Arthur," Sameer chuckled on the other end. "I understand that you're busy. So are the rest of us here with our final exams and off we go into the cold world."

"I have yet to catch up with the rest of you lot. I've been listening to your ZooTube horror narrations and history facts. Are you planning to work at the museum?"

"Hmm, maybe we will see, yes? Baba's planning to send me off to Luxor to get...what was the word- Oh, expose to the hidden and forbidden history no one talks about. Oh, if you could see how magnificent the ancient sites are!"

"Unfortunately, I can't."

"Of course! Well, there's that along with me getting an admirer. You don't happen to know a sheep from your drama club? He's been commenting on my videos and friending me on Beastbook."

Arthur nearly dropped his bubble tea onto a poor duck couple.

"Bloody hell! When did this happen?! H-how? What?"

Sameer was laughing. "Oh, sorry if I accidentally dropped that on you. Well, things do happen when we don't meet up, no? Well, I also remember you telling me that you have new siblings. How does it feel to be a big brother?"

While Arthur was chatting away on the phone, Yafya was approaching the blind Honduran white bat. Sighing to himself, the old stallion sat down on the bench to observe him. He has seen how Arthur's half-siblings looked like: fur as red as a fox while having large wings that might as well be capes.

Yafya snorted. It was bad enough that he sent Legosi to track down Melon when this tiny rat with wings was already co-mingling with him right under his nose!

Chapter Text

Chapter 84

Arthur was flapping his wings as hard as he could.

This weekend, he was learning how to fly with Aoba at a flying school. Every animal that flew needed a license to show that they are able to fly freely in the sky. All avians are excited about the lessons but Arthur was the only one that was nervous about the whole ordeal.

Mostly because there were so many sounds overlapping in the room, Arthur couldn't help but cover his ears so that he doesn't get a throbbing headache. That and Louis' worry about Legosi' strange activity he doesn't know of.

Let's not forget he would be killed if he squeaked out anything to do with his hybrid patron. As much as he is earning money, Melon was the sort of animal to make Camazotz hideaway. The Honduran white bat could tell that the whole Shishigumi were afraid of him.

He felt sorry for a pride of lions that control the Black Market and that almost tried to eat him. They were just as trapped as him when it came to Melon. He eavesdropped a night ago about how they were planning to kill the hybrid so that they could take back their own territory without harming anyone.

Then again, who was he to judge? Crime and business weren't his strong suit.

'Tek would've been excited about this,' Arthur thought to himself about his old raven friend. Just then, Aoba perched next to him, causing Arthur to turn his head at the bald eagle's direction. 

"Arthur, are you okay?" asked Aoba, his tone full of concern. "Was the lesson today exhausting for you?"

"Oh no," Arthur assured him, shaking his head. "I just had a on my mind. You don't have to worry about me."

He felt the bald eagle grasped his two fingers gently. Arthur couldn't help but return the gesture with a squeeze. "Arthur, I do care about you. I mean ever since you transferred to Cherryton, you experienced a lot. And I MEAN a lot."

Arthur laughed, revealing his toothy grin. "I know. It's just that we're in our final years and then there's application to universities. Some of the students I've eavesdropped are planning to work straight away. I'm just...you know..."

"Stuck?"

Arthur nodded, wrapping his wings around himself. "Not only that, I would love to feel Mizuchi again. We do talk from our voice messages but it is not the same as feeling her close to me. Is that odd?"

"Not at all, Arthur."

Both the bat and eagle completed their flying lessons for the day. They decided to have a drink at a cafe, which Arthur figured it might clear his mind about his new life. He still couldn't believed that he was now a club president, let alone working for a dangerous gang while trying to keep a passable grade in school.

Arthur traced the rim of his teacup, feeling the smooth texture while his ears picked up a few footsteps and the sound of beverages being poured. He wasn't sure how he could managed as well as voice messaging Mizuchi. 

He mentally noted to himself to set up a small outing for him and the harlequin rabbit one of these weekends.

Just then, the doors of the cafe swung open with the 'ding' of the bell. The chattering conversation slowly became mute as the approaching footsteps were getting closer to where he and Aoba were at.

"Stay close to me, Arthur," Aoba instructed, feeling his friend's wing laid on his shoulders. Arthur sipped his tea, trying to concentrate on the beverage rather than the growing fear that crept in his stomach.

"Hello boys," the voice of the most-respected herbivore greeted, feeling his presence in front of him. Arthur straightened his position, turning his head at the voice's direction.

"How well do you know about hybrids?"

...

'Where there is beauty, there is depravity,' Arthur thought to himself as he played his violin. During the meeting at the cafe, Yafya had informed him about Melon. Not only Melon was a homicidal maniac, he had been Yafya's target for a while to the point he recruited Legosi to capture him.

Legosi, according to the stallion, went through a lot during those missions while he himself was earning money from a pinch or two!

After hearing about what happened to the grey wolf, Arthur wanted nothing more than to be there for him. Despite being far apart, Arthur kept Legosi in his memories. If it weren't for him, the Honduran white bat wouldn't be where he was at the moment.

He was glad that Aoba was told to go back to Cherryton. At least he could protect the school while the Honduran white bat will have to find his way to survive on his own.

While playing a tune on his violin, he hoped to draw a crowd so that Yafya could seek out Melon with ease. His fur was bristled, feeling the crowd coming closer to where he stood. Closing his eyes, he focused on the music rather than what was around him.

He wanted nothing more than a cup of tea, a slice of lavender cake and Mizuchi by his side.

"Mama, is that the blind bat from the news?"

"Wow, he's smaller than I thought!"

"Must be a nightmare to be blind all the time..."

Arthur played his music louder, moving a little bit as if the tune was taking his wing into a waltz. He still couldn't believe what life had offered him: more responsibilities and a reckless mission that might end up on a carnivore's platter.

When he finished his song, he bowed his head when he heard a few claps. Despite a small audience, Arthur wanted to cover his face with his wings out of embarrassment. No matter what happens to him, he was glad that Mizuchi was safe and far away from this madhouse!

"Impressive as always, Arthur," a soft hissing voice praised him. The Honduran white bat reached out a wing, his two fingers felt something cool and then bumpy when he traced the figure. He smiled at the figure's direction.

"Thank you, Isaiah. So, here on a mission or stop to smell the flowers. If you can actually smell through that-"

"A bit of both!" the young Dokugumi replied, he could detect bashfulness in his tone. "I came here to get you. We're having a meeting at the Jade Palace restaurant."

"B-but I have my own mission!" Arthur protested, clutching the violin close to his chest. He felt Isaiah's scaly hand stroke him between his ears. It was rough but relaxing to the touch.

"I know but your friend is there as well as those kitty cats and your foxy mom. We'll tell you our plan when we get there."

'Nocturna help me,' Arthur thought to himself before nodding his head. "Alright but please refrain from calling my mother foxy, even though she is a fox."

Isaiah laughed, kneeling down so that Arthur could climb his back. He mentally noted to disinfect his back later. "Okay, okay! I can see why bats have been popular lately..."

Chapter Text

Chapter 85

"So you hired a gang of purist that might kill off Melon?" Arthur questioned while sipping his jasmine tea. What the four gangs had planned to take down the hybrid sounded like a suicide mission but the Honduran white bat wasn't so convinced.

Not even a hot cup of jasmine tea would quell down the burning anxiety in his stomach.

"It was the only way," Agata explained, eating another fried grasshopper off his plate. "They're a menacing gang called Kopi Luwak. Their boss is a civet cat who brews coffee for his vampire bats when they return from a mission."

"I don't like this idea," his mother commented, sipping her drink delicately. "Both Arthur and the wolf are still children despite turning eighteen. I'm not risking the both of them into this mess!"

Isaiah could be heard hissing through his mask. "Well, none of us want that monster to roam the streets. He's making other hybrids look bad and I mean, REALLY bad. Not to mention our fluffy friend here has been around him."

"He's right," Legosi huffed on his left, his claws was tapping the glass. "You're lucky to not get killed by him, Arthur. I have scars from him that you can feel."

The chatter around table slowly subsided, leaving Arthur to hear the sound of his own breathing. He estimated that the Shishigumi, Legosi, his mother, Isaiah and one of the members of the Madaragumi. He knew that everyone wanted to hear his side of the story about his entanglement with the hybrid.

"Arthur," Ten's voice was barely audible, he imagined her face to be shocked. His heart stopped, feeling his mother's disbelief tone. "Y-you have been working for this monster?"

Arthur doesn't need eyes to know that everyone at the table were staring at him. Arthur nodded, wrapping himself with his wings. "I did. But please, it's no one's fault but mine because I wanted some work experience before I graduate from Cherryton! I don't want to get anyone in trouble but I did....I'm sorry....I really am..."

The Honduran white bat felt small, but then again he always was whenever he was with other beasts. Suddenly, he was brought into a hug, feeling the silky fur from his mother. He buried his face into her neck. It was the first time he was ever comforted by a mother that he could call his own.

"Arthur," he heard Legosi's voice rumbled. "The both of us keep running into accidents. I wonder if it's because we both care about our rabbits? I mean-"

"Spare me the details," Isaiah sighed, tapping his mask absentmindedly. "So are we going to find this gang or not? Honestly, that psychopath's gonna change the Black Market for the worst."

Arthur heard a huff from one of the Shishigumi, Free he assumed. "Not a chance unless Louis gave us the order."

The Honduran white bat covered his ears, the arguing around the table was making his head hurt from all the noise. He was close in his mother's embrace, to the point he could actually feel her heart beat. He was torn whether to follow through with the plans or call quits so that he could at least hear from Mizuchi again.

There were times that he would reluctantly accept her moving on from him, if the worst was to come. 

'Do not go gentle into that good night,' Arthur's mind trailed off, trying to press down the thumping of his heart and how he was shaking when he held his cup of tea. Ten was rubbing his back soothingly. "Arthur, you don't have to join them if you are not comfortable. We can send you back to Cherryton."

Arthur does his best to straighten his posture, knowing that all eyes were on him. He could let the gang and Legosi handle Melon while he could go back to Cherryton, where he could continue to be a student until he graduates. Aoba, the gardening club, the drama club and Mizuchi were running through his thoughts.

He answered by shaking his head. "Mum, I'm going to stay and help out. I got myself into this mess and what I know about Melon may help as well. Also, I might as well confront this gang and his so called 'Vampyrums'."

He heard Ten sighed, petting him between the ears. The Honduran white bat loved the red fox who became his mother. Not only that, he wanted some time to spend with his twin sisters, Sunny and Sayori. From his father's description, both of the girls had mixed features that made them resembled flying foxes.

"I'll babysit my sisters if you and dad want some time alone. Either here or even in my dorm room."

"Alright, Arthur," Ten finally breathed before standing up. "But you better come home in one piece. Next time, let's have a family feast together. Excuse me, gentlebeasts, I have to leave, since I have children waiting for me. Don't worry about the bill."

The beasts at the table thanked the leader of the Inarigumi, some bowing to thank her. Clearly after Arthur's father had been with her, the other gang dared not to challenge her into a fight unless she asked for it. Fighting a mother vixen seemed wrong for a lot reasons. He knew she was gone when the sound of her clicking heels faded slowly after she went out the door.

Now that they were alone at the restaurant, Arthur could hear the deep breathing from the grey wolf. "So what are we going to do now? The Shishigumi won't do it unless Louis is here, that jaguar's staring at me and your Komodo dragon friend is mumbling about something."

"Isaiah is reciting lines from famous wrestlers," the Honduran white bat turned his head to the wolf's direction. He imagined Legosi having a confused expression with his forehead creased and mouth hanging slightly open, trying to say something. He only took out his phone, plugging his ear bud in his left ear while the other was in his two fingers.

"Shall we update Haru and Mizuchi on what we're doing?"

...

Meanwhile, Cherryton was not faring any better.

Aoba sighed as he walked along the corridors of the dorm, noticing how most of the carnivores have damaged the walls with their claws, excessive fur or scales from fighting, and even talking openly about the Black Market.

It made him sick to the gizzards to know that this segregation was to put safety for both the carnivores and herbivores. But it's damaging the students more than they realised. Which was why the drama club and to a certain extend, the gardening club are the only clubs with both herbivore and carnivore members.

He felt guilty leaving Arthur all alone despite the Honduran white bat assuring him that he would be fine. The bald eagle clicked his beak, thinking about how Arthur used to be a nervous little cottonball when they first met.

'Technically, I saw him first since he can't see,' he thought to himself with amusement. He had to admit that while the little Chiroptera was still nervous, he was the bravest beast he had ever met. He will do his best to keep everyone at Cherryton safe while his little friend is off hunting for a monster that could literally kill him.

"Hey," a voice called out, making the bald eagle's breath hitched. He looked out of the window and saw a familiar figure hanging upside down on a thick branch. 

"Hi, Kalliste," Aoba greeted the flying fox, whose ears perked up. It made him avert his eyes, not wanting her to see him blush. She reminded him of Arthur, not because they were both bats. "Aren't you going to your dorm?"

The Livingston flying fox shook her head. "I'm going to the gardening club via the tree route. Do you want to join me? It's a lot peaceful at night to getaway from it all or study without hearing other students."

When she extended her wing, Aoba was slightly intimidated at how it could stretch between the window and the tree. Trying to stop his heard from beating rapidly at the thought of going to the gardening club, let alone with a cute flying fox was all too much.

"Sure," the bald eagle took her wing gently. "Lead the way."

Not long before the both of them could set foot onto the roof, they heard laughter. It sounded familiar. When Aoba scanned the area to find the source of the sound, he gasped, followed by Kalliste who let out an audible 'oh'.

"Well," the sultry voice of Pina turned about, the light from his laptop was barely covered by his frame. "You do know it is rude to interrupt when two beasts are chatting for the rest of the night. We were about to-"

"Pina, it's two in the afternoon on my end," the figure from the screen hissed, a hint of amusement was in his tone.

Chapter Text

Chapter 86

Aoba simply rolled his eyes, leaving Pina to resume his late night chat. All he could think about was how the flying fox in front of him was listening to the flowers much like Arthurs. He chuckled at the thought of those two being long-lost siblings despite the species.

"Can you see well in the dark?"

The bald eagle blinked, a small smile was formed on his beak. Her eyes were like the round amber orbs while she was facing him. He nodded, gesturing her to talk near the toolshed. After Haru left, Arthur does his best to make the club warm and welcoming for both herbivores and carnivores.

"Is there anything that you need for the gardening club? I help Arthur sometimes despite being from the drama club."

Kalliste shook her head. She pointed to a few plants, her ears perked up, probably listening to the plant-lingo that he accepted most bats have. It never ceased to amaze him of the Chiropteras' abilities. They are like birds but more furry and have sharper hearing.

"I don't like the new rules," said Kalliste glumly. "Everyone's scared of each other and carnivores are talking about the Black Market freely, as if our herbivore friends don't even exist. Aoba, why is this happening? Did we do something wrong?"

The bald eagle shook his head, spreading his wings slightly to comfort her. He ruffled his feathers when the flying fox buried her face into his chest. "No, Kalliste. We're just animals going about our daily lives. Everything outside the school is so scared that they managed to climbed over to the school walls. I bet all schools across the world might experience this."

There was silence except the humming of insects in the garden and the distant chatting of Pina with his long-distance call. He noticed Kalliste's ears perked up, probably hearing the flowers. With the new changes happening at Cherryton, Aoba knew both the drama and gardening club need each other's support. 

'That way you can to be close to the flying fox,' the voice at the back of his head teased. He clicked his beak, snapping off those thoughts. Kalliste reminded him of Arthur, not because they're both bats. It was how much they both thought about things outside of the box.

"It sucks that I will have to wait another two years before I can even fly," the flying fox decided to change the subject. She stretched her wings, which were large enough to envelop him into a leathery cocoon if she wanted to. "I want to travel across the world to try all of the chocolates in the world."

"So you want to do something with chocolate?"

The flying fox nodded eagerly, telling him about all kinds of things she wanted to do with chocolate from crafting shapes to making the best drinks with them.

Aoba smiled, listening to her ramble. He loved the way she talks and describe things, which reminded him of Arthur. He hoped his fluffy friend was okay. The poor thing had been through so much since his exchanged to the school itself.

"Hey," Kalliste tugged his wing gently. He gazed into her eyes, noting how the both of them are almost the same height. Her ears drooped slightly before she pulled out a packet of Docky, a chocolate stick snack that was very popular. "Do you want some?"

She offered him one, to which he took gingerly. The both of them enjoyed the night in the gardening club, with Aoba sitting on the ground while Kalliste hung upside down on one of the planted trees. Aoba sighed, placing a wing tip across Kalliste's leathery one.

"I hope things get better. More importantly, I hope Arthur gets back!"

The bald eagle rubbed his wing over hers. He hoped his fluffy friend is safe and back in one piece. No matter what happened, Arthur proved to everyone that he's not as helpless as everyone had pegged him to be.

"Me too, Kalliste," said Aoba, feeling their wings fold together in a grasp. "Me too."

...

Arthur covered his ears. The Shishigumi were arguing among themselves while he was riding on Legosi's shoulder. They were looking for the hideout of the Kopi Luwak gang. Louis was walking beside the grey wolf where his footsteps sounded unnatural due to the prosthetic while the shambling sound of Isaiah was at the rear.

'It's very hard to heard when there's a cacophony,' he thought to himself.  While listening, he thought about his relationship with Mizuchi, who voice messaged him about meeting up. Either for afternoon tea or dinner. Both of those options are nice and he had been telling her about his day and vice versa. He recalled a few words at Cherryton and from Genji that struck him, letting himself close his eyes.

'It's not going to work!'

'Life is going to be difficult if you two get together.'

'Your mutant kids are going to be a cautionary tale.'

"Are you okay, Arthur?" Legosi's deep growly voice interrupted his thoughts. He felt the gentle touches from the grey wolf's claw. "My shoulder feels wet."

"Oh, I'm alright," Arthur assured him, dabbing his eyes with a wing. He hoped that his smile was convincing enough despite knowing deep down that his expressions are just obvious. "Don't worry about me, Legosi. We have to focus on Melon, right?"

He had a feeling that Legosi wanted to say something just by feeling the grey wolf's ears droop. Arthur prayed that no one saw his tears. The only downside of his blindness was the inability to cover up just to assure everyone that he was and WILL be okay.

When they arrived at the so called hideout, his ears picked up a few clicks from above. He lifted his head so that he was at the direction of the multiple sounds. He moved his mouth silently to send his warning.

"Woah, so this is the bat from the news!" one of the voices squeaked.

"And he's wearing the band! He's one of them!"

"I wonder what's the boss going to do with him?"

"Do you think he follows the Zotz Trial?"

The Honduran white bat only tilted his head. He had to be on guard since this wasn't the first time he had dealt with Vampyrums in his life. Their relationship with him were a lot deeper than the same category they were labelled in.

"Welcome, Shishigumi and guests. I've been expecting you," a voice that reminded him of a small cat greeted them with a purr. "My name is Deshico. I think we both know what is at stake."

"We need your info about Melon," he heard Louis demand in a steady tone. "There is no one except your organisation that specialises in knowing hybrids and mixed-species couple."

Arthur could imagine the boss nodding his head with a smile. His ears picked up on whispers from the vampire bats, talking about a Komodo dragon. He hoped they were not referring to Isaiah, who was talking with Agata about something.

"As you know," Deshico continued, walking across what he assumed the wooden sound to be a table. "Mixed-species are a sin to society. Not only are they ostracised, these creatures will struggle in their identity. Some say they are a herbivore when really their exterior is a carnivore's."

Instinctively, Arthur climbed onto Legosi's head to face where Deshico's voice was. He could've sworn that he could hear him smile.

"Ah, the blind bat. I have been expecting you the most! Please, leave your friends and follow me."

Arthur jumped off so that he could glide onto the table. He hoped the others at Cherryton are okay from all of this.

More importantly, he hoped Mizuchi is okay.

Chapter Text

Chapter 87

Mizuchi furrowed her eyes with worry as she read the text Arthur sent her. His messages were usually speech-to-text when it came to messaging her while hers to him were vice versa. Despite being in his final year, Arthur SOMEHOW managed to get himself into trouble that might cost him his life.

"I hope you be careful," she read the warning she texted for him before clicking 'send'. Her university life has been alright aside from the mountain of assignments and requests from her clients. Then again, she was glad that she was away from her parents though she missed her siblings. She decided to scroll through Roaragram and Amazoo, trying to pass the time before her next class.

She paused at a particular post, which was the last photo she took with Arthur before her graduation. Smiling a sad smile, Mizuchi kissed the photo where the Honduran white bat was.

"Hey Mizuchi!" her high school friend, Riley called as she sat next to the harlequin rabbit during lunch. Unlike Cherryton, university seemed to be lenient with carnivores and herbivores sitting together. Riley was still pristine as ever despite the bags under her eyes.

"Riley! I'm just glad you're here. Everyone's acting too nice if you ask me," Mizuchi greeted her friend with a hug. The black cat tilted her head in confusion. Then again, the feline was always ready to lend a paw or ear for her friends.

"Well, at least it's not high school. At least we're in a diverse campus than the segregation that's been going on in other schools," Riley pointed out, but then quickly said, "not that there's anything wrong with that! I'm sure you missed some things at Cherryton and maybe we could visit it someday."

The harlequin merely nodded, checking her phone for anything that Arthur may hinted at her. Ever since graduation, she had to be cautious when talking to Arthur without any prying ears from her parents or nosy siblings. Still, her instincts as a rabbit had always meant to be on her guard no matter where she went.

Just then, a figure sat in front of her, creating a shadow over her phone. She glanced up to be greeted by a forced smile of a puma. She figured he was from the animation or graphic designer course. Straightening herself up, her green eyes greeted dark brown-almost black ones.

"Hey, what do you want?"

The puma was very twitchy in his movement. She had a feeling this carnivore was experiencing withdrawal symptoms from eating meat. Mizuchi wrinkled her nose in disgust but tried her damn best to not show it.

"I-I heard that you're good at mending and commissioning clothes. I was wondering if you could make a dress?"

Mizuchi arched a brow, covering her mouth with her hand. "Um...I might need to take your measurement though. The cafeteria isn't a private place to-"

"N-no! Not for me!" the puma blurted out, his face slightly red. Both Mizuchi and Riley giggled at his reaction. She reached for something in her pocket, her ears still perked up to listen.

"I'm just messing with you," Mizuchi assured him, handing him something in his paws. It happened to be mint-flavoured chewing gum. He gave her a quizzical look. The harlequin rabbit gave him a sympathetic smile, gesturing to the strip candy in his paws.

"I'll help with the commission if you chew this gum. No offence but your breath stinks."

While the Panthera was bowing a thanks to her, her phone buzzed to a rather scary message from her boyfriend. It said:

Digging  info about a crazy hybrid name Melon

Be on guard, Mizuchi!

I love you

Mizuchi placed her hand over her heart. She prayed that Arthur is safe but most importantly, alive enough for her to chew his ear off for venturing out into a dangerous world!

...

Arthur was sipping his cup of coffee that was freshly brewed by Deshico. He tried his best to not think about how it was made and why he could hear his carnivore friends breathing heavily. He himself was hanging upside down but keeping his distance from the vampire bats.

"It's delicious, isn't it?" the civet cat asked, hearing the curvature of his smile. His eighteen years of living had taught him how to detect whether someone was smiling or frowning. He tried his best to block most of the chittering chatters amongst the vampire bats.

"It's not tea but yes, it is rather nice," said Arthur, presenting his toothy grin to the direction of the voice below him. He could tell that Louis was probably thinking about something. He wanted nothing more than to get out of here so that he could go home to Cherryton, his family or even hear from Mizuchi again.

He covered his face with his wings to fix his face from making a grin that anyone except him could see. But a sharp tap from his back signalled him to unfurled his wings. Clearly, there must a reason for the palm civet to talk to him besides Louis about Melon.

"You are an interesting Chiroptera, Arthur," Deshico went on, hearing him walking across his desk. "Never in my years would I have heard of a bat that took part in the Day of Depravity as well as have the head of the Inarigumi settle down with your father! Not once have I have heard of a bat making so much fuss about in the news and be a music boy for that horrible hybrid. On top of that, you're blind."

Arthur's ears drooped, feeling firm fingers from below stroking his back. It was funny since the first time he had met with the red deer, he nearly broke two of his fingers on his wings. Now, that same hand was stroking his back to comfort him.

The Honduran white bat opened his mouth to check his surrounding. Whatever the carnivores were doing, he could hear them resisting the urge to retch out vomit or curse out something about finding beans in scat. He felt guilty to be singled out by the Kopi Luwak leader but it must be important if it meant getting close to exposing Melon.

"Now," the civet cat began. "I want to hear your side of the story about what you know about Melon, his interactions with you and in return, I will lend in on a secret. If you don't-"

"I understand," Arthur interrupted, nodding his head. He turned his head to the direction of the colony of vampire bats. "By Nocturna's heart you will hear a thing out of me. Just so you know, my blood is probably too infected for them to consume. Believe me, my own cousin forced me to drink that during that 'initiation'".

Arthur shuddered at the thought of an ugly memory fluttering into his ears. With that, he dropped down from the ceiling to land gracefully on the desk.

"Well, it all started at the train station..."

...

Deep in the heart of the Black Market, various groups were preparing for the next Day of Depravity. Last year, the four gangs had a fragile alliance where they would resolve peacefully with the blind bat and the former leader of the Shishigumi, who was a red deer.

But now, that alliance had been broken because of one common cause: Melon.

Seeing that monster could make any member of the four gangs tremble and they have heard of his treatment on the once prideful lions. For this night, Yafya was surveying the who view from above, a phone in his hand while another had a box.

He was spying on a particular hideout where he had a feeling that something had happened. Watching from above, the stallion's eyes fell at a scene below him.

Arthur's father was playing with his two hybrid daughters he had commingled with the head of the Inarigumi. All his life, he had never seen hybrids that are a perfect blend of a red fox and Honduran white bat. Wings and ears like their father while red fur with a face shaped like the mother.

All of the vixens were giggling and smiling at the two babies, which was a rare sight to behold.

Yafya sighed, wondering about something in the past. He read the message that was sent to his phone. It was cryptic but decipherable since it the messenger was none other than that blind bat. Something about gathering information about Melon and talking to another gang called the Kopi Luwak.

"How can a blind bat cause so much trouble?" he nickered to himself. When the father and twin hybrids went inside, he immediately dropped down the box at the doorstep. It was a little memento for 'borrowing' Arthur all this while.

The stallion immediately disappeared when he heard a very suggestive sound coming from the window of the hideout.

Chapter Text

Chapter 88

While Arthur was listening to Deshico's information, he couldn't help but eavesdropped a few chitter chatter amongst the vampire bats. They were still miffed about being beaten by a Komodo dragon so he assumed that Isaiah's presence brought back some unpleasant memories for them.

'Children of Zotz will have a hard time adjusting to the light,' Arthur thought to himself, smiling since ironically he couldn't see the light but could feel it. He felt a tug on his wing at the front. Deshico must've told Louis a secret because now he could hear the civet cat padding over to where he stood.

"Well, I believed your large carnivore friends are done fighting to wear off the effects," Deshico told him cheerfully. "Though I might recommend not getting close to them for a while. My coffee triggers their bloodthirsty instinct to devour you."

"As always," Arthur sighed, turning his head to where Louis was. "Louis, have we done enough? I believed you have all of the information about Melon."

"Arthur, you worked for him," the red deer Arthur imagined pointed out. "Surely you know bits about him that we don't know. Unless you have something to hide from us."

He turned his head to the sound of Louis' voice. How dare he accused him of hiding anything!

"I wouldn't hide anything. Even if I did, you can easily sniff it out! All I know is that Melon is starving the Shishigumi by feeding them melons without a drop of blood. Of course, it is ironic coming from me, who will vomit at the scent itself but I think it's torture to let a pride of lions becoming a shell of their former shelves. I can't believed that I'm saying this...."

Arthur imagined Louis would either be smiling or remained as stoic as he was.

"Well, I think you have all of the information you need," Deshico commented, hearing him taking a sip of his drink. Arthur's fur immediately fluffed up, sensing something. "Tell me, Arthur.....Do you have someone special in your life?"

Arthur smiled and nodded. "Of course! Though it wouldn't be something I would talk about with a group that does not approve of inter-species relationship. As much as it is fascinating to know more about hybrids, I think I want to make my argument."

He could hear a swarm of chitters and protests above him. Clearly, none of them were expecting him to argue with their boss. Arthur smiled, wondering if his transfer to Cherryton and the adventures he had gotten himself into was making him bolder.

"What kind of argument, bright-eyes?"

"Some hybrids from my old school can have a sense of taste despite their dual identities," Arthur explained, his wings gestured every word. To be honest, he was nervous so moving his wings could distract him from jittering. "They are omnivores just like us bats- Except for those that need a special diet like you or the flying foxes."

He could REALLY use a cup of tea at the moment!

Thankfully, Louis had called quits and scooped him gently in his arms. It was odd, considering the first time they had met, Louis had accused Arthur of murder and nearly crushed two of his fingers.

"So what are we going to do now?"

"Well, aren't we a team?" Louis asked, Arthur could detect his tone to be shaky but was masked by his determination. However, their carnivore friends were silent. Arthur opened his mouth to sense their postures.

Very jittery....

"We don't want to come near you until the effects of the coffee wears off," he heard Isaiah hissed through his mask. "If any of us come near you, there MIGHT be a chance that we may have the both of you as an appetiser and the main course."

Arthur wanted to launch himself to fly but was pulled back by Louis' strong grip. "It can't be! Agata, the Shishigumi, Isaiah and Legosi helped us. It would be rude if we don't bid them good night. Can we just do that for a bit before we go our separate ways?"

Arthur wasn't sure if he had the right expression to convince the red deer but he could feel him moving towards the salivating carnivores. His ears picked up the hissing sound of Isaiah's mask and the low rumbles from Agata's throat. Tentatively, he reached out his wing to pat their claws, feeling rough fur and pebbled scales in contact with his fingers.

"Please take care," said Arthur with a small smile. He wondered if it was possible to hear someone smiling but he could definitely sensed his carnivore compadres reciprocating his gesture. He was then pulled back by Louis.

"They'll be fine by tomorrow, Arthur," the red deer told him, placing him on his back. The Honduran white bat had his ears perked up while his mouth moved to use his clicks. "So, are you heading back to Cherryton?"

He shook his head. "No. I want to visit my mum and sisters. If you could throw me in the right direction, I might be able to fly at a short distance. I need to practice my flight skills anyways."

Louis scoffed. "Arthur, if I toss you, you're going to end up in some carnivore's jaws. As much as I don't want to admit it, you're growing on me. However, I still think you are the most revolting thing I have ever seen."

"And you are the same buck who can't decide whether you like carnivores or not."

"Touché, bug-eyes."

The Honduran white bat fluffed his fur in embarrassment. Before he was thrown, he gave Louis a small hug and wished he could hear from him again. Arthur flapped his wings as hard as he could while using his clicks to avoid any obstacles.

'This way, I can pass my flight test,' he thought excitedly before colliding with something silky and fluffy. Burying his face, he caught the scent of jasmine tea and a some sort of spice. Using his wings to trace the face of the figure, his two fingers caught the grainy surface of an eyepatch.

"Hi mum. I'm here."

...

Ten was surprised but glad that her fluffy son was here. She knew he had a lot to do because of his final year at Cherryton and heard about his outside responsibilities. There were rumours about him working with Melon, to which she had to confront him about it.

For now, she nuzzled her muzzling between her son's ear. Arthur was so much like Dr Kirk in terms of his mannerism. She was tempted to ask if he still talks with that rabbit he was dating. Despite the news of interspecies couples coming out in public, the red vixen wasn't so convinced.

She believed that the couples on the news were following a trend and once a trend dies down, so will the couples. 

"How have you been, mum?" Arthur asked, his cloudy blue eyes reflected the dim lights from the lamps. How Arthur could face her at her eye-level was still impressive. She ruffled his fur affectionately, giving him a kiss on the head.

"Tired as always, Arthur," said Ten with a yawn. "Your father stays over every night but leaves in the morning after we have breakfast together. I don't know how he does it but both you and him are good bats."

Arthur fluffed his fur in embarrassment. "Dad taught and helped me a lot since I was small. He told me to rage against the dying of the light. A poem my grandfather taught him and one day I can teach my sisters too."

Ten smiled a sad smile. Her daughters are small and yet she worries about them. From the whole fiasco with Melon, she feared for her daughters to face discrimination as hybrids. Yet, she was told by Dr Kirk that back at his old home, there were plenty of hybrids, whether herbivore-carnivore or carnivore-carnivore that gave her a bit of hope.

"Have you eaten anything, Arthur?"

"I just had coffee made by a civet cat but I'm okay! It tasted alright but my carnivore friends had urges after drinking," said Arthur in a nonchalant tone. This made the vixen raised a brow. She knew where her son could've consumed that sort of beverage.

"Are you still working for that psycho?" she asked, earning a sudden jumpy reaction out of the Honduran white bat. Arthur immediately wrapped his wings around himself, ears drooping down. Ten gathered him into her arms and rubbed her paw across his back.

"Arthur, I'm not angry," she told him gently. "I don't want you to get killed or worst. But you are the very same bat that came to my hideout during the Day of Depravity just to appease all four gangs without bloodshed."

"And you made me wear a dress," he reminded her, his eyes held a bit of mischief behind the cloudy veils. The both of them exchanged some laughs before Ten stroked his cheek affectionately. There was a pang of guilt from where she had struck him during their first encounter. But the Honduran white bat smiled at her direction.

"Is there anything I can do to help? I actually came because I want to make something for Mizuchi when I visit her at her university," Arthur explained bashfully. "I know she is busy but I messaged her to plan our meet-up and it would be rude of me to not make her a gift. She made me a comfy sweater that suits us bats..."

Ten guided him to the kitchen where other members of the Inarigumi were. Some were playing mahjong while some were sipping jasmine tea and eating the deep fried tofu in miso broth and seaweed flakes. 

"Hello, everyone!" Arthur greeted cheerfully, earning a few chatters from her vixens. They sat at the table where he ate a few fried tofus and drank his tea, insisting that he wanted to wash the dishes. Ten felt something in her chest when she watched her blind son smiling and helping out. 

'Kirk raised him well,' she thought to herself. If Arthur wanted her help, this will give the both of them the opportunity to bond as mother and son. As much as she wanted a wedding, a founded family of her gang and love for the bats had made her open a new chapter of her life.

Before she could take another bite of the tofu, she noticed Arthur's ears perked up and was facing at the direction of her room. "Mum, I think I hear my sisters crying. Can I visit them after I wash the dishes?"

"Of course you can!" Ten giggled, patting Arthur on the head. "Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need to familiarise yourself with the hideout."

With that, Arthur gently carried the dishes with one of her members guiding him from behind.

...

Mizuchi could hardly wait.

It has been so long since Arthur and her held each other after graduation. He voiced messaged her about his visit to the university and the harlequin rabbit was certain that she will be the one guiding him. It felt exciting since it would give her a new breath of air from her crazy university schedule.

She was thankful that her parents had not called her because of their busy life. It was selfish of her to think that way but ever since she met Arthur, she began to question herself about her life as a harlequin rabbit and her status among other herbivores.

Other herbivores were willing to give themselves up to be devoured when the time comes or live a life full of cautions. She was not going to be that with her dream of becoming a fashion designer and maybe one day travel around the world for a living.

"Hey, is that the white bat on the news?" one of the iguana students asked in disbelief. This made her leaped from her seat, rushing to meet her boyfriend before anyone else could get him.

"Wow, he sure is blind," she heard another commented. "How can he function without eyes? Does he have a girlfriend?"

"I wish I was blind so that I can have special abilities too!"

Mizuchi has had enough of all of these students talking in their little bubbles. She immediately rushed to where the Honduran white bat was, leaping into his wings for a hug. Arthur was shocked at first before wrapping his wings around her.

He was so soft and fluffy with a hint of coconut.

"It's been so long, Mizuchi," Arthur whispered, a tremble in his voice. Mizuchi wanted nothing more than to kiss him but they are in public. So it is best that they act as friends here while they could spend some time alone in her dorm room.

"I missed you too, Arthur," she murmured, petting his head. "Is it just me or are you looking older?"

"I don't know. I can hardly tell."

Mizuchi giggled and tugged his wing. She wanted to show him around campus and described the best she could about everything around them. Arthur, his beautiful cloudy blue eyes blinking but his ears were wiggling from every sound on campus.

"Oh, I almost forgot, Mizuchi!" Arthur halted in his step, fumbling with the backpack he had with him. He rummaged for something until his expression changed from worried to excitement. He took out a little box with a bow wrapped on top.

"Arthur..."

"Mizuchi," the Honduran white bat began, his voice quivering with excitement. "I thought of giving this to you. It's something I made and I hope you like it. It's not as expensive as other things but I had help to put it together."

Curiously, Mizuchi unwrapped the bow and opened the box. She gasped, holding out the gift for the curious students to see. It was a bracelet made out of pearls and a few colourful seashells. Placing it on her left wrist, it felt smooth against her fur.

"Arthur, it's beautiful!" Mizuchi hugged him, sneaking a small peck on his cheek when other students weren't looking. Of course, the blind bat was flustered to the tip of his ears. "I'm just glad you are here. Don't you have to go back to school?"

Arthur smiled, shaking his head. "Tomorrow is Saturday, isn't it? I was hoping to spend time with you and catch up before returning to my everyday routine on Monday. So I have all weekend, Mizuchi."

God, she wished she could kiss him right now!

Instead, she tugged his wing to guide him around campus. "In case if you are hungry, our cafeteria has a cafe with some pastries and tea. However, the melon buns and parfaits have been selling out lately."

Mizuchi wondered if it reminded her boyfriend of something because he suddenly stiffened up.

Chapter Text

Chapter 89

Aoba was concerned when he had heard of Bill getting a trauma egg when he wanted to make himself a cup of instant ramen. Most carnivores would've eaten that egg despite the chick that hatched out of it, a weird logic most carnivores made for themselves. For the bald eagle, it still felt wrong.

He was making his way to the gardening club, hoping they would have something to keep the egg warm. Thinking back to Bill, he was surprised that the Bengal tiger wanted to care for the egg since he had been to the Black Market before. But he was willing to help his friend out since Cherryton was not the same as it used to be.

The adults that he could rely on for now were his parents and Arthur's father. Dr Kirk was just as interesting as his son. No matter how much had happened, he was still cheerful and always lending his ears for support.

Without anyone knowing, he secretly asked him for some advice about parenting a newly-hatched chick despite him being a Chiroptera.

When he arrived at the gardening club, he was tackled by an unexpected figure. "Oooh! I got you this time! Although you're a bit heavy for me to knock you over. Could you pleeeasse fall over to pretend that I knocked you down?"

"Hello, Yuri," Aoba greeted the energetic pangolin bouncing on top of him as he laid down. He chuckled at how this herbivore was ready to take on the world if she was given an energy drink. She eventually got off of him so that he could stand up. "Are you the only one here?"

Yuri shook her head. "Nope! Kane is at the back checking on our herbs we are planning to sell to the cooking club and home economics class. Though a few Felidaes keep requesting us to grow more mints. Seriously, what is it with them and mints when there's a convenient store a few minutes away! So, what can I do for you?"

Aoba clicked his beak. "I'm looking for some lavender flowers to help me sleep. Other than that, maybe a few herbs to add to my cooking."

Yuri nodded before humming to herself as she gathered the required herbs. The gardening club was still standing strong despite the tensions spreading across the school. The drama club became a spot to study besides their club activities and was one of the clubs with interspecies members. "Aoba, are you sure you're not here for Kalliste?"

The bald eagle ruffled his feathers out of embarrassment. "W-what makes you say that?"

The pangolin came back with a cheeky grin. "She's been mooning about you. Her lips are sealed but I know the look of someone who's into a specific bird~"

Aoba cleared his throat, trying to shake off the blush that formed on his face. "I see..."

"Maybe we should change the name of our club to wanted-for-bat club since everyone's been asking for Arthur. First the drama club, then this dreamy hyena from a rock band called the Leftovers and-"

"Miguno? I wonder what does he want with Arthur?"

"Beats me! So, here's what you're looking for."

Eventually, he thanked the pangolin before heading out. Cherryton was acting strange with the whole Melon trend from greetings to even changes in the cafeteria's menu. Aoba placed his wing onto his chest to stop the hammering he was feeling.

"Oh, Arthur....What's going on? What's happening to us?"

...

Arthur was wobbly in his step as he walked alongside Mizuchi. His ears listened to her descriptions attentively while his mouth opened to give him an idea of his surroundings. It really irked him that the students were obsessed with melons lately.

'For the love of Nocturna,' Arthur thought to himself, wrapping his wings across his body. 'I hope Melon did not start a cult outside of the Black Market!'

Mizuchi continued to describe each part of the campus, the lecturers and the classes she attended. Arthur smiled, knowing that this university was a dream for anyone who wants to pursue anything creative or business from architecture, fashion, culinary arts, and even music.

He might apply to this university. Not because he wanted to get close to Mizuchi or anything!

"So Arthur, shall we continue our chat over coffee- Oh, I mean tea?" Mizuchi asked him, guiding him by holding onto his wing. He faced at the direction of her voice and nodded with a smile. No matter how much they have chatted over the phone, Arthur enjoyed listening to Mizuchi's voice in real life.

At the university's cafe, Arthur's ears picked up a few chitters from the orchids. He still couldn't understand what they were saying but it was a good distraction from the raining bullets of murmurs from other students.

"How's your matcha, Arthur?" asked Mizuchi, sipping on her mocha. Arthur clicked his tongue and said, "It's very nutty and it compliments our pastries of cinnamon rolls, does it not? The campus sounds lovely aside from a few herbivores talking about how their carnivore friends bit them. Is that a university thing?"

He could heard Mizuchi clinked her fork to slice her pastry before nibbling it slowly. He imagined her expression to be hesitant since the tensions between carnivores and herbivores were still wobbly despite being in a liberal environment such as a university.

"No, it's just that carnivores have been open about the Black Market," said Mizuchi, sipping her mocha. Arthur does the same with his tea, hoping that it will soothe his nerves. Not only was school a priority, but the whole situation with Melon could really make his brain short-circuit itself.

"That's horrible!" Arthur squeaked, his fur bristling. "I-I mean don't they know how tensed things are at the moment? How about you, Mizuchi? Are you alright?"

He felt her hand gently cupped his cheek over the table. The Honduran white bat closed his eyes, leaning into her touch. It still amazed him to this day on how he had started off with a scratch across his cheek and now the very same hand was comforting him.

"I'll be okay, Arthur. Besides, I've got Riley and Tanya."

He enclosed her hand with his large wing. As much as he wanted to kiss her at this moment, the both of them knew that a public place would draw a lot of attention. It would be the equivalent of performing on stage all alone again.

'But I won't be alone,' he reminded himself, trying to stop those thoughts from crawling back. "Even though I am not much of a fighter, I will protect you, Mizuchi. It's going to be a difficult one for me to tell you this..."

Thus, he told her everything. From the issue at the Black Market, Melon and how he was involved with all of this. During his explanation, the harlequin rabbit was silent. Arthur feared the worst but there was no turning back after this explanation.

"- Mizuchi, I understand if this is too much to take in," said Arthur, his voice was becoming soft. He will admit that he was afraid of losing her after delivering this bombshell. "I-I also have a feeling that-"

He felt a finger silenced him on the lips. "Arthur, I'm glad you told me all of this. I just can't believed that you have to face this all by yourself while trying to focus on school before graduation. Arthur...Whatever happens, I'm always here for you."

Arthur began to smile but then frowned. "Mizuchi, can I ask you something?"

"Sure. What's on your mind?"

I- Am I causing a strain in your relationship with your parents?"

There was silence except the soft murmurs from other students and the orchids. It was crossing the line to ask such a question but it is better late than never, right? He immediately wrapped his wings around his body like a cloak.

"Arthur...you are not straining my relationship with my parents. Of course I am a harlequin rabbit and will always be their daughter but if they can't see how happy I am with you, then they're blind!"

"It's just that I don't want them to put more pressure on you. With your classes and adulthood-"

"I don't need you to GIVE me this lecture," she snapped at him, causing Arthur to leaned back against his chair. Her voice caught a few attention, judging by the sounds. "I know what I am doing! I thought when I am in this university, I can be free. But nooooo, my mother just wants to control me from far! I..I...Arthur, don't you dare say that what we are doing is a mistake."

Arthur only nodded, wishing he would have more tea to calm his nerves. Not only that, he was feeling his eyes welled up with tears. Had he failed Mizuchi ever since her graduation?

She stamped her foot onto the floor, a trait he recognised when she was frustrated with something. Arthur wasn't sure if he should just let his ears listen or give her some comforting words. However, that moment was short-lived when his phone rang. He gave Mizuchi a nervous smile before answering the call. "Hello?"

"Arthur, are you available this Sunday?" the voice belonging to a certain red deer asked. Arthur blinked, as if that would've changed anything. Louis' voice sounded urgent as if he was being hunted. "Well, it depends. Why?"

"We need your blood."

Chapter Text

Chapter 90

Arthur's entire body was shaking with fear. Why would Legosi and Louis want his blood? It was bringing back a lot of memories pre-Cherryton to which he had repressed ever since he boarded the train and then plane to go with his father to where Cherryton was.

"Arthur?" Mizuchi's gentle voice broke him out of his train of thoughts. He turned his head to where her voice was. Opening his mouth to estimate the distance between them via his clicks, Arthur touched the harlequin's rabbit's cheek softly, feeling the smoothness of her glossy fur that was scented with mango conditioner under his two fingertips.

"I'm alright, Mizuchi," he assured her, guiding them to sit down on her bed. He had so much to tell her and this moment could make or break their relationship. "Louis called me on the phone, saying that they needed me at Legosi's apartment. I don't know if my hearing's getting weak but, they want my blood."

"I'm sorry but what?!" Mizuchi he imagined, blinked in disbelief. "Don't tell me that the former star of the drama club decided to start a blood cult!"

Arthur shook his head, his stomach was churning from fear. He gave her a summary of who Melon was and how he, Legosi and Louis were involved with the whole mess. Not only that, the tensions between carnivores and herbivores could suffer if the hybrid roamed the streets.

There was silence. Arthur's entire body bristled at the tension in the room. Should he leave? Will he be known as a traitor for briefly working with a homicidal maniac just to earn some pocket change? He was bracing himself for the worst until-

"I believe you, Arthur."

Arthur blinked, his wings slowly enveloped the harlequin rabbit into an embrace. He felt Mizuchi's arms wrapped around him, her head resting on top of his. He held her, careful not to crush her inside of his wings. "Thank you, Mizuchi. It means so much to me! I-I'm just so glad that I can tell you all of this."

Mizuchi only giggled. "I'm honoured that I get to hear about your adventures. University can be boring when it's all about workshops, assignments, etc. Arthur, no matter what happens, I'm always here for you, even if we are apart. You have your family, Aoba, everything! If this mission means this much to you, promise me that you will come back in one piece."

The Honduran white bat couldn't stop the tears from trickling down his cheek. He quickly wiped them, in case he might ruin Mizuchi's makeup. His lack of sight was frustrating in terms of judging whether or not someone had something on their face. Feeling her gentle hands on his face, Arthur knew what was happening.

"Mizuchi," Arthur murmured after their kiss. "Since I am needed elsewhere tomorrow, shall we spend this time with each other- I mean having a cup of tea? Me playing music for you to concentrate on your studies? Or-"

He was silenced with a deeper kiss from her, his fur was fluffed up to its maximum. The last thing his ears could hear was the rustling of clothes before his mind became hazy.

...

Arthur made his way to Legosi's apartment with a little guidance from his clicks. It felt sad that he had to cut his time with Mizuchi so abruptly because both the grey wolf and red deer needed his help. The worst thing was to let everyone down, something he wouldn't dare to do before he was even transferred to Cherryton.

Despite it all, Arthur would do anything to keep himself and those close to him safe. The night he spent with Mizuchi was something he wouldn't forget. In fact, dare he would say that the both of them created a special symphony only their ears could hear?

He blushed at the thought, not wanting his mind to be flooded with the memories. Her scent, the sounds they made, even the feeling of their furs together were enough to make Arthur shake his head. 'Since when have I become this sentimental?'

When he arrived, he could hear argument behind the door. He knew that Legosi and Louis have started without him, the latter getting all bothered about something the grey wolf had done. Straightening himself, he knocked on the front door insistently, hoping that it was loud enough for both animals to hear.

Opening his mouth, the Honduran white bat's clicks detected the broad shoulders of Legosi answering the door. He could imagined the wolf  greeting him with a nervous smile. "Hello, Legosi. I'm terribly sorry about being late. Are you and Louis finish with your silly squabble?"

"It's not silly when lives are at stake!" Louis pipped up irritably. "It's good of you to show up WHILE I WAS ALMOST DRAINED OF MY BLOOD."

Arthur winced at how the red deer's booming voice. As much as the both of them respected each other, he knew that Louis was the type that the Honduran white bat would not warm up to. It was not impossible, just very difficult.

"Well, I'm here, aren't I?" Arthur huffed, folding his wings. "Louis, I may not know you as well as Legosi, but I know you want this madness to end. Let the three of us work together to bring down Melon as carnivore, herbivore and omnivore. Like my dad would say: rage, rage against the dying of the light."

His speech was followed by silence. Was his phrase inappropriate? Those thoughts were short-lived when he felt Legosi sniffing at his back. It tickled him, causing the Honduran white bat to turn around. "Legosi, what are you doing? Do I smell horrid to you? I should have used the mango shower gel..."

"No! I didn't mean it like that," Legosi protested, his tone was very panicky. Arthur could imagined the said grey wolf holding his hands up. "I couldn't help but smell something on you. Were you...by any chance were you with Mizuchi?"

Arthur nodded, feeling flushed. "Yes, I was before Louis called for this. I'm just thankful that she understood my situation about Melon. Speaking of which, what ARE we exactly doing? Did someone die in here because the stench of-"

"That's exactly what we're doing," Louis interrupted him. His footsteps were different now that he had a prosthetic limb. It creaked every time Louis tried to take a step. "Legosi here is going to fight Melon (and hopefully NOT die) while he needs blood to show the other gangs that he too is participating in the all-out brawl. Do you remember the mission I sent you to a year ago when I was the Shishigumi's boss?"

How could Arthur not forget that moment? Not only did he encounter the four gangs but he also found allies amongst them. Agata, Isaiah, his new mother and some members of the Madaragumi. "So Legosi needs the three of our blood to represent our union as beasts from the three main chains. Other gangs have their own kind but us...just like my grandfather during the war."

The Honduran white bat could imagine both Legosi and Louis smiling at his direction. He presented a default smile, knowing he had to help if it meant keeping the peace. Bats will always be neutral during the war, however that wasn't the case with him now is it?

Reluctantly, Arthur agreed to have his blood drained where Louis does the procedure of finding his vein and inserting the needle. Arthur wanted to wriggle away but he was firm to the whole ordeal. Legosi only held him as gentle as he could.

'And to think I don't have to get my blood drained again,' Arthur thought with a shudder. His mind was getting woozy and although it wasn't painful, he couldn't imagined anyone doing this without fear.

"Don't think we need to worry about you being hot-blooded," Louis chuckled, making Arthur swivelled his ear. "If you are wondering whether or not Mizuchi and I had sex, then yes." He smiled when he imagined the silence to be their shocked expression.

Once it was done, Arthur spreads his wings out to balance his stance. "Legosi, I know you are going to face Melon but can I join you for the fight? I'm responsible for those gangs and him just as much as you."

He could tell that the grey wolf was hesitant but then sighed. "Okay, Arthur. Funny how you are helping me now when in the beginning, I helped you."

Just then, there was a knock on the door. Arthur nestled himself close to Legosi, praying that it wasn't the police. He could hear Louis approaching the door and asked, "Whose there?"

"Hello? Is Arthur in there?" a muffled voice asked from the other side. "I got a message from Aoba about something to do with an all-out brawl? You're here, Legosi?"

Nodding at Louis' direction, the sound of the door was unlocked and a single woosh was heard. Arthur felt a familiar scent and fur in contact with his. "Dad, what are you doing here?"

Dr Kirk chuckled. "I'm here to give you boys some much needed energy before the fight. I brought some cheese sandwiches, ice tea and banana milk. I hope you don't mind, Legosi."

"I-I don't mind! But my room is a little..." Legosi trailed off, embarrassed to say that his apartment was like a crime scene. But the older bat laughed. "Oh, come now. I've read and heard about what's going to happen so please get your strength and energy for what is about to come."

Arthur was touched. His father doesn't have to come all the way here but he had done that because it was in Dr Kirk's nature. Giving him a grateful hug, Arthur gesture Legosi to eat up since they have spent the whole day donating blood.

"Oh no, you are not going out until you finished that milk, young buck!" he heard Dr Kirk calling out to Louis, who was trying to make his way out. Arthur, despite not having the fighting skills, was ready to help Legosi in any way possible.

Even if it meant killing his former employer that hired him against his will.

Chapter Text

Chapter 91

Arthur's heart was hammering, drowning out the sound of the clamouring crowd from the Black Market. His ears picked up some information about how the gates to the Black Market were sealed shut so that the carnivores could sort out all of their dark desire away from civilisation.

'Sameer would have field day studying this,' he thought to himself with a smile. Despite feeling nervous, he had to think of something positive from this ordeal. Carnivores and herbivores will have peace; Legosi and him would have a better chance at not hiding their relationship with their rabbit lovers and...

He couldn't think of anything else!

His leaf-shaped nose caught a whiff of something burning. The smell was that of blood and other things that would make him throw up on the spot. Arthur held his breath, praying that he would not vomit while flying above Legosi.

Louis was suppose to head back to a conference while he and the grey wolf would be the ones to stop Melon's madness. Legosi was fast enough to bring the both of them to the centre while Arthur used his clicks and hearing to guide them to where Melon was.

"Alright, Arthur," Legosi's voice rumbled with pride. "Let's light up our torch to show the Black Market what we are made of." The Honduran white bat nodded, his ears drooped slightly. "Although, you MIGHT have to describe to me what's going on. My hearing can only imagine so much..."

Through all of the clamouring chaos, Arthur managed to hang upside down on one of the rooftops, while Legosi was below him with the lit up torch. He may be blind but he could feel the heat's intensity that could singe his fur off. Despite the scent of burning blood, Arthur held on to help his dear friend.

"To end this for both herbivore and carnivore," he vowed to himself as he helped fanned the flames with his wings. He felt his back straightening up, ears perked while mouth slightly opened to estimate his surroundings. "For us, Haru, our families and everything else in this world. Legosi, rage against the dying light!"

He could imagined Legosi smiling when he said, "Yeah, let's do that. Though, I can't really smell him now that the whole Black Market's caked with blood. How about you?"

Arthur's ears tried their best to sift through all of the sounds from carnivores screaming, crunching of bones from sharp teeth and-

His head immediately snapped at the sound of gunshot and a harsh cry that broke out. It sounded feline...

'No...please Nocturna, don't let it be someone I know!' Arthur guided Legosi as he flew into the sound's direction. 

Since he was a small animal, his pounding heart was enough to block out all of the sounds in the background. It was as if his own body was screaming at him to go to the source of the gunshot. Last time he had heard a similar sound was when Genji tried to make him temporarily deaf.

It never crossed his mind that he and that harlequin buck would never encounter each other again. It wasn't like in movies or stories where two enemies would face each other again for a final battle.

When he and Legosi arrived at the scene, Arthur's eyes widened with horror at what his ears picked up:

"MY HAND!!" a familiar voice yowled in pain. It was none other than Hanzo, the leader of the Madaragumi. Arthur wanted to vomit but he pushed those nauseating feelings aside to try his best to aid his friend.

"Get out of here, bat!" the leopard leader growled, Arthur imagined him clutching his wounded hand. The Honduran white bat placed a wing over Hanzo's shoulder. His ears picked up the light steps of something coming close. "That thing's a monster. Go before-"

Immediately he leaped out of the way, feeling the lower part of his body grazed by something sharp. If he was slow, his guts would be spilling out right about now. He doesn't need eyes to know that Melon was in front of him.

"Gotta say, you've lasted long," Melon tutted, Arthur imagining the hybrid to waggle a finger at his direction. "Whelp, this is our fight. You, me and that mangy mutt that's coming close right about...now!"

He doesn't have time to react but used all of his bat instincts to bring Melon down. Legosi may have the strength but Arthur's hearing had saved him from being swiped by Melon's deadly claws. Arthur does his best to smack Melon with both of his wings while he used his fangs to bite the hybrid on the snout.

"You DO know that I don't feel pain, right?" Melon sighed, swatting Arthur away like a mosquito. "This ain't your fight, bat. Hell, you're neither a carnivore nor a herbivore and yet, you got yourself involved with both."

Arthur said nothing, using his clicks to estimate his surroundings. They were somewhere at the centre with carnivores watching them. He hoped Agata was safe, the same goes for Isaiah and his family.

The Honduran white bat flailed his attacks on Melon while Legosi was trying to hold him down. Melon was the scariest animal he'd ever met through his eighteen years of life. When an animal has nothing to lose, they are the most dangerous to walk on this earth. Every injury on Melon's body was nothing more than a caress from a lover.

If he could actually know what that felt like.

Arthur tried not to sympathise with him, since that mistake had almost cost him his life in the past with an ex-family member of his. In such cases, would he ever forgive them for their heinous crimes? No.

All he could do now was take Melon down with Legosi if it meant preserving the coexistence of both herbivore and carnivore. Arthur was starting to experience a sense of déjà-vu the more he held onto Melon's horns for dear life. It reminded him of his first encountered with a bully back in Gryphon Cross where he almost died while doing the same thing.

Closing his eyes, Arthur sank his fangs into Melon's coarse fur, trying to hold back the bile that was rising to his throat. He hoped that Melon was weak enough for Legosi to give the finishing blow. Arthur squeaked when he was snatched away with full force, those claws crushing his insides like a lady's corset.

The Honduran white bat did not have time to react by flapping his wings. Being flung away can be dangerous if you're a small animal such as him. His heart may as well explode from the impact. However, the impact was broken by something or someone.

"Oh, I'm so sorry!" Arthur squeaked, trying to feel whoever caught him. "I-I didn't mean to knock you on impact. I will- oh..."

Oh was right because he felt long ears, whiskers twitched with irritation and a loud thump from a single foot. Arthur's face crinkled to a snarl, still mindful of his fangs despite his ears picking up the familiar figure that held him.

"Hello Arthur. My, my... Mizuchi's parents are definitely putting you on the blacklist now."

Chapter Text

Chapter 92

Arthur felt his body collided with the wall from the sudden force. It was too much to take in on how he had to help Legosi fight Melon, keep himself alive and now Genji was here in the seediest part of town where carnivores wouldn't hesitate to make a stew out of him!

"You ruined everything for me!" Genji screamed, his voice was a mixture of rage and spite. Arthur does his best to dodge the attacks, mindful of his ears and wings, since they are the most sensitive parts of his body. "First my dignity, then my family's fortune to pay off my sentences and now you went on with that doe I love?! I'll make sure you're dead, bug-eyed freak!"

It had been a while since he had last heard of the harlequin buck.

"But what are you even doing here?" Arthur demanded, mouth slightly open to detect his surroundings through clicks. There were a lot of sounds bombarding from all direction. It was hurting his ears and his head felt like splitting in half if this keeps up.

Genji only let out harsh cries as he barrelled into Arthur, forcing the Honduran white bat to spread his wings to break their impact. As much as he doesn't want to fight, Arthur doesn't have a choice since talking was not working. He was eighteen so if he were back at Gryphon Cross, he was at a legal age to be sent to jail for assaulting a herbivore. However, this fight could be the very thing that might end his life.

Letting out a rivalled harsh cry, Arthur thwacked his wings over Genji's face, enough to give himself a little space to escape. Although he had not passed his flying test just yet, he was getting the hang of flying and taking the currents from his surrounding.

"You flying rat!" Genji stamped his foot. "Come back down here and fight me like a real animal!" Arthur managed to hang himself upside down on an opened window from what his ears picked up to be an empty building. He shook his head as he faced down at the harlequin buck.

"Not until you tell me why are you here aside from trying to kill me," said Arthur with an edge in his tone. He knew it wasn't polite but he partially opened his mouth to reveal his fangs. He recalled what others at Cherryton called him as an insult but he doesn't seem to mind.

He might as well have a bit of fun through this damn chaos.

"Come closer then," Arthur taunted with a small toothy grin. The sudden rush of adrenaline he felt frightened and excited at the same time.  "I thought rabbits are tougher than that when it comes to their possession."

This sets the bait as Genji tried to leap up to grab Arthur by any means. Using his clicks, the Honduran white back thwacked Genji with his wings as if he was a spring toy. If he was going to make him deaf or injured again, Arthur should at least give him a warning.

"You don't know who you're messing with!" shouted Genji and he could hear the rabbit gulping down something. Not thinking to much about it, Arthur was using his clicks to find safe spots to hang. However, that was short lived when something suddenly pulled him under mid-flight.

"I got you now," Genji laughed gleefully. Arthur lets out a screech as he batted away the rabbit's strong grip. He was surprised by how strong Genji was when Arthur tried to get away. He couldn't call for help since Melon's fight with Legosi had been the main focus for all the carnivores. "Now Arthur, let me show you what happens when a rabbit has the strength of a carnivore!"

As if it wasn't enough, Arthur felt his wing membranes tearing like a ship's sail. This wasn't like the encounter with the Shishigumi- this one was to ensure that he doesn't fly away. Arthur's tears dripped from the pure agonising pain as Genji's claws sliced through.

A downed bat is a dead bat.

With the last of his strength, Arthur clamped his front fangs into Genji's neck. This caused the harlequin buck to let out a high-pitched squeak. He knew this wasn't going to end well for the both of them. Carnivores were bound to come over. "Genji, you are going get both of us kill, you bloody tosspot!"

The scent of blood....

The symphony of screams....

This was the music of the night!

...

Arthur was dazed from the whole impact. He remembered biting Genji and hearing everything at once before he was knocked out. If there was one regret he would take from this, it would be not going to the gym to train for basic fights. His ears picked up the slow beeping sound of a monitor. He tried to move his wings but was horrified when he felt breezes through the torn membranes. A lot of questions stirred 

Who carried him to the hospital?

"Hey, you're finally awake," a voice murmured across where he laid. Using his clicks, Arthur could make out the shape of a large carnivore from across the room. Recognising the voice, he smiled. "Agata? Is that you?"

"My voice is that easy to tell, huh?" he chuckled, hearing the lion's footsteps coming coming over to his bedside. Arthur could imagine him blinking as he kneeled down to get to his level. "So Agata, what happened?"

So Agata told him about how Melon was defeated and put behind bars after the whole fight. The Black Market was now demolished, causing carnivore residents to go into hiding while a few decided to come into the light and find a better way to control their primal instincts. As for Genji, a few carnivores and herbivores caught the scene through their phones, thus putting an end to Genji by sending him to an institution to be rehabilitated.He also mentioned how there were rumours of eating marine animal meat to pacify their taste for blood. However the idea was shut down due to how that was not in the nature of the beasts on land.

"From my old hometown, we do have marine animals selling marine animal flesh because we accepted their belief of the circle of life. So, what about you? Where will you and the Shishigumi go?"

"We will be working for Louis," Agata told him proudly before letting out a sigh. "Although he was questioning our intentions, we'll show him that we will do our best. Us lions are proud after all and it's good to have him back as our boss in some way."

"You sound hesitant at the last bit," Arthur pointed out. He imagined Agata smiling just by the silence between them. "Not many would accept us since we were the Shishigumi, or what was left of it."

Arthur gently placed a tattered wing over Agata's large paw. "What is better - to be born good, or to overcome your evil nature through great effort?"

"When did you become a philosopher?" the Congo lion laughed, making Arthur join in to ease the pain he was experiencing. The Black Market being demolished, Genji locked away and Arthur might as well get his flying licence revoked.

Speaking of which, he hoped everyone at the former Black Market were okay. It may be a crime alley but it was also the livelihood of carnivores who made that place their home. "Nocturna be with them," he whispered quietly as he wrapped his wing around himself.

It was painful when it was all tattered and ripped like an old umbrella.

Just then there was a knock on the door. Arthur's ears perked up as he recognised whose footsteps they belonged to. It was confirmed when he was captured into a large hug in a comfort of feathers and soft fur that smelled of frangipani.

"Mizuchi...Aoba...you're here..."

Chapter Text

Chapter 93

Although Arthur was glad that the whole issue with Melon was over, he had a nagging feeling that there will be something bigger just lurking around the corner. He couldn't tell when or why, but he just had that feeling.

Besides, how else was he supposed to entertain himself in his hospital ward?

His visitors consisted of his family, his Cherryton friends, a few gang members and Mizuchi. But the frequent visitor was none other than the grey wolf, Legosi. When Arthur felt his friend's face, he was shocked to find his right ear missing from an explosion and a few more scars. "You're starting to feel like an art sculpture full of scars."

"My body has been chiselled by all of my experiences," said Legosi with a sigh. "I didn't even know until Louis brought it up. How about you, Arthur? I remembered you getting a scratch on the face on your first day at Cherryton and now..."

Arthur smiled, reaching out a tattered wing to the grey wolf's arm. "I know. Dad did say that life is like a box of chocolates. Apparently, I'm getting the ones with weird ganaches that aren't my cup of tea. Speaking of which, have you eaten anything yet?"

There was silence until Legosi hastily said, "Y-yeah! Sorry, I forgot you're blind! I mean-"

Arthur laughed, causing Legosi's worries to fade as he joined in. It was nice to have someone to talk to since everyone else would be at work or school. Legosi not only was a Cherryton dropout, he was also in a relationship with a rabbit. Lately, both him and Haru have officially declared their relationship official.

"About time, Legosi," said Arthur as he was feeling for the mug. Legosi gently pushed it into his wings. He could imagine the grey wolf's ears perked up while his tail was wagging rapidly. "Yeah, she keeps surprising me everyday. I guess that's what I love about her: she keeps surprising me."

'Have I surprised Mizuchi?' Arthur asked himself, folding his wings around himself. He hoped that his grades were enough to graduate. As much as he was terrified of adulthood, being stuck in Cherryton to repeat all of his subjects with complete strangers would be a nightmare!

His ears flickered back and forth to alternate between listening to Legosi's story and the background noise. Since he was blind, his sense of hearing was able to pick up the small ants climbing up the wall. In the meantime, he continued to talk to Legosi about Melon, how there might be a way for him to get out of prison.

"We'll be here to finish where we left off," he growled at the hybrid's name. Arthur immediately reached out a wing to lay it gently on Legosi's arm. It was bristled and rough from the battle and yet, it was also soft from something. Probably Haru's influence...

"Legosi, are you free in a month's time?"

He could feel the wolf's shoulders raised in a shrug. "I don't know. Why?"

"Would you and Haru like to come to my dad's wedding? After this whole Black Market war, my dad thinks that he and my mum should have a proper wedding. A private one here while the other would be back in the old country."

He heard the grey wolf whined in response. "Old country? You mean where you used to grow up? Gryphon Cross?"

Arthur nodded, a small sad smile was etched upon his face.

...

He had visitors from Cherryton, mostly from his gardening club and the drama club. It was funny how these two clubs were reluctant to meet him in the beginning of his Cherryton journey and now, here they are wanting him to come back.

"Cherryton's too quiet without your music," said Els, who sat on his left. She, Bill, Aoba and Pina were the ones to visit him. As for the gardening club, Kalliste the flying fox and Tulio the hyacinth macaw filled in on the club's updates. Arthur listened to all of them attentively. He was only trying to squash down the uneasy feeling about what was yet to come.

He felt a gently wing wrapped around his shoulder. 

"Are you okay, Arthur?" asked Aoba with such concern. He gave the bald eagle an assuring smile, trying to also convince himself that things will be okay. However, it seemed like Bill knew what he thought of as he said, "Hey, we kinda brought some instruments here. Thought you might need some comfort after all that shit."

"Bill!"

Arthur leaned forward and tapped the tiger's clawed hand. "Thank you, Bill. You don't know HOW much I've wanted my instruments because I don't want to eavesdrop on the nurses' gossiping outside or the ants climbing up the walls." He closed his eyes before opening them again, trying to steady the anxious feeling in his chest.

"Does that mean you're going to play a song?" asked Kalliste. His ears picked up the flying fox hanging upside down on the ceiling. His fingers traced the instruments that were gently placed on the side table of the hospital bed. 

It was a flat electric keyboard.

"Whose idea was it to bring a keyboard? Isn't it heavy?"

"Not heavy," Pina told him smoothly. "If it means hearing you play again, then it is worth it. We really missed you, little fluffball. Besides, I have something to tell you once you are done."

He may be blind but he wondered whether or not his cheeks were becoming red with embarrassment. Or was it pink? Colours will always confuse Arthur until the day he dies. With trembling fingers, he began to trace the smooth keys.

"Is the door closed?" Arthur asked, still holding onto the keyboard. Despite his adventures, he was still shy at having a large unknown audience. Giving him a signal, he began to play the song that most of the students would recognised from a famous show.

"I remember this show!" Bill gushed as Arthur played the song with such focus. Some were even humming the lyrics. As for the Honduran white bat himself, he felt a tear slowly trickling down the more he played.

No matter how many times life had thrown obstacles at his way, he will rage on.

Once he was done, everyone in the hospital room clapped. Arthur's heart swelled, knowing that his music could bring animals from all walks of life together. Even the nurses were there, he could hear their hushed gossips near the doorway. He felt Aoba rubbing his back as his way of saying that he was proud of him. His ears immediately picked up the carefree footsteps of Pina the Dall sheep, whose mouth was very close to his ear.

"What was it that you wanted to tell me?"

"Besides the fact that your friend Sameer and I have been...closer than you think, someone handed me this note to you. It's in those weird dots that you do for your reading and typing, Arthur. I don't think I know who it was but I'm pretty sure he's not from our school."

Arthur reluctantly took the nook from Pina's hand and began to trace the dots. It wasn't in braille but in morse code. It stated:

..-. .. -. -..   --.

Chapter Text

Chapter 94

"Find 'G'? What does that even mean?" asked Aoba, whose talon steps were clicking the cool floor of the hospital room. Arthur was also trying to figure out who sent the note, since Pina mentioned that the sender was not from their school.

"Maybe it's a typo?" Arthur suggested, stretching out his wings. "I can imagine someone was trying to type 'Find Me' but instead they accidentally wrote 'Find G' since there's a fine line between the alphabets in morse code."

He could imagine the bald eagle nodding his head absentmindedly. He had a few ideas who the sender might be. However, he couldn't do anything when hospitalised so he decided to discuss with Aoba about their flight test and what they might do after graduation.

"I am applying to three universities that deals with criminology. The whole events transpiring the black market and then you really made me think about doing something similar to a spy. Yeah, maybe something like a sky marshal, that way I can look like a regular but I'm actually spying in the sky."

Arthur smiled to himself. That does sound like a job Aoba could do since he does love flying. Back to the mysterious note, he might need some help and he knew who to called. While Aoba was doing a bit of revision for their exams, Arthur voice commanded his phone to call a number.

"Hello, son. What can I do for you?" the voice on the other end answered. Arthur's ears perked up at the sound of the warmth voice that reminded him of warm pasta he would eat during the cold winter nights while a show on the tele would play in the background.

"Hi dad, I hope I'm not interrupting any of your breakthroughs-"

"Nonsense!" his father laughed. "Now, what can I do for you?" So Arthur explained to him about his friends' visits and how he received a morse code note by an unknown sender. He gave his theory about how the last word was a typo and it was from someone outside of Cherryton.

There was silence on the other end until his father spoke up. "Son, do you think it is one of your friends you made from the Black Market. Like that Agata boy or the Ishmael guy. Was it Ishmael or..."

"Isaiah, dad," Arthur corrected him with a smile, "but I don't think so. Agata and Isaiah are more descriptive with their words and they usually send me voice messages. It can't be Sameer because he's all the way in Camden or Luxor. Maybe it's- no, I don't think so..."

He fell silent, the cogs in his brain was turning at suspecting who could have sent the mistyped morse code.If he were to visit this suspect, he MAY need some backup. With that, he gave thanks to his father and ended the call. He turned his head to Aoba's direction.

"Aoba, how would you like to practice flying with me?"

...

"Arthur, I have a feeling that we're going to be arrested for flying without a proper licence," Aoba whispered as he and the blind Honduran white bat flew through the night. The both of them were heading toward a prison where Melon was. The bald eagle couldn't understand why would his friend want to see that psycho after everything he had done.

"Hope you don't mind me flying under you," Arthur called from below. "It's easier for me to know where you are and it blocks out a few sounds in the air."

A part of him was hurt that Arthur had not told him about working for Melon just to get a bit of money, but another part figured that there was a reason for that. 'No matter what happens, I'll always fly beside you, Arthur. I've never met anyone as special as you.'

"So, what are we going to do when we reach there?" Aoba asked, keeping his wings steady to steer the both of them to a nearby building.

"Ask Melon if he knows how to read morse code and if the message's not from him, then we go back. Aoba, you must think that I'm the nuttiest animal in this world going for this little mission and dragging you along with-"

"I don't mind," Aoba cuts him off gently. "I'm pretty sure that this won't happen once we've graduated. We'd be deep in our jobs and probably new priorities along the horizon. Who knows, Arthur, we might be...different if we meet each other years later."

The flight became quiet and Aoba wondered if the blind bat was listening to all of the sounds below them. He lets out a small screech to signal Arthur that they were close to the prison. While Arthur had not said a word, Aoba told the two police officers that were on duty, a zebra and a sun bear.

"You...you want to see Melon?" the sun bear asked, clearly not convinced. Arthur finally nodded, his cloudy blue eyes facing up at the large carnivore. "Yes, for thirty minutes about something trivial. If we're not out by then, feel free to drag us out."

Reluctantly, the two officers escorted them down to the cells  where the most dangerous criminals reside. They were guided into an elevator, where they reached B for the basement.  Aoba loomed his body over Arthur's smaller frame, his attempt to shield him from carnivores that peered out of their cells at the sight of the Honduran white bat. But Arthur's back was straight while his ears pricked at the sounds.

"Enjoy your visit," the zebra tipped her hat before riding the elevator back upstairs. The sun bear leaned over between both the bat and eagle. "Before I let you in, I must address a few safety protocols that all visitors must follow with max-security prisoners: Stay at least a foot back from the prison bars. If you have any pens, pencils, or paperclips, turn them in here." Aoba searched his pockets. All he had was his wallet and phone.

"Are we allowed to bring these?" Aoba held out his phone. The sun bear nodded. "Yes." he replied, before pointing down the hallway.

"He's the last cell on the left. Good luck." With that, both of the Cherryton students were left alone with the hybrid that caused chaos from the Black Market and almost had followers from the whole country. Unlike Aoba, Arthur walked forward, wings slightly spread out to prevent him from falling face-down.

"Well, well, I didn't expect you to visit me," the hybrid chuckled, getting up from his seat. Aoba noticed at the corner of his cell, there were stacks- literally stacks of letters in all shapes and colours! 'Does this guy have fans?' he wondered to himself.

"Hello Melon," Arthur greeted him politely. "You sound a bit cozy in there. Hope we weren't interrupting anything important."

"You're lucky that I just ate...not that I can taste anything," Melon muttered out the last sentence while maintaining his default smile. Since his eyes were squinted, Aoba understood why he could be seen as a herbivore if he were to go out in public. "So, what can I do for you? If you want a session with me, sorry but I'm out of the office. And no need to pull out a harmonica just because I'm in jail."

Arthur remained calmed, ears slightly twitching from the sounds while his cloudy blue eyes focused on Melon's predatory ones. He may be blind but his gaze was as if he was staring into your soul. "No, Melon. We want to know if you know how to read morse code?"

This shifted the hybrid's expression from indifferent to intrigue. Arthur pulled out a folded piece of paper to show the smattered dots. "Did you send me this?"

"Of course not. Do you really think I can send letters from prison when I'm put in the lowest part of the station?"

"You know there are ways, Melon."

"Obviously! Though I wouldn't be vague or not proofread what I wrote. Clearly, someone here was trying to send morse codes to you. Know anyone that can read this, mouse-brain?"

Aoba narrowed his eyes since there was a chance that Melon might be lying. However, Arthur's expression and the hunch of his body said otherwise. "Aoba, I think we might know who sent the note to Pina. We have to go back just to make sure." He turned his head to the hybrid. "Melon, did you know that lemons can enhance your taste buds? Then again, you are sour to begin with."

The bald eagle covered his beak to stifle his laugh as Melon tried to press his head out of his cell bar. "One day, I'm coming for you, bat! And that Bird Wonder next you..."

Arthur turned his head to Melon's direction with a toothy grin. "I'll look forward to see you then."

Chapter Text

Chapter 95

It didn't take long for the two to find Pina again. The Dall sheep was lounging outside at the school courtyard, taking in the warmth of the sun. He only opened his eyes when both Aoba and Arthur were casting a shadow over him.

"Oh? Is there something that you need from me?" Pina asked with a pleasant smile. Arthur partially opened his mouth to use his clicks. It seemed as though the Dall sheep was holding something in his hands. He decided not to ask about that but instead asked: "Pina, do you remember who sent you the note? If you could describe it to me, I might be able to pick out who it was."

Arthur imagined Pina's brows furrowed as he puts on a thoughtful expression. His ears picked up the steady breathing of Aoba, since he was on the bald eagle's shoulder. They waited for the answer until Pina spoke up.

"It was a grey field mouse. Cute little guy but I have a feeling he's old enough to be my father if I were a rodent. I didn't know you have fans outside of school, Arthur. Don't tell me you've been starting a ZooTube account."

The Honduran white bat laughed, couldn't imagined himself doing that without an aide or at least have some programmes that were speech-induced. Then again, he had listened to the news about braille keyboards being produced or special sound waves for the deaf.

"I don't know any field mice," he admitted, fur fluffing up. "Did he say where he's from?"

He could imagine Pina shaking his head. "No. Though, I now that I think about it, he does dressed up like a little butler. He left in a limo that looked like it belonged to a toy store. Now, only rich families have butlers."

Arthur smiled, knowing where this might lead to. He thanked Pina profusely, causing the Dall sheep to giggle. "It's a small matter, Arthur. Now if you two would excuse me, I have a cobra to talk to."

Both Arthur and Aoba don't have to question what Pina meant by that. In fact, Arthur might have a word with his old reptilian friend from Gryphon Cross at a later date.

...

Arthur's nose caught the scent of lilies and frangipanis in the garden. He was accompanied by someone he did not expect: Louis the red deer.

This happened when he told the new head of Horns Conglomerate about the mistyped morse code that was delivered to him. He was surprised that the red deer would be willing to decipher the message for him and track down the messenger.

After a few days, their search led them to the Harlequin Estate.

He listened to Louis' description of the estate while trying to block out unnecessary sounds like the raking of leaves or the garden shears trimming the hedges. 

Of course, flowers and trees have distinct sounds when they were being cut.

"You think Mizuchi's parents wanted to talk to me?" Arthur asked with wonder, mouth partially open to use his clicks. "Why couldn't they call me?"

"Do you think Mizuchi has given your number to her parents?" the red deer questioned, causing Arthur's fur to bristle. Of course not! Mizuchi's interaction with her parents were strained during their last encounter and the Honduran white bat wondered if he was the reason for their family's downfall.

He loves Mizuchi with all of his heart, but there are obstacles that can rival his battle with Melon at the Black Market.

When they reached the front door, a butler was waiting for them, just by the sound of his feet going pitter-patter on the marbled floor. As much as he was nervous, Arthur stood up straight with his ears perked up while his wings wrapped around himself like a cape.

"Ah, I shall inform the Master and Mistress of your arrival. Please follow me," said the butler, his footsteps echoed through the mansion. Arthur used his clicks to follow the sound of his rodent-like feet while Louis does his best to steer him into the right direction.

His ears picked up the sound of murmurs and excited chatters in some of the rooms, probably Mizuchi's siblings. He smiled, knowing that their long ears could pick up their footsteps before they could sit down.

When he was guided to sit on one of the sofas, his ears swivelled at the sounds of oncoming footsteps. Since all of them took their shoes off, the sounds were similar to wearing slippers inside the house.

"So, you got my message?" a feminine voice asked.

"I was able to decipher the message but there was a typo," Arthur replied smoothly. "It is quite a challenge to learn morse code the first time. I can teach you how to write properly if you like."

He could imagine the figure in front of him having either a shocked or blank expression. He couldn't tell what facial expressions were made unless he felt the face. But that's just asking for trouble!

"Hmmph! If you are so smart, why don't you stay away from my daughter," the voice sneered, causing Arthur to wrapped his wings tighter around himself. Beside him, he felt Louis tensed up. Before the red deer could say anything, the male voice spoke up.

"Sakai, don't you think you're being hard on the boy?" the voice, Mizuchi's father asked. He could tell that the harlequin buck was afraid to speak up. "After all, he-"

"Don't interrupt me when I am having a serious conversation, Mervis," Sakai snapped back at her husband. "Can you imagine what I have to hear every single day at work about how our daughter seemed to turn down every suitor we paired her up with?"

Arthur was about to say something but Louis held his shoulder, a signal for him to wait.

"Tell me what's so special about you, bat? You can barely see, have fangs that might as well drain her of her blood and on top of that, you're not even financially secured."

Arthur listened, clenching the two fingers on his right wing. "I don't have to be rich to be happy, Sakai. Yes, I am blind but I am clear about my path and what I choose. Instead of blaming me for what happened, try and understand from Mizuchi's point of view. You'd be surprise to find out what an amazing doe she is."

"The very idea," Sakai harrumphed as she stamped her foot to the ground. "And what are you going to do once you have graduated? Perform on the streets and barely making ends meet? A lot of artists die young and are broken before they could reach thirty."

There was silence except for the rolling sound of an incoming tea trolley. The bubbling sound of tea being poured while sandwiches and cakes were properly placed on the plates with matching cutleries. The sound alone made Arthur's stomach rumble, pleading him for his daily dose of tea.

"Sakai," Mervis spoke up tentatively. "Maybe it's-"

"I said don't interrupt me, Mervis."

The Honduran white bat only smiled, tapping Louis on the knee. "I don't know. But what I know is that life is unpredictable, even when you think you know everything. I thought that's something common rabbits are familiar with? A beast with a thousand enemies everyday and night?"

With that, Arthur finally sipped the hot brewing tea that was placed beside him.

Chapter Text

Chapter 96

"- and so, that was how I happened to survive," Arthur finished his story. He was busy recollecting some memories for Mizuchi's parents. Clearly, they both want to frisk him to see if he was worthy of their daughter's affection.

"Glad the Black Market has been demolished," said Mervis, nibbling on his watercress sandwich. "I must say, you-"

"So you are a starving artist and a delinquent," Sakai sneered, her paws gripping the delicate crockery to the point Arthur heard it rattle. "Mizuchi is way above your leagues and what do I hear? A poor musician that will never amount to anything! Honestly, she could do BETTER than to settle for a musician, let alone a blind one."

"Sakai-"

"If he DOES become successful, how long will he stay loyal to our girl? He can't be recycling the same songs, going on tours that separates them and most of all the fucking pills?!" Sakai demanded, the sound of her thumping foot echoed the room. "These musicians have floozies for all I know and what if he taints her just as he had done to her mind?"

"Now that's too far!" Louis called, feeling him standing up from his seat. "Arthur has proven himself from time to time that he is more than capable. Hell, he's more of a rare kind than whatever you claimed your species seems to be."

Arthur was torn between being touched by Louis' word or how Mizuchi's mother's words rang true. Was music really worth it even if it meant flying a difficult path? Should he just give up and focus on something stable such as physics or becoming a teacher?

"Well, you have something to say? Are you going to lead my daughter into poverty?" Sakai ventured, clinking the teaspoon against her cup. He felt his ears droop at the thought of the future. Was he really going to ruin his life, let alone dragging Mizuchi down with him?

His ears drooped as he faced the shrill harlequin doe. Arthur's ears were ringing from her words but he narrowed his eyes. "My career is not your concern. I hope you realise someday that ultra-wealth doesn't equal true happiness, as you like to think. But if you don't, that is your problem, not mine and not Mizuchi's. I wasn't born with a lucky ticket, but I didn't need to be to achieve my goals in life nor my status because of how I was raised. You can't change my path of life, Sakai. Only I can. And as long as Mizuchi's by my side, I don't see the point in changing it."

He sipped his cup of tea, relishing the blend's flavour with hints of honey dancing on his tongue. Arthur imagined the old rabbit couples were stunned by his words and Louis was on guard, just by how tense the red deer felt beside him.

"I think we are done here," Mervis pipped up with a nervous chuckle. "Arthur, Louis, thank you for coming but I need to discuss some things with my wife. Now-"

He winced when he heard a tight slap. "You DON'T get to decide when I will stop! As for you," Sakai growled. "Stay away from my daughter."

Arthur got up after setting down the expensive teacup. "Thank you for the talk and tea. Coming, Louis?" As he was led out, he turned his head back to the sounds of argument from both the harlequin parents.

"Sakai," Arthur called out, "I may not know what my face looks like or understand colours, but I bloody well know that I'm not blind in this situation."

That was his cue to leave.

...

He hasn't left the room for a week.

A week full of constant worries about his mistakes and how much he wants to graduate. It would give him a sense of relief and yet, the possibilities of what to come was endless. As much as he was so sure of himself, Sakai's words still rang true.

What if he couldn't provide a future for him and Mizuchi?

Despite the support from his family, he doesn't want to burden them with his problems now that they have his baby sisters and their whole career. He should be ready, right?

A knock suddenly made him jump from his seat. Arthur collected himself and took an empty glass to be pressed against the door to hear who was on the other side. "It's us, Arthur!" a cheery voice from Els made him sighed with relief.

Answering the door, his ears picked up the footsteps of Els, Aoba and Bill. He immediately made them tea and offered them a plate of jam biscuits. It was Bill who broke the veil of courtesy. 

"Where the HELL have you been, Arthur?" he demanded with a mouthful of biscuits. "Seven days and no letter, text or even a song from your window. What's going on?"

"Bill's right," Els told him gently, sipping her tea. "It's not like you to miss out on class or hanging out with us. Did something happen?"

Arthur smiled his sharp-tooth smile, but he knew he couldn't fool them since he was bad at lying. "I...I'm not sure..."

Before anything could happen, he felt his body being scooped up by Aoba. His feathers felt warm to the touch against his fluffy white fur. Turning his head upwards, he can't imagine what expression the bald eagle had unless he felt his face.

"What do you feel like playing?" Aoba asked, his voice tickled his ear. The Honduran white bat tilted his head in confusion. "Don't think, just play what your heart is saying."

"How the-"

"Shhh!" Els shushed the Bengal tiger as Arthur wobbled on unsteady feet to his electric keyboard. With that, he began to play a song that he had heard from one of the student's PC when they were playing a video game.

He fell in love with the song that reminded him so much of Mizuchi. He played the keys softly, earning a few gasps from his friends in his room.

Without knowing, he began to sing:

"I feel your breath upon my neck 

A soft caress as cold as death 

I didn't know you well back then 

I blame it all on luck and vain 

Your blood like wine

I wanted in 

But darling, get me drunk and make me feel."

He smiled a bit, letting his wings glide the keys of the keyboard as music took over. Arthur wasn't even too concern that someone opened the window to allow himself to play to his heart's content. 'Let them hear,' he thought to himself as he continued his slow melody.

"It's not my fault

I'm not to blame

 These ain't my sins

I broke my chains

 There's more to do

And I still want to live."

He could pick up the sounds of a few students that were walking about in the evening coming near to his window. Besides their murmurs, there were a few sounds coming from the trees and flowers in the breeze.

The night never felt so alive.

"Hey, doesn't that song sound familiar?" a student outside asked excitedly.

"Oh my god, I love this song! The game had the best Vampyrum to date!!" another squealed and swooned.

"He's back," a voice smiled. Arthur couldn't tell who it was but it never stopped him from playing and sing from his heart.

"I feel your breath upon my neck

A soft caress as cold as death

I feel your heart-beat in my soul 

 Our futures bound, our bodies know

 Your blood like wine, I wanted in 

 Oh darling get me drunk, invite me in."

He felt a pat on his back and outside from his window, the murmurs transformed into awes and gasps. It seems as though the students were quite familiar with this song. The Honduran white bat felt tears welling up from his eyes.

What's the point of wiping the tears when he can't tell that his eyes were blurry?

"It's not my fault I'm not to blame 

 Thesе ain't my sins 

 I broke my chains 

 There's morе to do If I can only live 

 I can't go yet 

 Don't let me die I'll never stop 

 Until I'm done 

 But just tonight maybe I'll rest in peace."

When he finished his song, for the very first time, Arthur began to sobbed until there was nothing except the warm embrace of his friends and the sounds of his ragged breath.

Chapter Text

Chapter 97

Five Years Later

Arthur was doing some warm ups on his keyboard before his very first gig. During his final year at Cherryton, he decided to take up Miguno's offer to join the rock band called the Leftovers to earn some income while dedicating himself to his full-time study at a prestigious Zimmer Music Academy that had the famous composer named Hans.

His instruments consist of his keyboard, violin and harmonica. The recorder was destroyed due to an unforeseen accident...

Even if he doesn't become a great composer, Arthur knew that inspiring others and bringing comfort through his teachings could spark something among the animals. It happened to his dad, who will never explore outer space but was happy with his decision as an astronomer and recently, a physics teacher.

Life was like a box of chocolates.

Miguno was a spotted hyena from Room 701 during his time at Cherryton. He was one of Lugosi's roommate besides Jack. It was funny since hyenas were more related to felines than canines unless the dorms don't bother to check.

Sipping his cup of tea, he was preparing himself to be on stay with his keyboard. Even though Miguno's groups were a rambunctious bunch, they were good animals. The Leftovers consist of Miguno on a lead guitar, Gar the jaguarundi on electric rhythm guitar, Mal the griffon vulture on drums and finally, Arch the Nile monitor on bass.

Arthur was still shy since he was fairly new while the band had been around since Miguno was a junior. Speaking of the spotted hyena, he came into the room from the sounds of his footsteps. "Hey, Arthur. Are you nervous about your first gig?"

"A little bit," said Arthur in a quiet tone. He had a lot to think about from his family, this life and Mizuchi. Mizuchi...he hoped she was doing well since they haven't spoken to each other after his graduation. Last time he had heard from her was her apprenticeship at a fashion company that was outside of the country. 

He could never been more proud of her.

During his performance on stage, Arthur had to play both his keyboard for the first act and his violin after the intermission. During breaks, he would drink his tea and nibble on a chocolate-orange biscuit in the studio. Sometimes, the griffon vulture named Mal would try to offer him his homemade brownies but he politely declined.

He doesn't want to be loopy just yet.

"A crowd out there, huh, Arthur?" Mal slurred his words, feeling the slumped sound of his body against an old sofa. The rest of the band were chilling out but this scavenger bird was clearly looming over him. "Come on, you've been with us for six months now. We're no strangers to you."

"I know," said Arthur, but he knew his words rang hollow. Remembering an advice Aoba had given him, he decided to do what he loved to do most. He took a seat on a stool near his keyboard.

Gently, he traced his two fingers along the keys from the white to the black. He may be blind but he knew which one was the Middle C and which could make a sharp sound. The Honduran white bat doesn't need to turn his head to know that the Leftovers were watching him in silence. The noise slowly drowned into silence as Arthur was hearing his own breathing.

He paused for a moment as he remembered the parting kiss between him and Mizuchi during his parents' wedding. That was the night she told him about her plan while he told her his. It was difficult to accept but if one does love someone, you would always be there for them, even if they were far away.

Arthur's lips began to tremble as he began to play the notes to the song. It was from a movie where a father lost his wife and children while trying to protect his only living son that was born just like him. It was very popular with the marine animals.

Tears streamed down his face as he played the opening notes. Although he had never missed a note, his mind was drifted elsewhere to his old friends at Gryphon Cross, his adventures at Cherryton and the harlequin rabbit that came into his life. These tears were just symptoms of the overwhelming love for her and he was proud to call her his lady.

As soon as he finished the song, everyone in the studio gathered around him as the blind Honduran white bat began to sob profusely with both of his wings over his face. He felt a gentle embrace from behind that was cool to the touch.

"Arthur, it's okay, we are here," Miguno whispered, patting his back. "Let it out."

His breathing was becoming ragged with each sob. He felt a paw stroking his ears while the scent of tobacco wafted the air. "It's true, Arthur," Gar the jaguarundi added. "You will meet her and your friends again. Don't know when but know that once you've met someone, they will always be in your memories. Heh, who knows... maybe you will go to Tahiti and have mangoes with them."

It was a weak attempt to cheer him up but Arthur laughed nonetheless while tears were still running down his face. He blinked to wipe away the tears and then straighten himself up. "Thanks, guys. I don't know why I'm crying. I'm such a silly sausage."

"Arthur, understand something," the deep voice of Arch the Nile monitor murmured. "You will always grow as time goes by, but here? You will always be you because you never lose your way no matter how much the world caves in."

This gave him a bit of hope as he hiccuped the last of his sobs. No matter what happens he do his best to NOT lose his way. Taking a few deep breaths, he chanted:

"Rage, rage against the dying of the light."

...

On the other side of the world, Mizuchi was rating a few of the of the outfits the models were wearing on the runway. The fashion show was held at a 5-star hotel that had both carnivores and herbivores as guests.

What made her love this hotel was that her Cherryton best friends, Riley and Tanya, were working there. Riley the black cat was handling things behind the bar while Tanya the raccoon was one of the hotel's concierge.

As much as she enjoyed the work life, she missed her sweet Honduran white bat.

They haven't talked to each other ever since she became an apprentice for famous herbivore clothed line, Furberry. She remembered the kissed they shared when they attended Arthur's parents' wedding. 

From the glitz and glamour, she loved all of the decorations and outfits everyone wore. It made her have some thoughts about their we- their week before going deep into their careers. If anything, she'd do anything to see his cute toothy grin and how he understands things that were different from the rest of them.

She missed him and how much he had made her happy.

"Oh, Arthur," she sighed to herself, wrapping both of her arms across her chest. "I wished you were here."

Just then, she received a message from the bellboy. Someone wanted to speak with her privately about something. Curious, she began to walk to the front door of the hotel with her heels click-clacking the cool floor.

When she saw who it was, her blood boiled.

"You..."

Chapter Text

Chapter 98

Mizuchi was fuming at the sight of the buck in front of her. Why now? Why, after all this time?!

Deciding to be civil, she invited him to the lobby's lounge where the fashion show was taking place. She ordered the both of them some Bloody Marys from Riley, who was the best at making the simplest drinks taste divine.

"You look well," Genji spoke up from the music. Through the flashing lights and the repetitive music that emphasised the models in the background, Genji was looking more like a predator than prey. Mizuchi's stick-up ears were already straining to their maximum points.

When a rabbit's ears were erected for the whole day, it was a sign of annoyance and distress.

"Could say the same for you," Mizuchi remarked, sipping her cocktail. She wished for a stronger drink but her job was on the line. Unlike the last time she had seen him, Genji now sports a pudge in his stomach, whiskers longer than a feline's and his fur slightly matted. Curiously, she asked, "What have you been up to?"

"Mostly e-learning design at local universities," he answered, leaning back in his seat. "I get a cubicle for myself and can just download any AI software to write things up for me. Easy peasy."

Mizuchi sipped more of her drink, knowing how far was this buck going to go. "And you're here because..."

Genji's ears straightened up, mirroring hers. "I...I wanted to apologise for everything at Cherryton. And for the little guy..."

"So, you came all this way to apologise," she concluded, causing Genji to nod his head. Another sip, she replied, "I don't forgive you."

It took Genji a few minutes to process what Mizuchi had said as his smile slowly disappeared. "What? What do you mean you 'don't forgive me'? I said I was sorry."

"Yeah, I don't forgive you," Mizuchi's tone was finale. 

"I feel guilty, came all this way and," Genji trailed off, his hands were gesturing wildly, "why couldn't you find it in your heart to forgive me? I did the community service, I left the bat alone and now you? All I want is forgiveness!"

The music was getting louder, the announcement for the next model was heard. Genji's expression was that of frustration and exasperation. She was so tempted to call for security but this was Genji.

She tapped her heeled foot once.

"Genji, no matter what kind of journey you went through or the self-help books you've been reading," Mizuchi began, ears already straining to stick up. "It's up to those that you've hurt to decide whether to forgive you or not. You've HAD your chance before we graduated from Cherryton but you didn't even bother. No,  I don't forgive you, but it doesn't mean that I shouldn't wish you good luck to whatever you decide in the future."

The brown and white harlequin buck lets out a snort as he stood up from his seat. He leaned over the table until his whiskers brushed her cheek. "You've changed, Mizuchi. Never would have thought that you'd be a frigid ice queen."

"I never would have thought that you'd be more predator than any carnivore I know," she remarked. Genji was ready to rebuke when a security guard, a brown bear loomed behind him. "Is this buck bothering you, ma'am?"

"No, he was just leaving."

Once Genji stormed out of the hotel, Mizuchi immediately wiped away the incoming tears that began to ran down her cheek. She doesn't need sympathy for now because she had her fashion show to take care of. 

With that, she decided to order herself a sour grapefruit juice with a side of spicy peanuts.

... 

A few weeks after that encounter with Genji, Mizuchi was sketching out some potential designs that reflected her rage and frustration. No matter how many times she had build a life for herself, the past with Genji and the nagging tongue of her mother's still lingered through invisible strings.

At some point, she does have her mother's stubbornness and her defiance.

Whenever she had clients, she pushed aside all of her thoughts to focus on her customers. They love her designs and she made sure that the budget was affordable so that both the rich and poor could buy her clothes. Most mothers love coming here because she could mend any type of material and create cute clothes for their babies.

Speaking of which, a customer who was a mother crocodile wheeled a stroller with four babies inside. The harlequin rabbit will still be afraid of carnivores but will never turn them away since they too deserve the best clothes in the world.

Plus, it will give her a bit of inspiration.

Nonetheless, she hoped one day she would meet Arthur again. They lost contact when they chose their career paths. That blind Honduran white bat ironically opened her eyes to possibilities she had never considered. 

She will not go gentle into that good night.

Speaking of which, Arthur's parents were her frequent customers because their bat-fox hybrid children were getting rambunctious as they grow. 

Once she had dealt with her remaining customers, she closed her shop for the day to take a stroll at the park. Night was considered a dangerous hour for herbivores but with the glowing streetlamp and the livelihood of those that thrived during the dark, how could Mizuchi refuse to let this go to waste?

As if the Divines had listened to her, she heard the gentle sounds of a violin being played. The melody reminded her of a slow waltz at a gala with the master of the house that held so many secrets and yet, was so simple to understand.

Making her way to a gathered crowd, she peered over the gaps between a white cat and a scarlet macaw. She covered her mouth to muffle her gasps when she saw who was playing the beautiful melody.

It was none other than Arthur, her sweet Arthur.

The song became a crescendo, letting Mizuchi get lost into the music as she imagined herself in a waltz with him. However instead of a Vampyrum that would lick her neck before sinking his fangs into her delicate fur, he would simply offer her tea and nuzzle her affectionately.

In fact, there were some moments when she imagined herself carrying him since bats have very lightweight bones compared to most animals.

When the song ended, everyone applauded and Mizuchi took that as a signal to weave herself out of the crowd and into the Honduran white bat's range of hearing. Without even saying a word, he turned his direction to where she stood and smiled.

"Mizuchi...you're here..."

Without caring that the whole crowd saw them, she threw her arms around his fluffy neck. Her heart leaped with joy when she felt those leathery orange wings wrapped around her frame, enveloping her in a cocoon-like embrace.

"I missed you," she murmured softly into his ear, causing him to let out a shaky breath. His leaf-shaped nose was pressed against her shoulder as he began to kiss her softly. "I-I missed you too, darling."

"Darling," she echoed those words carefully. No one had ever called her darling before and she loved the way it sounded in his voice. "Arthur, I've been thinking about you."

"Me too. There was never a moment where you hadn't crossed my mind," said Arthur with tears welling up in his cloudy blue eyes. His expression became serious. "Mizuchi, it's been so long. Would you like to walk with me and have some tea?"

She giggled, cupping his cheek in her hand. "I'd love to. Before we go, I have to ask you something..."

"Yes?"

Taking both of his wings in her hands, she asked, "Would you come with me to the wound ritual ceremony? It is a ritual where  carnivores and herbivores attend where the said carnivores had hurt them and gets a chance to purify their wounds."

Arthur's eyes widened. "Did I do something wrong? H-have I hurt you without knowing?"

Mizuchi laughed, bumping her pink nose with his leaf-shaped one. "Of course not, sweetie. But I have hurt you on your cheek when we first met. It would be the first time a herbivore will purify the wounds she has done on a carnivore."

It was Arthur's turn to laugh. "Mizuchi, that was years ago and I hardly felt it. But, if this is what you want, then let's go. It sounds like you are trying to propose me." 

The harlequin rabbit blushed, clutching her chest that was ready to have her heart burst out. "S-so what if I am? You'd rather I bend on a knee to-"

He silenced her with a kiss, his tongue teasing her lips slightly. "I wouldn't have any other way."

With that, the both of them shared a kiss that caused a few outrages in public.

Chapter Text

Epilogue

The whole crowd cheered as the host of the night announced the winner for the best actors and actresses for the famous action film, Minus One. Besides the acting, there were several awards for other things such as director, costume design and of course...

Music scores.

Arthur was hanging upside down on one of the rafters with other Chiropteras that were present. Although the ceiling was so high up, his ears could pick up all of the sounds from below. Whether it was the host introducing the nominated movies or the indistinct chatters of the celebrities in the audience.

Besides the gigs with The Leftovers, Arthur had enough qualification to apply for a job at the music academy and somehow, met a few famous composers for video games and movie soundtracks. Although he had contributed under the director's instructions, the Honduran white bat doesn't mind if he doesn't win.

So long as he makes good music that touches the soul and have enough to support his family, that was fine for him.

He clapped the loudest when he heard the announcement of tonight's winning actor of the night, his old classmate and member of the drama club, Bill the Bengal tiger.

When the event was over, he flew down to catch up with him. "Congratulations, Bill! How does it feel to finally win in front of the whole world?"

"Great!" Bill laughed boisterously, ruffling Arthur's fluffy white fur on top of his head. "You know I couldn't have done it without you. Remember when we were kidnapped at the Black Market back in Cherryton?"

Arthur smiled. "How could I forget? It was you who dragged me there after all." He could imagine Bill having an embarrassed expression with his fur bristled. He remembered their encounters with the Shishigumi and how they have become his allies over the years.

He had a few scars but none were quite as subtle as the one on his cheek.

Before he got married, Mizuchi had taken him to the wound ritual ceremony where he had water dabbed over his cheek where the harlequin rabbit had scratched him during their first encounter. Unlike carnivores who have harmed their first herbivore, Mizuchi was the first herbivore to ever harmed him since he moved to this country.

After dabbing his cheek, he felt her soft lips pressing him into a kiss, much to everyone's dismay. Their friends supported their relationship, with a few exceptions from his side of the family. Mizuchi's family had not take the news well.

Especially her mother.

Nonetheless, he and Mizuchi found a peaceful life with their career and newfound family. Of course, they have their friends and Arthur's parents as their support. How have things changed over the years.

Haru and Legosi were married, Louis was nod the head of Horns Conglomerate, Aoba was now a private investigator and was recently married to a member of his gardening club, Kalliste the flying fox. 

Rumour has it that they're expecting a child.

Besides that, Pina was now engaged to his childhood friend Sameer and living a life of comfort. Bill became an actor and had most of the members of the former drama club be part of his team, including Els.

As for Mizuchi's friends, both Riley and Tanya worked together at the hotel as both manager and bartender. They would often meet up with Mizuchi after the harlequin rabbit was done for the day.

Needless to say, he was happy with how his life had turned out. With his goodbyes, he took off into the night.

...

When he arrived home, he was tackled to the ground by two bundles of giggling fluffs. They smelled like fresh strawberries and cream, a popular shampoo used for small animals like himself.

"Daddy! Daddy! You're home!" the two bundles of joy were wriggling over him, giving him a few laughs from how ticklish they were. With a toothy grin, he began to scoop the both of them up in his wings and carried them around.

"How are my girls?" he asked, giving them nuzzles and kisses. Both of his daughters squealed in delight before they were set on the sofa with him. Before Arthur could spend some time listening to their day, he felt slender arms around him and a kiss was placed on his temple.

"Welcome home, honey," Mizuchi murmured, causing Arthur to turn his head to kiss her on the lips. Despite being on her toes with her work, both Mizuchi and Arthur found time to spend with their children and each other.

Of course, they also hired a maid to help clean and watch the children if they ever come home later.

"Oooh, they're kissing, Lillie!" his older daughter laughed. His youngest daughter made a gagging noise, causing both of the sisters to wrestle on the sofa. Arthur wrapped his wing around his wife, facing the direction at where their children were.

They had two daughters: Azura and Lillie. 

Azura was five-years-old and had most of the traits of a bat except for her cottontail and cute button nose that were clearly from her mother's side. From what Mizuchi described to him after her birth, she had the most beautiful striped colours of black and white. Also, her left eye was blue while her right eye was green.

Lillie on the other hand, just turned three and according to Mizuchi, had tortoiseshell-coloured fur with most of her rabbit traits and had her green eyes. Only difference was her tail, which was long and hairless like most bats. Whenever they go out, Mizuchi would always make her wear a tail garb that resembled a rabbit's cottontail.

Ever since their marriage, there were laws that allowed hybrid children to attend school but it was still a long way to go since carnivore-herbivore relationships were still heated debates to discuss about.

"Alright girls," Arthur began getting their attention. "If the both of you have taken your bath, you can come down for dessert. I'm making my berry trifle."

The word 'trifle' made both of the girls race upstairs to have their bath. Mizuchi giggled, causing Arthur to kiss her lovingly on the lips. "I love you, Mizuchi."

"And I love you," she murmured, cupping her hand on his cheek, "my Angel of Music."

This caused Arthur to fluffed up his fur in embarrassment. How was he so lucky to have met such a beautiful harlequin rabbit inside out? He may be blind but he knew for the fact that she was smiling. "Something on your mind, love?"

He doesn't need any clarification when Mizuchi started rubbing her chin against his head and then down his chest. Holding her close, Arthur gave her another kiss before he whispered, "When the both of them are asleep, darling."

"Daddy! Mommy!" Lillie's voice called from upstairs. Both of parents smiled, knowing that their daughters were up to something. Taking each other's hand/two fingers, they began to climb upstairs to check on them.

Oh yes, it was indeed a harmonious household.