Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Bittersweet,” “Yarrow is what I would say about our relationship.” Eline and Truther end up in a world, not of their own. They do feel out of place only because of their name. “They’re named after plants, spices, and herbs.” The werewolf spoke with a sigh. “My love, it is for a time being until we find our stones,” The monster said to his lover. “Anything to find that fucking stone, argh! This place is fuckin- eep!” The werewolf blushed red and looked at him, “No foul language unless you want to be fucked in the woods.” He said smirking a bit, she huffed and leans towards his neck, and gives small kisses, “I don’t mind unless it is absolutely necessary.” The monster chuckles “My little puppy is eager~” He cooed. “Call me puppy I'll end you right here and now.” She said to him. “Fine fine my love, I’ll do whatever you please. If it either humiliates me or uses me for your benefit. I want those in return from you, I want you near me close. I want you to let me love and be affectionate towards you.” The monster said and looks at her with a smile.

“Show off.” She scoffed and walks off with him to the city. “Everything is so bland. Nothing is interesting.” Eline said to Truth, “With a school named High Guardian Academy, it’s already bland.” Truther spoke and sighed, “At least we can somewhat infiltrate the school.” “Triny, we’re adults, not teens,” Eline said to him. “Not when you have time by your side my love,” He said to her, Eline's face turned red though it isn’t visible due to her slightly darker skin tone. “Fine, I’ll turn ourselves into teens, for now, let’s find a place to sleep and I’ll let you have your snack.” She said with a huff. They both walk through the street and find an inn. “You have this world currency don’t you?” She spoke to him in Galactic (Enchanting Table specifically). Truther nods “Of course, I do my love.” He said to her back in their language.

“Welcome travelers, how many rooms do you want to book?” The Innkeeper asked them. “One room, with one bed.” Truther said to him, the werewolf looked at him bewildered “You really are testing my limit Triny.” She said. Truther chuckled and pay for the room as the Innkeeper gave him the key. “I like to tease you, my dear, my dear.” He said and pecked her cheek. The two otherworldly beings walk to their room. “Ladies first, my dear.“ He gestured for her to go in. Eline sighed and then smiled as she walked in. She doesn't hesitate and strips her black hoodie and her white shirt leaving her in her bra.

“Do you want to eat me whole or just my neck and stomach?” She asked the cannibal. Truther closed the door and couldn't help but shed his fake body. “More, I want to eat you more, not just the neck or stomach. I want your hips, thighs, legs, and your shoulder blade. I want to digest every innard of yours till I'm full.” The monster said and crawled towards her. Eline sighed, she should've known that you can't reason with a Clima, a monster like him that disguises himself in a Kura- a human body. “Triny you can't eat me whole remember.” She said, Truther growled and pounced on her. “A Vain- a werewolf. You are a being that defies time and space, although you aren't a time traveler but a dimension hopper.” He growled out. “I'm not a dimension hopper Triny, I'm a being of time, my time is precious, and I would not waste any of it.” She said, holding her breath again.

“Answer me, Trinity Calliper. My neck and my stomach or something else.” She said and then gasped feeling her beloved sharp teeth on her neck. “Truther when we're in public, Trinity when we're alone. Eline Clairvoye. You taste so delicious.” He howled and clawed her hips to the point it was starting to bleed and tear the flesh of her shoulder. “I'll eat your shoulder and your neck. That's my answer my little wolf.” He said and bites deeper into her as she gasped louder. “Eat it to your heart's contents, Truther. I indeed have time on my side. The next day we'll wake up as teens.” She said it with ease despite getting eaten by a monster.

“Teen monsters are crueler and conflicted, unlike your kind mine has to eat daily human flesh to sustain ourselves.” He said while eating her skin. “Then I'll try to let you eat my flesh. Due note that when we are teens, werewolves reached their puberty and would be very sensitive to touch if you know what I mean.” “Mating for monsters, they need to shed and let their thrall- their partner feel every bump of their massive cock. I'm speaking for men, for women I do not remember and frankly, they are very hard to please.” He said and eats another piece of her waist, Eline feel like screaming if it wasn't for the fact that they are in an inn.

“How hard exactly?” She asked and wraps her legs around his waist for support. “Very hard, they are the most difficult ones to ever grace the earth.” “Speaking from experience?...” The monster looks at her with pitiful eyes. “She was very hard to please in our relationship…even when our daughter was born she always had a heart of steel.” He spoke softly. “I don't know her, but she must've been pleased to be with a man like you Trinity.” She said and cupped his cheeks. “You may have forgotten how to love with genuine feelings from your second relationship. But hearing you say something genuine about my late wife, always makes me smile.” He said and leaned on her ears.

“Lord of Justice, that of Law and Violation in our world of Mirai. I know Order and Chaos, I can tell when orders have come.” She said to him, “You don't make sense. Yet you have Timeless who speaks in riddles.” He spoke to her with concern as she tries to breathe, feeling like she was already dying. “It was mostly Edgar Allan Poe that they loved.” She said and touches his nose with that of hers. “I love you, Lady of Justice, that of Order and Chaos.” He spoke and kisses her lips. “I need time to heal, will you let me sleep, you've eaten enough I imagine.” She said slowly, feeling like her time has ‘ended’, “Indeed I have, let’s sleep. Tomorrow will be our day to infiltrate that school and find our stones.” He said and picks her two-part body up, “Let’s hope Timeless and Requiem aren’t dead yet before we find them.” He continued and lays her down with him next to her. “Sweet dream Eline.” He whispered to his ‘dead’ lover. Eline feels her time has ‘come’ and ‘died’ peacefully in his embrace.

The next day, Truther and Eline aged backward, turning into teenagers. They lie in bed naked and their current clothes are gone and replaced with their teenage clothing at the end of the bed. Eline has completely healed herself and is alive again. Truther gets woken up by his beloved purring. He smiled and realized how different she looks when she was a teen. Her hair is short and shoulder length and her brown strands that are very visible when she’s an adult are dull and darker so it looks like she has full-on black hair and not partly black hair. She looks very small like a 12-year-old height, but he knows that she can’t grow any big. He does question if it's genetic or not.

Truther smiled and slightly shakes her. “Wake up dear.” He said as he sit up, Eline groaned and woke up a bit. “It's too fucking early, you asshole.” She said and looks at Truther. Her face turned red as she sits up and looks at him. His dark greenish blue hair is lighter than usual even the length of his hair is long and in a ponytail, although it is very messy, his figure is muscular, and made her blush even more seeing his chiseled abs. He looks older than her that of 16-year old to be exact. “Your time is precious love.” He said with a smile. “You can gaze upon me if you like.” He continues but with a chuckle. “Hush you, let's get dressed darling.” She said looking away from her monster boyfriend.

“You look cute as a teen.” He complimented her and ruffles her hair. She gets out of bed and gets dressed in the uniform, different from the bland Academy uniforms. “The uniform will make us stand out but, at least our fashion sense isn't terribly unlike what we'll see my love,” Eline said and looks at him. “Did you get a glimpse of the school uniform?” He asked her as he buckle up his pants. She nods, “The color scheme is just not good in my opinion. They could've done a better aesthetic.” She said and buttoned up her blouse. “You may be a werewolf wearing all black but even you know how functional you made the uniform be. I love the tie design of my resemblance.” He said and adjusted the tie.

“You really can't tie it properly.” The werewolf said with a sigh as she walks towards him and tightened the strings around his neck. “I have to do everything for you don't I.” She spoke and wears her glasses. Truther wears his glasses and hugs the teenage girl he fell in love with. “I know I look very different from what I was as an adult. I'm still the same man you met at my demise.” He said and brushes her tail. “Triny, I know you're still the same man but you just.” She sighed and continues: “Pretty sure everyone will think something misogynistic about you.” She leaned on him.

“You have a feeling about it? Don't worry about me Eline, I can protect myself just fine.” He said and kissed her. “I know, I know I just- this place feels like they'll misjudge you.” She said and leaned on his shoulder. He looked at her and sighed. “Let me buy you something, sure being genuine doesn't mean being materialistic except for special occasions, but I'll make an exception for it.” He said to her, the werewolf shakes her head and takes his hand. “We should get going now love.” She said and looked into his Fuschia eyes. Truther picks her up and walks out of the room. Everyone in the inn can see the two in school uniforms and with the monster holding their bags. “They're watching…” She mutters and holds onto him for support. “Then look only at me”. He said with a smile and walked towards the bland academy. Eline can’t help but wag her tail faster.

“Can you put me down, love?” She asked him, already feeling embarrassed by the display. “Fret not my dear. We're here already.” He said and put her down. They can see the students walking in through the gate, they could tell some of them are already plain and mostly Kuras- humans. “Triny-” “Truther my sweet puppy.” He looked at her with a cold gaze. Eline feels his gaze piercing through her, she should know better than calling him by his real name than that of his given name. “Of course Truth…” She said, almost hypnotized by him. “Whenever you look at me when my gaze is cold, it’s like a switch is turned, and feels like you’re under your pendant influence.” “You made me feel this way, Truth.” She said and held his hand. “How dashing with that uniform you’re wearing.” She said with a small smile. Truther chuckles and fluffs up her tail.

Truther's uniform is very much different than the uniform the guys wear. His blazer is dark blue with silver embroidery on the chest pocket, his white buttoned-up shirt is underneath and his vest is sea green. His tie matches the color of his vest and has the symbol of his Resemblance. He wears the same color dress pants as the blazer and wears black dress shoes. “Shouldn't I be the one to tell you that?” He asked her. She laughs a bit and twirls around. “It's not that special Truth.” She said Truth er is already fixated on her black fingerless gloves as protection. Eline looks the same as that Truther but different as well. Her blazer, button-up blouse, and cardigan are the same color as his. She wears her tie very loosely and is a dark purple color with a symbol of her resemblance. Her skirt is knee-length and dark purple as well. She wears knee-high socks and black Mary Jane shoes. Her shirt isn't tucked in neatly and her cardigan is wrapped up around her waist. Her blazer is half buttoned up.

“You don't want to be an exhibitionist, do you?” He asked her as they walked through the gate. “Of course-” She gets interrupted by the screeching yelling of one of the girls. Eline covers her ears but that doesn’t stop the yelling. Truthers cover her ears, holding her hands as well. “Teen wolves have more sensitive ears than adults.” She mutters, Truther nods, and walked with her further to the school building.

“What’s with these two?” The blue-haired mage asked her friends. “I don’t know but I don’t trust the boy with that girl.” The pink-haired warrior said, “They could be just friends you know,” The elf archer said to them. “Yeah! Well, we should get inside and meet the new guys.” The short blonde pixie-haired dwarf spoke with enthusiasm. The four girls walk inside the building of High Guardian Academy. The mage looks around but sees her friend talking to the newcomers, she looks at her best friend rambling about what classes she’ll take this year. “Jealousy doesn’t suit you, Sage.” The short purple-haired girl said to her best friend’s friend. “I’m not jealous Amaryllis, I’m just looking for my friend. Who is Snapdragon talking to?” Sage said and looks at Snapdragon. “Oh them? They are the new kids,” Amaryllis said and rolls her eyes. “But damn they look rich, I mean look at those uniforms.” She said with a devious smirk.

“Yeah, they don’t wear this school's uniform,” Sage said with suspicion and hears her name calling out. “Coming Rose!” She yelled out and runs after her friends.

Chapter Text

“So you guys aren’t from here?” The redhead asked them, “No, honestly this is the first time to be here, Snapdragon. It’s very surprising to hear that everyone here is named after botanical plants.” Truther said, holding his girlfriend by her waist. “Well I can see why you think it’s confusing,” He said and chuckled. “You guys will get used to it. I hope to see you guys around. I have to go to Amaryllis before she decides to go and talk about a murder to someone and go murder someone for who knows what reason.” Snapdragon spoke and waved at them and walked away. “He is something don’t you agree.” He said to her, “Don’t get distracted Truth,” She said as she pokes his cheek. “How sensitive can you be?” “Very,” She replied to him. “For the love of the twin gods,” He mutters and sighed.

“The full moon is today honey.” She said. “You gotta be kidding me, Eline.” He said with wide eyes. “I told you my limits! We can't stay like this forever!” She shouted at him. Truther groans “You got a point. Fine, how about one last round as adults then we are searching for them as teens.” Truther spoke to her in Galactic. “So what no sex as teens or something? The mating season still exists, you know, our heat.” Eline said to him, crossing her arms. “Yours start in March while mine start in October,” Truther said to her. She huffs a bit but sighs. “I can’t wait for this shit to be over.” She said with a sigh. “about the mission or the intimacy?” Truther asked her. “I don't want a quickie Truther, seriously,” Eline said leaning on him.

“Right right, of course, it's about intimacy.” Truther said and rolls his eyes and looked at her “Can you not think about my monster cock?” he continued. “Maybe if you didn't keep touching my sensitive ass tail, then maybe I’ll stop whining like a brat.” She snapped at him. Truther smiled and kissed her forehead, he grabbed her hand and said: “Let’s go find our rooms, my love.” She purrs in response and they happily walk off. “Do you think they’ll allow mixed roommates?” She asked him.

“No, if they allow that, we won’t continue searching for them,” Truther said, “We will waste time, got it,” Eline said. “Heya guys!” They hear someone yelling at them. Truther and Eline turn around and see a group of girls. “Uhm, hi?” Eline spoke and held her boyfriend's arm. “Who are you four exactly?” She asked them, The mage smiled and said: “I’m Sage. The hyper one is Rosemary, the elf is Thyme and the blonde dwarf is Parsley.” “And we are High Guardian Spice!” Rosemary exclaimed.

There is silence, Eline and Truther look at them but then burst out laughing, “I’m sorry High Guardian Spice?” Truther asked as he continued to laugh, holding his girl closer to him. “Yeah! It is because of our names.” Rosemary said with a smile. The other three frown a bit and look concerned at Rose as if the newcomers find it hilarious and are laughing at them.

“S-s-she pfhahahaha!” Eline couldn’t speak and laughed harder, clutching her stomach and leaning more on her beloved. “Sorry but you guys are named after herbs, not spices.” Truther said pointing out, still laughing at the group name, “Oh Twin Gods give me strength! Hahahaha!” Eline laughed and gave Truther neck kisses. The four girls stay quiet, Rosemary looks down while Sage looks mad. “Hey! Don’t laugh at her!” She yelled at them.

The laughter died down and Truther kissed his girlfriend on the cheek happily. “We're sorry for laughing so hard. We just find it very…” He gives a sly grin sending shivers down their spines, mainly Sage. “Amusing.” He continues, “Just cause you find it funny doesn't mean you have to laugh!” Sage yelled at them. “Woah, calm down Sage, they are new here.” Parsley said, trying to calm down the mage. “Yeah new, yet they don't wear the school uniform.” Thyme gives a snide remark. “At Least we have some style unlike you four, I mean a lolita skirt and no armor? Someone wants to die.” Eline said, rolling her eyes. “Leather armor won't help protect yourself.” She continues. Truther leans down and whispers: “You wear a black hoodie, white shirt, black pants, and regular-ass shoes. You don't wear armor yourself, you hypocrite.”

Eline's face turned red and groaned, “I have time on my side Truth, I can dodge easily. That girl is a mortal human being! Different situation hun.” She said and leaned on him. Sage looks mad and wants to give a piece of her mind. “Well how about we check who's gonna be roommates with who.” Parsley suggested. “Well someone has some brain cells,” Eline said. Truther sighed, feeling like he was already regretting his decision just now. ‘What does she mean in different situations?’ Rose thought.

All six of them walk around and look at the front of the doors with who they are rooming. “Well isn't this lovely,” Eline said and glanced at the mage. “What?! I can't room with Rose!?!” Sage yelled out. “Is that a big problem?” Truther asked her. “Well no- you won't understand,” Sage said. “Well, I'm rooming with Amaryllis apparently,” Rosemary said with a smile. Eline rolls her eyes and looks at her beloved. “You?” She asked him.

Truther gives one of his devious smiles and looks at her. “Snapdragon.” He said. “Truther? Eline? Those are very weird names.” Rosemary said with a chuckle. ‘At least we even have an actual name.’ Both the monster and werewolf thought. “Shouldn't we go to school orientation?” Truther asked them. “Oh, we are! But our school disorientation is a bit different than what you two will think.” Sage said with a smile. “How different are we talking about?” She asked her.

“We'll show you!” Rosemary says and grabs Eline's wrist and runs off with her. “She doesn't like to be touched that much.” Truther spoke, “I can tell, sorry about her.” Thyme said and walked off, the others followed her.

When they arrive at the hall of the school every student stands there while the teachers are near the rails of the stairs. Eline tried to breathe as Rose held her hand. “T-T-Truth?” She asked, looking around for him. She yanks her hand away and wanders around. “Hey wait!” Rosemary yelled at her and followed behind her.

“Your only friend is Parsley?” Truther asked the wood elf. Thyme nods, “You and that girl are a thing?” She asked him. “Yeah, she is. I do adore her but it can get in the way because of her God complex. Heh, you would think she'll stop being a bitch towards everyone.” He said and looked at the ground for a bit. “Sounds like you two shouldn't be together,” Sage said, looking around for her best friend.

“I don't blame her, I will never blame her. Our relationship is a mess and will forever be a mess. Eline isn't open about the stuff she wanted to talk about but she tastes so exquisite~.“ Truther spoke with a smile and bit his lips a bit. “She tastes so deliciously sweet and tart~ and she's all mine to do as I wanted.~” He said with a devious grin. Sage looks disgusted and looks around for Rosemary only to find her. “Rose!” She yelled out. The leader of the group looks around and sees Sage and the others and walks toward them.

“Where were you?” Sage asked her, “Oh me and the werewolf were here, but I don't see her around anymore after she walks off.” She said, “Why did you grab her? She doesn't like to be touched.” Truther spoke. “How am I supposed to know?” Rose said, “You shouldn’t have grabbed her without consent.” Sage said with a sigh.

“Truther! Where are you?!” Eline shouted, wandering around and pushing students away. She looks frantically for Truther. She doesn’t want to be alone in a foreign place. “Hey? Are you okay?” She hears Snap asking her. “Truth? Where is he?” Eline asked him, trying to breathe properly. “I need him, I really need him. He makes me safe, completely safe.” She said and looked around again. Snap looks at her with concern then looks at his best friend Amaryllis. “Where are you from? Who made those exquisite uniforms?” Amaryllis asked her. “We live far away from here, and a good friend of ours designed these uniforms,” Truther said and immediately hugged his lover. “C-colleague…n-n-not friend..” Eline mutters.

The monster looks down at her, “I’m here, calm down my love,” Truther mutters to her. Eline purrs and holds Truther's arms with a smile. “Safe…you're safe…” She mutters, “You're safe Eline.” Truther reassured her.

(I’m gonna skip the triad they explain the same shit as that in the show)

Eline reads a book and groans. “IS THE GUARDIAN THING THE SAME AS THAT OF OURS?! I DON'T UNDERSTAND THESE CRYPTICS SHIT AND I TALK CRYPTICALLY!” She yelled out of frustration. Truther glances at her and sighs. “Talk quietly love, we are in a fucking library,” Truther said and cleans his bow. “I do understand what you mean, I still don’t know what a High Guardian is. Though it isn’t what Mirai is, you should know that the Twin Gods choose each Kuras- I mean Humans and Nonhuman kinds for the position of being a Guardian. Ours is that they make sure that there’s peace and that there will be no war between the kinds.” He continues.

“That went horribly and you know that Truth. Demons and Kura- uhm I mean Humans war cause a lot of wreckage. It also causes the two major Guardian to fight over the years.” She said and flipped a page.

“Guardians aren't only for making sure that there is peace but they also have to be on guard and help others of their race so that there won’t be chaos.” She continues with a sigh. “I may have caused a genocide back then when the Guardians weren't established, and back when I grieving for losing my…boyfriend and…my unborn…infant but even then you have to be serious and not goofing around to be a competent Guardian.” She softly spoke.

“To be a Guardian is a life or death occupation, these children have the choice to not be a Guardian, but in our world they don’t have a choice, to begin with.” He said and looked at the other students. “They are too young to be Guardians even if this school will change them to see the world in a different light. The Triads didn’t explain fully what the Guardians and to be a Guardians mean.” Eline said and looked at him. “That ‘High Guardian Spice’ only the wood elf seems to be the only one who sees the world differently.” He said, “Are you cheating on me right now?” She asked him, only for him to chuckle and shake his head. “Not my type, my love. I prefer someone wild and untamed such as you.” He flirted and winked at her. “Stop flirting and clean your treasured bow.” She said with a huff, feeling her cheek burning bright red. Truther playfully rolls his eyes and smiles.

“Will you let me clean your corrupted sword? You never let me clean it and you don't bother cleaning the dried blood.” Truther said and cut the string of his bow. “Never, I'm the only one who can be corrupted and I don't want you to lose yourself while holding it.” She said to him, “I don't know if you're scared that I will lose myself due to corrupted power or that your power-hungry self is talking about it.” Truther said to her while he was braiding the thin strings together. Eline looks at him and smiles “How about both Truther Calliper.” She leans on him and gives him a peck on his lips.

They wander around the school building and school grounds to find any clue to find both Requiem and Timeless. Without them, they are practically useless. They are both Law and Justice; they need to have them back to bring peace alongside their Guardians. They even asked the teachers about some restricted places. They don't have any luck finding them so they decide to clear their mind in Truther and Snap's room.

Truther opens the door of his and Snapdragon's room and sees Snap packing some stuff. “What are you doing?” Truther asked him, Snap looks at his roommate and smiles a bit. “I'm going to have a sleepover in Sage's room. “Seriously where all my stuff is? Ugh, well have fun Snap, make sure no need touches my shit.” Eline said. “Will do cranky wolf. Have fun with what you two are doing.” Snap said with a smile and walked out with his duffel bag and closed the door.

“He's gone…” Eline spoke and looks at Truther, with no restraint they both start kissing each other and Truther pulls her down with him to the bed. “I want you Triny.~” Eline said with a moan. Truther couldn't help but grind against her, groaning near her ears. “Pick a place to leave our mess my delectable girlfriend~.” He murmurs. Eline grinds on him and moans again, “The bathroom, we can- oh fuck!~” Eline moaned. Truther bites her shoulder and pulls her tail.

They don't waste time, taking off all of their clothes. Truther gropes her tits and picks her up. Eline wraps her legs around his waist and kisses him as he walks towards the bathroom. Truther closes the door and put her down. “Ngh~ fuck your so beautiful~.” He moaned out, feeling her fingers touching his cock. “Truther~” Eline moaned, feeling her tail getting pulled again. She walks backward hitting the wall of the shower. Truther turns on the water and kisses his girlfriend's jaw. “How long till we turn into adults?” He asked her, groaning from her touch.

“In about 5 min- AH!~” Eline moaned louder, “You're so wet~ looks like you're going to be ready for me to fit in about 5 minutes,” Truther spoke seductively. He inserts his second finger inside her cunt and thrust slowly and roughly. It made her scream louder. “May I?” He asked her, licking the crook of her neck. She nods and screams and moans louder. It doesn't take long for them to turn back to how they were. Eline claws his back to the point that his back starts bleeding. Eline moans louder feeling like she wanted to cum. “Triny!~” She moaned out his name. “Not yet~. I want to be fed~.” He moaned and continued to tear her skin apart. Eline whines and grinds on him for wanting his cock buried in her wet sex.

“S-Stop teasing me!~ Please! Fucking please give me your monster cock!~” She moaned out. Truther laughs and thrust in his massive dick. “Still can't fit inside you,” Truther mutters but starts to moan when Eline licks and sucks his erogenous zone. She made sure to mark him there near one of his nipples. “Fuck!~ You're making a cannibal scream in pleasure my love!~” Truther moaned out.

Truther thrust faster and deeper inside her sex and kisses her tenderly and sweetly. It doesn't take long for him to come inside, and her coming on his dick. “Suck and gag on my cock, my Lady~.” He murmurs to her. Eline's tail wags faster and kneels, obeying him like a puppy. “Yours is so hard and thick~ I don't think any normal men have something like this.” She said and kissed the head. “What an obedient girlfriend I have~.” He cooed. He smirks and holds the back of her head.

Eline gives small licks and fondles his balls. It made the monster moan in delight. She loves to tease him to the point that she can see him shed a bit. Eline giggles and start sucking his hard member, even deepthroating if she can. “Ah fuck!~” Truther moaned and holds her head and thrust her head. Eline moans while she’s sucking deeper.

It takes them quite a while to get their sexual urges out of their system. After finishing it off, they both start cleaning themself with some occasionally perverted touching. After taking a shower to walk back to bed and wear their night clothes. “It’s a shame we can’t do it anymore I would love to do it again,” Eline said and snuggles on his chest. Truther smiled and cuddles her. “I love you babe~.” He said and closes his eyes. “I love you too my darling creature of darkness.~” She said and fall asleep and the same goes for Truther, hugging her tight like a possessive predator.

Early in the morning, they turn back into teenagers wearing their old pajamas and their weapons (specifically Truthers bow) leaning near the bed.

Meanwhile, somewhere in the wood a pale pink-haired assassin looks at the corruption around the roots of the trees slowly growing upwards almost strangling the barks. “I will not fail this time.” He said to the smoke. “You better not mess it up. Be sure to do something to that traitor.” The smoke said. He laughed like a psychopath and shapeshift into one of the students from HGA that he had killed and hid the body. “Oh don’t worry~ I will make sure that traitor gets what she deserves.” He said and sees the smoke disappear. He just can’t wait to get his revenge against the wretched girls.

Chapter Text

“Honestly, they aren’t that bad you know.” Snapdragon said with a smile, “Not that bad? Snapdragon, that guy treats her as if he owns her!” Sage exclaimed. “It might be a cultural thing you know.” Parsley said. “What’s so cultural that that guy talks to her as if he wants to eat her?!” Sage yelled. “So? It’s not like they work for the Triumvirate.” Amaryllis said with a shrug. “Maybe they are working for them, the look that guy gave looks like someone that will abuse their partner,” Rosemary said. “That’s a bit farfetched Rose. They look very much like a happy couple.” Snapdragon said. “Snap, can you pretend to be friends with Truther?” Sage asked him. Snap ponders a bit and sighs. “Alright, Sage I’ll try to be friends with him.” He said.

“On one condition, you will befriend Eline,” Snapdragon said to her. He has a bad feeling whenever Sage has a plan up her sleeve. Sure he genuinely loves her and he talks about his feeling to her but he feels like he can’t exactly tell her about the body dysmorphia problem he’s dealing with or how he’s dealing with more problems unlike what he tells his friend Amaryllis. Snapdragon really can’t put a finger on why Sage acts like a jealous girlfriend whenever Rose is talking to other guys that she is crushing on. It’s like she only wanted her to be hers. “Fine, I’ll befriend her,” Sage said with a huff, she is still pissed that she isn’t rooming with Rosemary.

The HGS, Snapdragon, and Amaryllis continue to have fun and soon fall asleep.

The next day in Sacred Alphabet class, The students meet their teacher Caraway. The professor looks at them with a smile. “Hello student, my name is Professor Caraway and I will teach you all about Sacred alphabets for spells. Specifically for Old Magic.” He said. Truther raises his hand. “Yes, what is it Truther?” Carraway asked him. “What is Old Magic exactly?” He asked him, “Is it any different than other Magics or something?” Eline asked, cleaning the dirty lenses of her glasses.

“How did you not know about Old Magic?!” Sage shouted, shocked that there are people who don't know about the ancient magics. “We don’t really care about different concepts of magic where we live.” Eline said, rolling her eyes “Besides there are different parts of Mirai that they use different ways of using it, depending on how effective it is actually.” She mutters to herself.

“Old Magic and I guess New Magic is a bit foreign for us,” Truther explained. Caraway slowly nods and smiles again, “It’s perfectly fine, I’ll gladly explain what Old Magic and New Magic are.” He said. ‘This is about to be good.’ Truther thought. “Old Magic is an ancient magic that the user, mostly magical beings use. Old Magic uses runes and glyphs to cast magic and can take a toll on the person while they perform. Old Magic is mostly the Magic of nature.” Caraway explained. “So Magick and Alchemy?” Eline whispered to him. Truther glances at her and shrugs. “New Magic, however, is instant and quick to cast. For New Magic, you need to have a Terrasphere to cast it.” The professor explains.

“Does New Magic have limits like that of Old Magic?” Truther asked him. “Of course not, New Magic doesn’t have limits Truther,” Caraway said and goes back to teach them the basic revision. “New Magic sounds way too broken for a magic system,” Eline whispered to him. “Yeah, it is,” Truther whispers back. The two tried to pay attention in class, but with how much the Old Magic and New Magic have been explained, they wonder why Old Magic is relevant when New Magic is instant and unlimited.

After Sacred Alphabet class has ended they start to walk off. “Hey! How come you two don't know about them?!” Sage yelled, making the two stop walking and look behind them.

“Because we have a very different magic system where we’re from, that's why,” Eline said with a huff. “Really, well I would love to know about that,” Sage said with suspicion and has her arms folded together. “Yeah well, it’s very complex, but we should get going to Martial Art, my love. Your time is very precious” Truther said and gives a kiss on her nose.

“Arf!” Eline barked and smiled. “You’re so cute when you act like a wolf~.” Truther cooed and ruffles her hair, “Ruffle my hair again, and I will murder you.” She said as she is about to summon her sword. “No need for that, I’m sure you would love to see some bloodshed,” Truther said with a laugh.

‘He is crazy. It’s like he wanted her to be a dog.’ Sage thought, pondering and thinking how she can be friends with Eline and even warn her about the toxic relationship she is in. ‘Damn these two are weird, no way in hell is that a normal ass relationship.’ Amaryllis thought, crossing her arms. ‘They said they have a different magic system. Maybe I should ask them where they’re from, so I can research and find the cure for the Rot.’ Thyme thought but then walks off to her class, leaving the four behind.

“Has anyone told you how handsome you look without your glasses?” Eline asked him with a chuckle. “Yep and that was my wife dear,” Truther said and laughs putting back his glasses after cleaning the lenses, “What didn’t your boyfriend compliment you back when he was alive?” He asked her. Eline's face turned red and looks at him. “He did, but he can also be annoying whenever he wanted. Heh, we were supposed to have a family you know.” She said with a small smile. She summons her Corrupted sword and looks at her dark reflection on the blade.

Truther looks at her with guilt, knowing the feeling of losing a loved one, but he wouldn’t know the feeling of a woman losing a child while still in labor. He knows it’s a horrible feeling and it is common to happen although very rarely, depending on where you’re from.

With a good idea, Truther shoots an arrow, made of stems and flowers, and the tip of the arrow looks like gems at his girlfriend. Eline tried to dodge only for the arrow to hit her head. “Truther! What the actual fuck!?” Eline shouted at him. Truther only smiled and pointed at the side of her head.

Eline touches the side of her head and feels crystals and metallic silver on her hair. “Did you?” “Of course I did,” Truther said. “I did say that I want to buy you something.” He continues. Eline blushed red and disappeared in a flash in front of Truther's sight, only to appear striking him with a sword engulfed in purple corruption. Truther can only block with his bow. “You're welcome by the way.” He said with a chuckle. “Oh for fuck sake just shut up!” Eline shouted as she continues to be flustered. ‘Seriously! All of East Coast is shameless!’ She thought.

She dodges quickly and away from him. “Which ability of arrows should I use?” Truther asked out loud while having a playful grin. Eline smirked and says, “Oh I don't know my love, perhaps your infamous Natura Magic?” She chuckles and snaps her finger, summoning a couple of duplicates of her swords, floating in thin air pointing in the monster's direction. He grins wide and pulls the strings of his bow for the arrows of different elements: Dark, Light, Earth, Water, and Fire appear and are ready to aim at her, “Natura Magic has always been my specialty my dear little wolf.~” He said.

Aster looks at where his training partner is seeing and then looks at him. “Gladiolus, is something wrong?” He asked him. “Hm? Of course not, I'm just observing that's all. What about you? You keep glancing at Rosemary.” Gladiolus said to him. Aster huffs a bit and looks at the pink warrior. “Just trying to figure out how to apologize to her, It's just the fact that she has a misogynistic childhood friend who knows men are bad. I also don't know how she can't see how toxic the blue chick is towards her.” Aster said with a sigh. “Be direct in your apology you asshole,” Gladiolus said and playfully punches his shoulder. Aster chuckles and waves at him as he walks toward Rosemary.

The HGS looks around. “Argh! Did you not see how he shot her without any warning?!” Sage shouted. “I think you're paranoid Sage,” Rose said with a sigh. “Is it his intention to shoot an arrow at her? You can see that he shot her to give her that probably most expensive gift to her.” Snapdragon said, stopping the sparring match with Sage.“I also don't think magic is in the lesson.” Parsley said with a disappointed sigh. Snapdragon looks at them “If you ask me, he just want to surprise her, but it seems that ended with her wanting him dead I guess?” Snapdragon said unknown how to react, seeing his roommate possibly having a death wish.

“I mean yeah, come on that flower pin is made out of amethyst and dark purple crystals. Isn't it what couples do or something? Eh, whatever.” Amaryllis said and continued to swing the axe around, hitting the training dummy constantly. “Be careful of my dad's axe, Amaryllis,” Snap said to his friend, only to smile at her chaotic energy. “Oh, would you look at that Aster is walking towards us” Parsley pointed out.

Rose scowls and glares at him, “What do you want Aster?” Rosemary questioned him. Aster gives a nervous chuckle and scratches his neck. “I just- say Rosemary, want to spare with me?“ He asked her. Rose rolls her eyes, “Tsk, fine you sexist asshole.” Rose said and took her mother's sword out of the sheath. Aster smiles and leads her to the empty field. He didn't get the time to dodge Rose's swing. “Woah! Careful with that sword!” He exclaimed and picked up the sword. “Quiet! What do you want!?” Rosemary shouted.

Aster sighed and swung his sword at her. Rosemary dodges but gets hit by the hilt of Aster's sword. “Instead of dodging you block it, the metal of the Flowering Thorn is powerful enough to bounce the magic away,” Aster explains to her. “How would you know about my mother's sword you prick?!” Rose yelled. Aster sighed, and said: “Just block the next attack woman.” Aster swings his sword to the side and Rose blocks it only for him to bounce back.

“Woah,” Rose's eyes sparkle. Aster chuckles seeing Rose's face light up. “Flowering Thorn is immune to Magic, specifically the weak ones. Powerful ones, the sword can't bounce it off.” Aster said to her and swung again, only for Rose to block his attack. “That's amazing, how do you know about that?” She asked him, intrigued about what else her sword can do.

“Don't get distracted, Rosemary,” Goldilocks said and pushes her to the ground. “Ouch!” Rose shouted and shakes her head. Aster has his hand up to her, “I can tell you more if you like,” he grins “Rhubarb.” He continues. Rose's face turned red and grabs his hand only to pull him to the ground. “Ow!” He yelled. Rosemary can't help but laugh at him, “This is what you get for calling me by the wrong name Aster.” She said with a smile. Aster's face heats up a bit but laughs alongside her.

“I'm sorry about last year Rosemary,” Aster said with a smile. Rose sighed and looks at him “I appreciate the apology but I can't forgive you, just give me some time okay.” Rose said to him. Aster feels saddened that she doesn't forgive him but nods a bit. “I understand Rhubarb.” He said, “You're gonna keep calling me that aren't you.” Rose said, only for Aster to chuckle. “Yep, I will Rosemary.” He said with a playful smirk. Rosemary huffs but smiles.

Sage glares dagger at Rosemary and Aster. “Rose is crushing on him again! Does she not remember what happened last year?!?” Sage exclaimed, ignoring Snapdragon. “Sage! We talked about this, you keep talking about Rosemary.” Snap said to her. “You wouldn't understand Snapdragon! She always runs off and does whatever reckless shit she is doing!” Sage shouted out of frustration. “Then we have Eline and Truther!”

“What about them?” Snapdragon asked her. “Truther made Eline bark like a dog! Pretty sure she doesn't know that that isn't normal!” Sage yelled again. “Sage, I'm saying this as a friend, you shouldn't meddle with their relationship.” Snapdragon reasoned with her. Sage groans “She needs to know Snapdragon.” She said, “But do you have evidence?” Snap asked her. Sage sighed in defeat but she still can’t believe Rosemary is back being friendly with him. She doesn’t understand what she sees in him.

Snapdragon walks towards his roommate and sees different arrows coming from thin air. “Amazing, I don't think I’ve seen Thyme, making the arrows appear. She usually has her quiver with her all the time.” He said, Truth er laughs and continues to shoot arrow after arrow at his beloved. “He's a Clima, a group of monsters who specialize in Natura! They are very deadly when they are in an opposing element ground!” Eline shouted and swings her sword at him, as well as summoning more blades to attack her beloved.

“Now, now it wasn't that special Eline,” Truther said with a chuckle. “A Clima?” Snapdragon questioned. “Correction Clima, you pronounced the ‘i’ as en ‘e’. Basically, a Cleema.” Truther pointed out. “Sorry about that then, but it doesn't explain you know,” Snap said. “To answer you and dodge those fucking swords! Eline chill!” Truther yelled out and continue to dodge. Snap can’t help but find it pretty hilarious seeing this all folding. “I’m a monster, you know, creatures of Darkness. To blend in, those who roam around and disguise themselves as humans.” Truther said and shoots an arrow at her. “That’s who he is, a Clima, a monster. Someone who goes beyond to reap when they want.” Eline said and swings again at Truther.

“Argh! Why you little-” “That’s enough sparring!” Professor Civet shouted. Everyone stopped what they were doing. “In the year, you’ll be sparing and teaming up in a group to complete a difficult challenge, you guys are old enough to know the danger of outside forces.” The professor announced. “A group to complete a challenge?” Rosemary questioned, “It seems that way.” Gladiolus spoke out, “What is the challenge exactly?” Eline asked him. Civet chuckles “It’s a secret.” He said, ‘What? How can the students prepare if they don’t know what the challenge is?’ Eline thought.

Everyone hears the bell ring. “You heard the bell. It’s a free period.” Civet said and claps his hand. “The teacher…” Eline looks at him. “I know, it’s dangerous to not tell them what the challenge is,” Truther said and sigh. “Hey, do you two wanna hang out with us?” Parsley asked them with a warm smile. “Yeah sure, we have nothing better to do,” Truther replied. “Nothing better to do? Truther! We have to find Requiem and Timeless!” Eline shouted at him in Olathi (an Urban dialect). “Ay! Calm down babe, trust me on this. I would never waste your precious time.” Truther said in a calm tone. Eline huffs but begrudgingly agrees. The group walks off toward the living room and meets with two other students.

Meanwhile

“Sir, is this where the girl is held?” He asked the officer. “You mean the one with the league of the Triumvirate? Then yes, is it your turn to interrogate her?” The officer said. “Yes, I need to talk to her one on one in private.” He said. The officer nods open the door where they held her captive, and walks off, giving him the key. The disguised man walked inside and closed the door behind him.

“So, Olive. Care to explain?” He asked her. The cat girl growls and shouts: “I told you everything you all wanted to hear! What more do you need?!” He chuckles and steps closer. “You amused me so much, you know. I can kill you here and make it seem like suicide, but someone wants to deal with you later. How about in exchange for your freedom you tell to why you decided to switch sides and betray us.” He said with a smirk. “It will be worth it, if not well I can't say if your life will be painful when the avenger comes here, you know.” He said with a sickenly laugh. Olive gulped and pondered a bit. “What do you need?” She asked him.

“I want to know if you're truly going to join us, I want you to fetch some corruption and let the Rot spread wide.” He said with a manic grin. Olive trembles in fear seeing the blade near her throat, inching closer to the point a small stream of blood has been made from her neck.

Chapter Text

“How am I talked into this?” Eline questioned. “Because your handsome loving boyfriend asked you too.~” Truther said with a smile and kisses her on the cheek. “I'm Parnelle, it is nice to meet you two.” “I guess…” Eline mutters. “So uh uhm yeah, shall we like get to know each other?” The human boy said. “That sounds great!” Sage exclaimed and looks at Truther. “Who are you? Where are you from? Do you realize what you're doing?” Sage shoots question after question, making her friends sigh.

“I'm Truther Calliper, I'm from somewhere very far from here. I don't know what you mean by noticing my behavior. I behave just fine and myself.” Truther replied with a smile. “Are you a mage?” Rose asked. Truther grins and chuckles. “A cannibal.” He replied showing his sharp tooth. “A-a-a cannibal?!” Snapdragon, Sage, and Rosemary yelled out. “Yeah, he's a cannibal, why else does he see me as dinner,” Eline said. “Exactly who are you guys?” She asked them. “You mean where we're from?” Rosemary asked. “If you put it that way I guess,” Eline spoke with a sigh.

“I am Parnelle, I have a pet grog.” He said with a smile, while his pet is croaking, “I uh people call me like Slime Boy, I kinda like that name you know. It's very uh fitting you know.” Slime Boy said. ‘What kind of name is Slime Boy, and is he okay at home? Are his parents treating him well?’ Truther and Eline thought.

Aster gave a nervous laugh and said: “I'm Aster Tourmaline. I, uhm, have a fascination with different kinds of weapons, mostly swords. That is what I know more about.” Aster scratches his neck. He's not very comfortable with a large group. “Gladiolus. at your service my friends.” Gladiolus gives an overdramatic bow. Aster rolls his eyes and smiles.

“Ignore him, he's always like this,” Aster said with a chuckle. His friend gave a dramatic gasp, “Rude!” Gladiolus shouted and had his hand on his chest, looking very much hurt. “Well, I have a Terrasphere embedded on the hilt of my knife, it's to be safe you know. I lost…my family a long time ago so I have to protect myself from danger, as an orphan.” Gladiolus said.

Sage coughs and then says: “I’m Sage, I’m studying magic to become a healer just like my parents. I prefer Old Magic over New Magic, although I never get the hang of it. Like I don't know why that is superior over Old Magic.” She sighed.

“I’m Rosemary! And well…my mom is gone, but she might be on an adventure somewhere!” Rosemary exclaimed. ‘What a neglectful parent, even I wouldn’t do that to my daughter if I was chosen to be a Guardian. I would've at least sent them a card or something.’ Truther thought.

“Thyme…that's all.” Thyme said and looked away. “Well I'm Parsley and I have twelve brothers and a little sister,” Parsley smiled. “That must be tough,” Eline said. Parsley chuckled a bit “Yeah it is. I don't like being the older sister.” The dwarf spoke in a sad tone.

“I'm Amaryllis and I'm your typical rich girl. I'm also born in Witch Country. I prefer New Magic to Old Magic, Old Magic is very time-consuming and very precise.” Amaryllis said, waving her hand dramatically. ‘Witch Country? What the fuck?’ Eline thought. Snapdragon chuckles, “Well I'm Snapdragon and I have an older brother…can't say much about that you know.” He said with a small smile.

“Darling?” Truther asked her. Eline silently sighs in defeat. “Eline Clairvoye, yes I'm a werewolf, no I'm not a mage, and I rather not have my time wasted.” She said, “Ahem.” Truther coughs, “Ugh! Fine! I won't hesitate to commit vile acts.” She added. Truther sighs and is disappointed in her. “Well, as I said before I'm a cannibal. I prefer someone like my girlfriend to eat it whole.” He said, not easing the tension in the room. “It is also the reason why I keep resetting my body, just from how much you've eaten. It's too draining.” Eline mutters.

Sage looks horrified, ‘You aren't safe!’ Sage thought. “That's some useful magic. Back there in class.” Parsley said, changing the subject. “It's not that useful, Parsley,” Eline said. “You see where we're from, we don't have the concept of Old Magic and New Magic,” Truther explained. “How different is it?” Thyme asked, looking slightly interested. “First of all let us explain the type of magic that we used back in Martial Arts class,” Truther said.

“Still you guys shouldn't have done that,” Snapdragon said. Truther smiled and said: “I personalize at Natura Magic. It is elemental magic. That's one of the main magic that we learn from where I am from.” Truther explained his type of magic. “I mostly use Artifacts. They are like the most useful magic, swords duplication is handy in long-range attacks. I do dual wield it back and forth to not drain too much mana.” Eline said.

“I don't believe that where you’re from, it has a different magic system,” Sage said. “Well, that is how we were raised… There is also Magick, Alchemy, and Energy.” Eline spoke. “Anyway not like we are gonna have a girl talk or something unless you guys are down for it,” Truther spoke with a chuckle. “Sorry but guys don't do girl talk, it's a girl thing,” Sage said, crossing her arms. “Oh who cares, we have some time to kill so let's talk loser,” Amaryllis spoke out. Snapdragon frowns at what Sage had said, he does want to have a girl talk with someone. He still doesn't understand what he wants at all. He wants to be a warrior but he also wants to be beautiful like any girl he has met. Snapdragon wonders if he should grow out his hair. He looks at the other guys here and sees them having slightly longer hair and they weren't judged for that, so maybe he should grow out.

“Sage your misogyny is showing. Some guys do have a girl talk, girls aren't that special you know.” Aster said towards the mage. “Aster, please don't insult her,” Rosemary said, defending her. “I'm sorry if it sounds rude, I'm just anxious. I have anxiety and I don't know how to talk to other people who aren't from here.” Sage said. “I guess it's understandable with you having anxiety,” Gladiolus said.

“She is talking like he was talking…” Eline mutters to herself. “Everything is in the past, love. You don't have to fear him here,” Truther mutters to her. “I told you and I'll tell you again, I'm here and will deal with him if he's here.” He said to her. “What are you two mumbling about?” Rose asked. “Nothing.” They said, not looking at each other.

The large group then hears the sound of the headmistresses talking through the speaker. “I want to announce for all students to be careful, there will be changes to come this school year, which means some classrooms have to be renovated, also some classes that have their lessons outside on the school ground are no longer in session. “Are they serious?” Eline said, starting to get mad. “Eline, calm down it might be for a time being,” Truther said. “Truth! My time is precious! I can’t waste any more than we already did!” Eline shouted as she stood up and walked away.

“Eline- and she's gone”. Truther said and then sighs. “Why is her time so precious?” Aster asked. “It's a force of habit. She doesn't like wasting time at all,” Truther said. “Sounds like she has other priorities,” Gladiolus spoke out. “Yep, and I have to remind her that she’s my dinner. I can’t wait to eat her lungs and livers, and her sweet delicious beating heart,” Truther said and licks his lips. “I’m gonna be sick,” Rosemary said, wanting to puke. “There there Rosebarb,” Aster said, patting her back. Sage scowls at the interaction between Rose and Aster.

“Don't be so jealous Sage,” Snapdragon said, looking at her. “Who said that I'm jealous? I'm not jealous, Snapdragon.” Sage snapped at him. Snapdragon sighs and whispers: “Shouldn't you befriend her?” Sage face turns red a bit and said: “I have something to do.” She then walks off, assuming that she knows where Eline walked off.

“So like uh should we do like play a game or uhm something?” Slime Boy asked. “What kind of game are we talking about?” Truther questioned. “We can play my favorite game.~” Gladiolus said. Aster groans and looks at him, “We aren't playing one of your games.” “Mon ami I am very much hurt by what you've said,” Gladiolus said with an overdramatic sad expression. “The game is very harmless Aster dear.” Aster shivers at what he called him.

‘I don't like being called that at all.’ He thought. “Gladis, call me that one more time, and I will kill you.” Aster said to him, Gladiolus rolls his eyes and said: “Fine fine, good to know your mom is the only one calling you that.” He grins. “Seriously dude!?” Goldilocks yelled at him.

“This is the first time I see this side of you.” Parsley said. Aster looks at her and glares at her. “You know that I won't ever forgive you for what you did you know.” He said. Parsley gives a nervous chuckle. ‘Right, forgot that I assaulted him.’ She thought. Parsley should know better than to assault someone, just cause of their sexist view, doesn't mean she should hurt them. She didn't react in shame when she did that. If her parents heard about it, they would be very disappointed about their daughter turning into a brute.

She sighed and she need to figure out what to do to make up for what she did last year. Sure her friends find it awesome but again she should know better than to use violence against another student. Even the teacher is proud to see her use violence against another person that isn't an enemy.

“Urgh! Where is she?!” Sage exclaimed, angry that she can't find Eline. It shouldn't be so hard to find that werewolf at all! She looks around at the ground again. Sage takes the time to think about what just happened.

She usually gets away from it all, she wanted Rosemary to just do whatever she says. She hates Rosemary acting all friendly towards other guys, except Snapdragon. He's just different, he just acts like a girl and she likes that. She always seems to blush around him but Rosemary always has to ruin whatever she has planned for others to do. The festival was a disappointment, she hates how much of a know-it-all Rosemary is when it comes to weaponry and her choices of fun.

‘Is it too much to ask for Rosemary just to trust me with whatever I say!?’ She thought. There is Aster and she doesn't understand why he's being all friendly to Rosemary. Then there are the new kids! Oh, she hates that cannibal or whatever with passion. She doesn't understand how Eline is in a relationship with a guy who has a lot of red flags surrounding him.

First, she saw him clinging to her. Second, she sees and hears him talk about how he owns her and made her his loyal dog! And third! He's a cannibal! Eline shouldn't be his dinner! She doesn't know how much he ate from her. ‘Is that why she wears those gloves? Did he eat a piece of her hand?’ She thought. She can't imagine agreeing to someone else to eat them whole. “Cultural thing my ass, he's all toxic.” She said to herself.

“Well someone has a hate boner.” Sage hears someone, “I don't know what you mean, but I'm a girl, not a guy.” Sage replied and looks around to where she heard the voice. “Over here, Sage.” She said. Sage looks around again and then sees Eline hovering next to her. “What the! I thought you were a werewolf.” Sage said.

“I am a werewolf, I just have a lot of mana. Hovering and floating around is child's play if I'm being honest. I don't need to waste much of it for a simple thing.” Eline said with a chuckle. “Make it quick, my time is very precious and I don't want to waste any more than I already have.” She said to the mage. “That's rude, well I want to know if you're okay,” Sage said. “A waste of time, if you ask me a question like that,” Eline said. Sage almost wants to grit her teeth. She can't believe that she doesn't say if she's okay or not. “Well, it's common courtesy to ask someone who walks away,” Sage said and crosses her arms.

“Time is time, the clock strikes midnight. Nothing and nowhere, they go in one direction.” Eline said, “Huh?” Sage looks puzzled.

“Time is time, the clock strike midnight. Nothing and nowhere, they crack under a lot of pressure.” She said looking at the mage. Eline floats and laid comfortable in the air.

Eline closes her eyes “Time is time, the clock strikes midnight. Nothing and nowhere, they break under the influence.” She said. “What are you saying?! I don't even understand what you're talking about.” Sage shouted. Eline stands behind Sage in a flash. She didn't realize that she moved.

“Time is time, the clock strikes midnight. Nothing and nowhere, they will fall like chess pieces.” Eline said and wanders off, letting Sage be confused about her cryptic phrases.

Sage couldn't even understand what she said, she doesn't know if she was okay or if it was a cry for help. “Did Truther do something to her?” Sage questioned and ponders more only to sigh and walk back to her friends. She will have to try and make her get away from her so-called ‘loving’ boyfriend.

The day went uneventful, sadly the two couldn't find their stones. It's getting very frustrating when it comes to their task. Eline gets very much frustrated and angry at any rate she would cause another genocide. Truther couldn't control himself and would want to eat every person he sees, he couldn't even stop Eline from wanting to cause destruction, although he wouldn’t care anymore due to how hungry he’ll be when he gets very VERY angry. “If there is a special object. Where would they hide it?” Truther questioned himself. Snapdragon looks at his roommate and said: “Well it would be a place where they heavily guard it, although I don't know what you're talking about.”

Truther looks at him and sighs. “Eline and I lost something and we have to find it, even if it means destroying everyone in our path.” He said and looks at the ceiling of their room. “That sounds extreme, but if you've lost something I can help you know,” Snapdragon said. Truther chuckles “As much as I would love to. My beloved would be angry about it and well I don't know you well for me to tell you about what we've lost.” He said. Snapdragon smiles a bit “Well, you know who to talk to if you need any help then.” He said and then chuckles.

“Say is your diet always human flesh?” Snapdragon asked him, Truther chuckles and shakes his head. “No, not always I can eat regular food but I do have to eat humans to stay alive. Otherwise, my disguise would shed and my horrifying self will seep out.” Truther said. Snapdragon nods, “That seems reasonable.” He said, “Yeah well it is how it is.” Truther said and chuckled. Truther looks at him and asked: “Are your pupils always white?” He asked the ginger. “Yeah, my whole family has white pupils. It’s very common in my family.” Snapdragon said.

“That’s interesting,” The monster said. “I mean, sure it’s interesting but that’s how common it is where my family is from before moving to Scarborough Kingdom. At least, I think they are more people with white pupils.” Snapdragon said. Truther nods a bit but then looks at him. “You seem to act very feminine of how you sit.” He blurted out. Snapdragon's face turned red from embarrassment. “I-well, I’m a guy, I just don’t know about my body. I don’t feel comfortable talking about it. I mean would it be uncomfortable when I start talking about how you look and act possessive.” He said.

Truther smiles a bit. “I’m a monster, I’m an actual monster. I act and think very possessively and aggressively when it comes to my beloved thrall.” He said Snapdragon can’t tell if he fears his roommate or debating if he wants to pursue their friendship. “I have a question though.” Truther said, “Shoot.” Snapdragon said, wondering what he want to ask.

“What's up with the mage?” He asked. Snap looks confused “Which one?” He asked him. “The blue-haired one, uhm Sage.” “Oh her,” Snap said and sighed. “She's nice once you get to know her, although she is now fixated on Rosemary and Aster rekindling their friendship,” Snapdragon said. “Sounds tiring,” Truther said with pity in his voice.

“Yeah, well she is a pain in the ass, but she is someone to tell your feelings to heh.” He said scratching his freckled cheeks. ‘Sounds pretty toxic if you ask me.’ Truther thought. “Well, if you say that she’s trustworthy then alright,” Truther said with a smile. Snapdragon can’t help but smile a bit. He’s just glad to talk to someone who isn’t Amaryllis or Sage.

“Well Aster, you are being very lively today,” Gladiolus said with a smile as he paints his nail in one of his questionable colors. “And you’re very flamboyant as always, honestly Gladis you should pick colors that don’t make girls scream,” Aster said to his roommate. “Moi? Don’t you have any idea how much I love crazy colors? They make it pop,” Gladiolus said with a beaming smile. “Well, what makes you happy that doesn’t involve me getting you out of the mess,” Aster said and chuckled. “Oh, you~, It is not like I have a charmer like you studying and fighting in the same room as moi,” Gladiolus said.

He smiles and continues to paint his nails. “What’s next after your manicure? A spa treatment?” Aster questioned, Gladiolus laughs. “You would love that don’t you mon cher,” Gladiolus said and grins at goldilocks. “Who knows, I’m rooming with a flamboyant, dramatic guy who calls me goldilocks, mon cher, mon ami, and Aster dear,” Goldilocks said with a playful smirk. Gladiolus laughs and looks at his painted nails. “What can I say, I do have a huge personality Aster.

Gladiolus looks at Aster and smiles, “I’m not into guys, and if I am, I would definitely not date you, Gladis.” He said, making the river elf huff. “Boohoo, you’re not even that attractive.” He said with a sigh. Gladiolus then burst out laughing and so does Aster after their banter with each other. It always happens when they talk whenever the elf starts the conversation.

Rosemary looks through the window and sighs, she wonders how that guy knows Lavender or how he knows what she looks like. It made her hopeful that her mom is alive and well but she wanted to know where she is and why she didn’t come home from whatever mission she has. “Yo, are you sleeping or what?” Amaryllis said to her. “I will, sorry,” Rosemary said and walks to her bed and lays down. “Night Amaryllis,” Rose said, she hears Amaryllis snoring. She sighed and falls asleep.

Chapter Text

A month went by and things have taken a turn Eline is agitated and cranky still pissed that she can't find Timeless, Truther is getting more hungry and it doesn't help with his time of the month even though he can't help but miss Requiem whenever his time is coming. In Martial Art class Professor Hakone Civet has announced the group after observing them for a couple of weeks.

Group 1: Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Parsley, Snapdragon, Amaryllis, Gladiolus, Aster, Eline, and Truther

Group 2: Calamagrostis, Parnell, Slime Boy, Zinnia, Mage #1, Elf #2, Warrior #1, Blacksmith #5, Centaur #3, and Mage #2

Group 3: …

Group 4: …

…

“What!?” Sage shouted in disbelief, “If that’s the group then deal with it, Sage.” Eline said. “This can’t be right,” Sage said. “Then tell the teacher about it, Sage.” Thyme spoke. “Now that we know who our teammates are,” Aster said and smiled at Rose. “Then let’s train!” Rosemary exclaimed. “I’m down for that,” Parsley said. “You are not gonna fight. You’re war hammer did enough damage on my foot.” Aster said to the dwarf with anger. Parsley gave a nervous chuckle. “Right, I’ll just sit this one out then heh,” She said and frowns looking at the ground.

“Eline, you want to fight?” Truther asked his girlfriend with a sinister smile. Before Eline could answer Sage interrupted her. “How about we spar Truther,” Sage spoke making her Terrasphere turn into her wood-carved staff. “Well, this is about to get good,” Amaryllis said. Truther looks dumbfounded and smiles sickly sweetly. “Of course, I let you do the first move.” He said and fix his glasses and grabs his bow.

Sage remembers what she did last year, uses glyphs from Old Magic, and shoots a beam at him. Truther spins away at the same time pulls the string and made a couple of Fire arrows appear and shoot at her. Thyme looks at the magic arrows and then at her quiver. “As Truther had said, he specializes in Natura, most of them are easy to use but for arrows like those? He needs either Alchemy or Magick. It is very time-consuming for him, he has to make them by hand for endless hours. Doesn’t the library have a book about making magic arrows?” Eline said and looks at the wood elf.

Thyme looks at her and then at the fight. “I think so. I’ll go look for it, it seems useful to use against enemies.” She said. “Well yeah, but again it is very time-consuming. You should better use poison-tipped arrows.” Eline said, Thyme nods a bit.

Sage gets frustrated and calms down a bit and shoots another beam. “Too predictable Sage,” Truther said and twirls around again only to shoot another round of Fire arrows at her. Sage conjured up a shield. “Ugh! You aren’t taking it seriously unlike a week ago with Eline!” Sage yelled and shoot another beam. Truther jumps and does a backflip in thin air and shoots another set of arrows again, but this time its Wind arrows. “Our styles are the same and we’ve been fighting for years to the point we can harm each other whenever we wanted. If you look closely at us, we were dancing in our fight.” Truther said.

“Dancing?!” Sage shouted. “Yeah, we were dancing.” Truther said, “I wouldn't call it dancing, more like..“ Snapdragon ponders “More like killing each other.” Amaryllis added. “Truth, stop being so ugh,” Eline said her face already turning red.

Truther chuckles and continues to fire different elemental arrows at the mage, much to Sage's frustration.

Gladiolus shoots glaciers at Snapdragon. “Honestly darling you can be delicate as a petal. Which is cute but,” “I know, I know! I have to use violence against my opponent!” Snapdragon yelled and dodged. “You need to get that checked out Snappy.” He said.

Snapdragon groaned, “I'm using this to fight, you would think it will do damage.” He said, gesturing to his weapon. Gladiolus sighs and twirls his knife. “Those swords can cut through fabric and can cut through the skin but not armor.“ Gladis said to him.

“It isn't effective though,” Snapdragon said and glanced at his father's axe. “That depends on how you use it, use it as they are intended to be used.“ Gladiolus said with a cheeky smile. “Yeah maybe I will,” Snapdragon said with a smile.

“Amaryllis,” Parsley said to the rich girl. “Yes? What is it?” Amaryllis asked. The dwarf sighed “How can I make up with someone?” She asked her. Amaryllis thinks for a bit and shrugs. “That depends on the person, I assume it's about Aster so I think you should do something to make your apology mean something.” She said to the dwarf.

Parsley looks at the blonde and Rosemary, “Maybe, but what though.” Parsley questioned. “You figure it out, Parsley,” Amaryllis said and walks towards the training dummy.

Parsley sighs and looks at her war hammer. She should just listen to Aster for a time being and not used it anymore, not until she has his forgiveness.

“Are you sure about close range?” Eline questioned them. “I can do both you know,” She continued. “Three versus one, surely it will be fun no?” Rosemary said. “Well alright then, Thyme. You better aim it at me like you want to kill me.” The werewolf said with a sigh. Thyme nods and takes out her bow.

Without no warning, Eline runs towards Rosemary and swings her sword. Rosemary quickly dodges and swings at her only for her to be blocked. Aster takes the chance to go behind her and swings his sword at Eline. Eline spins to the side and attacks Aster, only to dodge Thyme's arrows.

‘This will be hell.’ Eline thought and attacks Rosemary, only for Rose to block hers this time and Aster swung at her, Thyme shoots another set of arrows at her scratching her cheek.

Eline stumbled a bit. Aster and Rose take the chance to attack her at the same time. Eline looks at them with her Fuschia eye, her clock pupil ticking slowly. “Tick Tock, Tick,” Eline flips and rolls behind them, making Rosemary and Aster face planting the ground. “Tock,” Eline said with her last breath. Thyme looks at her and shoots three arrows at her shoulder blade in one position.

Eline's eyes widened feeling blood pour out of her shoulder. “Rose now!” Aster shouted. Eline barely dodges Rosemary's attacks and then she hears cracks. ‘Oh no, oh no I forgot!’ Eline thought. Her eyes widened.

Truther looks at Eline and has a sinister smirk. Sage waits for him to throw arrows at her but looks confused about who he's looking at. “Hey!” Sage shouted. Truther walks towards his thrall, black smokes start seeping out of his neck. “Truth, calm down,” Eline said looking at him. “What's going on?” Amaryllis questioned. “Strip,” Truther demanded. “You can't tell someone to be naked in front of you,” Sage said.

Eline locks eyes with him, “Truth, calm down.” She said again, Truther walks towards her and tear down the tunic vest. The monster can see blood seeping through the white fabric. “Taste good smells good. I can't wait any longer.” Truther mumbles and tackles his girlfriend to the ground. “TRUTHER!” Eline yelled, making the others stop what they were doing.

Truther doesn't hear her screaming, he can only hear how hungry he is, it didn't take long for his jaw the dislocate and his multiple canine teeth to appear. His hands turn into claws with very sharp nails tearing into her. “Truther! Please!” Eline shouted, begging him. Truther has his mouth open wide and bites on her shoulder blade.

Eline screams louder trying to push the monster away from her. Snapdragon's eyes widened and runs toward them. “Truther!? What the actual fuck!?!” Aster shouted and runs at them as well. Truther doesn't hear them, he can only hear the bones breaking and her beating heart going faster. “So good, so delicious,” Truther whispers and bites on her nipples, tears them out, and claws her waist till it bleeds.

Sage's eyes widened and point the staff at him. ‘He needs to die! He shouldn't be eating other people!!!’ Sage thought, but she can't think straight even if she thinks he needs to die. Thyme aims an arrow at Truther and shoots it at him only for him to deflect with a tail? Snapdragon and Aster as well as Rosemary grab onto the cannibal and try to pull him away.

Truther keeps on eating her, much to her protest and her screaming. It takes much longer until they finally got him away from her.

Everyone can see the bloody corpse of the werewolf. Her stomach is open wide, her heart is bitten to pieces, and blood pouring from every direction. It's a gore vest with her intestine spilling out and has bite marks, her rib cage has been broken into pieces and one of her boobs was eaten, even a whole chunk of her shoulder has been eaten. Truther's jaws are located back where it was and turn back into a human. His mouth and clothes are covered in blood and so does his hands, gripping tightly one of her lungs.

“Truther! Go to Wyverna Dretch's office now!” Professor Civet said in a stern voice. Truther's eyes widened and look at Eline's corpse. “No, not when she isn't safe.” He said, “Not safe?! YOU ATE HER! YOU ARE A FREAK OF NATURE YOU KNOW!” Sage yelled at him and looks sad at the corpse, she notice something written she couldn't make it but it wrote “ ’s property.” She could tell that only the name had been bitten out and it made her more scared than Truther carved her.

Truther hissed at the mage and looks at Eline. “She's alive. She can't die that easily.” He said, looking at the ravaged corpse. “W-w-what? N-n-no she's dead, you ate her you monster.” Zinnia spoke frightened about him. Truther hissed at her and growls. 

Eline huffs and slowly breathes. “You've always been alive…” Truther said with pitiful eyes at his thrall. Gladiolus and Cal walk toward the body. “She's alive,” Gladiolus announced. “Let's just go Truther,” Snapdragon said.

Snap and Aster force Truther to go with them to the guidance counselor's office. “Seriously, I know you're a cannibal but still,” Aster said with a sigh. “I guess it's this time of year again,” Truther said and sighed. “Come again?” Snapdragon said and looks at him puzzled. “It's the mating season for someone like me Snap,” Truther said, glancing behind him.

Gladiolus and Cal brought the corpse to the infirmary for the doctor to examine and double-check that Eline is indeed alive.

Sage, Rosemary, and Parsley stand outside of the room. “I call it bs that she is still alive,” Sage said. “You got a point, I mean no normal person can make it alive when they're eaten.” Parsley said, “He wasn't lying when he said that he's a cannibal.” Rose spoke and shivered. Everyone who witnesses cannibalism can't help but have it engraved in their brain. They would be reminded for eternity that cannibals exist and that one of them is a cannibal.

“Cannibals are people, they don’t like normal food and they want to eat only human parts,” Sage explained. “No need for a definition sheesh, pretty sure everyone knows about what a cannibal is,” Gladiolus said coming out of the infirmary with Cal walking away with a smug face. “Well, I’m just explaining what-” “It’s unneeded.” Gladiolus looks at her as he interrupted her.

Sage huffs and crosses her arms. “I’ve seen her body having written with a sharp object,” Sage said. “What?” Parsley questioned. Sage looks at her friends and continues, “She’s Truther’s property, that’s what it was written on her body, don’t you think it’s what he did? He probably hurt her to the point that she only trust him and made him isolate her.” “Is she even his property? It is only the name that’s been bitten off,” Rosemary said, Sage holds onto her shoulder and said: “Rosemary, she is in an abusive relationship. She has had faint cuts and burn marks for who knows how long. Not only that but she also has stretch marks.”

“Then what should we do? Being in an abusive relationship is very hard to get out of,” Parsley spoke out.

Meanwhile, Thyme is in the library and tries to find a book about magic arrows or potions for tipping her arrows with, to make it more efficient to quickly kill the people who work for The Triumvirate and also she is trying to find any way she can to get rid of The Rot that way, she can reunite with her father and go back to the Fairy Woods.

In the middle of the night when everyone is asleep and where the mysterious person disguised as an officer walks towards Olive’s cell. “Stand back,” He said, Olive is skeptical but does what he told her. The man grins and made the bars into glass shards, breaking them apart with a seethrough blue Terrasphere of his.

“Let’s go traitor,” He said to her. Olive gulps and walks with him out of the building and towards the woods.

Once they are far away the hooded man threw away his disguise and shows him being a teenager with a potion in his hand. “Not to alarm you but I have to drink a potion to turn into a teenager. I’m an adult,” He said. “So what, were you called to get me out?” Olive asked her. “No of course not, we need a scapegoat. But, we can make a deal,” He said with a chuckle.

“What is your name?” Olive asked her, “Hiachi Martella,” He said. “I’m just here to make sure that a certain someone comes back to me, after all.” He grins and throws a rope at the cat girl making her all tied up. “She’s all mine to do what I please, she’s my property, my beloved puppy and she is being a bad bad dog to be so far away from me. I’m just trying to get her out of a dangerous situation, she’s with a bad man who doesn’t treat her what she should’ve been treated.” Hiachi said with a grin.

“So you are like what her ex?” Olive questioned, only for a glass shard to be held to her face. “Why of course not~. She’s my darling puppy~ she doesn’t know what she wanted. I know what she wants. She needed to be filled with cum, she only needed to please me in every way I wanted her to.” He laughs like a madman.

“Let’s see,” He looks at the traitor and cuts through, one of her eyes. It made her scream loudly, feeling blood dripping and being blinded in one of her eyes. “You want to redeem yourself?” He asked her, “I want you to kill someone close to that High Guardian Spice or whatever generic name they have.” Hiachi said. “E-e-exactly who?” Olive trembles in fear and holds onto her bloody eye.

“The Wood elf father, Camphor,” He said with a grin and throw a knife in front of her. “We will make sure you will do it, if not well. I don’t mind making you go blind again or ripping your tongue out would be fun~.” He said, loving the terrified face of the cat girl.

Chapter Text

The next day, the doctor walks into the infirmary early in the morning. He wants to see if Eline has survived. But he didn't expect her to recover fully overnight. It also didn't take long for her to wake up immediately. “I'm going to fucking kill him.” She said and sighed. She carefully sits up and covers her body with a blanket.

“You seem to heal rather quickly.” The doctor said dumbfounded. Eline looks at him and then at her wrists. “Happened whenever he eats me. It's not that worrisome considering time is always been a thing.” She said.

“Where is he?” She asked him, the doctor knows what she was talking about and looked at her with concern. “Truther will be under supervision, because of what he is. He isn't allowed to be alone.” He said.

‘Just great, thanks a lot you fucking bastard.’ Eline thought. She curses under her breath, she needs to make sure that no one knows about it. But she doesn't feel like using time anytime soon, it drains too much mana and the fact she reverses time on herself every time she gets eaten doesn't help at all.

“Truther is a cannibal surely you would know it's a terrible disease to live with,” Eline said to the doctor. “A terrible disease? I wouldn't call cannibalism a disease miss Clairvoye.” The doctor said. “Ah before I forget, Caraway wants to talk to you about the incident when you feel better.” He said as if he just remembered.

Eline cocks her eyebrows and groans feeling like she is already wasting enough of her time than it is. Usually, it took them about a week, but now they've been in this crazy world for like a month. She doesn't want to be attached to everyone. If she does she would feel pain for abandoning them.

That's what happened back in her second relationship. She doesn't want to deal with another one. She's already too attached to Truther, she doesn't want to lose him like she lost her past lover.

“Can I at least talk to him in private?” Eline said fiddling with her pocket watch wrapped around her neck as a necklace. “Absolutely not! Not without supervision. That being said, Sage will be in the conversation.” The doctor said much to her annoyance.

“Now tell me, those wounds.” He said looking at the wounds that aren't covered. “Too painful to talk about. I prefer talking to Truth about it.” She said as her ears flattened.

“Puppy~ why did you run away? I have an amazing gift for you.~” Eline winced at the memory. The doctor looks at her again and sighed. “Your clothes are over there,” He gestured to her uniform. “Once you are dressed, your friends will visit you,” He continues. Eline nods a bit and looks at the doctor as he sits down near his desk.

‘A grown man shouldn't be in the same place as a teenage girl or a grown woman!’ She thought. She coughs to get his attention, “Can you leave?” She asked him, the doctor looked at her “Is there a problem?” He asked her, “Why yes of course there is a problem. I’m naked and I don’t want a man to see me fully nude!” She shouted at him. The doctor grumbles and gets up, “You could have said it nicely.” He mumbles and walks out, giving her the space to get dressed.

Eline sighed heavily and put on her undergarments and looks at herself in the mirror. “It’s been so, so long…” She mutters, looking at her scars and the faint stretch marks on her tummy. She winces and shakes her head not wanting to relieve any painful memories.

She puts on her clothes just in time when the girl group she seems to hate comes in. “H-h-how?” Sage looked at her with wide eyes. “Energy, common magic from the 5 magic system,” Eline said looking deadpanned at the mage.

“I use time, time is very wide and would not bend unless they say so,” Eline said and leans on the chair. “Although I can turn back time I can’t fix past mistakes if I did, it will still have its way to go back to how it originally had ended. No one can control it,” She looks at Rosemary who has her hopes up, “Don’t get your hopes up, otherwise reality will hit you hard like Icarus falling to his death.” Eline continues. “Icarus?” Parsley questioned. “Icarus, a guy who flew to the sun, Helios and has hand-made wings of feather and wax that his father build melted like melted chocolate pouring all over the custard. Surely you would know about that? Or a variation of that folk tale.” Eline said.

“Of course, we know about Icarus, that’s given the fact that guys don’t have intelligence enough to figure out that wax melted off,” Sage said with her arms crossed. “Your sexist comment is what I question of how your parents raised you.” Eline barked at her.

“Eline, my parents raised me very well! I- we are worried for your well-being!” Sage shouted at her. “She saw ’s property written on you.” Thyme said. Eline flinched a bit, “It is none of your business.” She said to Sage. “It is none of your fucking business Sage!” She yelled at her.

She clenched her fist and shouted again: “So what of it?! Don't you think that I maybe, maybe! I have a branding kink!? Don't you think it will turn me on?!?” Sage looks scared and puzzled about what she means about kink and turns on.

The door opened and Truther walks in. Everyone in the room looks at him. Eline looks at him with betrayal in her eyes. Rosemary looks mad and so does Parsley although she looks like a disappointed mother. Thyme gives him a disapproving look and Sage looks very angry.

“My Lady,” Truther said and walks towards her, he wanted to hug her, to touch her. He should know better than do something without her consent. If he wasn’t so horny and hungry he would’ve let her touch him, make him crave her more. His thoughts get interrupted when Sage gets in front of Eline and slaps the monster. Hard.

“Sage!” Thyme shouted. “You guys don't understand how abusive he is,” Sage said calmly. Eline looks at her and fiddles with her pendant. “I deserve that but you are not allowed to hit me or slap me. Eline is the one that should be very angry.” Truther said.

Truther walks passed Sage and holds Eline by her waist. “Truth,” Eline spoke. “My beautiful broken Lady,” Truther spoke in his native tongue, Olathi. “Hey! You can't talk in a foreign language! We need to know what you two are talking about!!” Sage yelled at them.

Truther glances at her and looks at his girlfriend. “Disappointed,” Eline said. Truther sighed and pecked her cheek. “Sorry, I shouldn't have lost control of my hormones,” Truther said in an apologetic tone.

“Is your apology genuine?” Rosemary asked him. Eline sits down on the chair while Truther kneels and holds the back of her ankle. He raises it a bit and gives a trail of kisses on her bare leg up to her skirt. “I need you, I want to feel inside you,” Truther murmured and made her skirt fold up so that he can see her panties.

“What are you doing!?” Sage shrieked, the other three looked shocked and backed away a bit. “That seems a bit too touchy.” Parsley said. As if things get too uncomfortable, Parnell and Cal walk in.

“What the- dude the fuck!?” Cal shouted and quickly covered his cousin's eyes. Sure he's mean but he doesn't want his cousin to see this display! “Cal? I can't see.” Parnell said, “You don't need to see this Parnell.” Cal replied to him.

Truther ignores the audience and focuses on her, he continues to kiss a trail and has her leg over his shoulder. “Please, I'll do anything to have you touch me,” Truther said, looking at his blushing mess of a girlfriend. “Oh Truther, I should be apologetic towards your needy exterior.” She said with a smirk. Truther groans and feels her foot rubbing his crotch.

“You said anything right?” Eline looks at him. Truther nods and kisses her inner thigh. “You're such a needy helpless man, what should I do with you~.” She cooed, forgetting the other people in the room.

“What are they even doing?” Rosemary questioned. “Damn she's hot like that,” Cal mutters. Truther's eyes sparkle with hope. “I won't do it with you for the time being. So you have to masturbate.~” She said with a smile. Truther gulped and feels her continue to rub him. “You ate me without consent if it's that hard for you without Requiem. You could've cut a piece of yourself, it isn't new.” Eline said caressing his cheek.

Sage looks disgusted at them, how could they have a conversation like this when Truther is a monster, no one should eat their lover! Or fucking brand them as their property! She needs to try hard to get them apart.

Rosemary looks very much confused about what their relationship is at this point. She doesn’t understand what they are doing, sure she sees her parents being all lovey-dovey and she also sees Sage's aunt, Anise, and Aloe being lovable lesbian dorks but this? She might have to ask an adult about it.

Thyme and Parsley just let them be and have a conversation with each other, talking about their next classes and the preparation of the first task.

Cal continues to cover his cousin's eyes, cause he doesn't want him to witness something at his age.

Truther looks conflicted, he can't stop but want to lick her sex. “Truther, control yourself,” Eline said. He huffs but kisses her inner thigh once more and lets it go. “I'll do anything and I mean anything to have some fraction of release,” Truther said. Eline smiles and kisses him, “Found anything interesting?” She asked him. Truther whispers sinfully:

, “Under the school is a basement near the blacksmithing class.” Eline nods, she just wants to end this, the longer she's here the more annoyed and irritated she gets.

“Eline! He did something to you didn't he?!” Sage shouted. Everyone looks at her. “Wait what?” Eline asked dumbfounded. “He ate you, and yet you're not scared!” Sage shouted. Truther twirls his thumb on the pocket watch that peaked out of his breast pocket. “We've known each other longer. Why should I be afraid of my darling needy loving man.” She said.

“Why are all the hot chicks taken!” Cal spoke with a huff. “Whatever I thought I can come here alone to flirt with her,” Cal said and walks off leaving Parnell behind. “I have a question as to why you two long for each other,” Parnell asked. “Trauma bonding I guess?” Both Eline and Truther said at the same time and shrugged.

Sage fumes when she doesn't get what she wanted. Then she notices the matching pendant/pocket watch. Eline fiddles with hers while Truther twirls his thumb around his. She then thinks and comes up that Truther has her on a leash, ‘I mean if she isn't longer in his control then she can see what Truther is in reality and maybe that will make him stop pretending and finally reveal himself. Surely no one named their child Truther.’ Sage thought.

Truther looks at his beloved, kisses her one last time, and finally leaves. He has his very own agenda after all. ‘If he's here then, is he a student? Surely he wouldn't be that dumb to stay as an adult and fucking rape her. I'm just fucking glad she doesn't realize the shift in magic.’ Truther thought. He sighed heavily and wander around. He can't shake off the conversation with professor Dretch. He hates being monitored. But at least she's kind enough to let him be, well sort of being kind enough to let him be.

“She can try but I’m a monster that crawls through the darkness. How hard can it be to be alone with that asshole of a girlfriend.” Truther spoke to himself. ‘Very hard considering her reflexes kicking in by summoning multiple swords at once.’ He thought and sigh in defeat, “I should’ve brought my butler.” He said and walks towards his and Snapdragon’s room.

Snapdragon walks in on Aster's painting Gladiolus nails in another one of his questionable colors. “Seriously, you need a better color palette,” Amaryllis said holding a book of spells. “That’s what I told him but he won’t listen,” Aster said with a sigh and glanced at the redhead. “Sup man, get yourself comfy in here, ignore my darling little pet snake though, she can be sassy as she likes to be.” He said. “You have a pet snake?” Snap questioned and sit next to his best friend and looks at the vivarium near the desk on Aster's side. “My parents brought her here today,” Goldilocks said with ease.

“What’s up with you?” Amaryllis asked him. “Oh nothing much, just contemplating how awkward it would be, considering I’m rooming with Truther. I won’t deny that he’s pretty nice to talk to, but now I don’t know.” Snapdragon said with a sigh. Amaryllis looks at him and grabs a hairbrush. “Sucks to be you then Snap,” Gladiolus said, checking his right hand that’s been painted.

“I’m gonna be honest, I don’t think he should be doing what he’s done in class but at the same time he seems to have a lot of hormones.” Snapdragon said, “Turn around, let me brush your hair,” Amaryllis said, “What? Girl, my hair isn’t that long.” Snap said, “We beg the differ.” The three of them said. “It may not be that long, but it did stop a bit at your shoulders,” Aster said.

“Plus stress brushing is pretty relaxing,” Gladiolus added. “Oh uhm okay,” Snap said and turns around, letting the murder axe-wielding mage brush his hair. “I wouldn’t say stress brushing is relaxing,” Goldilocks said. “Oh please, Goldie you don’t mind brushing your hair fifty times to make it shine like the fucking sun. I swear it’s like you used tons of hair gel,” Amaryllis spoke out. Aster's face starts to turn red as Snapdragon and Gladiolus start to laugh.

“Hold up! How did you know?! And no happy murder! I don’t use a lot of hair gel!!” Aster said, looking at Amaryllis pointing the brush at her. Amaryllis smirked and said, "Gladis told me, you take up most of the time hogging the bathroom.” “Traitor!” Aster shouted at his roommate as the water elf snickered. “Oh please if it makes you feel better or worse, I hear Truther moaning while he masturbates in the bathroom,” Snap said with a smile. “Does he not understand privacy or something?!” Aster exclaimed.

“Nope~ but on a serious note he does skincare in the morning,” Snap said. “Oooh boy, you should try it sometimes, having good skin and taking care of it takes a lot of work sure but the result makes it worth it,” Gladiolus said with a bright smile. “I don’t mind giving you some to try, if you wanted to that is.” The mage said tying her friend's hair into a ponytail. “Thanks, Amaryl, but I need some time to think about the skincare routine you know.” He said, scratching his cheek.

“Now, Aster, you better treat her with respect got it,” Snapdragon said looking at the mirror given to him, happy about the ponytail. “Noted, still thinking of a way to make up to her but for now I let the friendship between me and rhubarb be. I don’t want to mess it up again,” Aster said taking off the rubber band that’s been tied up part of his hair. “You’ll be fine, you have to be worried about that friend of hers,” Gladiolus said.

“I don’t really like Sage, she’s just ugh! So annoying!” Amaryllis said, “She can take it too far but she’s a good friend.” Snapdragon said, “Whatever you say, man.” Aster said.

In the middle of the night, Olive stares at Thyme’s father working on the antidote for the Rot. “Do it.” The assassin said. “Shut up Mandrake,” Olive said, holding the knife. “Tsk, I knew you couldn’t kill someone. You better do it before I do it for you. Or do you want to be completely blind?” He said to the cat girl. Olive gulps, she can’t properly see so because of that she doesn’t know where to begin. “Ugh, I don’t have much patience anymore, Olive if you want to stay alive you better redeem yourself. Otherwise, you will do a job far worse than this.” Mandrake said crossing his arms.

“Oh yeah? What were you doing then?” Olive asked him. He smirks. “Buttering up with the teachers. It is very intriguing how Caraway knows Lavender when they attended that school or the fact that Thyme is still trying to figure out how to get rid of that gorgeous corruption.” He said. “I found out a lot more inside the building than you ever did.” He continues. “Aswell as finding out Hiachi’s little girlfriend still has his name on her body.” He said and grabs the knife. “You seriously did the worst job ever to be a spy,” Mandrake said and shapeshifted into Thyme and hid the knife.

“Dad?” ‘Thyme’ said walking towards Camphor. “Thyme? What are you doing here? You should be in Lyngarth.” Her father said, ‘Thyme’ looks at the ground and then at her father. “I found the antidote. It can probably heal the trees but I’m not sure.” ‘She’ said and pull out a vial of clear blue liquid. Her father looks astounded and grabs the vial. He examined it and walked towards the table with his ‘daughter’ behind him.

“Thyme this isn’t-” He coughs loudly and feels a knife stabbing him. “Sorry to disappoint you father but I rather have the Rot grow a lot more than treat them.” ‘Thyme’ said with a grin. “My sweet girl…Why?” He falls to the ground and hazily looks at his daughter. ‘Thyme’ smiled sweetly, “I work for the Triumvirate as a spy father. I’m tired of being the good girl and listening to you and mom.” ‘She’ said. “T-T-T-Thyme…” Camphor mutters coughing and feeling his eyes getting heavy. “If there is a god. Say hi for me would you father dearest~.” ‘Thyme’ said and stabs him again to the point he was now lying dead.

“Y-y-you…” Olive stuttered and start shaking. “See how easy it is? It doesn’t take an entire day you know, but don’t worry we have a nice job for you to do. For you to redeem yourself,” Mandrake said, still disguised as Thyme. He snapped his finger and the same rope that Hiachi used to tie her up, appear and tie her up again. “Hiachi will definitely love to hear what happened.” He said “Let’s go, kitty cat. He and I have some work to do.” He continues with a devious smile and walks away with Olive in tow, pulling the rope.

Chapter Text

“Heard you've caused a disturbance.” Professor Dretch said, looking as professional as ever. Truther looks away not bothering to make eye contact with a demon, he despises those undead beings, sure he is one. Some would say that a monster is like a zombie.

“You aren't human that's for sure and it is rare for cannibals to exist.” She said, “Monster.” Truther mumbles. “Pardon?” She looks at him. “I'm a monster professor. October is the time of year when every monster has their needs multiplied, which means wanting to eat human remains.“ Truther said.

Wyverna wrote it down as she nods. “I see, I guess that is why you attacked Eline?” She asked him. He nods “We usually communicate about it, though I guess we forgot to set even more boundaries for this month.” He said. “That doesn't excuse that you ate her. You're lucky that she's alive somehow. That doesn't mean that you're off the hook either mister.” She said. “The teachers as well as some students have to monitor you, due to your nature.” She said.

“I'm sorry what?! Why let the students supervise me!? Are you seriously asking for a death wish towards them?! Aren't you suppose to be the guidance counselor!?” Truther shouted as he stood up, his hands slamming on her desk.

“I understand being new here but do trust me when the students are capable enough to endure bloodshed. You, kids, are trained to be High Guardians after all.” She said, ‘Here it is with that occupation again! Say what it is and no further detail of what it entails!’ Truther thought.

“They have to endure more than be physically strong, you should know that.” He said. “Do not tell me how to do my job Calliper,” Wyverna said in a stern voice. “Professor Wyverna Dretch, there is much more other than being strong. They have to mature and be prepared for everything. They also have to be mentally prepared to overcome any obstacles. Frankly, after my cannibalism, I don't see them mature all that well.” Truther said, with his arms crossed.

“Look you all are kids, you guys will mature over time, for now, keep it on the down low and make sure your cannibalism doesn't overdose itself.” Professor Dretch said. Truther looks at her. “I understand your concern about me eating the others but even so, I can handle myself just fine. This isn't my first rodeo.” He said. “Whether it is your first or not, the students’ lives are our priority.” She said. Truther sighed in defeat and nodded. “I understand professor. I apologize for my behavior.” Truther said, Wyverna smiled a bit and said: “No worries, I'll try to find a solution for your predicament.” Truther nods and walks out of the office.

“Just great, she'll be mad when she hears I'm gonna be monitored.” He mutters and sighs. “Guess I'll just explore underground then.” He walks off, wandering around until he's under the school. ‘When they say it’s underground they sure mean it that way. No wonder Blacksmithing is deeper here,’ Truther thought. He continues to walk around only to find a basement near the blacksmithing room. “Well if this doesn’t look like a zero-protected place then I don’t know what else is there for others to roam freely,” Truther mutters.

He doesn’t know if he should go further or not. Either way, he does want to tell her and apologize to her for what he did. He walks back to his dorm room to sleep and the next day he should talk to her soon. He prayed that she'll be fine, with her wounds reopening.

Present day

“Thanks for showing me where his office is…” Eline said, begrudgingly, she let Sage walk with her to Caraway's office. “You’re welcome, glad I can help. Especially what he did to you two days ago.” Sage said with a smile, “Whatever shouldn’t you be with Rosemary, considering you are like a toxic clingy girlfriend or whatever,” Eline said. “I’m not toxic at all! I just want her to be careful, especially how fragile she is when she lost her mother,” Sage said looking worried, “Right right, whatever you say,” Eline said, ‘Still don’t trust you, Sage,’ She thought. Sage leaves her alone and walks away, “Tsk, so much for wanting to stick by me when Truther is around,” Eline mutters. The door opened and revealed the professor with a bright smile, making the werewolf jump in surprise. “Seems you are recovering just fine, come in, and I’ll go make some coffee for us,” Caraway said.

Eline, walks inside the office, feeling skeptical, after all, she doesn’t trust the adults there. ‘Get some information about the basement and then find them, I shouldn’t distract myself any longer.’ She thought and silently sighed, she take a seat and have her legs crossed. ‘Surely this shouldn’t take much of my time,’ Eline thought. Caraway handed her a cup and sit across from her. “I hope you’re comfortable and settled yourself well in this school,” He said with a smile. “Get to the point teach,” Eline said and sniff the coffee for some drug, “You’re not fond of small talk aren’t you,” He said.

“I want it to get straight to the point, I don’t want to meddle any longer,” She said, ‘She’s very difficult, she is a child and yet acts like an adult. No child should act like that,’ Caraway thought, he frowns seeing the cold hard facade of his student, “We can discuss what happened two days ago, but I think it’s important that we have a friendly chat,” Caraway said. Eline sighed and swear something under her breath and looks at him, taking a sip of coffee. “Fine, if you want to waste my time with needless questions then do as you wish, you are an adult after all,” She said. Professor Caraway sighed, he has to try a bit harder when it comes to her.

“How are you feeling so far?” He asked her, “Perfect as I can be, after all with how you taught us with so much confusion, you’re setting us to failure,” She said. “Now, now no need to be hostile, I’m sure we can find your real boyfriend,” He said. That peaked Eline with interest. “Exactly what do you mean?” She asked him, Caraway looks at her with concern, “You see there was an incident last year, someone by the name of Mandrake posed as me as well as my old friend Lavender to kill us off. If it weren’t for High Guardian Spice things would’ve gone terrible, it is also why some buildings need renovation due to the fire,” He explained.

“That doesn’t explain why you think Truther isn’t the real one,” Eline said. “That guy isn’t the real one but a fake, I’m sure Mandrake has kidnapped him and disguised as him,” Caraway said. Eline couldn’t help but laugh at that. “Oh my, that’s rich coming from you, I’m sure you must’ve noticed that I know him far longer and I will say this,” Eline said, her clock eye glowing a bright shade of purple. “I know him, he is the real one and has always acted like this. October is the month where monsters come alive and cause massive havoc around the town,” She continued. “You are not making any sense and see the situation you are in as a fun little excursion,” The professor said.

 “How about a game of charade, professor,” She said taking a sip. “I speak no riddle or poem,” Eline continued, “A game where the winner gets all the answers they need.” She said, “If I ask a question, will you answer it?” He asked her. “Depending on the question professor Caraway, unlike the others who trust you blindly, I do not,” Eline said.

Caraway sighed, “You have to trust a teacher,” He said, “Questions only for the game to begin, think of it as a learning chance or something,” Eline said. Caraway sighed and often thinks that some people don’t like talking to others or that they won’t talk about their troubles. Nonetheless, he wants to know how she feels after that traumatizing event.

“Let’s start with a simple one. Where are you from?” Caraway asked her.

“ Esteria, a place in the Southeast of Mirai, ” She answered, although it was all puzzled and the sound of her reply is muffled and hard to understand.

“You are a werewolf correct, then what exactly is Truther,” He asked her.

“I already answered that, I do not like repeating myself,” She answered.

“Then answer me this, who is controlling you whenever you rub that pendant of yours,” He asked her for the third time.

“I’m sorry?” She questioned him.

‘Bingo,’ Professor Caraway thought, he smiled brightly and asked her.

“I want to ask you something. Why do you want to be a Guardian?”

“Times up, you lost the game, needless questions have asked and all were answered. Losing more time will lead to destruction and every single one will cause chaos and destroy any loved one. Starting with your friend, then that kitsune-dressed man. Next will be the students you care for and then this whole kingdom.” Eline said.

“Eline!” Caraway shouted in anger as he stands up, “What? Why shout my name professor? I’m just here waiting for you to ask me in our game.” Eline said looking confused. Caraway blinked twice and then looks confused, ‘Is it just my mind playing tricks on me?’ He thought.

Caraway composed himself “What is your reason to be a Guardian?” He asked her.

“Nothing more, nothing less I do it for my own need, not for wanting to protect others,” She answered. “So you want to be a Guardian for only fame?!” Caraway shouted, shocked and angry, he never met a student who think so selfishly in his entire career. “Why so surprised? Everyone can lie that they want to protect others when they have a different path to be in, you think in a white area while I think of the grey area.” Eline said and gets up.

“I should be going, I do not want to waste any more than I already have. You’ll understand when despair comes and no Guardians can save the people they swore to protect.” Eline said and walks out of the office.

“Exactly who is she and what happened to the sweet girl from the first day?” Caraway questioned himself.

Eline sighed in relief, ‘That took way too long,’ She thought. She uses time when it comes to a dire situation but also to rewind when things go in her favor. She answered but also didn’t she likes to be cryptic and won’t give straight answers right away. She couldn’t help but laugh at how easily that teacher could be confused and easy to read. She finds it very much amusing to play them like a fiddle.

“Now then what now, I mean I can find a clock?” She mutters to herself as she walks around. “Now that I think about it, I seriously have to find a clock, I mean it is not like that cursed mansion that made me and the others go in a loop where we break clocks to retrieve memories?” She mutters again. “If we’re talking about the mansion where we run for our lives from the demonic entity, well it would turn very ugly if that mansion is here,” She hears someone talking behind her. Eline looks behind her and chuckles. “Truther, Truther, Truther,” Eline said with a chuckle.

“My name love, say my name,” Truther said pinning her on the wall. “Triny,” She whispered, “The basement, no one is guarding it at all,” He said. “If a school can’t guard important places. Then I’m worried about the future,” Eline said with a sigh. “So we should go check it out?” He asked her, caressing her neck. “Of course, Timeless and Requiem are important and I mean without them, we’re nothing,” Eline said and purrs loudly.

“That’s my girl, can we please,” He begged her. Eline sighed and holds his chin. “Of course not, you have to do it yourself.” She said. Truther huffs and hugs her. “I want you, I want to eat you up, feel your sex and ram it in.” He said, his head leaning on her shoulder. “You’re such a child Triny~.” She cooed, cupping his cheek, and smiled. “We can do it when I feel like you deserve it,” Eline said with a chuckle. Truther whined and rubs her leg. He mutters his wants, his needs, his pleasure of wanting his thrall.

Sage overhears their conversation, she always wonders what is wrong but now she can confirm her suspicion that Truther wants something and is using his girlfriend to go explore the underground. ‘He is literally the devil! How could he ask her to be intimate with her!? Is marking her so bad that he is using her body!?! Women are not toys, to begin with!!’ Sage thought. She made a fist and walks away to find any cure she can find to break whatever curse that had fallen upon her.

Truther let go of Eline after his whining and his needy tendencies and walks around the hallway of the school. He sees Snapdragon when he starts to grin. “Finally found you Truth,” Snap said and grabs his wrist. “Eh?” Truther looks puzzled, he doesn’t know if he forgot something or not. Then again he can be forgetful when he’s all whiny and needy.

“Did you seriously forget?” Snap questioned him as he drags the confused monster toward Aster and Gladiolus's room. “I think so?” Truther admitted. Snapdragon sighed “ We are having a sleepover, to lighten up the mood and all that. No worries it will be just us boys,” He said with a smile. Truther nodded a bit, ‘I guess I did agree on that, but I want my Lady~ her small fragile body tied up in shibari~ her sweet moans screaming for my name. Oh, how I want her to touch me, use me like she always does.’ Truther thought, his face pink from thinking so lewd.

Once they arrived they could see the chaos that is unfolding. “Aster! Seriously! Get that thing away from me!” Gladiolus shouted standing on his bed frightened of what’s been out of the cage. “Gladis, you’ll scare her majesty,” Aster said and rolls his eyes. “I’ve been gone for what an hour? And I come back bringing a cannibal to witness this?” Snapdragon questioned.

“Snap! That man is a killer!?” Gladiolus shouted. “Hey! Don’t insult her lady!” Aster defended his pet. “I don’t want to know what’s even happening,” Snapdragon concluded. “Either way, let’s just relax we have a week to prepare after the festival?” Truther said, “Yeah after the festival the first task is going to happen, apparently it will take like 5 days,” Aster said, picking up Lillie. He would talk to her like someone would talk to a baby animal. “Now here you go back to your luxury enclosure~,” Aster said rubbing his feathered pet snake head.

“You sicko,” Gladiolus mutters, shivering from the little ‘caws’ and ‘sss’ from Lillie. “Let’s just enjoy this,” Truther said with a sigh from Snapdragon as the both of them smiled.

In the middle of the night. Hiachi glares dagger at the cat girl. “You failed,” He said with zero emotion. “Fail once again, and I will kill you,” He continued. Olive gulps but hiss at him, “What do you even want?!” She shouted. Hiachi chuckles darkly and holds her jaw firm, making- forcing her to look at him. “It is a simple, very simple task, poison the healing water. I’ll give you the vial as soon as it’s been created by Mandrake,” He said.

Olive can’t help but laugh, “Oh, please he can’t make any potion,” She said with a grin. Hiachi points his glass knife at her, “At least he isn’t a traitor and is redeeming himself very nicely, he even got the job done inside of that school. Gathering intel just to inform me and the Triumvirate as well as Lavender.” He said, “He’s much more useful with his shapeshifting ability, unlike you pathetic pest.” He continued and snarled at her, “Be a good girl and stay quiet, after all, no one would suspect a thing when the festival is coming.” Hiachi said with a devious grin.

With Sage she is wandering around, looking for a book that would explain about Monsters or a cannibal and how they can be defeated. “I wonder if it’s Old Magic that he used to have Eline in his spell, from day one she is sweet and nice but over the weeks she’s cold and distant. Surely the abusive behavior from him is taking a toll on her right?” She mutters, She continues to look around only to bump into someone, “Ah, sorry,” Sage quickly apologizes. “It’s fine, I’m just grabbing a book about potions that’s all. Do you need help?” He asked her, “Uh yeah, you know Truther right? I need information about Monsters,” She quickly explained. He nods and smiles, “It’s in the restricted area,” He said and walks away. “Ah- Thank you!” Sage said grateful and walks towards the restricted area.

Chapter Text

“We should’ve prepared a lot more than party,” Eline said with a groan. Sage smiles brightly, “Come on Eline, you should have tons of fun! Us girls will have to enjoy our life.” Sage said making the werewolf groan again. “Sounds fitting for you to be a witch, then again I don’t see you do perfect spells,” Eline said. “Well I'm just practicing,” Sage said. ‘Really now? Cause all I see is a toxic bitch that couldn't do anything right.’ She thought. “Say are you going to wear your costume?” Sage asked her. “Leave now, so I can ‘change’,” Eline spoke with venom. Sage looks taken aback and looks at her worried. “Eline, we are girls, you've seen me change.” “Correction, I didn't see you change, I change in the bathroom because unlike you I'm legal.” Eline interrupted her.

Sage huffs a bit and grabs a book and storms out of the room. “Honestly, just cause you are a girl doesn't mean anything,” She mutters. Eline glance at her encased sword. “Been a while since I've done this girl,” Eline said to her sword as she picks it up. “What do you say we do it again…” She said with a smile. Her sword starts to glow darker and darker, and the smoke from the embedded bright red jewel started coming out and twirling around her arm. Eline winced and started to laugh. Half of her body is engulfed in dark heavy smoke, and her clock eye sclera changed to greyish Fushia, almost zombie-like.

Meanwhile, Truther helps Snapdragon with the corset, “There, now you can go find your prince charming Cinderella.” Truther said with a chuckle. Snapdragon laughs and looks at the mirror with a smile. “Thanks, guys,” Snap said and looks at Amaryllis and Truther. “Anytime, you look hot as Cinderella,” Amaryllis said. “Thanks, you look amazing as a witch? A dragon?” Snap said unsure what his best friend is dressed as. “I'm a dragon Snappy, a fabulous one,” Amaryllis said fake checking her black nails. “Are you going to dress up Truth?” She asked the monster. “I will but I need privacy for that, I'll see you guys at the town square,” Truther said with a smile. “Alrighty then, let's go Snap! I want to win some prizes!” Amaryllis exclaimed and grabbed the cross-dresser by the arm and drags him away.

Truther smiled a bit. “Time to go rogue, I'm sorry my dear,” Truther said to himself. He takes off his jacket and shirt, he walks to the mirror and breathes a bit. Slowly he unties the string on his neck, letting the black inky skin spread out. “Man, it's been a long time since I had my actual mouth on my neck.” He chuckles as more of his skin spread out until there is nothing left, the mouth where it was has been sewn shut and the sclera of his eyes are pitch black. He looked at his claws and everywhere else, he was lucky, to say the least, ‘How disgusting,‘ He thought. There is no turning back and he knows this. He's born like this. Every monster has those saying:

“See no Evil”

“Hear no Evil”

“Speak no Evil”

He stuck his tongue out, no longer a pink flesh color but a bright teal one instead. “Yep, I'm finally me, I wonder what she looks like now, well no dwelling on that and see her now,” He chuckles and walks out of the room and towards his thrall dorm. Truther knocks on the door and sees it open. His eyes widened and frowned. “Why? It's unnecessary…” Truth said, ignoring the terrified looks from the other students.

“I should be asking you that, you scold me for letting part of the corruption, corrupt me. When it comes to you it shouldn't matter?” Eline pointed out, “I admit defeat, I'm a hypocrite of some sort but I don't want you to lose your senses, back when you caused a genocide on the elven and faery race to the point that only one has survived.” Truther said and caressed her cheek. “No matter, I'm partly corrupted with a monstrous monster by my side,” Eline said with a purr. They both laugh, finding it hilarious that no students are keeping an eye on him.

Only because they are scared, and feared to be eaten. That should say something about how immature and unqualified the students are. If they can't handle a cannibal then they are the lost cause and resulting in more deaths. It is also the reason why Eline doesn't care if they die. It's the fault of the adults that failed them.

Eline and Truther start to walk out, Truther told her that they have to distract everyone, and after that, they'll be going to the restricted underground, something that has no protection whatsoever. “You're planning to turn me on with how deep your voice is,” She whispered to him. Truther chuckles “I would hope so, it would earn me a reward if I could have your pretty little cunt,” He whispers near her ears, making her blush in a different shade of red. Once they find them, they could see the horrified look on some of them. “That’s not right, you shouldn’t be looking horrifying!” Sage shrieked. Eline wince, due to being corrupted by her sword, her senses get heightened, meaning her ears are sensitive as well as her skin and tail. “Don’t scream like a banshee,” Eline scowled. “So this is what you look like Truther?” Aster asked him, wearing a white trench coat and black tight pants with black steel boots and a black hair wig, covering up his golden locks. He has his sword strapped on his back.

Truther chuckles, making them shocked when the mouth on his neck starts talking: “Of course, this is what I look like in reality.” “You speak with your neck…” Parsley said. “Naturally, I Speak no Evil after all,” He said. “Aster, I’m feeling sick, It’s probably from the milk in those shakes, I swear they need to have almond milk or something,” Gladiolus said dressing up as Jessica Rabbit. “Then sit this one out Gladis, I’ll come with you,” Parsley said with a smile. “Thanks, Parse, I owe ya one,” Gladiolus said with a smile.

Hiachi is waiting for Mandrake at the top of one of the buildings. “I’ll bet that Mandrake didn’t make it,” Olive said with a smug grin. Hiachi rolls his eyes, it isn’t that long before Mandrake comes to him, wearing a black trenchcoat with the end that’s been ripped to shred, a white shirt with a black tie, dark brown pants, and black combat boots. His appearance is slightly changed with platinum mid-length braided hair and green eyes. “I heard you’ve been talking about me,” Mandrake said with a smirk. “You took your time Mandrake, “Of course, I have to keep spying and I find it amusing that the students are doing the shittiest thing when I was disguised as a student there. I will say this making the potion is easy and getting the book from the restricting section is also easy to get,” Mandrake said and show them a tube of poison. Hiachi sighed and rubs his temple, “What kind of school let their student go to the restricted area of the library?” He questioned. Mandrake looks at his ex-partner with a devious smirk.

“Last year, you were doing nothing but now in a month and a half, I’ve gathered so much intel and been perfecting my magic quite nicely.” He said with a chuckle. Olive looks terrified, she never felt so much fear. She messed up big time last year at the festival but comparing that to this year? She can’t help but be scared of the two men. They are intimidating, Mandrake with his shapeshifting ability and Hiachi with his stalker tendency. Two people working together to ruin everyone. They shouldn’t be messed with at all. “Now then Mandrake, do you know where the healing water is?” Hiachi asked. “Of course I do, the whole class went there to study how potent the healing water is.” Mandrake said, “We should hurry though before the guardian comes back.” Mandrake added. “That should be fine, we have a useless feline over here to be the bait. After all, she is the one to destroy the water source so that no one can use it to heal unless they have backups, which I doubt they have it.” Hiachi said, grinning at Olive as he petted her head, like the domesticated cat she is.

Hiachi does prefer his beloved though, he can’t wait to have her again. He misses her oh so much, especially how he loves to decorate her body with carved words, just by using his glass knife. He glances under on the street, and is shocked, watching his beloved puppy all corrupted and looking young. This would make him want her even more, tying her up on the bed and screaming his name as well as begging whenever he pounded her until it bleed. ‘Oh my sweet sweet puppy, just wait for your master to pick you up. I cannot wait to have you again.’ He thought. Hiachi laughed and looks at the two individuals with a smile. “Mandrake the Smokeface and Lavender wants to talk to you, you can go ahead after we go to the source,” He said. Mandrake nods and picks up Olive all tied up, he forces her to move forward as the three of them headed towards the cave.

While in the street Eline took glances at three individuals but gets fixated on a certain one, she rubs her eyes only to see nothing, she also doesn’t feel any uneasy shift in magic. ‘Odd, could’ve sworn I saw him. Although there is no way for him to follow us to this world,’ She thought. Eline shrugs a bit and leans on Truther for a bit, they hear the debacle of Sage and Rosemary again on what they should do.

Olive whines, feeling how hurtful her feet are becoming, she shouldn't have worn strapless shoes and a dress. With how cold the outside is, she is more undressed than overdressed. “Stop whining! It's your fault that you dressed like a knockoff magical girl!” Mandrake shouted at her. Hiachi groans, he doesn't want to hear Olive whining, he should've plugged her mouth with either his dick or a ball gag. “If you keep whining we will end your life as he did to that guy!” Hiachi yelled at her, angry and pissed off about it.

Olive yelped feeling one of Mandrake's knives near her neck, “Move. Now,” Olive is too scared, especially without her Terrasphere. She forced herself to walk further into the cave. “It really isn't safe, even with the huge crater hole that exposes the source,” Hiachi said, Mandrake sighed. He doesn't like this at all. “Only further in and we're here.” Mandrake said, ‘accidentally’ sliced Olive's neck a bit. She winced at the contact of a blade near her throat. “We're here, now then,” Hiachi looks at her and handed her the vial. “Mess it up, you can say goodbye to your cat friends.” Mandrake threatened her. Olive gulped and grabs the glass bottle and walked toward the pool of healing water. Her hands start shaking and close her eyes as she dumped the liquid onto the pool.

“There I've done it,” Olive said only to feel something pierced in her stomach. “Such a good girl~ alas you're no longer useful,” Hiachi said and sliced open her body with his glass knife. “Remind me to practice more using my embedded knife,” Mandrake said with a chuckle. He sees the life draining out of Olive and the clear blue water turning murky and green. “Is there an antidote?” Hiachi asked him. Mandrake shakes his head, “I burn that page and replace it with a fake one, they can try to salvage it only to make it clear but poisonous.” Mandrake said Hiachi laughs “This is why you are needed,” He said. “Now then, are you going to stalk your little girlfriend?” Mandrake asked him with a smirk. Hiachi laughs “Why of course, she is mine after all, she is so small and cannot do anything right without my guidance,” He said with bliss. Mandrake can only roll his eyes. He knows better than to question him and his unhealthy habit. Either way, he had his revenge, now he needs to inform the higher-ups, he can't wait.

They both hear the roars and the crystalized figures. “Would you look at that, shall we defeat them?” Hiachi said, “After defeating them I know a spell that can make them compliant to us.” Mandrake said. “Sounds like music to my ears.” Hiachi laughs. They both took out their weapon as the guardians swung at them. They both dodged and Mandrake throws his knife at them, which is enchanted to hit a heavy target. Hiachi summons a couple of knives and aims them at them. He growls a bit as the two crystalized guardians roar louder and charge at them. Mandrake hit one of them again only to be cracked, just like earlier Hiachi summons a couple and aims them at them. “Now!” Hiachi shouted. Mandrake grins wide and made a glyph and quickly circles them making their feet turn to stone. Hiachi takes the chance and stabs them where their heart lies. Mandrake starts chanting, making the guardians glow bright.

“Kill whoever comes here, do not leave any survivor,” Mandrake orders them. The guardians bow down to him and walk back to their post. The unstable one claps at his partner, smirking proudly. Mandrake grins at him. “It takes a couple of tries to have someone be in my control,” He said. “Either way I let you go back alright,” Hiachi said and walks off to look at his beloved darling puppy from a distance. Mandrake walks away and towards the crowds.

“Truther~,” Eline mutters, “We can’t go to a brothel or any kind like that. Shall we head back?” He said, Eline, nodded, kissing his mouth, which for strangers it would be uncomfortable seeing a teenager kissing someone’s neck. Truther whisk her up and decided to head back to school. They both are glad that no one notices them leaving, It is also perfect timing to go underground. “Truther, you’re turning me on, even more,~ stop having a deep voice, It is making me so wet,” Eline slightly moaned out. Truther chuckles and kisses her, “Sound like I’m making you come just from my voice, I should do that more often.” He said as the headed downstairs and towards the restricted area.

“We’re here, let’s go and find them,” She said and they both start walking only to feel an energetic force field. “The hell?!” Eline shouted. “Oh so they do have a protection shield?! But not in the restricted area of the library?!?” Eline shouted again, “Calm down love, we should try it another time. In the meantime,” He walks over and touches her waist under her clothes. Eline gasped. “Let’s go my thrall,” He murmurs. Eline is on edge right now, her legs wobbly just from the voice of her partner.

“Hello, the first deed is done and the traitor has been dealt with. I sent the information to you as of right now.” Mandrake said far away from everyone. “Good, how about my daughter?” Lavender said, “She’s trying, but of course, she isn’t perfecting her skills that much,” He said. “Heh, taking her down would be a piece of cake even though she is just like her father. Of course, the second part of the mission will be sent towards Hiachi.” Lavender said. Mandrake grins, “No need for that, they will never fix the murky dead water. They all will be hopeless without it,” Mandrake said. Smokeface then disappears leaving him alone. “Time to be Erwin,” Mandrake said and chuckled and walks away, still in his costume.

“I want you, I want you so bad!” Eline whines, struggling against the rope that Truther tied her up, oh so sexually. “How about this, answer my question and you will be rewarded,” Truther said, only for Eline to buck her hips, though It wasn’t long for her to come right away. Truther tsked and forces her legs to be wide open. “Don’t cum got it, love,” He said, Eline cries just from him touching her skin and tail.

“The first question,” He said, “What is your favorite sex position?” He asked her, having his finger claw flicking her clitoris.

Eline moaned louder, “Ah fuck! Hah~! Ah! D-d-doggy style!~” She shouted. Truther chuckles and inserts two of his sharp fingers inside her wet sex. She moaned louder, her tail wagging fast.

“Second question, what is it that you don’t like in intimacy?” He asked her and flicks her nipples.

“Knotting~ hah~ ah!~ Treated like dirt, feeling him up and be used.” Eline moaned out. Truther nods and thrusts into her, his cock prodding out like how an animal has when getting excited.

“Third question, why do you like Luscinia?” He asked her, continuing to thrust into her. He does obey her how she wanted it to go.

She whines and moans, “The birds sang beautifully, but also caged and earn to have freedom. It reminds me of how It was, if I hadn’t met him then I wouldn’t have turned out to learn about genuine.” She said. He takes out his fingers and aligns his cock near her entrance.

“Last question…If HE was here, will you let me take care of it? Will you let me take care of your mental health?” He asked her, giving her a look as if to ask her if he can put it in. Eline looks at him with half-lidded eyes. She nods and feels his erect cock going in, not fully though but she starts to scream in pleasure.

“No! I have to be the one to do it!” She moaned. Truther can hear her strained voice. He looks at her, seeing tears forming.

“Love, let me take care of it. You are worth more than a thousand flowers of magnolia.” He mutters and takes off the rope and hugs her close. He sits down as she bounces on his monster cock.

“I’ll be seen as weak…If I can’t finish Hiachi off, then I would only be in your care, no one of my pets would want their master to be seen as weak.” She said, nuzzles near his neck. He licks her neck and kisses her softly. “You aren’t weak, you’re abusive towards your staff sure, but you aren’t weak.” He said, “I’m close,” He breathes. Eline whines, “Those idiots better not ruin my manor when we go back home.” She said in between her moans and looks at him with pleading eyes. “Together?” She asked him. He nods and kisses her tears away. “Michaelis always takes care of yours as well.” He said and gives a final thrust and comes right inside her. “Please, let me take care of Hiachi for you, I don’t want you to go to him. I don’t want to see you relapse back to how he treated you. You almost forgot that relationship doesn’t need sex to survive, so please.” He begged her. Eline came right after him and leans against him.

“Only, if he’s in this world. Which I doubt that he even is here,” She said in between her pants. Truther smiles and ruffles her hair, “Thank you, I promise that you’ll never see him again, I will do anything and everything for you to be safe.” He said as they lay down on Eline’s bed. Eline covers themselves with a blanket and throws away the used condom. “Did he lick that thing?” Truther asked her as he looks at ‘Hiachi’s property’. Eline slowly nods and closes her eyes. “He’s…very proud of that.” She said, feeling, her mate's hot breath against her neck, it made her shiver. “I’m sorry for what he did to you in the past. I know it won’t do much, but I promise to be better just like your second one had been.” He said and keeps her close to him. The two of them slowly drifted to sleep.

Parsley was hearing the conversation, not the whole thing but the last part. ‘I don’t see why Sage thinks he’s terrible, he seems to care deeply about her.’ She thought, she sighs and walks back to Gladiolus's room to hand him a warm soup. “Thanks, Parse, sorry for ruining your fun heh,” Gladis said. “No need for that Gladis, I can understand having allergies and all that. Still don’t you have something to counter that.” Parsley said. The elf shakes his head. “I’m an orphan, I don’t have enough money to get this medicine,” He said and sighed. “It is also the reason why I want to be a Guardian. I do it for money so I can survive you know,” Gladiolus said and takes a sip of the soup. Parsley looks at him concerned. She is only in school to do something for herself and not for what her parents wanted her to be. “You know, you are always welcome to come to my place, you don’t have to beg and go through the garbage for food,” Parsley said with a sympathetic gaze. Gladiolus's eyes sparkle and smile, “I’ll think about it, thanks for the offer though,” He said. “Anytime! I like to help others,” She said with a smile.

Everyone (minus Gladiolus, Parsley, Eline, and Truther) has fun with games, food, and music. It was getting late and everyone start to head back. Sage is about to walk inside her shared dorm room only for the dwarf to stop the mage. “How about you sleep with me and Thyme? Eline would rather be alone for a while.” Parsley said, Sage looks unsure but agreed to that.

Hiachi smiles sweetly sick at his sleeping puppy, he’s happy she still has his mark but mad that she has those ugly stretch marks from when she got pregnant when she was an adult. He scowled and walks away, he has to have her again. He has to teach her again what he said to her. He only has four simple rules.

Eline has to listen to her master.

Eline will get punished if she doesn’t do or listen to what he demanded.

Eline's only purpose is to be his little sex puppy.

Eline belongs to him and him alone.

Chapter Text

The very next day Eline cuddles closely to her mate, occasionally purring near his ears. Truther made a sound, slowly opened his eyes, and smiled at his thrall. “You find it comfortable?” He asked her. “Mhm, very,” She muttered and smiled a bit. “Still hungover?” He asked her, as he sat up. Both of them are still naked, but what's different is that Eline is no longer corrupted and Truther is back disguised as a normal human. “Had a nice little wet dream?” She asked him as she slowly crawled towards him. “Yeah, I did,” He said. He looks at her and scratches her ears and her tail, Eline purrs loudly, her tail wagging happily like a happy puppy. “I want to know, I want to know how to make you feel better,” She said, her hand slightly going towards his erect member. “You would love that don't you,” He said and kissed her. “Of course,” She said and start to stroke his dick slowly. Truther moans and has his hand around hers, “Are you always like this in the morning?”

“Depends,” She replied and wrapped herself around his torso with her other arm. Truther chuckles and looks at her, “You know…I can cover that…thing,” He said and looks over at her. “No!” She instantly sits up, “I mean…don't cover them up…it's just a reminder…” She mutters and leans on him. “Baby…” Truther said and looked at her with concern. They hear the obnoxious mage outside, “Sage I don't think it's a good idea,” Parsley said. “I have to go in there to get dressed for today,” Sage said and opened the door.

Her eyes widened and sees Eline and that monster in bed and partly naked. Sage starts to scream, much to the werewolf's annoyance. “WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE?!? ARE YOU RAPING THE POOR GIRL?!?!” Sage shouted. “Sage wait outside!” Truther said only has his boxers on, “Wait!? I want to know what you were doing with her?!!?” She yelled again, she glanced over at Eline and saw the words near her collarbone ‘Hiachi’s property’ written- carved on it. ‘This guy's name is Hiachi then!? What kind of abuse has she endured that she keeps staying with him!?!’ Sage thought. Truther groans and puts on his pants. He looks over at Eline and notices something, “Honey you should go and get that taken care of,” Eline looks at what he said and notices a couple of splotches of blood on her side of the bed. “Will do, love” She answers, kissing his human mouth. She walks towards the bathroom to take care of her menstrual cycle.

“There's blood on the sheet, so you must've done something?!” Sage yelled again. Truther groans not wanting to deal with a 16-year-old. He walks out of the room, not wanting to talk to a child. Truther walks towards his dorm sighing, ‘Sage probably doesn't want to tell me about periods but instead yelled at me for making her bleed? I didn't even eat her from what I know,’ He thought and walked inside.

“So we agreed to cause so much discord to the point that the sister school cannot help the other,” Mandrake said, “That's what we'll be doing after all, we need a potent one, to begin with,” Hiachi said, Mandrake sighed. “I can look something up don't worry about it then,” He said. “Exactly how did you fail last year?” Hiachi asked him. Mandrake groans and crosses his arms, “Wrong person to do the job and betrayal of the most idiotic girl who can't do anything right, she introduced herself the same day that she attacked them.” He replied, Hiachi sighed “Olive is a terrible choice, to begin with. Have an adult posing as a new teacher, or ask a shapeshifter to infiltrate the academy, so many choices, and yet they stick with a lolita cat girl that can only transform into a cat and nothing more,” Hiachi concluded.

“Well we should at least prepare some and I can try to steal those necklaces so we can change into serpents,” Mandrake suggested. “Turning into sirens would make it easier,” Hiachi said and smiles. “I’ll leave it up to you then, in the meantime, I’ll go find the most vulnerable mermaid to cause chaos.” He said. “I’ll wish you luck, my man,” Mandrake said and walks off, shapeshifting back to a student. Hiachi walks off holding a very old picture of both him and his beloved girlfriend, he smiles and rubs the pendant on the picture. “Soon, just wait for me my love, soon you’ll only need me to be complete again. Once I’m done taking care of the obstacle of our love,” Hiachi said to himself with a sly smile and walks off to go near the ocean.

Meanwhile, Gladiolus and Aster get ready for today's announcement. “Hey, Aster?” Gladiolus said to his roommate. “Are you okay?” He asked the blonde. “I’m fine, I just…don’t want to see them,” Aster said, feeding his snake. “C’mon Goldilocks, you know that you can’t lie to me,” Gladiolus said with a sigh. “Come here so I can do your hair.” He continued and holds a hairbrush and rubberband. Aster sighed and walks towards him. “I’m okay Gladis, you don’t need to worry about it,” He said with a smile. “Aster, I know damn well it’s because of your parents, just forget them. They never care about you, they only care about their reputation and do not actually love you.” Gladiolus said, “They’ll be there…I don’t think I can do this…What if I’m not good enough?” Aster questioned. Gladiolus knows where this was headed, they have been friends for quite some time after all. After Gladiolus ties his hair up. Aster gets up and slowly walks towards the door.

“What if I don’t meet their expectation?” Aster questioned again, Gladiolus stands up and walks towards him. “What if? What if they don’t see me as their son? They wanted another daughter, a child to be fearless as them!” Aster shouted at his roommate. “Aster Tourmaline,” Gladiolus said, Aster stops rambling and looks at his best friend. “You are the best fighter, and I’ll keep giving you an ego boost until you believe that you’re great. Hell! Even your aunt Poppy knows you’re a great fighter like her.” Gladiolus said. “But-” Gladiolus cut him off and said: “No buts, you will prevail, I know you will, you just want your sisters out of your parents' care right?” He said, “I don’t like how they treated them. Especially how my father is like when drunk, or the fact my mother is useless and doesn’t care about them,” Aster said, noticeably shaken. “Aster…” Gladis said with concern. “There is a reason why I want attention Gladiolus! I want to be validated, I want to be known, to be useful. I want to be just like them!” Aster yelled out in frustration. Gladiolus sighed, “Aunt Poppy will be there, I think you should talk to her again.” Gladiolus said and open the door. “She’s the only one to deal with me, she could’ve thrown me away like all the others,” Aster said and sighed as he and Gladiolus walks out of their room.

The students of HGA start walking through the street. Eline and Truther can see different species, although they can see more humans than any other creatures. “It reminds me of Yellaris,” Eline said. “You mean Laurence's home kingdom? The center of the Nothern country of Mirai?” Truther asked her, making her roll her eyes. “What else am I talking about,” She said. Truther chuckles and ruffles her hair. “The only thing it needs is slavery from the lesser creatures,” She said “and the racist bigots who want to bang nonhumans woman or raping young girls,” Truther added. Eline chuckles a bit, after all, she had to deal with racism in her life. “Our sense of humor is very dark,” She said with a smile.

“Of course, we've seen death and caused death.  We have to joke about it to cope,” Truther said with a smile. Eline chuckles again, “Right right, but we have one rule when it comes to our dark humor.” She said, “No joking about our spouse/boyfriend,” They said in unison. They both awkwardly laugh and Truther kisses her cheek and Eline licks his cheek. Sage looks frustrated, she doesn't know what they are talking about but she heard words like slavery and raping young girls, ‘He needs to be eliminated, he shouldn't be making fun of it!’ She thought.

Every civilian sees the young bright guardians-to-be walking through and stopping at the town square. Aster looks around a bit, he can feel glares from his parents somewhere near. “Aster?” Rosemary said, snapping him back to reality, “Hm? I'm okay, Rhubarb,” He said with a playful grin. Rosemary looks at him concern painting on her face. ‘I know that look, you lost something important, or perhaps you lost someone dear to you fits the description of what you're feeling,’ She thought.

“May I get everyone's attention!” One of the Triads said. Everyone stays quiet, wanting to listen to what the three woman wants to say. “It is time for everyone to do the first task, this task will take a minimum of a week to finish,” The frail elder woman said. “This is about to be good,” Eline said. Truther chuckles at that, “My dear, you are getting more precious every millennium,” He said. He leans closer to her ear. “I can't wait to make love to you, to get you pregnant to have our little monsters running around,” He mutters and nibbles her ears. Eline face turns red and her tail wags again, almost slapping Truth's face.

“Today is about trust, you have to trust your group, one by one you all will be sent into different caves to retrieve a belonging of yours.” The young woman of the Triads spoke. Dumbstruck Truther looks at her, “Trust? Seriously?” He mutters. “Trust only happens in dire situations, after all, Damon and Laurence trusted each other but they caused a war between demons and humans.” She said and sigh. Truther shakes his head, “Indeed it only happens in dire situations when you can't find help,” He said.

“The group will be staying at the cave until they completed the task, this is the first part. Which will take only a day or two, starting tomorrow.” The other said. “Tsk, that's cryptic,” Eline said crossing her arms. “We shouldn't expect them to be blunt, none of them explain shit,” He said and strokes her tail. “Honey,” She mutters. “Yeah okay, I still have a boner but you know I can hide it perfectly,” He said. Eline rolls her eyes. “Ahem,” Sage coughs, getting their attention. “Let's prepare so we can be ready for everything.” She said. “Oh, and Truther, you shouldn't touch her, you pedophile.” Sage said, “Name calling now are we,” Truther said glaring at her. “I'll rip you apart.” He said with venom. “Okay, enough!” Amaryllis shouted, getting between Sage and Truther. “Sage, don't call people names, not towards teammates,” She said looking at her. “Say, where are Aster and Gladiolus?” Parsley questions, as everyone notices them missing. “You got to be fucking kidding me, ugh,” Amaryllis said, groaning.

Aster and Gladiolus walk towards the woman that looks almost identical to Aster but with red hair fading through her blonde hair and covering her one eye. “Aster dear! How are you doing honey!” The woman said hugging him tightly. Aster laughs and hugs the older woman, “I'm doing alright aunt Poppy. I have Lillie to accompany,” Goldilocks said with a smile. “He needs reassurance again,” Gladiolus noted, making the blonde flinch. Poppy looks over at Aster, “Aster,” She said.

Aster sheepishly smiles and looks away, “I'm fine, I don't need reassurance,” Goldie said, his aunt sighed and looks at him dead in the eyes. “Aster Tourmaline. Forget about my brother and his words, we will get your sisters out of their custody. I want you to enjoy your life, you're 16 for crying out loud.” She said petting his hair. “You're perfect honey, don't let them down.” She continues. “What if they already brainwashed them? What if they-” “No what ifs, you shouldn’t be thinking about it.” Poppy interrupted her nephew.

“We will get the girls, don’t worry.” She assured him. “Besides what could go wrong?” Gladiolus asked. “My father getting drunk again….” Aster mutters to himself. “Honey?” Poppy said looking like a concerned parent at Aster. Aster smiles brightly, “I’ll be fine aunt Poppy.” He said. Aster's aunt and Gladiolus don’t look convinced about the smile plastered on the blonde face, but they let it slide, they both know that the boy doesn’t like talking about what’s been going on at home other than him being neglected by both retired Guardians.

Lavender walks around the place in Witch Country, She often wonders why her daughter would go against her. Sure Rosemary idolizes her, but she should know that Guardians are nothing but a facade for everyone. “How bothersome,” Lavender said with a sigh. “How are you feeling Lavender?” One of the elder men asked her. “Bothersome, It will take a lot of time and effort to get what needs to be achieved for world peace,” Lavender said. He laughed and looks outside with a woman who was once a greater warrior for light.

 The next day the rest of the group walks through the cave. “Love, what are your thoughts?” Truther asked her, only to be interrupted by Sage. “Her thoughts shouldn’t matter to you. After all, what should it matter of what she thinks,” Sage said. “Honestly, Sage, your misogynistic view is coming out a lot more, usually, you’re very subtle about it,” Amaryllis said. “She…probably doesn’t mean it like that…” Rosemary said, defending her childhood best friend. “Rosemary, think for yourself for once,” Eline said harshly at her. “Guys, shut up, I hear something,” Thyme said and grabs one of the arrows, tipped with a potion effect. “So you are trying to find an effective way to get a shot,” Truther said with a smile. Thyme gives a hum as a response.

The others take out their weapons and see a couple of giant beasts coming toward them. “Shall we dance?” Eline asked, snapping her fingers. “Let’s dance,” Aster said with a smug grin.

Meanwhile, near the shore of the sister school, a lonely mermaid is sitting there, looking dazed and almost hypnotized. “How effective is it?” Hiachi asked the assassin. “Long enough to cause destruction, honestly the potion I made is very potent,” Mandrake said. Hiachi kneels and kisses the mermaid on the lips. “My sweet little siren, I want you to bring us to your school.” He said with a siren-like voice. “Mhm~ anything for the master.” The mermaid said in a daze.

Mandrake chuckles and gets in the water, transforming into a siren with finlike ears and scales coming on his stomach. Hiachi jumps in and changes into a siren as well. Both of them follow their newly hypnotized victim. “We’re here~,” The mermaid said, still in their spell, as they arrive at the school. “Such a good girl, you are. I want you to give every a drink.” Hiachi praises her. The mermaid nods take the flask that Mandrake handed her, and starts to swim toward a school of mermaids and mermen. “Let’s go get what we wanted,” Mandrake said to Hiachi with a grin. Hiachi chuckles and they swam inside the school. It wasn’t long before they heard fighting, cursing, and weapons clashing. They know the teachers will be busy and will not help HGA any time soon. They would like to keep it that way.

After all, what’s more, to cause chaos than get the special stone that’ll keep the destruction from someone to be open and no longer locked.

Chapter Text

The group gets surrounded by the beasts. “Let’s split up to take them all out!” Amaryllis shouted and uses her Terrasphere to attack one of them. “Me, Gladis, Truth, and Aster will take care of the west and north,” Snapdragon said, cutting the beasts on his side with his rapier. “You girls take care of south and east,” Aster added. “Don’t tell us what to do!” Sage shouted and take out her staff.

“Now is not the time to argue for Celestial sake!” Eline shouted and cut the beast up into small pieces while protecting Truther from behind. He shoots arrows from the back, even though they hit Eline on the cheek. “Let's just keep fighting,” Truther said and holds Eline's hand and spins her around with her heel going above his head, she throw another duplicate sword. Truther point and shoot an arrow in the same direction.

“Show off,” She said with a scoff. Truther chuckles and pulls her closer to him. “Cute,” He said, Eline rolls her eyes and holds his bow as he pluck the strings, not looking in the direction as it hit their target. “Why do we keep dancing?” She asked him as she goes in front of him and cut the beast open.

“Cause I want you to indulge me with a dance,” He replied with a smirk and hold her waist with one hand as she falls into his arm, blocking the creature's attack with his bow. “Royal Scandal, Cherry Hunt,” She mutters and gets up. “Such beautiful jazz music it is,” He said and goes in front of her with an arrow stuck in between the tail of the beast. Eline spin and hit the beast on the head if it wasn't for her boyfriend catching her like a damsel in distress.

“Indulge me further in a dance,” He said with a chuckle. She made a backflip and throw another duplicate sword, protecting Truther again. “Let's dance then, my dear,” Eline said, plucking his string and letting the arrow go in the direction of the beasts.

Gladiolus makes some glaciers and hit three of the beasts with Aster being the distraction and Rosemary hitting them from behind. Snapdragon Helps Amyrillis by getting closer and hitting their weak points as she cast a spell for them to explode. Parsley hit the target with her battle hammer, Thyme carefully pointed her tipped arrows at the beasts and shoot at them, turning them into stone for Parsley to destroy. “Nice one Thyme!” Parsley shouted. Thyme gave a tiny nod with a small smile.

Sage huffs as she looks at them, she uses her staff to counter-attack the multiple beasts that are coming, only for her to accidentally made the cave rumble. The rest start to scream about what's happening, only for the rocks to fall and divide them. “Oh dear,” Sage said, horrified. “Are you guys okay!?” Gladiolus shouted. “We’re fine! What about you guys!?” Parsley shouted. “We’re doing alright Parse!” Aster yelled out. Eline growls at Sage.

“You have no control, do you!? What have you been doing all this time?! Most of us were sparring before the announcement.” Eline said. “I-I I was busy…I’m sorry, I just don’t have a good grip.” Sage said. “That’s an excuse Sage, even I’ve been working to make some potions to tip the end of my arrows with it,” Thyme said.”Potions? Do you need help with it? I’m pretty good at that,” Amaryllis said.

Thyme shakes her head, “Gladiolus helped me,” She said. “Let’s meet up at the end of the road!” Rosemary shouted. “Sounds like a plan Rosebarb!” Aster shouted, Sage gets angry at how Aster called Rosemary by the wrong name. “Guess that’s settled, let’s get going,” Parsley said. The two groups start walking to find the exit, all the while fighting the beasts that come to attack them.

Hiachi walks off, with a huge smile. “This is too easy. All the chaos that’s ensued and the death that’s been caused.” He mutters and laughs. He walks around and found a shop with a bunch of Terrasphere. Hiachi doesn’t recognize the student but he heard about him from Mandrake when he infiltrated as a student. “So he’s Slime Boy,” He said to himself. Hiachi chuckles and walks inside the shop. ‘This will be so much fun,’ He thought and was greeted by a socially awkward boy.

Sage looks around her and finds it a good idea to talk to her. She looks over at the werewolf who is rubbing the pendant. ‘Looks like that would be the thing he's using to be in control of her, now that I think about it she never let go of it,’ Sage thought. “So Eline,” Sage said.

Eline glances at her, “What do you want?” She asked the mage, not liking any of it. While she doesn't mind being separated from Truther, she doesn't like getting torn apart after the failed attempt of killing her ex, who is annoyingly still alive in Mirai. “How long have you known each other?” Sage asked her. Eline thought for a moment, “Couldn't remember, it's been a very long time,” She replied. “How did it start?” Sage asked her. “That's pretty invasive to know, you know,” Eline said. “Oh c'mon I'm curious as well,” Rosemary said with a bright smile.

Eline sighed “If I'm being honest we were supposed to be just friends with benefits, we never had any, you know for so long that we decided to use each other for it. Heh, we've been doing it for so long that we almost know what we like about each other, though it's mostly physical attraction.” She said, blushing a bit. “Friends with benefits?” Parsley questioned. “Basically, friends who want to have sex with each other,” Amaryllis said before Eline could reply, “What?! That's not healthy?!” Sage shouted.

“Well yeah, I never said our relationship is perfect, we just made it work,” Eline said with a snide remark. “Though, there is one thing that I hate about him,” Eline continued and sighed. ‘He's annoying, he's like a pet that wants to be validated.’ Eline thought.

The more she thinks about it, the more frustrated she gets. She hates that Truther doesn't blame her for anything that she does. He just let her be, and in return, she hurt him, and cut him up into chunks. Hell! She even hit him and abused him. And yet he never blames her, he never faults her for anything, and she doesn't understand why. She's so used to being the one that should do anything for her partner but now in this relationship, she's the one using him.

“Is it his cannibalism?” Thyme asked her, Eline shakes her head, “He never blames me. He never scolds me or puts me in my place. I don't understand why he's never angry with me. Sometimes I think that he's a masochist.” Eline mutters. She closes her eyes a bit and opens them again, she smiles a bit. Despite how unhealthy they are for each other, they just acknowledge it. They know about it, and they want to destroy any toxic attachment they have. Any flaws they have can stay but they do know they have to outgrow their obsessive and abusive behavior. She knows it's gonna take years if not centuries to outgrow them.

‘He lost and became a widow, I lost and became alone. It's no wonder we've been together for so long, we've been traumatized, bonded to the point that we can't be at fault for what the other's behavior is.’ She thought. She silently chuckles and smiles. She's happy knowing it could be fixed, although not entirely.

“You should dump him, you're way too good for him,” Sage said. “Over my dead body, I will never let him go. I marked him as mine,” Eline said, “Gross, you peed on him,” Sage said. Eline flinches, “Celestial no! I'm not gross and into the golden shower! You're an absolutely disgusting girl,” She said looking at her with disgust. “That is gross Sage,” Amaryllis said as they all continued to walk through. “Honestly all kinks are gross to me,” Amaryllis mutters. “You sure you don't want any parental love?” Thyme whispers at the rich girl, Amaryllis chuckles, “Oh please Thyme, of course not, my mother is a whore and my father is busy, I don't need their love at all. Though I will admit that I'm kinda jealous but whatever, who cares.” Amaryllis said with a grin.

With the guys, they continue to walk around. “Is the cave any special?” Truther asked them. “If you're talking about how Professor Redbud made a potion to release a fog to make you hallucinate? Then I guess,” Gladiolus said with a shrug. “Hallucination? Is she that crazy?” Truther asked them. “Yep, she is, the fog only comes for someone vulnerable and lost someone special,” Aster added.

“She doesn't care if her students die,” Snapdragon said, “So does the elder Triad, she doesn't care if we get harmed,” Aster said with a sigh. ‘How horrible, no teacher should be so careless.’ He thought. He sighed, it wasn't long for the hallucinated fog to appear, making them cough heavily.

“Fuck!” Snap shouted and gets on his knee, coughing heavily, “Did she use Chloroform!?” Gladiolus shouted coughing and holding his neck a bit. “Clearly, she used something to make it feel like we aren't breathing!” Aster yelled, leaning against the wall, holding tightly his sword. Truther coughs heavily, and his mind starts to become foggy.

“Trinity?” He hears the voice. Truther looks around wanting to know where it comes from. “Who said my name?!” Truther yelled at whoever it was.

The others look around, only for the fog to clear up and the familiar laughter from their psychotic professor in the distance. Truther looks around again and then up ahead, his eyes wishing to see the familiar woman and little girl.

“Papa!” The little girl yelled waving her monstrous hand. ‘Noway…but how?’ Truther thought.

Snapdragon looks at Truther, “Truther? You alright?” He asked him. Truth walks towards the figures his lips trembling a bit. “Amelia…Link…” He said, making the others look confused. “Who's Amelia and Link?” Gladiolus asked him, only to be ignored.

“Trinity, come back to us.” Truther's wife spoke looking stone-cold at her husband.

“Papa! Can we play again with Ari?” His precious 5-year-old said excitedly.

“You two are alive? Amelia…my sweet, sweet Amelia,” He said walking towards them.

“Is he hallucinating?” Snapdragon asked them. “Sounds like it,” Gladiolus replied looking warily at their teammate. “That seems to be the case, he must be hallucinating about Amelia and Link,” Aster said. The three of them nodded and looks at the monster.

“My darling Trinity, you foolish man. You should've joined us,” Amelia said Truther sees her walking towards him. He doesn't know if it's just his mind playing tricks. He's happy to see her again, not just his wife but also his daughter. It's been so long since he saw their beautiful face.

“Papa? Why didn't you come home? I missed you,” Link, his daughter said hugging his leg, from his point of view.

“My sweet sweet Amelia, I'm sorry for being a fool. I'm sorry Link for not coming home, I should've just declined her offer.” Truther said, feeling too many emotions. Tears start to come and hold her cheek, though, from the three guys' point of view, it looks like he's touching air.

“Honey, those people with you…they killed us, avenge us, my loving foolish husband,” Amelia said, glaring at them. Truther looks behind him. He doesn't see his teammates but the people who destroyed everything he holds dear.

“The blue-haired one ripped me into pieces,” Link said looking at her father, who was holding his bow tight. The bow that his loving daughter has made from the stuff she bought with her own money that she saved up.

“How dare you,” Truther said to them. “Truth?” Aster asked him. The three of them see tears falling and him pointing his arrows at them. “Truther! This isn't real!” Snap shouted at him, holding his rapier and taking a stance. “How dare you kill them!” Truther shouted and shoot an arrow at them. Gladiolus dodged and has his glaciers ready.

“No use talking when he's looking like he's out for blood!” Gladiolus shouted at the two. “Then what should we do to snap him out of it?!” Snap shouted and dodged another arrow of his. “You're right, I am out for blood. Noway will I let the likes of you alive.” Truther said menacing and in rage.

“That's right, kill them my beloved monster.” Truther hears her voice.

“Daddy! It hurts! It hurts so much,” Link wailed and holds onto her mother tightly.

“Revenge tastes sweeter if I hear you lot in agony,” Truther calmly spoke and shoot a couple of sets of arrows. The others could not get any closer due to dodging hundreds of arrows that's been fired at them. “I have a plan but you two better trust me on this!” Aster shouted. “Does it involve Gladis glaciers and my rapier cutting his arms?” Snapdragon asked goldilocks. He doesn't like violence but he will use it when it's necessary.

Aster only grins, “Then let's do this!” Gladiolus said. He starts shooting glaciers at Truther's feet, only for him to dodge the ice. Aster and Snapdragon take the chance to run towards him, while Gladiolus continues to have his glaciers hitting his feet. Truther scowled and blocked Aster's sword with his bow in time, although he is a fool for not noticing Snapdragon isn't in front of him.

“BEHIND YOU TRINITY/PAPA!!” Amelia and Link screeched out. Truther isn't fast enough to dodge Snapdragon as his rapier cuts through his clothes and lost both his arms.

Truther screams in pain as Aster pins him down. “You will pay for taking my wife and daughter!!!” He shouted at them. ‘Wife and daughter?’ They thought as they look at each other than at him. Gladiolus notice the familiar black smoke coming from where his arms were cut off and formed into what they'd seen at the festival. His real arms.

“Is there an antidote!? I can't pin him much longer,” Aster asked them. Gladiolus put his bag down and looks through it. Snapdragon helps Aster holding him down.

“You're useless!” Amelia shouted.

“I want papa back,” Link cried out and holds Truther severed arm.

Truther feels pathetic, he can't avenge them. He failed as a husband and a father, for not saving them sooner. Now he failed them again by not avenging them. He's a fool, a pathetic monster that couldn't do anything right.

“Why can't you just move on?!?” Truther hears her. He looks in front of him, his eyes blurry from crying. He looks confused as to why she said that.

“Papa is sad, mama,” Link said, hugging his arm tighter.

“Found it!” Gladiolus said and open the vial. He walks over to Truther and forces him to drink. “Eline would be mad if she knows about it,” Aster said with a sigh. “Not really mad but feeling of concern and worried,” Snapdragon corrected him.

“Pretty sure Eline would be angry Snappy Snap Snap,” Gladiolus said, “Really? Snappy Snap Snap?” Snapdragon raises a brow at the elf. Gladiolus can only chuckle at what he said.

“I'm sorry, I'm so sorry for letting you two die,” Truther said, looking at them with tears in his eyes.

“Mama! I don't want papa to cry!” Link said as she started to cry.

“Two words idiot,” Amelia said as she looks at her husband.

“Move on,” She said.

“Don't cry Link, papa loves you very much, I love you and mama very much.” He said, looking at them with a sad smile. His daughter and wife just smiled as they slowly disappeared.

Truther slowly starts to cry looking at them, finally realizing that they aren't real. He broke down crying harder than he never had done before. Snapdragon, Aster, and Gladiolus, don't know how to feel when they hear the words from Truther's mouth.

“He's a teen father…” Snapdragon mutters. “How horrible…” Aster softly spoke. The three of them let Truther go. He falls to his knees and cries his heart out. They stay quiet and let him weep. The only thing they can do is be there for him, in his vulnerable state.

“So uh, what do you want to know?” Slime Boy asked him, oblivious to who he was talking to. “The school, and the students,” Hiachi said with a smile so friendly, no one would notice. Slime Boy smiles as he stacks the new Terrasphere on the shelf. “Well HGA is a prestigious school for us to become Guardians, we uh protect others and the wildlife. I think,” He said. Hiachi looks confused a bit but smiles nonetheless.

“There is this group of girls who hum, save the school. Of course, the new students were making a ruckus, like one of them is a cannibal you know,” Slime Boy said. ‘Truther, so that means he's still wary of me being in this world,’ Hiachi thought. “Can you tell me more, my friend,” Hiachi said with a smile. Slime Boy chuckles “Uhm sure, I would love to,” He said and start to talk more and more, even rambling on about every secret passageway he knows in school.

‘Such gullible boy, I wouldn’t blame him about the downfall of this world,’ He thought, and can’t help but laugh inside. Now that he knows there are passageways. He can get to his beloved puppy and help Mandrake from the inside to make their mission go quickly and smoother. He needs to wait for his next order and it’s all done.

Sage walks around, and it wasn’t long for her and the rest to find the exit. “Truther!?” Eline shouted and runs towards her boyfriend. “What happened?” Amaryllis asked Snapdragon. “Professor Redbud potion,” Snap answered, glaring at the older woman who is sipping wine with a bright smile. “Oh, you guys made it! Congrats on finishing the first part. It is pretty fast too,” Professor Redbud said.

“Truth?” Eline asked the monster. Truther slightly looks at Eline, his claws trembled and grab her closer to him. “Don’t…go…” Truther mutters. Eline is shocked. She has never seen him so vulnerable before. “Stay…with me…” Truther mutters and continues to hold her closer to him, he doesn’t want to let her go at all. “Professor, the hallucination is just outright cruel,” Gladiolus said. “It isn’t your mind needs to be sharpened to get through anything,” Redbud explained. “But is making the person relive trauma the best way to sharpen your mind? I don’t think so,” Aster said, looking at the monster.

“Aster, she has a point. You have to overcome anything, even any silly trauma,” Sage said. “Silly trauma? Sage, are you hearing yourself correctly?” Rosemary said. “Rose, I’m just telling the truth, Truther isn’t strong enough to overcome whatever he hallucinates,” Sage defended herself. Rosemary looks lost, she didn’t know her best friend is like this. Was she always this misogynistic? She can’t tell.

“Hey Eline, could sleep with him, he had it rough today,” Snapdragon said looking at the werewolf. “I mean sure, I can do that,” Eline said, unsure for the first time. “Snapdragon! You shouldn’t tell her to sleep with a guy.” Sage said to him. “Sage, they slept together almost daily whenever I go and get my stuff,” Snapdragon reasoned with her. “Besides Truther needs her right now,” Aster said, glancing at his friend.

“Well as long as they don’t do the deed then I don’t care about it.” The professor said looking bored. “Snapdragon?” Amaryllis questioned her best friend. Snap sighed whispering to her: “He lost two important people, and well, his emotion was out of control.” Amaryllis nodded a bit. “Well let’s go you broke people, I think we deserve a break before the second part start,” She said. The rest nodded and walks out of the cave. Eline looks at Truther who’s walking slower than he usually is. She walks towards him and transforms into a wild wolf. “Hm?” Truther looks at her, she picks him up and lets him lay on her back.

It wasn’t long before she heard his silent cry. ‘What kind of sick hallucination did he inhale?! What kind of teacher is she to harm her students?!? It doesn’t make any sense.’ She thought. “Please…don’t go…promise me Order,” Truther said in between his cries. Eline barked and howled, she can’t talk like a normal person as a wolf, so she would have to say it again when she turned back.

Chapter Text

“Truth?” Eline asked him, Truther didn't reply and hugs her tighter. “Triny…I won't leave you…” She whispered. He hums and keeps holding her, his legs tightly holding hers. His claws and arms caged her body. Eline sighed and leans on his chest.

“Triny, please talk to me…” She mutters, her only reply being him holding her. Truther doesn't want to release her, scared of having to lose her as he lost them. He vowed to not fall in love and be ethical about it. No work romance whatsoever but look what he's dealing with. He fell in love. He fell for his co-worker. His friend. His girlfriend.

He broke his vows, he is angry at that but, it died down and melt her. He weeps near her neck, clawing her back until it bleeds. “Trinity Calliper…do you want to dance?” Eline quietly asked him. Truther lazily opens his eyes and quietly nods. They both sit up and put on their glasses. Eline leads him out of the room, not caring that Truth is shirtless and her wearing his jacket and her shorts.

Once they are outside, Eline leads him farther away into what looks like a mystical garden in the woods. “Are you cold?” She asked him. Truther shakes his head. ‘Truth…’ Eline thought. “I don't have any Cherry Hunt on me,” Eline said with a silent sigh. “Sing…” She hears him quietly say.

“Triny…” Eline said. Truther held out his hand towards her. “You won't leave me…sing…please…” Truther said, begging her. Eline smiles a bit and grabs his hand. “Depends which one,” She said. “Just…please love,” He mutters and holds her waist.

Eline thought for a bit. “Marionette…” She said to him quietly. Truther's eyes widened and looked at her again. “We're both shackled by fate. Tied up with strings attached to play a sick twisted game for the gods to see.” Truther said. “Requiem would be delighted, and so do the twin gods' parents who abandoned them so young,” Eline said and let Truther take the lead of the somber dance.

“Their game is as twisted as how they made Vains- non-humans to be alive.” Truth said and leans closer to her neck as he spins her, with her back turning against him. “Having the women feel pleasure from bestiality, some would say they made it go far.” He continued and sighed.

“You're not as talkative as you used to be…” She said pointing it out. “Not feeling like it,” He said with his claw caressing her neck, and spin her again. “Will you be alright?” She asked him. Truther nods. She doesn't believe him. “Shackled by strings and wood. Just like Pinocchio ended up with a gruesome death. Hanged with a rope around his wooden neck, dangling from the wind blowing at him.” Eline said. Truther scoffs at that and made a drop motion, holding her back with his claws. “You haven't sung a tune,” Truther said, nuzzling the back of her hand.

“Ara ara, time will stop ticking. Strangely they go forward but not backward.” Eline said.

‘Another cryptic one.’ Truther thought and waltz with her around the flower field.

“Ara ara time will stop ticking. Strangely no one is there,” She said.

Truther leans closer to her, wanting to feel her flesh again. “Ara ara time will stop ticking, but why are you talking so much cryptic when you are not like the other clairvoyant?” Truther asked her.

Eline closes her eyes and opens them again, “Ara ara time will stop ticking. Strangely not one will come forward with a knife on the back.” She said.

Something clicked and Truther made her unconscious by tapping her neck. She falls flawlessly in front of him as he catches her with no effort.

It wasn't long before a certain man waltzed in. He clapped slowly and smiles sadistically. Truther growled at him. If it wasn't for his claws being occupied he would've to shred him apart.

“Lord of Justice, Lord Truther Calliper. Lord of Law and Violation,” He said with a grin.

“Hiachi Martella, the leader of one of the deadly sects of mind. One of the non-human traffickers and have used women for pleasure, not only that but you go to the black market to purchase child slaves.” Truther snarled.

Hiachi chuckles loudly. “How's my darling puppy? Did she give you a blowjob?” He asked him. “Like hell, I would use her for pleasure!” Truther yelled at him. He knows that he's a hypocrite, after all, he uses her for pleasure as well. What can a man do? Using his hands can be bothersome after all.

“Ah, but we could've held a competition.~ The one who could make her be in ecstasy can have her,” Hiachi said. Truther quickly kicks him on his stomach, only to shatter like glass. “You aren't and will not be competing against me. There is a big difference between us,” Truther said, looking at the other side where the real one is standing.

“Oh? Do tell?” Hiachi asked him with a smirk.

“Genuine and real.” Truth said. “You're lucky that she didn't notice you being here.” He continues and holds his girlfriend's bridal style comfortably. “Aaww~ didn't know that my beloved hasn't noticed her master,” Hiachi cooed.

Truther starts to get pissed off and ignores him. “I don't care how you got here, but mark my words I will end you,” Truther declared and walks away with his unconscious Lady in his arms.

Hiachi laughs and glances behind him, “Honestly, you're trying to get me exposed,” Mandrake said with a sigh. “Sorry not sorry, I just want to provoke him,” Hiachi said. “Right, right, make sure you don't throw me under the bus,” Mandrake said. Hiachi chuckles loudly and grins brightly, “We have a job to do~” He announced. ‘This about to be good,’ The assassin thought.

Truther walks back to his and Snapdragon's room. “Ah, Truth, you alright buddy?” He hears the redhead. Truther glances at him and nods. “I'm doing…fine…not my usual self but I'm doing fine,” Truth answered. Snapdragon nodded, “So me and the others are going out of town, you want something?” Snapdragon said. “Can you get, if you can, get some brochures of dessert and restaurant? I want to prepare something for the next couple of months,” Truth said.

“Truth,” Snap deadpanned. Truther slightly smiled, “Two cherry custard pies, make one of them sweeter though, and no chocolates please,” Truther gave him the actual answer. Snapdragon smiled, “Of course, if I can, me and the boys will try and find Cherry Hunt,” Snapdragon said winking at him.

“Thanks, Snap,” Truther said. “Anytime, you can trust us,” Snapdragon said with a cheery smile that he can muster. The redhead then walks off with a frown as he glances at him. ‘Poor guy,‘ He thought and walks off towards the group. “Hey Snapdragon, is Truther still sulking about what happened yesterday? Seriously he is such a hypocrite, he acted all cool and all and now he’s a wimp when he sees a ghost or something,” Sage said. “Sage honey, green doesn’t suit you,” Gladiolus said and glares at her.

“He has feelings and has been retraumatized, you wouldn’t know a thing about trauma,” Aster said defending his friend. “Not knowing about trauma? Aster I know a lot about trauma!” Sage shouted. “Ugh! Enough! Let’s just try and enjoy ourselves without them,” Snapdragon yelled out. “Let’s go before I get a headache, which honestly I don’t want to have,” Gladiolus said.

Sage huffs and the rest start to go out for that night, without Truther and Eline. Meanwhile, Truther pets his beloved thrall like a pet cat, hearing her purring with delight. “I’m sorry love, I should’ve let my emotion rot and don’t show any weakness like a man should of.” He quietly said and sighed, “What kind of man am I for acting all weak and emotional,” He mutters and hugs her close to himself. “I promise nothing will happen to you, I promise to never be emotional again like what happened yesterday,” He vowed and closes his eyes, and drifted to sleep.

The next day, every student didn’t get a mission, however, they all met in the hallway where every teacher are present. “The police force sadly has found out about what has happened,” The student counselor said. “This is about to be good,” Eline spoke unamused by the whole thing. “The girl that attacked the school last year has escaped,” Caraway said in a serious tone.

“What?!”

“How can this be?!”

“Why aren’t we informed?!?”

“When?”

Everyone stays quiet and look at the two individual. “When and how?” Truther questioned. A couple of staff look at each other and then at their students. “When doesn’t matter, it is best to stay on guard.” Professor Redbud said, “Tsk, let’s go, honey, we have more pressing matters to attend to, than watching kids playing danger,” Eline muttered and drags her mate away from others. Caraway can’t help but grow suspicious of the monster. Especially how he brainwashed three of his students to make a threat against Redbud.

‘Who is he exactly, especially with those monster arms? Surely he is a changeling of some sort,’ Caraway thought. He doesn’t blame the others to keep an eye out for them, they are children after all. It would traumatize them further. “Dretch,” Caraway said. The demoness sighed and adjusted her glasses, “I’ll go talk to him again, he is as troublesome as most shallow boys in the school,” Professor Dretch said.

The Herb group starts to run toward the two individuals. “Hey! We should stick together!” Sage shouted. “Sage! I think you're getting obsessed,” Rosemary said. “I’m not Rose, I’m worried about Eline! She’s in an abusive relationship with him. “Sage, there is no physical damage on her, I think you need to calm down and think clearly,” Parsley reasoned with her.

“Besides, Olive is out so that is more important than these two,” Thyme said folding her arms together. “Right…Let’s go and find them.” Sage said, she looks over at the guys plus Amaryllis, “Are you guys going to join?” Sage asked them, “Sorry but I have to go do my potion assignment with Amaryllis,” Gladiolus said. “I’m helping Snap with finding his fighting style with his rapier,” Aster said dismissing them a bit.

“Hey…Aster you don’t mind if we spar a bit after right?” Rosemary asked him, Aster looks shocked and smiled, “Of course Rosemary I’ll be in the training room,” Aster said with a smile. Sage looks at them both and huffs, she couldn’t believe how chummy these two have gotten over the months. She thought that Rose would still be angry at him after what he did last year.

“The teacher is incompetent and it pisses me off so much!” Eline shouted and punches the wall, “Eline, if you hate them so much, how about we investigate.” Truther said and looks over at her. “Tsk, those incompetent adults are a pain in the ass,” She mutters and looks at him, “When is the next full moon?” She asked him, “I’ll look over at it tonight love,” Truther said.

“Let’s go and asked the officers,” Truther said, Eline nods and they both head off to the station. “You sense any magic aether?” Eline asked him. “No, I don’t sense them, although maybe I do? It is very vague though I could be wrong about it,” He said, Eline sighed, “It is strange that I couldn’t sense any of it in the first place, guess I have to rely on you on that.” She said and holds his arm.

Once they arrive at the station, they are met with the officer who looks annoyed and angry. “Hello? I’m sorry kids but I don’t think I can help you with the girl running loose to who knows where. “We’re Truther and Eline, could you tell us who it is and when she escaped?” Truther questioned him. The officer sighed, “You’re in HGA then right? The escaped is Olive, a black cat mage who looks like a wannabe magical girl my daughter loves to watch. I think it was Tokyo Mew Mew. I forget.” The officer said, “Olive huh? Why was she contained?” Eline asked him.

The older man chuckles a bit and smiles a little, “I took you two aren’t from here judging from your names alone huh? Olive conspired with an assassin who sadly escaped, they set the school on fire and caused major destruction in the city. We did try to find him last year but we couldn’t, we suspect that he’s a shapeshifter who is longer here so we sadly gave up.” He said. “I wouldn’t blame you, shapeshifters, changelings they are all nuisance,” Eline said with a huff. Truther rubs the back of her neck, as she purrs slightly.

“You and me both, shapeshifters are pretty powerful to have as allies or even worst as enemies. Even back in my days as a High Guardian, they are a troublesome bunch that’s been spread into the world,” He said. “Was a High Guardian?” Truther asked him. “Hm? Oh well, I say was, because I am working as an officer for the time being. I mean I haven’t been called to work with the others right now, so I helped out when I can.” He said.

“Right, well when did Olive escape?” Eline asked him and is about to open the pocket watch that was around her neck. “She escape in September, so about three or two months ago.” The officer replied. Eline nodded, “We’ll help find the runaway don’t worry,” She said. Truther looks at her and grins. “Something tells me you’ve gotten a clue or knows how long it will take to find her,” Truther said. Eline rolls her eyes.

“Stop acting so goofy, it doesn’t suit you,” Eline mumbles to herself. She looks at the man, it doesn’t register that he looks an awful lot like Aster but older and more charismatic, maybe even confident. “Question, are you…Aster father?” Eline asked him. The man laughs wholeheartedly. “Of course, Aster has always been my pride and joy to have as a son, it is a shame that he rather stay at my sister Poppy, but what can you do what that lad.” He said and chuckles again.

‘How…unsettling…’ The two of them thought. “Well we should be leaving now, we’ll tell when we found her,” Truther said and walks away with Eline. “A couple of reasons why Aster is no longer living with his parents,” Eline said, looking at the clock. “We shouldn’t speculate, after all, it isn’t our business, to begin with. I’m sure he has his reason not to tell, just like we have a reason not to trust each other back then,” Truther said and smile at her.

Eline sighs, “Truth be honest with me,” Eline said, Truther smiles, like nothing happened yesterday and looks at the shop, “Say let’s go get some crepes! You love butterscotch with some strawberry shavings right?” Truther said, Eline frowns and sighed. “Trinity, you can’t do that for much longer,” She said and holds his hand. “Nonsense! I’m perfectly fine my love!” Truther said with glee. It unsettles her to some extent, she can’t help but just obey whatever he says when he’s like that, it reminds her of someone.

“Now then darling~ let’s go find that little kitten, k?” Truther said and walks away with Eline in tow. “Of course…love…” Eline said.

“So do you guys have any idea, where to find her?” Parsley asked her friends. “We can split up, ugh we have to find her! We need to know why she has done it last year,” Sage said. “Then let’s go search for her, she couldn’t be that far could it?” Rose said, “Then let’s not waste any more time,” Thyme said. They all nod and run off to find a stray cat.

“So darling~ how long? You’ve been staring at that pocket watch of mine~. I must say though, my watch looks beautiful hanging on your beautiful neck,” Truther said, still smiling and looking at her. “30 minutes,” Eline quietly spoke. Truther chuckles as they walk inside the cave. “Oh love~ you shouldn’t worry about your pretty little head of yours~, I’ll protect us okay,” He said and kisses her on the lips. ‘Taste like venom instead of tart fruit,’ She thought.

“You taste different…” She mumbles. He dismisses it. “Trinity, please you’re scaring me,” Eline said and runs after him. “Me? Scaring you? I hardly scare you love!” Truther said with a smile again.

“I hardly scare you puppy! Now c’mere let me shower you with love. Strip for me and suck it off,”

“Hiachi, after the whole thing…can you unbuckle your belt and let dick out…” Eline said and looks at him. Truther didn’t hear what she called him and chuckled, “Sure, I’ll give you a dick to suck,” Truther said, nonchalantly.

“Alright Hiachi, I still do whatever you say, because you know I love you dearly,” Eline said and gives a sad smile. Truther chuckles a bit. Big mistake. They didn’t realize Civet and Wyverna is stalking them in the distance.

Just as Eline has ‘predicted’ they found her after 30 minutes, “Aawww~ darling you’re such a smart woman~” Truther said and looks at her. He picks her up and spun her around. Eline flinches at close contact. He didn’t realize it. “She’s dead…for a very long time. Presumably in a cold dead night,” Eline said. “Like I said, you are a beautiful smart woman~,” Truther said with a gleeful smile

“Miss Dretch I think we should go and talk to Truther,” Civet said to the demoness. “As much as it would be good, we should wait a bit longer, only if we must go and talk to him,” Wyverna said. The two teachers look from the distance at the two teenagers.

“Can you sit down,” Eline said to him. Truther looks confused, “Uhm sure…” He said and puts her down. He notices slowly. Her ears have been flattened the entire time. Truther sits down and looks at her. She shook and quickly unbuckles his belt. It wasn’t long though for Truth to snap and grabs her wrist and pin her down. “Eline?! What the fuck are you doing!?!” Truther yelled at her.

“What the fuck are you doing!?! Use your body dammit! I didn’t train you to be loved puppy!”

Tears came down and Truther noticed. He finally notice her again. “Eline? Sweetheart? What’s wrong?” He asked her and loosely let her go. “I’ll do it better Hiachi, please don’t throw me away.” She said and smiles through her tears. ‘I didn’t mean to…I am a fool, I can’t believe what I’ve been doing.’ Truther thought. “Am I reminding you too much of him?” He asked her and lets her go and sits down across from her. 

Eline sits up and smiles sweetly, her ears still flatten. “You’re so silly Hiachi, I’m just your property to use.” She said with a smile. Truther made a gesture for her to come closer to him. She obeys. “I’m nothing more than your little sex puppy,” She said and wraps her arms around her neck. “But your not a sex puppy Eline…” Truther said. ‘I’m reminding her too much, maybe I should…” He thought.

“Your heart has been misplaced,” He said.

“What?” She said and looks confused.

“Your heart has been misplaced, we’ve wasted enough time than we already have,” He continues.

“Hiachi I don’t understa-” She got interrupted

“Your heart has been misplaced, we’ve wasted enough time than we already have. Have you forgotten what you told me, told us what’s like without any love or genuine connection,” He said, holding her hands. Eline looks shocked and frowns a bit.

“What I said was “We’ve been losing more and more of humanity, it wasn’t worth getting their blessing for losing any love.” ,” She said and looks at him, he nods, “ “Any love means losing more of our humanity.” I’m your Truther,” He said and hugs her.

He can feel her flinch this time. “My Truther…my Truther?” She questioned. He nods. He can feel her ears brushing his cheek. “Your Truth and will always be your Truth, forever and for eternity I will love you until the end of time,” He said. “Sounded like wedding vows, but at the same time it isn’t,” She said.

“Are you okay now?” Truther asked her, “Please, don’t scare me when you're like this,” She said and leans on his chest. “I won’t, I’ll stop scaring you like this my sweet thing.” He vowed again, breaking the previous vow he made yesterday. “We’re a mess,” Eline said and sigh.

“I only want sex and you wanted someone to abuse. We aren’t perfect by any means, I did try to make you look like my wife after all,” He said. He wasn’t proud of that, he wasn’t proud of what he tried to do. He made- force her to dress up in a wedding dress that was almost identical to what Amelia wore at their wedding. He forces her to wear the lingerie his late wife wore when they made love for the first time. He abuses the power that she was forced to have because of her abusive psychopathic asshole for an ex she had.

Having part of her life inside of her pocket watch, only to be used for hypnosis and severe mind control. That’s what Hiachi is like; he’ll do anything to get what he wanted and owns everyone's mind and body. It is why he is a danger to have in the world. He is nothing but a crazy lunatic. 

He sighed and hugs her close, “We’ll get through this, we can break through our toxic normality,” He said. “The body is cold love,” Eline said, not wanting to waste any more time. They both agreed.

Mandrake walks around the basement and finds the room. A catacomb. “Something tells me there has been a secret heal water fountain inside there.” He mutters to himself and tsked. “Guess I have to find another way in, maybe Hiachi can help with that.” He mutters again, He shapeshifts back to the student and walks off.

Meanwhile, Flora cries at the news of her husband being murdered. She couldn’t believe her eyes, she doesn’t want to believe that her daughter murdered him, but the letter said it all. The body and the evidence that her husband's killer is decided. She knows that Thyme’s gonna be banished from the Fairy Woods.

“How can you do this? Do we mean nothing to you Thyme? How can you join the people who destroy the forest? Our home,” She said, looking at the family picture. Thyme is a traitor, she doesn’t know if she should be reported or not. She doesn’t know or understand, she wanted to know how Thyme feels but with the gut-wrenching feeling of her husband's death. She cries and cries about losing the first person she held dear.

Thyme doesn’t know, Thyme doesn’t know about her father being dead and the banishment that’s been placed. She doesn’t know that she’ll be hunted down to bring justice, she is after all a traitor to her own kind. Everyone thought.

Chapter Text

“Are you sure you can carry the dead corpse?” Truther asked her. “For the twentieth time, yes! I can carry that heavy bitch just fine! Just cause I can't carry a heavy load doesn't mean shit!” Eline shouted at him. Truther chuckles and kisses her ears, “I'm sorry for my behavior honey,” He said. ”You're gonna keep on apologizing that it isn't funny anymore. Buy me crepes and we have a deal,” She said, giving him a sly smirk. He sighs “What would I do knowing you have a sweet tooth,” He mutters. It wasn't long before they heard someone coughing.

“Truther, I thought you were being supervised and not near her,” Wyverna Dretch said, crossing her arms together. “You did a terrible job, you know, using kids to do your dirty work, even I wouldn't go and buy a child slave from the black market,” Truth said. “Well except for using kids to do house chores don't you agree,” Eline said. “Of course of course, after having kids they have to help their parents with chores,” Truther said. Eline chuckles at that statement. “Now, now lets us bring her to rest, you two seem to be exhausted, let us take it from here,” Civet said walking beside the demoness. “Damn, stalking much? Why are adults such a creep?” Eline questioned. Truther shrugs. Eline drops the body to the ground. “Then do it, bring her in peace then.” She said, crossing her arms together.

“Such a waste of good food,” Truther said with a noticeable sigh. “Truther, you shouldn't be eating dead people, just because it's in your diet doesn't mean you should do it, you can find any other food to eat,” Civet said picking up the dead cat. Truther looks offended and has a hand over where his heart is. “I'm sorry that I was born a cannibal! I feel insulted by that! First, you won't let me eat my girlfriend, who MIGHT I ADD has time by her said to reset her body to be complete, albeit minus losing virginity and all that,” Truther said, “That sounds wrong when you said that,” Eline said with a chuckle. “And now you want me NOT to eat other people?!? Even though I can't help myself?!?!” Truther yelled out.

“What do you two– no specifically what do YOU want me to do about it Wyverna Dretch?!” Truther shouted again. “Truther, it is for the best that you don't–” “Stop,” Truther interrupted her. “Don't even think about it, I'm a monster, a freak of nature who is a cannibal,” He said calming down. “I can control my desire, I know what's best for myself, especially my dietary restriction,” He continued. “Sorry to say my guy, but your parents will have to know about it,” Professor Dretch said. There was silence. Eline quickly grabs Truther and walks away before he decides to commit his own genocide against every demon and burn down the place.

“It is like he doesn't take my warning seriously,” Dretch said watching them walk away. “He is someone to be wary of, especially since his diet consists of human remains, it is also weird that it feels like he is coercing her to do something against her will,” Civet said.

“Now, that we are far away,” Eline said. “I want to go commit arson,” Truther said, staring blankly. “And I want to go drink some alcohol, but you don't see me complaining,” Eline said and sighed. “You don't understand! It is like most of them are sexist! Especially towards me! A monster! A cannibal who needs to eat to survive!” Truther shouted as they ended up arriving at the station. “Do you need to talk? Especially from yesterday and today,” She said as they walk inside.

“Dad! Please! Just please!” The two of them can hear Aster shouting. “Aster, you left the house, don't make me repeat myself,” The policeman that they talked to, said to his son. The man looks behind his son Aster and smiles as if a switch has been flipped. “Well if it isn't two future High Guardians!” He said with a fatherly proud smile. Aster looked behind them and his eyes widened, he quickly unfolded his shirt to cover up his arm. “So what did you two find?” Aster's father said.

“The escapeed died presumably somewhere in October,” Eline said. “What? Olive is dead?” Aster said shocked. “Yep, that cat girl is dead,” Truther mutters in dissatisfaction. “I…see..thanks for notifying me, I'll see to it and ask the medical professional to check the body. Who knows if there is some clue if it's either murder or something else.” Aster's father said. The three of them nod. “Well I think we should get going and spar some more,” Truther said. “Yeah, you’re right about that, especially for the day after tomorrow,” Aster said. “Not so fast young man, we need a talk,” Aster's father said. Aster flinches although not noticeable for the two teens to see. He looks at them walking away.

“Dad…you’re drunk…I can smell whisky and beer from you,” Aster said, glancing at his father. “Aster. Go to that room now.” He said glaring daggers at his son. “No…I don’t think so, dad please you are drunk! You shouldn’t be working–” shatter. Drip drop drip drop. Silence filled the room. Aster doesn’t flinch anymore, he’s used to it. He’s used to how his alcoholic father, Narcissus is like, just like how his mother Daffodil doesn’t bat an eye and ignores how her son is being treated and also ignores his scream for help from her, she would just laugh and scolded him for not being a man enough to handle these small ‘boys will be boys’ things.

“Now do as I say or else I’ll make sure that you won’t walk after I’m done with you,” Narcissus said, grabbing violently his hair and bashing it on the wall. Aster yelped as blood ooze more from his forehead. First, the cigarette burns his entire arm to the point that he couldn't feel his arm anymore, then the bottle smashes his head only to feel tiny shards piercing his skin, and now it will be another session from his cruel father only to want to feel like wanting to die and not live anymore. Narcissus smiles, still drunk, and pats and caresses his very own son's cheek like how he would do to his lovely wife. “Be fully compliant for your daddy, Aster,” His father said. Aster closes his eyes for a bit and lets out a deflating sigh. Aster knows it’s going to get worst and worst if he doesn’t do what he said. ‘I shouldn’t have come here…I shouldn’t have–”. Another head bashing on the wall. Aster can’t help but scream in pain. He feels weak.

Very weak in fact that he often wonders if he can save his younger sisters. He wouldn’t be surprised that his father took their virginity very young just like he did to him when he was 8. He is mad at himself for not being man enough to handle these girlish scares. Only girls and women get raped, not boys and men. ‘You aren't raped’ by his mother's words dismissing him. ‘You aren’t abused’, by both of his parents' words as well as their friends. Only girls and women can be abused, nothing about boys or men can be abused, if they do then they are girls themselves. He wishes all for it to be over, he is nothing but a weakling that couldn’t do anything to defend himself and his younger siblings. He is a coward for hiding and living with his aunt and not facing them as a grown man should. He feels harshly dragged away by his father and gets slammed into the wall.

Aster can feel tears coming out, he starts to shake violently. “No one can hear you scream, most of them are away,” Narcissus slurred his words. Aster slowly turns around and his worst nightmare is coming true again. “P-p-please n-n-not t-t-that…” Aster stutters. Narcissus slaps his son and with one hand holds his neck tighter. “Shut up you filthy whore! You will take it like the little slutty bitch you are. Got it Aster!” Narcissus shouted. Aster cries out for help but to no avail, as everyone is busy trying to find the runaway, he gets slapped and thrown to the ground. The blonde teen flinches and slightly looks over, his eyes widened shut as he hears his father unbuckle his belt.

Slap.

Another slap.

A harder one.

Then some moaning and crying came out of the teen.

The very next day somewhere in Witch Country Lavender is walking around, content that the plan is set in motion, albeit a bit more slowly than what happened last year. She walks towards the room where the communicator is and gets a call from Hiachi.

“There is some speculation that your daughter wanted answers, how would you feel if she knows that you're behind it all Lavender,” Hiachi said. Lavender sighed, oh how she adores Rosemary and at the same time despises her outlook on life. “Make sure she doesn't find out I'll make sure to erase her existence once she found out,” Lavender said. She can't help but feel herself cracking deep inside of her, but for the future of the world. She has to do what's necessary to live a peaceful life with her family and friends. “How is the infiltration?” She asked him, “It is going swiftly, Mandrake is making another potion to poison the secret healing water,” He said with a smug grin. ‘Good, they have to rely on New Magic instead of Old Magic,’ Lavender thought. She remembers and remembers, it is laughable how two-faced she is. She loves her family and friends dearly but when Rosemary is born she knew she had to manipulate her into loving her more and be in her footstep. She doesn’t bother contacting Caraway, he is nothing but a nuisance to her, even when he transitions it is pretty funny to her when he can't just wait until he grows older or ask her for help to kill off his old life and make it a murder.

“Lavender, Mandrake, and I will come back at the end of the year to set the next plan into motion,” Hiachi said, “You two need supply and training to do the second step. We still have time but I do wonder how the Rot is doing,” Lavender said. Hiachi chuckles “They are growing and growing. Thyme is banned for eternity for what ‘she’ did so she will be alone to defeat. No support from her mother or any familial love.” He said. Familial love. The first love every child experiences, something that platonic or romantic love wouldn’t surpass. Lavender can’t help but chuckle a bit. “Hiachi, make sure no one can find out,” Lavender said. “No need to tell us twice, we can finish it quickly as possible,” He said and stopped calling her. The older woman walks away humming a tune that she sang for Rosemary when she gets scared or when she wakes up from a nightmare.

Parsley always wondered why Aster's sword is always rusted, she looks back at the book about weapon smithing and her eyes sparkle. “Hell yeah! Maybe fixing and mending, possibly upgrading that sword could make up for what I had done to him.” She mutters to herself. She closes the book and with the stuff that she needs she walks off to find either Aster or Gladiolus.

Parsley walks around and sees Aster talking cheerfully to Rosemary and Gladis. “Hey!” Parsley shouted cheerfully. “Hey Parse! What’s up?” Rosemary said, “I’m doing great Rose, so Aster I need some rare gems and I need your help with it.” Parsley said and wraps her arm around him, only to be swatted away. “Don’t touch me!” Aster yelled, still freaked out from what happened yesterday. He slowly calms down, “Sorry Parsley I don’t like to be touched, especially on my shoulders,” He said and chuckles a bit. “And everywhere else,” Aster mutters quietly to himself. “Why do you need his help?” Gladiolus asked, raising an eyebrow at the dwarf. “Well I think two people can make it quickly you know,” She said with a smile.

“Sure, I’m in,” Aster said with a sheepish smile. He needs to make up for it by yelling at her. He should’ve known that she isn’t the kind of gal to hurt him or her friends for that matter. He had to be a man to protect others, who cares how many scars he’ll get whether it’s physical or mental, he needs to take it all. Parsley looks shocked, she thought he needs some time to think about it but nonetheless, she accepts him into her party of one–now two.

“Well, I wish you luck!” Rosemary said with a bright smile. “Be careful, okay, try to come back in one piece,” Gladiolus said. After Aster packs his stuff for the journey, the two nod and head off.

Aster can feel hyperventilating whenever he passes by the station where his father works. He can’t help but sprint a bit, only for Parsley to catch up to him, instead of the other way around. He wants to be away from his dad and his mom. He hasn’t remembered anything before it all happened. All he remembers is his father getting drunk and them being narcissists by only caring about themselves and their succession. Not once do they care about him and his sisters. Once they arrive at the cave. Aster felt a sigh of relief. A cave. A place where they won’t find him. Maybe a place to hide his satisfaction. He once or twice smokes even though he knows that it isn’t healthy for him, but he can’t but need some relief, just something to keep him busy.

“Well, you’re ready to find some gems?” Parsley said, breaking his intrusive thoughts. Aster smiles and nods. “I’ll protect you when you are busy mining okay,” Aster said. “Thanks, Aster, you’re a big help today,” Parsley said and smiles brightly. Aster can’t help but feel happy for the praises. He wants to be validated, he wants to be useful. He wants praise from other people and from his parents. He tells white lie after lie that he has to keep up the image of himself being a good guy, someone who is a great fighter. He likes the attention that it got him.

Of course, last year happened. Most of them fell off, he is a laughing stock, once he came home, rinse and repeat. His parents are disappointed in him as usual. His father barges into his room in the middle of the night and forces his way with him. Aster lost count of how many times it happened. He can’t help but want to cry out for help again.

“Man does not cry! You are nothing but acting like a little girl!” Narcissus said to the little boy. Little Aster forces himself to not cry again. He knows the consequences of what would happen if he defies him.

Aster uses the sword and slays a couple of monsters all the while protecting Parsley when she’s busy digging up the gem that she found. He doesn’t need to cry. He is going to become a man, crying is for kids and for girls, not for men and older boys. That’s what he was taught, that’s what he’s been raised. He closes his eyes for a bit and takes a deep breath. ‘You’re safe, you just need to help Parse with her work and everything will be good,’ Aster thought. “Aster! We should hurry and run now before the bigger one is coming,” Parsley said. Aster nods and slays the last one and runs after the dwarf.

“Hey, you slutty bitch! Get in here!” His father shouted across the room. Aster flinches and walks toward his drunk father. “Please…dad you’re drunk, drink some water,” Aster begged him. Narcissus slapped him, “Oh you’re begging like a whore would! Are you secretly gay!? Do you like having your ass ripped apart!?” Narcissus shouted at him. Aster starts to shake, “No! I don’t just please dad, just do it for their sake.” Aster said. He only wants his father sober for the little girls, nothing else matters than his precious sisters that he loved to death.

“Hey…Aster are you…okay?” Parsley asked the blonde. Aster looks confused at her, “W-w-what do you mean?” He said–stuttering. He notices that he’s stuttering. Not good. Not good at all. “I’m fine Parsley…let’s keep going, you need materials to build right? We shouldn’t waste any more time.” He said. Parsley doesn’t look convinced, she can read some people easily which is one of the reasons that she can easily make friends. “If you say so,” She said and they both continue to walk, fight, and mine.

“Mom! Please it hurts! I think it’s ripped apart more,” Aster said, crying and feeling his butt sore after another session forced upon him by Narcissus. Daffodil sighs and looks at her son disappointed. “You’re not raped honey, you’re a guy. So don’t call your father a rapist, he isn’t.” His mother said. “But–” He gets grabbed from behind him. He flinches and feels his father behind him. Drunk. Again. “M-m-mom help…please!” Aster cried out for her. Daffodil rolls her eyes and walks away, the only thing Aster hears from his mother is.

“Boys will be boys Aster! Don’t be a girl, you aren’t one,” Daffodil said.

Too much, he doesn’t know why is remembering it now. He buried it deep, he wants to forget. He stopped walking, he counted the days and days in hell that he called home. It wasn’t long before Parsley heard his cry for help. Parsley quickly looks behind her and her eyes widened. She was doing this to make up for the guy, an egoistical guy that boost his ego. She doesn’t really believe the blonde in front of him is the same guy from last year. She can’t help but leave everything behind her and runs towards him and gave him a hug. “Hey, it’s okay to cry you know. I don’t know what happened but I’m here to listen if you need a friend,” Parsley said. It made him cry even more, all this time he thought that it was stupid, idiotic even.

Aster hugs the small girl back and cries more and more, Parsley wonders why he’s having this reaction but nonetheless, he needed support. She knows the feeling of being alone, after all, she is the eldest of her siblings. She has to give up her childhood to take care of them. She had to give up everything to support her family, sure it isn’t the same as when he is feeling but needing a shoulder to cry on is something everyone needs once in a while.

‘The gift can wait, he needs to let everything all out,’ She thought. She stays and hugs him, saying nothing but support and gentle words for a friend to say to the other one.

“So what? You’re trying to drown yourself in a bathtub? Well glad it didn’t work, it would be bothersome to get rid of your disgusting body,” Daffodil said nonchalantly. Aster told his mom about what he was trying to do he had his head down, “Go get your dad a beer Aster, I don’t need to hear any more of that girlish things, I’ll keep reminding you that only girls and women can experience it. You are not a special snowflake got it,” His mother said. Aster doesn’t reply, he stays quiet. He oddly felt numb when he brought the can of beer to his father and his drinking buddy. “Hey, have you thought of fucking my slut of a son? Trust me he squeals like a girl,” Narcissus said laughing, and so does his father's friend, glancing at him with the same smirks his father gave him.

“Get naked now! You know what, let’s go to your disgusting room you whore!” Narcisuss said. Aster let out a shaky sigh and his whole body start to shake.

Aster keeps hugging Parsley, he doesn’t know that hug that she gives felt nice. He wanted one, he needed one. He never felt a hug from a friend before, he doesn’t count that of Gladiolus, he is just a friend that he just clicks and is friends with. “You feel better now?” Parsley quietly asked him. Aster looks away and nods. “Yeah…thanks Parse I-....needed one after what happened yesterday,” Aster said. “Do you want to talk about it?” She asked him, Aster shakes his head. “I’m not ready…I need some time to myself about it all,” He said.

Parsley nods, understanding needed some space and wants to take time. “If you need someone to talk to, I’m here,” She said, smiling. Aster smiles a bit and nods, “Let’s continue searching for those materials.” He said. He wanted and needed to be useful, he doesn’t want to return to that horrible place that he called home.

Chapter Text

Aster look tired, very tired as he slumped on his bed. His pet snake Lillie flew over to him and cuddles near his neck. “Sorry…Sorry for being weak Lillie, I’m just…I feel like…I want…” Aster sighed and feels his tears escaping again. ‘Pathetic? I’m just pathetic,’ He thought. He feels wet licks on his cheek, “Sorry Lillie…” Aster mutter to his pet, “I…don’t want to go back…I don’t want to relapse back…” He said to her, Lillie cawed and nuzzle the blonde's cheek. Aster let her nuzzle him, “I want to be gone…” Aster quietly mutters to himself. The boy doesn’t bother changing his clothes, he continues to lie down and quietly cries in his sleep letting Lillie nuzzle and cuddle him for comfort.

The next day is the second part of the first task. This time is the same as last year but different and more dangerous, “Truth?” Eline asked him. “I’m fine, you don’t need to kill the teacher,” He said to her. “Still, no teacher should do that to a student,” Eline said and sigh, “Take it easy would you,” She said and holds his monster arm, Truther chuckles and pets her head. “Now it is time for the second task!” Professor Civet exclaimed. Every student stays silent.

Aster slightly glances at his pet curling up on his shoulder. “Hey, Aster are you okay after yesterday?” Parsley whispers to him, “I’m fine, don’t worry about it,” Aster whispers back and slightly chuckles.  Sage made a hush sound, “Pay attention,” She said. “Now we set you students into partners,” Wyverna said as she listed off the partners. “Seems we’re partners again,” Aster said looking at Rose, “You are going to redeem yourself right?” Rosemary said, still distrustful of what he did last year. “I’ll redeem myself Rosebarb, I’ll show you that I wasn’t the same guy as last year,” He said and smiles, hesitantly he pats her head. “Let’s protect each other shall we,” He said to her. Rosemary's face turned red, “Well of course, now that we’re on the same team,” She said with a chuckle.

“I just have to be partnered up with Hiachi,” Sage mutters and glares at Truther. “Truth is a nice guy once you get to know him. Sure he is terrifying but he can help you with close range with his bow, though I’m still confused as to how he did that.” Snapdragon said and chuckled. “This is a nice change of pace,” Gladiolus said and laughs, hooking his arm around Snapdragon’s shoulder. “I can’t wait to have you as a partner Gladis,” Snap said with a grin.

“Glad ya made some guy friends, I mean finally you have them,” Amaryllis said walking towards them. “Oh, har har, you’re just jealous we aren’t teaming up again,” Snap said with a smirk. “Well, I didn’t expect you to have that kind of confidence. Something tells me those guys you’re hanging out with seems to be a good influence on you,” She said and chuckles. Snapdragon rolls his eyes. “You’re still my bestie, Amaryllis. I will never replace you,” He said with a smile. “You better not, I mean c’mon who wouldn’t want you as my henchman,” She said checking her painted nails. “Oh please, of course, a rich girl like you need a lackey like me,” Snap said and chuckles.

“Okay, enough already!” Eline shouted. “Let’s get to it, I don’t want to waste any more time than I already have!” She said, groaning. Truther looks at Parsley and chuckles a bit. “She has time on her side and would rather not waste any of it. She can be a pain in the ass but she won’t bite hard if you talk back at her.” He said. Parsley nods, “Does she always have a temper?” She asked him. Truther looks at her and sighs. “We’ve been trauma bonded for years. So yes, her temper is bad. Especially if you go on her Chaos side instead of Order. She copes with violence and power-hungry. She won’t stop until the job is done, aka she is persistent, and blinded by rage.” He answered.

“Chaos? Order?” Parsley looks puzzled. “We have sides, different versions you could say. Chaos is terrifying, she won’t stop until the blood has been shed. Order, however, is calm and collected she sees reason more than brute force. I have Law and Violation. Law is possessive and works swiftly and with justice in mind. Violation, well he’s more obsessive and hungry for flesh and is very much more into cannibalism than I am,” He said and chuckles. Parsley then thinks for a bit, “So to keep it short and simple, dual personality of some sort,” She said. “Yep, you can say it like that,” Truther said. “But don’t worry much, Eline can be a bit understanding,” He said.

“Now the hedge maze is ready! Go along now,” Civet announced. The rest of the students start to run in the direction they were given.

“So, that snake of yours,” Rosemary said and looks at Lillie. Aster chuckles and has his hands out for his pet to slither around his arm, “Want to pet it? She won’t bite, she’s pretty docile,” He said with a smile. Rose reaches out for her head and strokes her head. She hears her caws and hiss, “Aww, she’s so cute Aster,” She said with stars in her eyes. “Her name is Lillie, had her when I was five,” He said and let the snake coil around his arm. “You know I wish I had a pet but, with my mom's disappearance and my brother being allergic to some species I couldn’t get it,” Rose said. “Well, if you want I can let you take care of Lillie. She loves to be the beautiful snake of her home,” He said and chuckles.

“As she should, the lady deserves to be treated as a queen,” Rosemary said and they start to chuckle. “Anyway, you know where we are going?” He asked her. “Kinda, we have to find a dragon heart and golden fleece,” She said looking at the map. “Where are we heading first?” He asked her. “Well up north should be a flock of sheep and in the middle of it the fleece, I think anyway. The map isn't clear about that,” Rosemary said. “Well we are going in blind,” Aster said with a slight chuckle.

“So about my mom's sword,” Rosemary said. “It's interesting, isn't it? The material used to make it is special and can only find in a couple of specific places, and it isn't a very common mineral either,” Aster said. “After all the color is abnormal and powerful enough to use against foes, but of course due time it goes fragile which sucks.” Rosemary followed up. Aster nods, “Yeah, I mean you can replace the end with a more durable one but I'm not sure how it goes so maybe ask Parsley about it,” Aster said to her. “Maybe I will,” Rose said and looked at him.

The more she looks at him, the more she notice him, unlike last year, he looks tired, and a bit thin but it wasn’t very noticeable unless you look at it closely. He has burn marks on his arms and bandages on his wrist. “You look different…” She muttered. Aster looks at her confused. “How so? Thought you hate me and won’t give me a chance,” He said. Rosemary sighed, “I won’t deny, you deserve to be hated after your sexist comment but, even then you don’t deserve to be assaulted. I wouldn't know considering if the roles were reversed well, they would expel the guy or put him in jail, than when a girl assaults a guy,” She said. “Guys have it worst, you girls are safe behind everyone but us, we keep it to ourselves, we keep it deep inside of us and waited to die,” Aster said nonchalantly. “How worst are we talking?” She asked him, Aster takes a deep breath, “Suicide is our only option,” He said. Rosemary looks at him as she almost forgot to breathe. “Aster…are you?”

“Let’s continue Rosemary,” Aster said, interrupting her and smiling at her. “We shouldn’t be distracted, our team is counting on us to get them,” He said and has his hand on her head. Rose doesn’t look convinced for a bit, but she doesn’t want to pry into his thought process, how can she understand whatever he’s thinking? It isn’t like her to care much about him but she did say she’ll give him a second chance to redeem himself. They start to walk down the path toward the golden fleece.

Sage seethes as she looks at them from a distance. “Sage we should go back to our direction, we’re wasting time,” Truther said to the young mage. “Quiet, I have to interrupt them somehow, I don’t want Rose to get hurt!” She said, Truther sighed and looks at her, “Are you two dating?” He asked her, Sage looks dumbfounded, “If not then let her find someone, you don’t know if she’s lesbian or not,” Truth said glaring at her. “She doesn’t like guys! You know what, let’s go back! I’ll show you that women are far superior to you men, Hiachi!” Truther cracks his monster arm and holds Sage by her neck, Sage coughed and holds onto it and tries to let it go, “S-s-stop…P-p-please!” Sage begged. “Call me by that name and I’ll make you see suffering, trust me you don’t want to see a complete monstrous cannibal and let them be your enemy,” He said, growling at her. Sage flinches, hearing his neck cracking louder.

“Feel free to tell someone about this, but be warned that if you dare say that name in front of MY PRIZED POSSESSION, my beloved thrall! I will not forgive you for whatever damage you’ve done,” He hissed at her. “Eline isn’t a thing or a property for you to abuse! You used her multiple times! Every conversation between the two of you sounded more toxic and unhealthy! She is way too good for you! She doesn’t need a man at all! So what you felt trauma back then! It doesn’t matter!” Sage burst out shouting. Truther starts to get ticked off, “When did we say that our relationship is perfect? It isn’t we already acknowledge that we’re toxic to each other and yet we somehow work out like we always do,” He said and sighed. “Let’s go, I don’t want to argue with you anymore,” Truther said and walks off, leaving the mage stunned. ‘I should ask Professor Caraway for help, she is in danger!’ She thought and quickly walks off to find her.

“You alright there!?” Rosemary shouted at her partner. Aster nods and quickly grabs the golden fleece. “Let’s run, now,” He said as they make a run for it only to fall down a hole leading to one of the traps. “Are you kidding me!” He shouted, “Calm down, we can figure out how to get out,” Rosemary said. “Right…right sorry about that,” He said and sighed. “No need, I would do the same you know,” She said, “Let’s either wait or find a place to be safe, especially with how beaten we are from trying to get the fleece,” Aster said. “Curse those sheep,” Rosemary said and huffed. “It can’t get any worse than it already is Rose,” Aster said and help her stand up. “I can't tell if you're pretending or that you actually changed,” Rosemary said as she looks at him, Aster chuckles a bit, “How about both?” He said They both stay silent and walk through the tunnel.

“Thanks, for giving me a chance,” Aster said looking at the ground. “Don’t mention it,” She said and looks at him a little bit closer. “Aster,” She said and planned on holding his shoulder only for him to grab her wrist, “Please…don’t touch me…I…don’t like being touched at all,” He whispers. Rosemary nods a bit and sees his hand trembling, “Take your time Aster,” She said and with her free hand, she touches his cheek. Aster's face turned pink and softly smiles at her. “Thank you little Rose,” He said to her. “I’m here to vent away…You sound like a guy that would listen, so I hope I can tell you my problems one day,” Rosemary said. Truth be told she wanted someone, she needed someone to vent away her confusion and her sorrow after her mom went missing. Sure she has Sage but she can’t tell her exactly, she just doesn’t want to upset her. Ever since they were little she always does what she wanted and hear her frustration and how upset she was about her anxiety getting in the way or how conservative her mother is when it comes to New Magic. Aster smiles at her and touches her cheek gently.

“Anytime, and anywhere, whether it’s in the middle of the night, I’m free to hear,” He said to her. It was Rose's turn to turn pink, she doesn’t know why her old feelings return or why she feels oddly nice to be comforted. She can’t help but smile at the little gesture. How long has it been that Sage comforted her? How long has it been that she can say something that she wanted to say? “Caw,” Lillie cawed, breaking the weird tension between them. She slithers from her master's arm to Rosemary and gives her wet licks on the cheek, “Aw come on Lillie, that tickles,” Rosemary said with a laugh. Aster can’t help but laugh as well and smiles, “You’re free to hold her, just be careful though, you should hold her underneath her and don’t hold her in her nether region she hates it.” Aster said and instructed his partner on how to hold his snake. It wasn’t long for both Lillie and Rosemary to be comfortable with each other. “I thought she would be slimy but she feels a bit fluffy than any other snake,” She said. “She tends to be all cuddly, it is why she’s been there for me when I was 5,” He said.

“Your parents must be nice to gift you a pet huh,” She said and looks at him as they continue to walk. Aster stays quiet, reminding himself of how useless he is against his alcoholic father or his gambling-addict mother. He is nothing but a coward. A useless boy toy for his father and his father’s drinking buddy to use to play house. “My aunt gave her to me as a present, my parents were…busy to do anything with me or my sisters, I mean even when they were retired High Guardians, they have to support us one way or another.” He said. “You…don’t sound like you like them that much,” She said. He sighed and looks in front of them. “I wanted to forget…” Aster whispers to himself. “How about we change the topic,” Rosemary suggested slowly, she isn’t sure if he’ll like that or if he wanted her to listen to him vent, just like how Sage did to her. “Sure, I’m up for it,” Aster said, smiling at her.

Rosemary looks shocked, she didn’t expect that answer, she didn’t expect him to agree with her. She smiles happily and starts asking him about hobbies and soon they start to have a conversation about their favorite video games.

Eline runs after the squirrel who took her pocket watch, “Give that back you little shit!” She shouted in anger. “Eline! Calm down!” Parsley runs after her. Eline groans in frustration, summons a couple of swords, and murders the poor animal. “The thing deserves it for taking something from me,” Eline said. Parsley sighed and looks at her, “That seems like overkill for getting your watch back, The squirrel probably want to impress someone and wanted to mate,” She said. “Does it look like I care about that? They should find a different one,” Eline said and wears her necklace again. “Maybe, you need to calm down, you seem tense,” Parsley said to her. Eline sighed a bit, “The pocket watch is important, I don’t want to lose it at all.” She said to the dwarf, “Even so maybe you should take a different approach than murder,” Parsley said to her with a smile, Eline chuckles a bit “I guess,” It wasn’t long before they heard yelling from a certain mage and ended up meeting the rest of the team, minus Rosemary and Aster. “Sage…What were you shouting about?” Snapdragon asked his friend.

Meanwhile, the villains decide to go to the restricted section of the school library. “Would you look at that, there is a spell to stop the corruption and increase them at the same time,” Hiachi said with amusement. “Let’s rewrite the cure to that of increasing the roots and handing it over to Thyme, perhaps leaving it in her desk for her to find and be hopeful for it?” Mandrake said. Hiachi chuckles. “How is the potion going?” He asked him. Mandrake grins, “Doing good, I’m almost done so we won’t have to wait any longer,” He said. “Good, the sooner e destroy every healing water around here, the sooner we can leave,” Hiachi said. Mandrake can’t help but feel relieved, to have someone taking this seriously and how quickly they have done it. The two continue to walk through the library to find more interesting information or how to let the corruption spread even further.

Chapter Text

Rosemary looks at Aster and holds his shirt under his armor, “Don’t…go…I need to…” She sighed and couldn’t form any words she only looks at the ground all the thoughts are running through her brain. “Are you okay Rose? It’s okay to be scared you know, we’re human after all,” He said. “I don’t know?... Why am I shaking? This is…” Rose couldn’t form any thoughts as she looked at him and let go of her mother's sword. It is like the deepest part of her memories tried to resurface. “Hey! Hey! Rosemary! Breathe! Everything is alright!” Aster shouted at the girl. Rosemary falls to her knees and stares blankly at the ground. “Aster, please don’t go. Don’t go!” Rose shouted hysterically and reached out to him. Why him all of a sudden? She doesn’t know why she doesn’t want him to go. Her feelings are conflicted with each other, with how much Sage has told her over and over again that she’ll get hurt more if she decides to talk to him again last year and with how she wanted to apologize to him for what Parsley did to him.

She doesn’t hear him. Why can’t she hear him?! It is like white noise is filling her ears. She can’t help but need to breathe, and then her whole world is turning around to the point she sees black.

“Oh my sweet little Rosemary, don’t be sad for your brother, he’ll make it from his sickness,” Her mother said comforting her daughter. “But but–I want him to be better I-I-I don’t want him to die!” Rosemary cried louder, “Oh Rose, don’t be sad. You shouldn’t be sad for strangers either when it comes to them being sick, they are nothing but performers.” Her mother, Lavender said. “Nothing more than faking an illness for attention,” She continued while comforting her sweet daughter.

“Rose, can I talk to you for a bit,” Her father said and let the tray of fresh goods sit on the table and let it cool down. “Sure! What is it, dad?” Little Rose said, looking confused. Her older brother stands by and looks around for any signs of their mother around. “Your mother is going to be away for some time…could you help me and your brother with the bakery? I know you want to train more using your mom's sword but, spending time with me and your brother would do you good sweetheart. You should enjoy your childhood,” Her father said. Rosemary shakes her head and smiles brightly, “Sorry dad but I want to be like mom! I have to train harder to go to High Guardian Academy and be a great warrior like her,” She said brightly.

Rosemary slowly opens her eyes and yawns. “What happened?” She asked. “You passed out, I think you need a break from all of this, luckily we’ll be having a sleepover later,” Aster replied and holds her closer to his chest. Rose's face turned red with the sudden contact, “Can you not hold me closer like this,” She said, Aster let her go for Rosemary to be comfortable sitting next to him and having her head on his shoulder. “Sorry about that,” Rose said. “Do you want to talk about it?” He asked her. “I don't know anymore, I want to be like mom, but my dad and my brother were acting strange around her and I don't know why that is,” She said and sighs. “Do you need closure?” He asked her. She nods and looks up at him and smiles a bit, “Thanks for listening to me…you're the only one who does that without making it about yourself. Sage tends to do it a lot, usually, she dismisses my feelings and talks about her problems, which I don't mind listening to but, It made me feel alone in some way,” Rosemary said looking at the ground.

“You can talk to me whenever you want, I'll listen to you whenever you need. I'm your friend after all Rose,” Aster said and leans closer and kissed her forehead. “I'll care about you whenever you need me to.” He said and looked at her. Rosemary's face turned beet red and so did Aster's. ‘I'm in love again,’ She thought. ‘Do I love her as a friend? I feel flustered for no other reason,’ He thought. He shakes his feeling thinking that it’s too soon to jump to a conclusion. “Again, I’m sorry for what happened,” Rose mutters. Aster looks away, “I should be the one to apologize, you did nothing wrong Rose, I am a sexist prick,” He said and sighs. Lillie licks Aster's cheek and curls up on his shoulder.

“No! I mean, yeah I know you're a sexist douchebag but what Parsley did, what my friend did is way worse than your words! You shouldn't be assaulted,” Rosemary said. “Parsley already apologized, Rose, I don't stay mad or hold grudges for that long either,” He said and looked at her. “Are you okay to walk? I can carry you you know,” Aster sheepishly asked her. Rose chuckles loudly and stands up, “Don't worry man! I can walk just fine!” She said in her usual bubbly voice. Aster smiles and stands up and picks the fleece while Rose holds the heart. The two of them start heading back.

“You’re restless, darling,” Truther said. “I hate waiting, I hate losing more time, and I very much HATE RECKLESS BEHAVIOR!” Eline shouted and grabs her boyfriend by his shirt. “Hey! No need to be violent,” Snap said and pushes the werewolf away from his friend. “We all understand that you don’t like wasting time but you shouldn’t go and abuse him or others around you,” Snapdragon said to her. Eline tsked and walks away. “And you, what kind of toxic relationship do you two have that this is so normal for you and for her,” The ginger said looking at the Clima. “Snapdragon I appreciate the help but we already know how abusive she is towards me and vice versa,” Truther said with a smile. Sage want to correct him, but with the threat back then she kept her mouth shut.

“Truther, I say it as a friend, you need to talk to her! What you two have is toxic and not healthy!” He snapped at him. “Honestly darling, didn’t expect you to be so snappy right now,” Gladiolus said. “Oh I am very much snappy, there is a reason why my parents called me Snapdragon!” Snap shouted. “Alright, I’ll talk to her. Especially when our anniversary is coming soon,” Truther said and looks in the direction she walks off to. “We definitely need to have a conversation,” He said and sigh.

“A healthy relationship does need communication and not bossing each other,” Aster said as he and Rosemary came back with Eline behind them. “Rose sprained her ankle so I have to help them, unfortunately,” Eline said with a huff. “Rose! Aster! How could you let her get hurt!” Sage shouted at him. “She did that to herself because she’s reckless and charging in whatever direction the dragon was,” Aster defended himself. “Oh, please mister, who was the one that fell through the hole?” Rosemary said with a grin. Aster chuckles, “Fair enough Rose,” He said and ruffles her hair. Sage huffs and glares at them getting friendly with each other.

“Now then since we all made it, let’s get a shower and get ready for the party,” Amaryllis said with a smirk. “I might come a bit later, I have to contact someone real quick,” Thyme said. Soon enough the rest walks off, “Rosemary, you’re safe, don’t worry too much about it okay,” Aster said with a smile. “Thanks, Aster, your secret is safe with me, I won’t blab it to anyone else,” Rosemary said and walks to her shared room. “Thank you,” He said with a small smile.

“Hiachi, you are not yourself right now,” Mandrake said and looks at him. “Found something reliable? Or maybe another cursed healing water,” He said and glares at him, “Nothing to worry about Mandrake, I’m just…deep in thought, now that we found this,” Hiachi said and holds an orb. “A spell orb? Now that’s very interesting. I do wonder what kind it is though, I could go and ask one of the teachers about it.” Mandrake said, “Spell orbs aren’t my forte even though I have magic on my own,” Mandrake reasoned.

“I see, well I shall leave you with potions and spells, I have to see a certain mermaid,” Hiachi said. Mandrake chuckles, “Do bring a certain blonde one though, heard she is one the teachers who are the keeper of runes and scrolls, after all, mermaids and sirens lived far longer than any of us has,” Mandrake said. Hiachi laughs, “Will do then, until that comes make sure to take care of our certain predicament,” He said. “No need to tell me twice, I already am well-liked among the teachers.” He said with a grin.

Hiachi walks towards the shore and sees the mermaid in a daze and hypnotized. “Well hello there my favorite mermaid, what's your name darling?” Hiachi asked her with a soft smile. “Coral…” She replied in a daze and leans forward to him. “Such a beautiful name for a pretty thing like you, how about it? Want to have some fun?” He asked her, Coral's eyes sparkled, and leans forward. “Such a good little puppet I have,” He said, chuckling.

“DO NOT HURT ONE OF MY STUDENTS!” Hiachi hears the woman. ‘Now this is going to be good,’ He thought, smiling sinisterly. “I'll say it again, leave one of my students alone!” She said and growled as the older woman's teeth becomes sharp and her ears sharper and ocean-like. The blonde woman changes into what the sailors fear. A true nature of the beautiful mermaid when they get angry.

“Why do you not wear a shirt when sleeping, it’s just gross,” Sage said, “Well, because I’ve always slept without a shirt. Besides, you don’t seem to be bothered about my girlfriend just sleeping with her sports bra,” Truther said. “That’s because she’s a girl, and I couldn’t care less if she’s sleeping topless,” Sage said with a huff. “Sleeping topless is uncomfortable and I hate that, to be honest. I prefer being covered, plus, I’m pretty much older than you and legal, I’m not gonna flash myself around you at all,” Eline said, Sage sighs a bit. “Honestly what is there to talk about when this is a co-op sleepover,” Sage mutters. “Sage, I’m a guy, we had a co-op sleepover,” Snapdragon said. “Well, that’s different, besides it isn’t like you guys had any fun or something,” Sage said. Gladiolus, Aster, Snapdragon, and Truther laugh in unison, “Well…” Aster said and smiles.

The boys laughs and wheezed as Snapdragon handed them their hairbrush, “LET'S GO!” Snapdragon shouted, clearly hyper from staying up late and with a couple of fizzy drinks. “Start the music, Gladis!” Truther shouted with another laugh. Gladiolus gave them a thumbs up and start the music, it wasn’t long for them and for Aster to begin, “See anybody could be good to you!” Aster sang and grins, “YOU NEED A BAD BOY TO BLOW YOUR MIND OOH!~~” Snapdragon and Gladis shouted. The four of them start to sing together. “Bang-bang into the room! I know you want it! Bang-bang all over you! I’ll let you have it! Just wait a minute, let me take you there ah! And wait a minute till you aah!~ Bang-bang, there goes your heart! I know you want it! Back, backseat of my car! I'll let you have it! Just wait a minute, let me take you there! And wait a minute 'til you, ah, hey!” They continue to sing until the song is over. “Let’s do it again another time,” Snapdragon said with a smile. “Agreed! The best idea you ever had Snap!” Aster said and laughs. They start walking back to the room where they held the sleepover, giggling like teenage girls.

“You got to be kidding,” Sage said, looking almost disgusted or horrified. “Clearly us boys had a fun sleepover back then,” Truther said with confidence. The other three agreed remembering the shenanigans they’ve done. Especially the loud singing near Professor Redbuds' room and Professor Caraways' room. “Ah, such a good time, plus Redbud deserves to have our singing in front of her room,” Snapdragon said with a smile. Amaryllis laughed, “Damn, didn’t expect you to do that, do invite me 'cause I’ll gladly join,” She said. “Yeah me too, that sounds pretty fun,” Rosemary said with a smile.

Sage looks at them, ‘Seriously? Rose, Snap, they are trouble, I mean really! Why would you hang out with them? Especially Aster and Hiachi,’ Sage thought. “Now that’s settled, let’s play some games and talk shall we,” Parsley said. Thyme then walks into the room, wearing her pajamas. “Sorry I’m late,” She said, “We didn’t start yet so you’re right on time,” Parsley said with a smile. Thyme nods and sits next to her. “What is there to talk to? This is a waste of my time,” Eline said, still pessimistic. “Can I bribe you with this?” Truther said and take out two bottles of ale, Eline sighs and grabs one of the alcoholic beverages. Aster however flinched and scoots away from them and is soon close to Rosemary. “What? Are you scared of them getting drunk or the alcohol?” Amaryllis asked the blonde. “I kind of have some sort of trauma around alcohol…” Aster said scratching his neck “Especially when my dad is an alcoholic…” He muttered to himself and shudder just thinking what would happen at the Winter break.

“You stupid faggot! Clean this shit up!” Narcissus shouted at him. Aster chokes on his and coughs up the remain that he was forced to drink. “Tsk, you're close of age to be working at the brothel for men, so you better learn some tricks got it you filthy slut!” His father yelled and spit on him. Narcissus then chuckles and caresses his son's cheek. “No matter me and my buddies can help you with it,” He said to Aster.

“Aster? Do you…need to let out?” Rose asked him, Aster shakes his head. “I'm fine Rosemary, I'll be fine with narcotics,“ Aster said and chuckles. “Well now that fiasco is over, I know a perfect game to play,” Sage said. “And that is?” Gladiolus asked her. “potion of truth and dare,” Sage said with a smile. “Or we can play just spin the bottle, potion of truth and dare is intense, very very intense,” Gladiolus said. “I know but the potion one is more exciting, you just have to drink both truths and dare just so you wouldn't cheat,” Sage said. “Uhm, sure let's do the potion one,” Rosemary said with uncertainty. “Great! Let's play then,” Sage said with excitement.

Elodie screams, for Hiachi’s ears to shatter, but to no avail, as she is pinned and tied up using the net and the fishing hook to keep her still. “Mermaids are very interesting creatures, they took the form of something beautiful to lure someone in but when the victim gets closer, their true natures show how wickedness they are, but now it only happens when you’re mad right,” He said, and grins. “Coral why don’t you be a dear and round up the other sirens,” Hiachi said, Coral nodded and swam down to gather up the remaining hypnotized victims. “Do what you want with me but there is no way I let you harm my students or go to where the scrolls are,” Elodie said.

Hiachi laughs and smiles. “Then my dear friend you better start thrashing because you'll be my partner's test subject,” He said with a grin and cut open one of her scales. Elodie screams as blood seeps a bit out of the torn fins. “You won't get away with this,” She hissed and glares at him.

“Now who’s going to start the game?” Eline said, taking a sip from the bottle. “Don’t get too drunk to the point you want to puke dear,” Truther said and sigh. “I’ll start! Gladiolus T or D?” Amaryllis said. “Mon cher, I pick Dare obviously,” Gladiolus said with a smile. Amaryllis grins, “I dare you to wear high heel boots for the entire week,” She said. “I’ll one up you better, 6-inch dagger heels,” Gladis said. “Oh please no,” Aster said and groans, already knowing that Gladiolus will somehow get that monstrosity of heel shoes.

“Now then, Rosemary, T or D?” Gladiolus asked her. “I pick T,” Rose said with a smile, “Truth huh, well that’s new. Alright then, no back out now Rosy,” Gladiolus said and chuckles. “What do you think about Aster last year?” He asked her, “Dude seriously!” Aster yelled at him. “It’s her to answer Goldilocks,” Gladiolus said with a smile. “Well,” Rose ponders a bit and glows green as she looks at him, “At first impression he was…cute, handsome even and I love his charisma but, it all changes when we teamed up, I didn’t realize he was condescending or even have a superiority complex. Of course, I don’t know why but he’s also sexist and wants me to rely on him back at the exercise.” She said and sighs, “Even so, I see the pain and I didn’t do anything at all when Parse decide to ‘clumsily’ let go of her hammer and hit his foot,” She continued.

“Yeah, I’m still sorry about that Aster, I shouldn’t have done that,” Parsley said. “It’s fine I’ve been through worst than that,” Aster said and chuckles. “Anyway, Aster T or D?” Rosemary asked him with a smile. Aster sighs a bit and smiles, “Truth,” He said.

“You better ask him a good question,” Sage said with a smile. “Are you comfortable around us?” Rosemary asked him. It was Aster's turn to glow green, “Honestly speaking, no,” He said and looks away. “I mean I did have fun with you guys, don’t get me wrong but, I just don’t feel comfortable talking about the deep stuff and all that, plus Gladiolus has been my friend since we were little and he’s the only one that knows me really,” He continued.

“Honestly speaking, it does take time to warm up to someone, it is also why I trust Parsley and Coral the most,” Thyme said. “Yeah, anyway, Sage T or D,” Aster said. “Dare,” She said. “Stop thinking about yourself, that’s your dare,” Aster said with a smile. “What are you talking about? I don’t talk about myself.” Sage said, feeling like she should defend herself, “I just have anxiety Aster, I can’t help it, you know,” Sage said. “Eline has social anxiety and basically wants me to do the talking, You don’t see her moan and groan about it,” Truther said. “Well, Truth or Dare,” Sage said to the monster. “Truth,” He said.

“Why and how are you in a relationship with her?” Sage asked him. Truther glows green and looks at his beloved. “I see her as my broken self, I lost two people who are dear to me and she lost someone who she cares about. Yet I feel still hollow when I’m with you, heh not like the time when I forced you to dress up as my late wife in at our wedding,” Truther said and chuckles and smiles at her. “I nonchalantly feel like your abuse towards me is normal, very normal in fact that it scared me, it scares me that you’ll go back to being timid, the person who doesn’t care about me and others,” He said and leans on her shoulder. “I love you, Eline Clairvoye, and I’ll forever love you until the end of time and when we decide to be wed and have children,” He said and smiles. “You are–” Eline got interrupted by Sage, “You can’t be serious! Also wife!? Were you married that young?! Did you kill your wife so you can be a cheating manwhore and be with her?!” Sage shouted at him.

Eline frowns and looks at Truther, “Truth, do you want to talk?” She asked her, which is odd for her, considering she is shut off and doesn’t care much. “Later, alone, dear,” Truther murmured and gives her a peck on her neck. “Well let’s continue with the party shall we,” Snapdragon said with an awkward chuckle.

The rest of the night they continue to play games, drink fizzy drinks and laugh their heart out about the dumbest thing ever.

Eline and Truther walk out of the room and towards the balcony, “Truth?” Eline asked him, glowing green again. “Why are we like this? Why are we so…fucked up? I have baggage from losing Amelia and Link before I met you, and yet I failed to be there for them, I failed to avenge them, what kind of husband and father am I if I can’t protect someone who’s dear to me?” Truther said and looks at his girlfriend. Eline sighed and leans on him, “We are very very toxic, we bring out the worst of each other too. I always wondered why you even bother trying to approach me. Sure I gave you an option for revenge but even then I committed genocide and as punishment, I had to take care of an orphan Faery Elf Lucinda.” She said.

“Lucinda still sees you as a mother even as an adult, why are you so oppressed about being called a mom?” He asked her. “You know why, I’m terrified, I’ll admit that but having children is just too soon, or raising one even, I know that we’re immortals who don’t age anymore but it doesn’t help that I’m still 25 and I’m still scared to be pregnant and giving birth!” She said and hugs herself and her ears flatten completely. “Eline, sweetheart, it is normal to be scared about that, especially how horrifying and how much pain it is for women. Even so, you don’t have to decide now, we have all the time that we have,” Truther said and smiles a little and strokes her hair.

“Truth, do you regret us?” Eline asked him, “No, I don’t regret approaching you, I don’t regret being pushy and wanting to spend time with you, even when you push me away,” Truther said and holds her hand, “I told you that I want to marry you in time, and I want you to make me a man for having kids too, but only in your own time,” Truther said. “Triny,” Eline said and smiles. “I would gladly make you a man, by having pups but, not now, not when we still have some problem we’re working on,” She said. Truther chuckles, “Will do it at your own pace, also speaking of which, any special treat you want to eat?” He said to her. Eline chuckles and smiles, “You know what I want, my dear Clima,” She said and licks his cheek. “Alright, love, I can’t wait for our anniversary soon,” He said and rest his head on top of hers.

“I love you, Trinity, I really do. So please, talk to me and show your emotions,” Eline said. “I only do that, if you show your true intention,” Truther said, Eline chuckles and says: “Spoken like a true asshole who wants me to break,” “Only for you my dear, Timeless and Requiem are probably furious about the fact we are taking too long to find them,” He said and chuckles. “Let’s make haste honey,” She said and kisses him. “Let’s promise that we talk about our problems and baggage,” Truther said. “Promise,” Eline said, leaning on him and yawning.

Truther smiles and carries her bridal style towards their sleeping bag. “Goodnight, my Lady,” Truther whispers and lays her down next to him. “Night, my Lord,” She purrs and her tail ags like a puppy. Soon enough they fall asleep as most of them are exhausted.

Meanwhile, Mandrake laughs as he looks at the siren, “Well well well, It’s been a while hasn’t Elodie, how are you doing?” He asked her, “Mandrake, what are you doing here? Why are you still working for them,” Elodie asked him, Mandrake rolls his eyes and shrugs. “You two know each other? Now that’s new,” Hiachi said with amusement, “You can say it like that, one of my parents is a siren and well Elodie was my babysitter back then,” Mandrake said and shrugged again, “Enough about that, let’s get into experiment my potions on her,” He said with a grin. “I’ll leave the rest to you, Mandrake,” Hiachi said. Elodie hissed and looks petrified and angry at what he has become, she hopes that she can escape soon so she can warn the sister school about what has happened.

Chapter Text

A week went by and it is getting closer to the Winter break and the Winter Solstice. A celebration for the elves and dwarves and other magical creatures. It is that time when they go to the field to participate for the newcomers to achieve their gift, but today is the day where the monster looks agitated and desperate as he walks back and forth in the dorm. “Truth, it’s your anniversary, what’s the problem now?” Snapdragon said, already tired of his bullshit. “Snap! I need this to be perfect. If it isn’t, It’ll be a waste of her time.” Truther said to him. “She loves you, doesn’t she? I’m sure she’ll love what you have for her,” Snapdragon said, “Wait, should I ask that witch gremlin about ideas?” Truther asked him.

“You want to ask Amaryllis for help about this? I don’t know, pretty sure her idea would be about murder and getting expensive gifts,” He said. Truther sighs and bites his nails, “I need to figure it out, I’m on a timer right now,” Truther mutters and looks at the pamphlets of different restaurants and cafes and even other romantic places for couples. “Honestly Truther, from the past few months that I know you, you are more agitated about this than the toxic relationship,” Snapdragon said. “Yeah well, as long as we just talk and show our vulnerability to each other, that’s enough for me, that’s enough for us,” Truther said and smiles a little. Snapdragon sighed, “Whatever you say, man, whatever you say,” He said.

“Speaking of which, you alright going home in the winter break?” Truther asked him. “I’ll be alright, other than dealing with my dad and my older brother, I will be fine,” Snap said. Truther looks at him and frowns, “Snapdragon, you do realize you have to talk about your problem with your father right? Don’t push him away,” He said to the ginger. “Truther, you know I don’t want to talk to him about my…issue. I’m still confused, but I also don’t want to disappoint him by being masculine you know,” Snapdragon said and sighs. Truther looks at him again, “I don’t think he’ll be disappointed Snap, as a father we have to take care of our children and make sure they are loved,” He said to him.

“Well the difference between you and my dad is because he praises violence, and well, he wants me to tackle him,” Snapdragon said, Truther can’t help but laugh. “Snapdragon, really? A tackle? Tackling your father is a playful way to fight, you have no idea how many times my daughter tackled me back then. It doesn’t mean he praises your violence, it means he wants you to take care of yourself on your own, a tackle is just a tackle.” Truther said to him with a smile. “Truther. I don’t know about that, he just wants me to fight him, he wants me to be assertive and stand my ground,” Snapdragon said.

“Does that mean he wants you to be masculine? Does that mean that he wants you to use violence? No, it doesn’t. Look Snappy, you have to be assertive, you have to stand your ground and protect what you care about. He wants you to be independent and can take care of yourself Snap, he isn’t toxic but caring like a father would for his sons,” Truther said and looked at him. “Please try and talk to him, having a father by your side would make you feel better and if he doesn’t like what you’ve been doing, stand your ground and explain. Talk back to him, show him that what you're saying is what you wanted to do in life,” Truther said with a smile.

“No wonder you had a daughter, I’m sure this Link girl would be happy to have a dad like you Truther,” Snapdragon said with a smile. He stands up, “Thanks for the talk, I think I know what to do,” Snapdragon said. “Anytime Snap, you’re free to talk to me about your issue,” Truther said to him. “Thanks, Truther,” Snap said and walked away but then stopped and looked at him, “Oh, maybe have a nightly dinner at the Wisteria Garden, there is a legend when you dine in that garden you feel more attracted to the person you love, it is what my dad said when he met mom,” Snapdragon said and walks out of the room. “Dinner at the Wisteria Garden? Thanks, Snap for the idea,” Truther said and start planning the surprise.

“No no no, you are going to wear THAT for your anniversary?” Amaryllis asked her. “So too simple?” Eline asked as she was wearing a white one-shoulder dress with gold embroidery on her waist and the one where they’d been tied up to. “Uh simple is an understatement girly, that is too extravagant. Next!” Amaryllis said, shooing her away to get changed. “I can't believe we have to help her get ready for the date with that ugh! He is toxic towards her!” Sage shouted in frustration. “Sage, they are both toxic for each other, plus it is just a date for them,” Rosemary said. ‘Who made you a relationship expert? She is in an abusive relationship! And you're being chummy with Aster, Rose! You should be thinking of how I feel! Not what you think is right!’ Sage thought.

Eline comes out wearing a beige arm warmer sweater with a purple short flower dress, boots, and a leather belt around her waist. “What about this?” She asked them. “It's showing legs too much,” Sage commented. “Right…although I think this is the outfit, but maybe some stockings?” Eline said to them.

Amaryllis ponders and snaps her fingers “Light brown see-through stocking, it would compliment you and fit the winter cozy aesthetic.” She said, “I don't know guys, the cannibal has easy access to feast her,” Sage mumbles. Eline nodded and looked at herself in the mirror, “I think I’m going to wear a jacket to cover up and to be a bit warm for the date,” She said. “Well, do tell us how it goes okay,” Parsley said with a smile. “Yeah, have fun,” Thyme spoke and looked back at her book. Eline hums and walks out of the room with her bag and her tail wagging happily like a puppy.

Mandrake hums and looks at Elodie, “So, mother how are you feeling?” He said with a grin. Ever since he was little and ever since he can remember, Elodie has been more of his mother than his actual mother is, in fact him, Coral, and Kelp always played together when they were kids, but despite him not having any merfolks traits, he can’t play with any of the games they played. However, that doesn’t stop Elodie when she is in her 20s and takes care of him. Alas, that was a long and forgotten memory, he almost laughed when he called her mother just now. “Mandrake, why in all of the sea gods would you work for them? The corrupted our sea dragon friend!” Elodie said, trying to find reasons as to why Mandrake works for the Triumvirate. “Oh my Elodie, don’t expect me to be cruel, after all, after killing both the wood elf father and that traitor, well it is pretty fun to be on the corrupted side, don’t you think?” He said and chuckled mixing up the opium poppy and belladonna fruit.

“Honestly, do you have any ounce of goodness in your body?” She asked him, “Nope, never had any goodness Elodie,” Mandrake said with a smile. “What did we do wrong raising you,” Elodie questioned herself and sighed. Mandrake rolls his eyes and get the syringe ready, “Get ready mother this will hurt a ton,” He said and laughs. He forcefully grabs her arm and injects the serum, he loves the sound of her screaming, he just can’t wait to experiment on her more.

“Oh Mandrake, how is it going?” Hiachi asked him, walking towards him. “It’s good, for now, it is interesting how Elodie is still young despite being older than any sea creatures if I’m being honest. So Hiachi how was it?” Mandrake said, “My beloved puppy~ is on a date so boohoo,” Hiachi said and huffs. “Tough luck then, say, can you deal with the intruders, I sense them nearby,” Mandrake said. “Sure, but be warned I will expose you,” Hiachi said. “Expose me? Hah bold of you to say that, I have teachers wrapped around my finger, I doubt they would believe your words over mine,” Mandrake said and laughs.

“Fuck off you ugh!” Hiachi groaned and stomps off the take care of the intruders. “Now then let’s see where in your memories where you put the brooch of everlasting beauty and power. The very one where you keep it disguised as one of the oldest magic scrolls of the entire ocean.” Mandrake said and chuckles seeing her ‘beloved’ mother figure.

“Sage, I don’t think this is a good idea…” Snapdragon said looking at her as they are hiding in one of the bushes of Wisteria Garden. They can see both Eline and Truther enjoying their lovely date. “Because we have to sabotage it, Eline needs to realise how terrible Truther is,” Sage whispers and glares dagger, “I mean look at him, he gave her a glass of wine,” She continued. “They drank alcohol last week Sage, plus we shouldn’t– no you shouldn’t disrupt them, they are happy and I want my friend to be happy,” Snapdragon said and dragged Sage away from them. He is at his wit's end, trying to be calm and maybe thinking that Sage has changed, but no she hasn’t she is still going on about Rosemary spending time with Aster in the library, or about Truther and his love life. “Hiachi is abusive! He carved his name on her body,” Sage said angrily. “Hiachi? Sage his name is Truther, not Hiachi,” Snapdragon said. Right, he wonders how long it’ll take that his love for her to wilt. It probably has been but he isn’t ready to be in a relationship since he is still discovering what he wanted and who he wanted to be.

“Truther isn’t his name, his real name is Hiachi, Snapdragon I’m doing this as a worried and caring friend,” Sage said. Snapdragon has enough, he has enough of Sage's bullshit “Sage, look at yourself in the mirror and fix your attitude, you’ve been so ugh! How can you be misandry about men?! You have a father! Your father made love with your mom and has you! I’m leaving! I don’t know who you are anymore! I thought you changed for the better but now,” Snapdragon frowns and looks away from her. “Now you’re back obsessing about Rose’s friendship with Aster, which mind you he is a good guy once you get to know him, you also became a harpy about Eline and Truther’s relationship, who made YOU a relationship expert!” Snapdragon snapped at her.

“Snapdragon I–” Sage wants to say something but gets cut off by him, “Stop, don’t make excuses, don’t blame it on your anxiety or your dilemma about new and old magic, don’t blame it on other people about your behavior!” Snap continues to shout at her. It wasn’t long for him to storm off and back to school, leaving bewildered Sage. Sage looks back at the happy couple and her blood boils. ‘Snapdragon wasn’t always like this but you, somehow you bewitched her, you made her think as if she isn’t a girl, all girls are powerful more powerful than men are,’ Sage thought the more she thought about the more she hate the guys for corrupting her friends.

First, after Aster apologizes to Rosemary and after the grueling team task, they start to spend time together, hell she didn’t know Rosemary goes to the library to study! She never studies for her tests! All she hears from her is “Well, I study there because it’s quiet, plus I flunked my test yesterday and I don’t want to fail anymore, my dad was disappointed you know,” Sage doesn’t understand how she can study with Aster.

Secondly, Snapdragon starts to spend more time with Hiachi, Aster, Gladiolus, and even with Amaryllis from time to time. She always hears her talk about how she and the guys do for shenanigans. Hell! She even got tips from the guys about waiting to shave some facial hair and how ‘normal’ it is for guys to get in puberty. Which isn’t true at all! She even spar with Gladiolus about using a fencing sword!

Lastly, Hiachi told Thyme about the use of potion-pointed arrows and how effective they are against enemies, she also hates how vulnerable he is to Eline, it is like he wants her to carry his ‘so-called depressing’ moment, ‘I mean really? Losing this Amelia girl and his daughter Link to a fire? He probably killed them so he can continue to cheat,’ Sage thought. She needs to put a stop to it, but she doesn’t know how. How can she do it when most of them are bewitched by guys? Maybe she’ll talk to Aloe and Anise about this, they know better than her what it’s like to be in a TRUE loving relationship! Sage makes up her mind and walks away, the more she sees them together the more she needs the break Eline's ties with him to be saved. She has to save them, those guys are nothing but trouble.

Hiachi laughs killing the remaining officers and burning their bodies, in the distance he can see his beloved puppy enjoying a dance of love, a dance that most couples would dance when their anniversary or any special event to be in reunion with the gods, although the twin gods are just a pair of twins but they would never let go of this tradition for the Mirai folks. While the twin gods' parents are nothing but tyrant, overthrown by their first-created angel and causing a whole revolution. He also wouldn’t deny that it is best to leave them be, even though Hiachi despises his puppy for doing this tradition with someone other than him. He is her master, her beloved master, her boyfriend, and her beloved.

Hiachi may have been obsessed after she escaped from him after Eline got out of her shackles and out like a stray puppy. He needs to train her diligently, making sure she’ll never leave him for eternity. “So after killing most of them, you start to ogle her again? We have more pressing matters such as getting the scrolls, ruining another healing water, and letting rot fester more around the woods.” Mandrake said. “I know, let’s make haste we’re almost done with our mission after all,” Hiachi said and walked away to kill more intruders while Mandrake walked to the beach, he should be the only one to get the scroll after all, it is a shock to him what Elodie has been hiding this entire time.

To get the brooch that’s been disguised, you need a key that only once in a full moon gets inside of an infant. And he is the one with the key. It isn’t visible so he didn’t know that he can get it very easily. Nonetheless, it is pretty laughable, he is smart, so smart to use his disguises, as well as his potion and magic knowledge but being in the living with humans he doesn’t know a lot about the merfolks, so he thinks that Elodie has the key. Either way, he can get it while everyone is distracted. He just has to make sure the royals don’t notice their valuables stolen. “Everything has a price, and this is no different it seems,” Mandrake said and sighed. He looks at the sea again and dives down turning into a merman with the bracelet he wears, and starts swimming to the castle.

Chapter Text

“Can you believe the nerve of him poisoning Snapdragon like this?” Sage said frustrated. “You know that you’re talking about my boyfriend, right? He isn’t the type of man to do that, you know.” Eline said and sigh, cleaning the sheath of her Corrupted sword. “I’m just saying, speaking of which, how was your date ?” Sage said, not liking how this innocent girl went on a date with her abuser. Eline however, Eline face turns red, remembering that night at their anniversary. Both her and Truther got them a gift, although it isn’t expensive or materialistic, Eline loves it regardless. She can still remember it, even if it was just yesterday.

Truther chuckles, seeing his now adult girlfriend handing him a small box, “I’m not good at this…just like our last anniversary, it looks horrible.” She said and looks away, blushing immensely. Truther smiles at her, at their first year anniversary, she got him his private quarter at her place. It was filled and decorated to his liking and a painted mosaic of his family that must’ve cost Eline a lot of time to make even if it’s just in a picture frame. “Regardless, you also go far and beyond with gifts that means a lot to me, dear,” He said and pulls the ribbon out and opens the box. His eyes widened seeing a silver necklace string with at the end a couple of vials filled what he thought are stardust. “I thought this would be efficient for you to make your arrows, there are also some extra strings that I made. Sorry that it doesn’t look good, heh,” Eline said, embarrassed about it. Truther can’t help but chuckle and shakes his head.

“Who made you a charmer for bringing a thoughtful gift?” He asked her curiously, he tied the gift on his bow, making a silver design to his already beautiful and childish design his daughter made with his late wife. “So…you liked it?” Eline asked her. “I love it dear, I love it very much,” He said with a smile. He coughed a bit, “Well, I suppose we should dine and have our dance before I reach in and give you a gift.” He said to her. “Somehow, it’ll be extravagant…” Eline said. She remembers on their first anniversary he gave her an hourglass, he knows she’s all about time, but that specific hourglass is small, and has purple and golden dust inside. She carries it on her person, of course no one but her and Truth notice that little gift. Furthermore, she wonders what kind of gift his going to give. It is their 3rd anniversary. He always takes her breath away whenever he complemented her, or he even stops her for going into madness and corrupted.

After a couple of hours, they laugh and smile, but it changes when Truther get on his one knee. “Eline Clairvoye, My Lady of Order and Chaos, a part of us bringing Justice to our world of Mirai.” Truther said and takes out a small box. Eline froze, she couldn’t have thought of him trying to propose, does she? Why now, when they are still working on themselves and about each other?

“Do you remember what you told me– told us what it’s like without any love or genuine connection?” Truther asked her. Eline remember their little ‘vow’.

“ We’ve been losing more and more of humanity, it wasn’t worth getting their blessing for losing any love.” Eline said, and her eyes shines a little in her dull heterochromia eyes. Truther looks at her lovingly and feels his heart strung by her.

“Any love means losing more of our humanity.” He said.

“I’m your Truth,” He continued, “And I’m your Lies,” Eline added, she let out a tiny gasp.

“Eline Clairvoye, my love of my monstrous life, will you when the time is right, when there is no bloodshed and deaths after the disastrous war. When our life is peaceful and full of hope, at the end of time.” He said, and smiles at her tearing up a bit, “Will you promise to marry me? I will, when the time is right, propose for the better,” He continues. Eline doesn’t say and hugs him, making them both fall to the ground. “You work so late, there is the right time and place. We have to find Timeless and Requiem, that is our whole mission to begin with. But now, while the place is right and the time isn’t.” Eline said and smiles softly at him. They both know the answer to that promise.

Sage snaps her fingers again, snapping Eline back to reality, “Seriously, you keep dazing off looking at…that ring?” Sage said. Eline ignores her, she and Truther are back to be teenagers after the full moon. “So, what will you do in a winter break?” Eline asked her. “Me and Rosemary are going to head back to my cousin's place, what about you?” Sage asked her, “Well, me and Truther rented a hotel room when we first came here, so we’ll probably go there to spend the night,” Eline replied. Sage can’t believe her ears, “How about you spend time with my family and Rose?” She said to her, Eline doesn’t like Sage all that much, and she would rather spend time with her crazy ex than with her if she has the choice.

Rosemary almost finishes packing her clothes and closes her suitcase. “I think that’s all, thanks for the help Aster,” She said and looks at the blond. “No problem, I’m happy to help you” Aster said and sits down on the bed. “Will be okay? I know you need someone to rely on with your dilemma,” He said to her. Rose sighed and smiles at him, “Yeah, I’ll be fine and hey I can always visit you aren’t I,” She said and chuckles. She looks at him and sigh a bit, “What about you? I know you live with your aunt, but…will you be okay?” She asked him, Aster nods and smiles a bit “Yeah, I’ll be fine, this isn’t the first time you know,” Aster said.

“Hey, don’t forget that I’m here for you,” Rose said, looking at him. “I know Rosy, I know, I have you and those guys as my friends, and hey, if you can’t handle Sage you’re free to join me and my aunt for daily commissions,” Aster said and grins at her. Rosemary chuckles and smiles, “Thank for the offer, Aster, I’ll consider it,” She said. She stands up, “Anyway! Let’s go! I want some shortcake,” She said and grabs Aster wrist and runs off out of the room. Aster laughs, seeing how carefree she is.

“You are going to tell your father right, Snap?” Amaryllis said, looking at the redhead. “Yeah, I am…Truther! Please be there for me!” Snapdragon said, feeling like his anxiety is peaked, Truther sighed and shakes his head. “No, Snapdragon, I’m not going to hold your hand when confronting him. Time to grow up Snappy,” Truth said to him. Snapdragon sighed and lies on his bed. “Things always aren’t easy isn’t it,” Snap said. “Nope, but hey, can’t you talk to Sage?” Amaryllis said. Snapdragon scoffed, why would he when she always tries to break up his friends' relationship, I mean is it really what kind of friend does that? Sage should’ve just moved on from that “No, I’m giving her the silent treatment, quite frankly she is quite annoying,” He said.

“Well about time, I love you and all, but even I can see Sage being toxic, I mean why else have I been hanging out with Thyme, and even she admits of her being annoying and guilt-tripping,” Amaryllis said. “And yet Rose is the only one not noticing that,” Snap said and sigh. “She’ll figure it out, you on the other hand need to figure out how to tell your father,” Truther said, making Snapdragon sigh of that fact.

Mandrake, look in front of him and sees the underwater temple, the place where merfolks would go for offering to the gods. “Who knew it is so time-consuming,” He mutters and sigh. He’s glad to make a copy just in case, but it is still a wonder as to how the teachers doesn’t see through it, he is very glad about it. He already weaseled themselves in the group, and it is just the matter of time before the storm hits. With that in mind, he continues to swim to the Prismarine Palace, where the vault lies.

Soon all students headed back home for the holiday. Sage has finally convinced and wore Eline down to live with her aunts, Rosemary thinks it’ll be a good idea to have Truther living with them too for the vacation. ‘Ugh! Rose is so annoying and not how she should be acting!’ Sage thought and opens the door of her aunts house. “Aunt Anise! Aunt Aloe! We’re back, and we brought our friends over!” Sage shouted. The two woman walks out of the kitchen and living room, “Oh Sage! Rosemary, glad to have you guys here,” Anise said with a smile. The elf looks at the other two, “Who are you two?” She asked them. “Eline, he’s my boyfriend Truther,” Eline replied, Aloe nods. “Well I’m Anise and this is my wife Aloe, nice to meet you,” Anise said with a grin, “The pleasure is ours,” Truther said. Truther and Eline aren’t bothered by this revelation, after all, homosexuals and non-binary are pretty common amongst certain species. Hell! They are friend/colleague with an enby, so the fact that the woman specifically said they are married shouldn’t really matter, as they are clues that they are together. There is even their wedding picture, although it looks pretty stereotypical with one of them wearing a suit, nonetheless it is nothing new for that matter.

Meanwhile, Amaryllis decides to crash in Snapdragons place. “Come on, Snap, knock on the door,” She said to him. Snap takes a deep breath and knocks on the door. He isn’t all too happy with who opens the door, “Snapdragon! How is my son? And who might you be? Come in, come in I baked some cinnamon apple pie,” Snapdragon father, Hawthorne said with a beaming smiles. “You know, from the stories you told me, you made it sounds like he’s strict,” Amaryllis said. “Well, there is a reason why I despise him,” Snap said as they walk inside. “Make yourself at home, I assume you are my boys' girlfriend?” Hawthorne said, Amaryllis laughs, “Oh no, not at all, like hell would I be walking dead dating this guy. I’m hella gay, and prefer girls to guys,” She answered confidently. “Ah, is that right, I’m not so used to interacting with those kinds of folks, but I can make an exception since you are my son friend.” He said.

“Now since your older brother is out getting wood, why don’t you two tell me all about your life in HGA,” Hawthorne said looking at Snapdragon. Snapdragon can’t help but freeze, he needs to be careful what he’ll say, he knows his father very well. He should be threading with caution.

Parsley walks back home, seeing her little brothers running around. “Parse, how is my little girl,” Parsley father said hugging her, “Oh dad, I’m doing well with my advanced classes,” She said and chuckles she looks at her mom and she is pretty surprise by it all, “Mom? You have grown a beard?” She questioned, her parents chuckles. “Parsley honey, both men and women grows beard to show how equal they are in strength and work. I only shaved it since I’ve been giving birth to you and your siblings, but it is high time that I don’t shave, and you shouldn’t be worry about it now. You are young, so you can do whatever you want until adulthood.” Her mother said, Parsley looks away. Another thing they have left about her and their ways as dwarves. She can’t help but grow more resentful to them. 

It is like they don’t see her as their daughter but more of their babysitter and a stranger. She can’t help but sigh and smiles, “Well I’ll go and unpack my stuff, I’ll help with the food.” Parsley said. “There is no need, can you babysit your brothers and sister?” Her father said to her. Parsley only nodded and walks towards her room. “They never change,” She mutter to herself as she frowns and feel her life going away any minute with how much she’s been taking care of them.

Aster and Gladiolus walks to their separate way as Gladiolus has his own place to stay at. “See ya at your aunt commission quest,” Gladiolus waved at him. Aster chuckles and walks towards the street. “Aster Tourmaline,” He freezes, hearing that voice. “Why can’t you just come back home, hm? Are you that brain-dead for doing this to your family?” Narcissus asked him, lightly touches his hair and shoulder up to his waist. “Dad, please leave me alone. I’m staying at aunt Poppy’s place.” Aster said to his father. “Tsk, whore, come with me,” He said and yanks Aster against his will to what he assumes is to one of his drinking buddies place.

Mandrake finally broke into the vault when he told the Queen that he has the key and seeks for the scrolls, and of course it succeeded. He has the scrolls and what he seems to remember his amulet, ‘This could come in handy’ He thought. He swims back and sees Elodie absolutely horrified. “What you don’t think we accomplished not only destroying one of the healing water, breaking into the school undetected and taking the scrolls? I say we’ve accomplished more than last year.” Mandrake said, proud to even come so far, “But let’s also not forget destroying the merschool inside and out, even the Queen has been toyed with, with the revelation of a civil war coming in.” He continued and chuckles. “We’ve accomplished so much, so why don’t we take a breather, we have earned it after all.” Hiachi said with a smirk. They haven’t heard anything from Lavender just yet, but in due time the Rot continues to rise more. The most hilarious thing is, Thyme has no idea what’s in store for her.

END VOLUME 1

Chapter Text

Prologue: August–September

Eline and Truther are in a different world. They have sex and Eline reverses their time. She gets eaten until the next day.  They walk towards the school. The first day for the HGS and meeting them.

New roommates(smut): September

HGS meets Eline and Truther. They met Snapdragon. Very confused about the Guardian thing. Mandrake talks to the smoke.

An Ivy sparring match: September

They all have classes. Learning about the magic system, and gives snarky remarks. Next class, they start sparring in two. Eline and Truther finds the whole magic system confusing and broken. HGS and Amaryllis and Snapdragon are having a sleepover. Aster walks towards Rose and has a sparring match with her. Rose laughed with him. Mandrake shape-shift and talks to the traitor.

Getting to know one another: September

They all get to know each other. Explaining their different magic systems. Eline gets angry for wasting time. She talks to Sage cryptically. Sage jealousy. Aster and Gladiolus banter. Snap befriending Truther. Rose is angsty about her mom.

Monster vs Mage: September–October

A week skips and the group is announced. Sage vs Truther battle with magic and or weapon. Truther gets hungry and looks at Eline with a smirk. Everyone sees him eating her alive with her screaming and grabs Truther away from her. Truther stays calm and glares at everyone. Thyme goes to the library to find a type of magic that Truth use for arrows. The traitor gets broken out and Mandrake is giving her an order, while threatening her.

Cannibal problem: October

Truther walks towards the room. Sees Eline and walks towards her. Sage yelled at him and slaps him. Eline yelled at everyone in the room. Eline set boundaries to Truth, and she gives him a disappointed look. Truther hormones go haywire. Snapdragon talks to Aster and Gladiolus and Amaryllis. Olive debated and Mandrake threatened her and does her job of killing Thymes father.

Boy talk: October

Eline wanders around and Caraway wanted to talk to her about the incident. Eline's explanation is vague and cryptic. Sage eavesdrop on the conversation between her and Truth. Boy sleepover, talking about some shit. Mandrake and Hiachi threatens Olive and gives her yet again another job to be done. Sage sneakily walks toward the library for an answer.

Festival for a lifetime(smut): October

Hiachi and Mandrake talk to the smoke face and Lavender. Olive goes and does her new job, only to be betrayed by them. Olive dies. Lavender and Triumvirate talk about domination. The Autumn Processional is here, and the group decides to have fun, while Eline helps Truther and have fun despite her protest.

The First task: October–November

The first task and questioned the teachers more. Eline and Truther overhear the underground catacomb. And start searching for it. Truther talks to Eline and gets cock blocked by Sage and Parsley. Another group, Cal, tries flirting with a taken woman. The group feels the rumble and finds giant beasts, and they have to work together. Lavender observes everything, while Hiachi and Mandrake destroy and make the sister school turn on each other.

Hallucinate of Amelia: November

Truther inhales one of Redbud's potions and sees his late wife and daughter. He finds himself breaking down and attacks everyone due to emotions, only for Snapdragon to snap him out of it with Aster and Gladiolus near. Sage jabs on Elines relationship. Hiachi walks around and befriends Slime Boy, he let him ramble on and on about the school.

Break in: November

Everyone is on guard because the traitor is out. Thyme's mom found out about her husband's death and was killed by Thyme. The rest try to find out who's the traitor. Eline finds a clue about her and Truth's predicament. Truth is trying to brush off what’s going on and indirectly hurts Eline. Mandrake found out what was in the catacomb under the school. Hiachi stalks his beloved from afar, and Truth hates it.

Parsley making up: November

Hiachi talks to Lavender about her daughter. Lavender gets mad and orders him to kill her when the time is right. Mandrake makes a potion for it. Parsley figures out how to make up and plan to upgrade Aster's sword. She asked Aster to help her get something. They get a heartfelt conversation. Aster gets raped by his dad.

Rose and Aster: November–December

Second part of the task. They have to split up in two. Sage is mad that Aster and Rose are in a group. She tries to sabotage them but failed. Sage is with Truther, and she threatened him, only for Truther to threaten her in return. Snapdragon looks far away and is sad. Rose and Aster gets into shenanigans and have a proper conversation about them and a bit about Sage. Eline shoots a sword at the gay squirrel for taking her necklace. Parsley talks to her, only for them to end up meeting Sage, Snapdragon, and Amaryllis. Hiachi and Mandrake decide to go to the restricted library and find something interesting.

Sleep over: December

Mandrake and Hiachi decide to go further in and found something interesting again. Hiachi decides to leave Mandrake to deal with intruders. They won. They get called for the next mission to deal with something. Hiachi decides to check on the mermaids and found a couple of loyal ones to do his dirty work. Main cast sleepover plus the other adults talk about something, mostly about finding them. And She gets pissed from wasting time. Mandrake and Hiachi kidnaps Elodie

Anniversary: December

Hiachi starts to sabotage the whole thing, while Mandrake decides to help him. Lavender talks to both of them later at night about the next mission. They decide to get back to work. Mandrake have the talk with Elodie, while experimenting her. He found out he has the key to the vault. Truther and Eline's anniversary, Sage tries to sabotage the date and follows them to the point that Snapdragon snaps at her.

Winter celebration: December

Winter solstice and the beginning of the break. Hiachi and Mandrake decide to take a break from setting up the trap for the others, Mandrake stole an artifact and the scrolls. Different perspective of everyone at the winter vacation.

Mirai World building:

-  Mirai is a fictional fantasy Medieval world that I made, it's where Eline, Truther and Hiachi live in.

-  The Resemblance is like a power boost but at the same time not, it is also a symbol in one of their body as they are just the vessel of the beings that give them a power boost. It will glow and appear when it's needed. They are also very lethal and when someone cut through the Resemblance, their lifespan will be cut short and the boost will disappear. Think of it like tattoos on one part of their body.

- Nonhuman = Vain

- Human = Kuras

- The Twin Gods chose who’ll be the guardian of their race.

- Guardians are life and death and are sought after for having more powers than the royals.

- The dance of love is just a regular waltz dance, danced on every special occasion for couples, it is significant for bringing good luck and prosperity to their journey together as lovers.

Magic System:

- Natura is nature element magic, mostly five main elements common in this sort of magic: Darkness, Light, Fire, Wind/Earth, and Water

- Magick and Alchemy are the same thing but use different glyphs and alphabets. Unlike alchemy, Magick needs a sacrifice for it to work.

Language:

- Olathi is an Urban dialect and Truther's mother language, while Eline's mother language is Asnina, the main Urban language where she's from.

Places:

- Yellaris is a human kingdom in the Northern country of Mirai, They are pretty racist against non-human and uses nonhuman as their personal thing to abuse for sex, labor and selling them for riches. Slavery is legal and has a black market to sell nonhuman children to rich people as either pets for their children or as servants. The women are forced to work in a brothel as prostitutes, while the men are forced to work at the mines. It is also a kingdom where there is a lot of racism against people who aren't humans, humans think that undead ones are humans as well (monsters, demons, angels are undead)

Character mentions:

Laurence: A human blacksmith and Eline and Truther friend/colleague. He caused a war

Damon: the demon king, Truth and Eline friend/colleague. He caused a war

Link: Truther deceased 5-year-old daughter

Amelia: Truther deceased wife

Twin gods: Celestial beings who rule over the world

Character info:

Truther: Lord of Justice, Lord of Law and Violation –> He takes care of law and brings the unlawful people to justice for violating them in the world he is from. He’s Eline boyfriend, and likes strong-willed woman. He’s a cannibal monster that whenever he loses a limb from his human disguise his monster one will come out to replace. He uses Natura magic arrows. He uses light arrow to sedate Eline when she’s on a rampage. His wife and daughter got murdered by a certain group, which then Eline gave him the choice to live and control the law or die as a mortal monster. His resemblance is Requiem has it in the middle of his chest.

Eline: Lady of Justice, Lady of Order and Chaos –> She takes care of Order and Chaos and ensures there is some balance in the world she is from. Has a crazy ex and her second ex died by the fire, which in turn lost her unborn child in her womb. The gods gave her the choice to live and control order, or die as a mortal werewolf. She’s very power hungry and has a corrupted sword, which can corrupt her heart whenever she uses it. She uses Artifact i.e. her sword and Energy. She uses time and would reverse time, but it cost a lot of mana to do it. She is very cryptic and has Timeless as resemblance, has it on both her lower arm.

Hiachi: Eline crazy ex who wants her all to himself. Leader of the mind sect and basically buys woman from the black market. He can be sweet to Eline when he gets what he wants. He carved his name on Elines body. Works with Mandrake to have her all to himself, all the while possibly murdering Truther to get her isolate. He doesn’t care what the Triumvirate wants or the mission.

HGS World building:

- What is more to explain? It has a broken magic system, true to the canon world building.

- Winter Solstice. A celebration for the elves and dwarves and other magical creatures. It is that time when they go to the field to participate for the newcomers to achieve their gift,

-  For merfolks, there is a chance for one of the infants to be born to hold the power to get inside the vault, usually it is nobles, but sometimes other merfolks can have it, they would lose the key once they reach adulthood or in death.

- Wisteria Garden, there is a legend when you dine in that garden you feel more attracted to the person you love

- Mermaids took the form of something beautiful to lure someone in but when the victim gets closer, their true natures show how wickedness they are, but now it only happens when they're mad. They have sharp claws and look something out of mythology.

Character mention/short appearance:

Narcissus: Aster abusive father, mostly raped and abuse Aster and is a drunk, former High Guardian

Daffodil: Aster neglecting mother, has a gambling addiction, former High Guardian

Aloe: Sage cousin, wife of Anise

Anise: Sage cousin wife of Aloe

Hawthorne: Snapdragon father, overall, tries to shape up his sons to be assertive. Lost his wife when she gave birth to Snapdragon

Flora: Thyme’s mother, her husband died and thinks as to why Thyme murdered him.

Parsley parents: Uses Parsley as their babysitter, didn’t learn anything

Elodie: A teacher and former key wielder. She’s also Mandrake babysitter

Lavender: Rose mother and a corrupt High Guardian working to spread the Rot

Poppy: Aster aunt and former High Guardian, she does commission and help Aster get out of his shitty situation.

The teachers: you know they are useless and doesn’t help the students at all. Also, Carraway is going to project a lot of things on both students or, well, one of them.

Character info:

Rosemary: Main character who’s been manipulated by Sage. Tries to become like her mother, has a small crush on Aster

Sage: Toxic friend who always guilt trip people to get what she wanted, she also has a rationalize fear about has a crush on both Rose and Snap. Tries to break people relationship in favor of her knowing what the people want. Has a problem with not minding her business.

Thyme: Doesn’t know she is hunted and banished from her home, which she doesn’t know. She has a girlfriend named Coral.

Parsley: mom friend, which terrible parents, she’s also parentified which is her downfall when it comes to being a teenager.

Snapdragon: Has body dysmorphia and identity crisis. Tries to feel good being a bit masculine, he is like an older brother to Amaryllis.

Amaryllis: best gremlin to ever exist

Gladiolus: water elf, and a childhood friend to Aster, he’s an orphan and comes from the same home country as Amaryllis. Loves being annoyingly fantastic towards everyone.

Aster: victim of abuse and lacks confident when he’s alone. He shows everyone the facade that he’s okay and can fight against everyone. Has a crush on Rosemary

Mandrake: Twisted villain who killed Olive because he is done with the cat. He is a shape-shifter and toys with the teacher as a student and played them like a fiddle.

Chapter Text

Sage decide to make cookies, but with a couple of sweet and minty potions that she made. “Thanks for trying my cookies,” Sage said with a smile. “Ooh, it looks good,” Rosemary said with sparkles in her eyes. Eline grabs a cookie.“You sure it's edible?” She asked her. “Of course it is, I follow the recipe and I added some potion to make it taste sweeter,” Sage said. “I don't trust it,” Truther said grabbing the cookies from Eline's hand, “I'm sure it's going to taste fine, you worry too much Truther,” Anise said and grabs the cookie.

Truther has the cookie in his mouth and looks at her. “mm?” Eline face flushed red as she feels Truther's fingers on her chin. “Tsk, it's like he wants more intimate with her than anyone else.” Sage mutters bitterly. “A couple romantic activity?” Rosemary asked the two women. “Each relationship is different, but I wouldn't say it's too intimate when it comes to wanting to share sweets,” Aloe said with a smile.

Eline bites the end of the cookie and eats it, “This…feels too familiar…” She mutters, covering her mouth. “Bad memories?” Truther asked her, “I guess…” She mutters. “So good! Those are the best cookies ever made, Sage!” Rosemary exclaimed, having star eyes, and loving those cookies. Rosemary could take a couple of cookies and bring it to Aster, she did visit him just to play with Lillie. “The cookie is okay, not my cup of tea if I’m being honest,” Eline said. “She doesn’t have much of an appetite, I often wonder why you rarely eat,” Truther said. Eline chuckles, “You worry too much hun, I’m perfectly healthy albeit with a bit of low blood in my stream,” She said and takes another bite from Truther's cookie.

“Well since it’s getting late, you guys should sleep it was a long day after all,” Anise said to them, “Let’s sleep Rosemary,” Sage said with a smile. “Truth,” Eline whispers. “Sshh, I won’t go anywhere, I promise to stay with you until the end of time,” Truther said and kisses her forehead. “Besides, You are so warm and fluffy,” He said with a chuckle.

With the night come around and them getting ready. What they didn’t know is that Sage’s cookie is laced, laced with a powerful and contagious potion. When something is near the vicinity of the laced sweet or the victim of it, they all would start to get a dream. Not just any dream but a horror-fueled one.

A Nightmare.

Chapter Text

‘Dear, dad and Chicory, 

I hope you guys are doing okay. I met nice people here in Lyngarth! And learn quite a bit at school. Although I guess you got the mail about my grades last year, but! I’m trying my best to pass! I’ll be just like my mom and be the best High Guardian like her! Sage is doing alright she still has some anxiety to work on and don’t tell her parents, but she starts using a terrasphere! Isn’t that great :D

I’ll come back home when the school year ended. Oh! Is it okay that I bring some of my friends? I want them to show all of Pebble! Dad I miss your cooking and baking, I still think about the cheesecake you made with mom, and Chicory, don’t think of snooping my room! Or be the ‘big’ brother and scare my friends, especially Snapdragon, Gladiolus, Truther (he’s a new student this year) and Aster.

I know, I sent the letter of how horrible Aster is, but he is redeeming himself, and we have quite a bit in common, like how interested he is in swords and shield and all the great sweet shops!

I’ll see you guys in summer !

Love,

Rosemary Garnet’

“And there!” Rosemary announced, smiling at the letter she wrote to her family. “Your last name is Garnet?” Eline questioned her. Rosemary chuckles, “Didn’t expect me to have a last name did ya, It’s fine, no one really knows it. My dad is Fennel Garnet, my older brother Chicory Garnet and my… mom…” Rosemary looks down at her letter, putting it in an envelope ready to be sent. “Lavender Psuedocrocidolite, she changes her last name and used my dads, because how hard it is too pronounced,” Rosemary said. “Wow, Rose, I had no idea that your last name is Garnet,” Sage said. Rose frowns at that. Sage should’ve known, they’ve been friends since childhood, and yet these past few months and last year, she changed. She noticed how clingy she is, but now. She doesn’t know, but Sage always encouraged her, be there for her, she even told her that nothing comes towards their friendship! Rosemary smiles, “It’s quite alright Sage I don't really talk about myself that much, all I know is my goal, to find my mom. She has to be alive after what happened last year.” Rosemary said.

Truther looks at them, “So what did happen last year?” He asked her. “Oh well The school was under siege by Mandrake and Olive, we fought Olive back at the fall festival, and we met Mandrake when he shape-shifted to professor Carraway,” Sage explained. “It is also the reason, why some part of the building needs repair because we cause a lot of damaged just fighting them,” Rosemary added. “Sounds not enough trauma to endorse,” Eline said. Truther sighed, “Trauma or not the school was under an attack and I assume you guys don't know who it is,” He said. “Well, I should get going,” Rosemary said and smiles, walking out of the room and the house with the letter.

During the walk to the post office, she bumped into someone, “Oh, sorry! I didn't mean to bump into you,” She said with a chuckle. She looks up ahead and sees the all familiar blond, “Aster? What are you doing here?” She questioned him. Aster looks around and helps Rosemary to get up. “I should be sorry for not looking where I'm heading,” He said and sigh, Rosemary looks at him, “Aster, you have bandages,” She pointed that out. “Ah, sorry heh, don't worry about it, it's nothing severe, I promise,” He said with a smile. Rosemary can notice the smallest thing, Aster wasn't this shy or quiet, he is always playing the hero act where he basically acts like nothing is wrong. “Well, I hope you do tell me… I don't like to be left in the dark,” Rosemary said. Aster smiles a bit and ruffles her hair, he watches her handing her letter, and they walk out of the building. “Why don't you stay with my aunt, she is actually making dinner, heh,” Aster said, blushing a bit. Rosemary looks astounded and smiles, “and see your snake? Why of course,” She said with a bright smile. Aster huffs and chuckles, of course she's only coming because of his pet snake, nothing more than that. Aster leads Rosemary to his aunts house, even walking faster from the station and his parents house.

“Still avoiding them?” Rosemary asked him. Aster hums, “Yeah, don't mind Gladiolus, alright,” He said with a cheeky smile. Rosemary chuckles “Uh huh sure Aster,” She said to him, playfully hit his arm, Aster wince of the contact. “Ah! Sorry!” Rose quickly apologized. “It's fine, it's fine, your hits are either strong or weak,” Aster said and chuckles. Rosemary laughs at that and smiles at him. “We should get going, w-well, we should get inside- I mean! You should get inside,” Rose said Aster smiles softly at her, “Are you sure? Aunt Poppy makes strawberry roll cakes.” Aster said, bribing Rosemary with sweets. “I hate you when you do that,” Rosemary said with a huff and crosses her arms. “What can I say? Roll cakes are the best~,” He said.

“Oh no, they don’t! Cheesecakes are better!” Rosemary shouted as they walk inside the house. “Cheesecakes are bland, they are too cheesy,” The blonde said. “Take that back!” Rose yelled. “How about no~,” Aster said with a playful grin. Rosemary can't help but be angry at that. How dare he! Say that cheesecakes are bland! She should make him eat those words once he has a bite of her dads' cheesecake. He won the first prize because of how good the cake is. They head inside and Rose can see the woman who Aster calls aunt Poppy. “Aster! What in the name of spirits happened to you?!” Poppy exclaimed, looking at her nephew injuries. “I'm fine, aunt Poppy, really,” Aster said and sigh. Poppy can't help but let out a heavy sigh, she looks over his shoulder and notice her, if Rosemary could she rather be a ghost and hide away from this.

“Oh! You’re Lavender kid, aren’t you, that takes me back, me, her and Carraway are well WERE great friends believe it or not,” The older woman said with a smile, “I’m Poppy Tourmaline, I apologize about what my nephew did a year ago, trust me, he didn’t mean to come off as sexist,” She said. “Oh, it’s fine, he apologized plenty, besides I should be apologizing too for how my friends treated him,” Rosemary said. This woman, who is related to Aster, knows about her mother? Carraway told her a bit about her mom, her dad never talks about her after she disappeared, so maybe she can get some clues as to where she is? “Now, why don’t you join for dinner,” Poppy suggest.

“Oh, I don’t want to bother you, but I do want to talk about my mom,” She said. Poppy stopped smiling, “Then let’s talk, Gladiolus, Aster why don’t you join,” She said rallying the elf and her nephew to come and sit down. Poppy set up some cup of coffee for her, strawberry milk for Rosemary, honey orange mint juice for Aster and blueberry lemonade for Gladiolus. “So, what do you want to know about her,” Poppy asked the trainee. “Well, I know from Carraway that she’s vow her duty as a High Guardian more than family. But I also heard she was like me when she went here!” Rosemary said with a smile. Poppy chuckles, “Lavender Psuedocrocidolite, we gave her the nickname Tiger’s eye, believe it or not,” She said and smiles.

“Lavender is an odd ball that’s for sure, she’s an orphan actually, so she suffers quite a bit when it comes to schooling. But even with all the struggles she never complains when someone ask her for help, such a kind-hearted spirited woman she was. Carraway and her were roommates, and she introduced her to me, well I suppose it’s him now isn’t it. I haven’t seen him in years believe it or not, so it was quite a surprise that he is the director of High Guardian Academy,” She said and takes a sip, “I’m glad about it, back then it was very strict, to the point that graduating is more or less 1% than it is now,” She continued. “What!?” The three teens shouted in shocked, “Aunt Poppy, you didn’t say anything about that!” Aster said. “I’m an old woman, sweetheart, there are things I want to keep in secret for the sake of safety for others,” Poppy said and ruffles his hair. “Then, do you know where she is?” Rosemary asked her. “What Carraway told you is a lie, the last time we saw her is from a letter she wrote,” She said and gets up, “Why don’t I get it for you,” Poppy continued and walks away.

“Rose, you feeling alright sister?” Gladiolus asked her, Rosemary shakes her head, “How can I when I don’t get all the information about my mom or her whereabouts,” She said and sigh, drinking her strawberry milk. “Seems like everyone has secrets they don’t want to share,” Aster said and sigh. Poppy comes back with a letter that Rosemary recognize, “That's…” Rosemary takes the letter and sure enough it’s Lavender, her mother handwriting.

‘Poppy,

I need something from you, I know you’re the greatest archer and all but your family stone, and Carraway stone, I need it for those devils to be gone. I know this is the greatest betrayal, but This is for the greater good.

Love your friend,

Lavender Psuedocrocidolite’

Rosemary wants to know more, Poppy seems to read her mind. “That night, us three were in the outskirt of the city. She seems off…like she felt off, just from the request alone isn’t like her. We don’t know why the sudden change, so I’m sorry, I don’t know where she is,” Poppy said. “It’s okay, It’s…not your fault,” Rose said and frowns.

After a couple of hours, Rose comes back home and head to bed. She yawns and figure with how everything is going. It is like she knows her mother less than she already did! ‘Maybe some shut-eye,’ She thought and soon fall asleep.

Little Rosemary runs around the field, catching up with her older brother, only to trip by the tainted root. “Ow!” Rosemary shouted and tries to get up, but can’t “Chiccy?! Help me!” Little Rose shouted only for her older brother to stare at her and runs away. “Chiccy?! Chiccy! Chicory!!!” Little Rosemary shouted and start to cry as she gets dragged away, screaming for help. Everything is dark as her scream gets muffled as she keeps being dragged down to the sea and for to drown in loneliness.

Rosemary gasps as she gets up, she looks around and everything is still the same in her dorm, she gets up and try to find her friends. She walks to the lounge and sees her friends laughing, “Hey guys!” She exclaimed, only for her to be ignored. “Guys?” Rosemary questioned them, the laughter died down and looks at her blankly, “Puppy,” Truther said and walks away with Eline. “Come on Snap, Gladis let’s go shopping,” Amaryllis said and walks away with the boys. “Thyme wanna help me with smithing some stuff?” Parsley asked the elf, Thyme nods and they left. Sage gets up and walks away, “Sage?! Sage! Where are you going?!” Rosemary asked her. Sage stops walking, “Away from you, no one wants to deal with you, we are only friends because we pity you,” She said and left. Rosemary looks at the last person standing there, “Aster?… Please… Don’t… Don’t leave me behind!” Rosemary said, holding his shirt, begging him to stay. “Sorry Rosebud, but your family has a lot of secrets, I don’t want to be friends with someone with a lot of secrets.” Aster said and walks away, leaving Rosemary in a dark room. Rosemary feels alone again, just like last time when her mother disappears.

“Oh, Rosemary, my precious Rose,” Rosemary hears the familiar voice. “M-m-mom?” Rose questioned. “My little Rose, you’ve grown so much,” Lavender said, walking towards her beloved daughter. Rosemary can’t help but cry and hug her tight, missing her embrace. “There, there, I’m here, little Rose,” Lavender said, “I miss you so much! Where are you? Why did you leave us?” Rosemary asked her mother questions after questions only.

She hears something dripping.

She hears the dripping loud and clear.

She hears something getting stabbed.

She hears someone getting stabbed.

“My precious Rose, join me in this conquest, be reborn and let the Rot seep through your veins,” Her mother said.

Rosemary eyes widened, trying to comprehend what’s going on. She slowly looks down and sees her sword, her mother sword, stabbed her chest! She starts screaming loudly, feeling the agonizing pain as well as those filthy taints coming towards her. She continues to scream for help, for any of her friends, her father, her brother even! She has no way of defending herself.

Anise and Aloe shakes up the screaming teenager, only for Rosemary eyes shot open and her quickly sitting up. She tries to breathe, she can still feel the stab wound. “Rosemary? Here drink this,” Aloe said in a soothing tone and hand her a cup of herbal tea, Rosemary shakily takes it and takes a sip. “It…isn’t real, is it? I didn’t die from drowning. From being stabbed. My friends didn’t leave me, right!? Or or, my dad? My brother?” Rosemary questioned, looking at the two adults for confirmation. “Hey, Rosemary, calm down, it’s okay, it’s just a nightmare,” Anise said, rubbing her back.

“Honestly Rosemary, if you think your friends would leave you, then you must be an idiot for that,” Eline said and yawn, “You screamed too loud, my ears are sensitive you know,” She continues and walks towards her. Rosemary looks down on the cup, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you up,” Rose said and sigh. Eline looks at her and sigh in defeat, “Rosemary, it’s okay to be vulnerable you don’t have to pretend that everything is okay…you have friends that won’t leave you, even if you think you’ll be left behind or someone has a bounty on your head, we will deal with this as colleagues,” Eline said. “I think you mean as a team,” Aloe said with a small smile and looks at Rosemary, “She’s right, no one will leave you just like how your mother left you, we’re here for you okay,” Aloe said. Rosemary smiles a little and takes a sip, “Thanks, I… I need it,” Rose same. Eline nods and walks out, “Stay quiet would you,” Eline said and head back to her room, she knows Truther won’t let it go, but for Rosemary who has to deal with her mother leaving unannounced, what can you say to her? She looks up to her. She wants her mother to be there, only to leave without a word.

After drinking the tea, Anise and Aloe leave Rosemary alone to sleep peacefully.

“Wake up!” Rosemary groggily looks up, seeing the familiar shape-shifter and the cat girl. “Mandrake? Olive? What’s going on?” Rose asked them, she didn’t realize herself that she is bound. “Oh nothing, just that you’ll be a pawn, for the higher up, so let’s fix you up shall we,” Mandrake said with a grin. “No! Not a chance! My friends will save me!” Rosemary said. “Friends? What friends? Your ‘friends’ left you,” Olive said with a chuckle. Rosemary looks dumbfounded, but she still has hope for her friends to come and get her. Only, only that they’re right. What friends? Her friends didn’t come for days? Weeks? Maybe even years?! She doesn’t know what’s going on, but she knows that she’s been left behind to rot, and what’s worst is that her mother is disappointed with the outcome.

“How bothersome, I shouldn’t have given birth to a useless High Guardian to be, to follow my footstep,” Lavender, Rosemary mother said, in an echo.

Chapter Text

Sage walks up to her dearest friend Rosemary, Anise and Aloe told her what happened, and how she got a nightmare last night. “Hey, Rose?” Sage asked her bestie. Rosemary doesn’t reply, she just looks like she’s in a dazed. She looks like she hasn’t slept in days, either. It is like whatever is keeping her up at night is haunting her every time she fell asleep. “I…need to be alone, sorry, Sage. I… I want to be alone, please,” Rose said and sigh. Sage frowns and nods, “Alright, I’m…here if you need me, okay,” She said and smiles a little at her. Rosemary gives a slight nod and hears Sage walking out and closing the door. Sage doesn’t know what to do since she was fine this morning, maybe she should ask Aster? Gladiolus? They would know what happened to her.

Sage walks in the living room hearing the two that makes her confuse. “What are you guys talking about?” Sage asked them. “None, of your–”

“Just talking more about the magic system here, surely there is an in dept analysis of the whole phenomenon of this world,” Truther interrupted the werewolf, he knows damn well if Eline said a word, she’ll keep on going. “Well the magic system isn’t that hard to understand you know,” Sage said. “Maybe not to you, but not how our grandmother taught us Sage,” Anise said, as she walks in with Aloe.

“Oh please explain fully with details cause that school love being cryptic as fuck,” Eline said with a groan. “My puppy doesn’t like to study don’t you,” Truther said with a chuckle, “I’m a more visual learner than theoretical,” She said. Sage sighed, she might as well stay here and listen to her cousins talk.

“There is the fundamental of each magic system, the four element obviously water, earth, fire, and air with the addition of darkness and light. With those elements the old magic can be used, but with a price for new life the old ones have to die out.”

“For example, to create fire you need an equal value to create it, such as a bucket stone or hot water, or even the dying branches from the woods. That is the way for the first oldest magic.” Aloe said.

“What? Is there that many sacrifices for magics?” Sage said. “Well yeah, but the old magic that we have is a more remastered version Sage,” Anise said. “How interesting, so there is a cost, is there,” Truther said. “Then is there a cost for New Magic or is that forever broken,” Eline asked them. “The councils of Elves don’t know as they specialize with Old Magic, myself included, but I use it sparely,” Aloe said.

“Hold up! Yeah, what about the New Magic system,” Sage asked them, from what her grandmother had told her New Magic came around for 20 or so years and is still in development. “The New Magic came from another kingdom, I think it’s called Morphosys, pretty sure your friend Snapdragon is from there since that kingdom has little to no magic, and you can see it by their white pupils,” Anise said, thinking for a bit. “I have never been there, but they are the ones who made those Terrasphere, they took the natural stone and refined them, afterward they used magic to be their containment, now it is only made from the Witch Country called Calamity. It is near the mine, so they have enough resources to make it.” Aloe said. “So how come you aren't a teacher?” Eline asked her.

“I prefer to be with my other elves, especially since a wood elf has died not so long ago, apparently his daughter killed him and has been exiled from that forest.” She continues. Sage looks skeptical, but it does make some sense about the Magic system. “It is also, because I’m alot older and made me wiser, I’m soon going to be elected to be one of the councils. Taking a teacher job is a taboo,” Aloe said. Anise looks at her wife and sighs. “You sure you don’t want to think it over,” She asked her. Aloe smiles at her and kisses her. “I’m sure, besides, I’m still going to live here with you, I just have to go on a couple of business trips.” The Elf said. Sage looks at them and frowns. How come she doesn’t know this? How come her own– The young witch holds her head, feeling a headache coming. “I need some fresh air. I’ll be back for dinner,” Sage said and walks away. “She seems a bit unwell,” Eline said. “It’s probably about our family, nothing for your concern,” Anise said with a sigh. She should talk to her cousin about this later.

Sage walks around the town, deep in thought. First things first, she should go and see Goldilocks. “Ugh, why do I have to go and see him,” Sage mutters to herself. She only does it just for Rosemary’s sake. If her bestie doesn’t tell her, then Aster should tell her. Once she arrives at Aster home, she gets greeted by his mom. “Oh, I didn't know my son has a girlfriend. I assume you’re his girlfriend, could be wrong though or whatever,” The woman said nonchalantly. “Hey Mrs. Tourmaline, is Aster inside? I need to speak with him,” Sage asked her. She looks at the grown woman and see nothing wrong with her, although she doesn't seem to care much about her son. She probably sees him as a coward. “Aster? Nah, he's probably with his aunt, sorry sweetheart. He's quite useless so he won't be of help,” Aster's mother, Daffodil said. “I see, thanks for the info,” Sage said and walked away with a sigh. Just her luck.

She continues walking until she's in front of the door of a bakery. Sage looks inside and sees Gladiolus. “Maybe he knows,” Sage mutters and walks inside. “Hey Gladis,” She greeted him. “Hey darlin’ how is the recipe I gave you? Quite a nice treat, am I right,” Gladiolus said with a beaming smile. Sage chuckles, “Yeah it is, thanks for giving me the recipe. Say, was Rosemary with you guys?” Sage asked him. Gladiolus sets down a new batch of savory treats and ponders for a bit. “Yeah she was, Aster's aunt knows her mom and talked to her about it.” He said. “What? Is that why she has a nightmare?” Sage questioned herself. “A nightmare? Mon Ami, is she alright?” Gladiolus asked her. Sage shakes her head, “No, she is having nightmares and I don't know what to do. We're friends! We've always been close, but now. It looks like we've fallen apart,” Sage said with a sigh. The water Elf looks at her.

“Let her come to you, you don't have to pry from everyone to know what's going on with your friend. You said that you two are close, right? She'll talk to you on her own terms, she probably is going through something right now,” He said to her and handed her a cupcake. Sage looks at it and smiles. “Yeah, you're right, thanks for the pep talk Gladis, no wonder you're friends with Aster, you're probably a good influence to him.” Sage said. Gladiolus chuckles a bit, “You can say it like that, Goldilocks has always been close off back when I met him, then again I was an orphan. You would be surprised how much he's grown, which isn't a lot believe it or not,” He said with a smile, reminiscing of their time back then. Sage looks confused and shrugs it off, “Anyway, I should get going, see you around at Winter Solstice festival! I'll definitely help you set up the stall for your delicious baked goods,” She said and walked out of the bakery. Gladiolus smiles bitterly and walks away to write something down.

Sage walks back inside her cousin's house and sighs, and feels a headache again, “I swear this will be the death of me” She mutters. She decided to just sleep it off and maybe don't have it anymore, she doesn't like talking about her family. Not that she's ungrateful or anything, it's just complicated if anything. She closed her eyes and drifted to sleep.

“Mom! Dad! Look! Look! I did it! I did it!” The 4-year-old witch said, holding a potion and her mom old Terrasphere. “Oh, Sage, what kind of potion did you make bud?” Her dad asked her as he picks her up. Sage grins, “A Healing potion! I use mom old Terrasphere to make it!” She exclaimed. Her dad frowns and her mom quickly takes her old gem back. “Am I hearing this correctly? She made a potion, a very simple potion and used those disgusting Terrasphere for help,” an elderly woman said. “How despicable” an elderly man said as they walked towards the commotion.

“Son, I expect you to punish your daughter, and as for you, Geranium, I want you to throw away that thing!” The old woman shouted. Sage holds onto her father, “D-Dad?” Sage questioned. “You know what, hand her over, Bramble!” The old man said and yanked and held the little girl's arm tight. “Dad! She is still a child…” Geranium said, Sage mom does nothing and neither does her dad Bramble. “Tsk, New Magic has corrupted your mind! Instead of doing your duty as a wife and healer, you decide to get against us!” Sage grandfather said to her. Sage cries out again, yet again they did nothing.

Her grandparents lecture her again about the use of Terrasphere and how it destroys everything around them. “But we use Old Magic, we use all the surrounding energy till the living beings are dead,” Little Sage said, pointing out how it isn't that quite different from how they use Old Magic. “What we do is complete different from what they use those cheap tricks,” Her grandmother said to her and smacks her again. “You need to behave, ruthless children shouldn't be allowed here and yet here we are,” The old man said and grumbles, he wants to destroy those newly invented object. But couldn't with how weak his magic has become over the years. Sage can't help but gulp, she vows not to touch it, otherwise there will be a consequence.

Sage wakes up, feeling her forehead sweating, she can hear ringing and has a major headache, she often wonders what that dream was about. Her grandparents are loving– “Honestly Sage, you don't remember them,” Sage said it to herself. She gets up and walks around the house, “Anise? Aloe?” Sage asked. She wonders where her cousins are or Rosemary for that matter, she couldn't care less about Truther, but she couldn't find him and Eline in here as well. “What is even going on? Guys?! This isn't funny!” Sage shouted, to no avail, she didn't get an answer. She feels a sting on her cheek, her bum, and stomach. She can feel it quite well, it is like she got hit recently.

It doesn't make any sense to her. She only had corporate punishment when she was just a child. She feels a headache again and falls to her knees. “Argh! This ringing… What the hell!” Sage shouted. She looks around and see her friends having fun together “Hey Sage, pick which one you like, the Terrasphere or the Old Magic sigils” Rosemary said to her with a grin. Sage walks towards them and looks at it, “I have to pick one?” the witch asked them. “Obviously what else is there to pick between them, seriously Sage, get a move on already,” Amaryllis said to her. Sage rolls her eyes and picks her Terrasphere. Everyone stays silent.

“But Sage, New Magic is forbidden, your grandparents parents will be angry at you for using it,” Aster said to her.

“Beside, Old Magic is far better and intricate,” Parsley said to her friend. 

Sage doesn't know why, but she feels so awful again, just like the time when she had rejected her cousin gift to her and went back to that store.

“I heard you say you want to take out the New Magic System,” Gladiolus and Snapdragon said in unison. 

“Guys, this isn't funny, my grandparents parents don't allow me to, my own mom doesn't have her– ARH!” Sage cut herself, feeling a larger headache. She holds her head and looks at her friend. Who slowly morph into different colors and shapes of Terrasphere. Sage eyes widened, “No! I'm sorry! I won't use it anymore!” she yelled out, holding onto those spheres. Those get ripped away from her as she sees the familiar elderly woman.

“What did I tell you about playing with those cursed things,” She said. Sage reaches out only to hear them break into pieces. Sage screams louder, as she frantically picks it up and tries to put it together. “Please! No, no, no!” She shouted. She hears another crack and another and another one. Up until she herself feels being burned down.

 Anise shakes her younger cousin up. “Dear, is it really okay not to tell her?” Aloe asked her. “Yeah, she doesn't have to suffer from their hands anymore, especially what they did to her parents,” Anise said and shakes her again. Sage wakes up and feels like she wants to scream. “Sage?” Anise said to her. “My friends… the Terrasphere… my parents! Why?! Why is the New Magic System so broken?!?” Sage shouted at them. “Sage calm down, your friends are safe, you're safe. I promise nothing will happen, okay.” Anise consoles her. Sage shakes her head. “Anise, what happened to our grandparents?” She asked her. Anise stays silent, “Don't worry too much, just try to sleep Sage okay,” She said to her and smiled a bit. Sage sighs and lays down, slowly drifting to sleep.

The women looked at each other, “I assume you put that spell?” Aloe asked her, “Not only me but also my mom and her dad, I mean she was four when it happened, we don't want to traumatize her again. It was an accident after all,” Anise said. Aloe sighs and they both walks out of the room.

Sage curls up in a ball, surrounded by broken shards and fire around her. She starts to scream as she feels shards piercing through her skin. One by one they keep piercing till she's nothing more than a woven puppet.