Chapter Text
Magic comes with a price. That was what Professor Crewel told them all on the first day.
Magic will stain your skin and your soul bit by bit until it swallows you whole and spits you out as a completely different being, a monster, if you will. But that, children, is because magic is nothing more than a reflection of one's true self. Magic is the scorching, viscous proof that no matter what, every life form is made from the same exact thing.
The only thing that makes you different from the rest is the way in which you manage the magic inside yourself. If you can't produce insane levels of blot, that means you're not a great mage. But if you can't control those unearthly quantities of magic, that makes you a mediocre mage too.
That was not the first time Riddle was told about overblots.
Crewel was very clear: do great things, but don't neglect your own well-being. If you are not able to rule yourself, you have nothing.
That was also Riddle's mother's way of thinking.
Since he was very young, Riddle had trained both his mind and his body to be capable of resisting the high levels of magic demanded from him. Ballet practice was his central focus, but even so, Riddle was careful with his diet, his sleep schedule, and any variations that could affect his health in general.
That was the reason why Riddle could not explain the small ink spots that had started to appear on his arms a few days ago.
And the days of NRC's pedagogical exhibition were about to start.
"Good day to all of you," the headmaster announced his entrance to the lecture hall, where all the 22 students chosen for the exhibition were gathered. "Are all the students on the list here?"
Riddle, who was in the first row of seats in the class, next to his dormmates from Heartslabyul, answered, "Yes, we are."
"Good," Crowley said. "Then we can begin with the orientation for the next pedagogical exhibition. This year's event is different from the last ones, so please, pay attention."
Some of the present students tensed at hearing that last part.
Vil Schoenheit, seated just a couple of rows behind the Savanaclaw students, raised his hand. "I suppose this year's reunion convocating more people than just the housewardens is because of that?"
"Indeed, Mr. Schoenheit," the headmaster answered. "Just like last year, the pedagogical exhibition is going to take place in a couple of weeks. However, this year, it aligns with the decennial festival of Twisted Wonderland's cultures. Consequently, we need extra assistance in organizing."
"But why exactly 22 students?" Azul inquired this time.
"I will explain that in a moment. So, please, open your syllabus. As you can see, every dorm has the responsibility of presenting something at the festival regarding the culture of their respective member of the Great Seven. Outside of the housewardens and vice-housewardens, we did a completely random choice within the students of every grade to be here."
"This ain't seem random," Floyd's bored voice sounded from somewhere, and as imprudent as Floyd was, he was right. Starting with Floyd himself, it was weird that he was randomly chosen, given his relation to Jade, the Octavinelle vice-housewarden, and his friendship with Azul. Even if Octavinelle was perfectly capable of manipulating the raffle for the eel to be there, he was not the only rare case.
Sebek Zigvokt and Silver were also there, and they both were Malleus's bodyguards, probably the closest students to him aside from Lilia. That was too much for a coincidence. Not to mention Ace and Deuce being there together, or Epel, Vil's protégé, figuring in it too.
Nevertheless, if they all had somehow thought the same, no one said anything more.
"This year's festival theme celebrates diverse beliefs around the world," continued Crowley in his speech. "As we know, the cultural festival reminds us that, despite our differences, all countries and kingdoms should coexist in harmony. This festival holds significant importance in acknowledging global peace and preventing catastrophic events, like the magical war between humans and fae that occurred 400 years ago."
Riddle heard Sebek say something at the bottom of the classroom, but he didn't know exactly what.
"...It was indeed a terrible war," Lilia seemed to scold him a little with a playful tone.
The headmaster cleared his throat. "Having said that, it's crucial to remember this is also about the pedagogical exhibition. For the first-years present, consider this event as significant as your final exams. You must display the unity you have with your magic. Failing to meet the required scores will result in immediate expulsion."
Ace hissed next to Riddle and said something the housewarden couldn't quite hear. Everything outside the main topic was feeling foreign for Riddle at the moment; however, he did catch Cater whispering something to Trey.
"You think we can relax a little bit on that now we're third-years?" The ginger asked.
"I don't really think we're safe yet," Trey replied sympathetically, prompting Cater to whine.
"Now, for the main theme, we've chosen 22 students to represent each of the major arcana cards from the tarot. Please turn to the last page of your syllabus; there you'll find the assigned card."
Riddle went to the indicated page, where an elegantly written letter was attached to the paper, announcing his card in the form of an invitation.
⋆୨𓄿୧⋆
Dear Riddle Rosehearts,
You are cordially invited to personify the spirit of the Chariot card from the Tarot deck and embark on a journey of determination, focus, and triumph.
Just like the Chariot symbolizes control, willpower, and success, we encourage you to harness your inner strength and steer your life towards your goals.
As the Heartslabyul's housewarden, we hope you can embrace challenges as opportunities, and the power within to achieve greatness at the pedagogical exhibition. Your journey awaits; let's ride toward victory together!
We expect nothing less than your best ,
Night Raven College.
Riddle stared at the invitation for a moment. Was the assignment of the cards also randomly chosen?
"What does that mean?" Ace asked with a scowl, examining his invitation. "The judgment?"
"Trey-Trey, what's yours?" Cater asked.
"It's the Temperance," Trey replied, adjusting his glasses.
"Ohh, that one suits you~"
Trey smiled faintly. "I'm not well-versed in its meaning. What about yours?"
Cater quickly closed his syllabus, but he maintained a cocky grin. "It's a secret~"
A loud laugh was heard a couple of seats behind them. "Oh, Jade, that one's definitely you!" Floyd mocked.
Jade smiled softly. "I could say the same for yours."
Floyd laughed again. "Mine's fun!"
Crowley called their attention once more. "Now, if you all know your cards, begin planning your presentation for the pedagogical exhibition. This event will be the festival's highlight, and we expect a performance worthy of our institution. Any doubts, please consult Professor Crewel. Have a good day."
After that, the headmaster exited the room.
Some students began exchanging impressions about the event and asked their friends what card had been given to them. If one paid enough attention, some worries about it and complaints could also be heard.
Riddle stood up with his syllabus in hand, heading toward the exit. It was a cold morning. The sun hadn't emerged, hidden behind gray clouds; freezing air roamed across the gloomy school hallways. On days like these, not many people could be seen in the corridors, especially on weekends. The students preferred to stay warm in their dorms. Riddle knew better than to do that.
The description of Riddle's assigned card had unsettled him. To present a performance based on determination and focus? The pedagogical exhibition was known for challenging students and pushing them out of their comfort zone. Therefore, the invitation felt almost mocking, as if he hadn't been demonstrating his determination since the very first moment he set foot in Night Raven College.
The mirrored walls of the practice room reflected the Heartslabyul housewarden's silhouette as he entered, his steps echoing faintly in the vast, empty space. He turned on the lights and placed his belongings in a corner on the floor.
Riddle removed his uniform gloves and jacket, rolling up the sleeves of his shirt to examine his arms. There they were: the undeniable little black stains beneath his skin.
He tried to rub them off, but it was useless. Riddle sighed, changing into a more suitable attire for practice. If he couldn't rid himself of the blot spots, then he would have to practice until his body was strong enough to make them disappear.
He approached the ballet barre with determined strides, his movements deliberate yet tinged with a hint of agitation. Gripping the barre tightly, he began his warm-up routine, his muscles tensing and releasing in sync with the melodic strains of classical music playing in his head from memory. Each plié, tendu, and dégagé was executed with precision, his body responding instinctively to the familiar routine. However, his mind was elsewhere as he stretched his leg in a développé, his brows furrowed in frustration.
As he began to dance, his gaze caught his stubborn yet troubled expression in the distant mirror, when he noticed a spot near his shoulder that Riddle was sure wasn't there a couple of days before.
That afternoon, Riddle practiced until his legs gave out.
♡₊˚ 🦢・₊✧
Octavinelle's lounge was currently closed, much to Azul's dismay. The housewarden didn't want to lose earnings on a cold weekend like that when students mostly preferred going for coffee at the Mostro Lounge instead of leaving the campus, but he needed to talk with the Leechs about the pedagogical exhibition and all the business it involved.
Azul sat on a sofa across from the table in his office; Jade beside him, reading some papers. Floyd was perched on another sofa, occupying it entirely with his large figure, as usual.
"I talked with Crewel about Octavinelle's stand at the festival," Azul said. "And he thinks the Coral Seas's traditions are rather violent."
"My, that's quite an interesting perspective," Jade replied with a playful glint in his eye. "I suppose every realm has its unique way of expressing traditions. Perhaps our traditions might seem a tad dramatic to some, but they do carry a certain flair, wouldn't you agree?"
"Indeed," Azul added, grabbing other papers from the table. "But, of course, I managed to convince him to let us have a stand, and I also volunteered us for taking charge of the record of events of the pedagogical exhibition in the school newspaper."
"So booring," Floyd complained from his sofa, yawning. "I'd rather work at the Lounge squeezin' weaklings all day than redactin' some shit 'bout the progress of students I don't give a damn about."
"Not that I don't like that idea," Jade added. "But will we be able to do all of this along with preparing ourselves for the evaluation?"
"We will. I'll take care of everything," Azul answered, serene. "Moreover, supervising the school's newspaper is a prime means of uncovering secrets, particularly in times when everyone is desperate to secure their position in the school."
Jade grinned. "I see. Getting your hands on important information can be the key to success."
Azul finally smiled, too. "Precisely. When you have useful information in a school like this one, it's almost as if you're the one deciding who stays."
Floyd glanced at Azul. "Hmm? What're you planning?"
"Nothing. For now," the housewarden replied. "I'll need you both to not cause any problems at least until the evaluation is over. Especially you, Floyd."
The mentioned eel scowled. "Why me?"
"Because we have to ensure you're in a good mood on the day of the pedagogical exhibition. If you get into trouble and a faculty member scolds you, I know you'll have them on a bad side and will do anything to make them suffer that day. So, behave. The three of us are supposed to pass the year."
Jade chuckled softly, while Floyd pulled his fedora over his face, seeking refuge from the light, ready for a nap and not interested in arguing. "Whatever you say, Octy. My card's easy anyway."
"I'm not so sure about that either," Azul shared, frowning. "I think something is off with these selections."
Jade nodded. "I noticed that too."
Azul took his own invitation from the table to read it again.
⋆୨𓄿୧⋆
Dear Azul Ashengrotto,
We invite you to represent the transformative energy of the Magician card from the Tarot deck—a symbol of manifestation, potential, resourcefulness, and personal power.
This invitation is an opportunity to tap into your innate abilities and manifest your desires. Embrace the power within you to turn dreams into reality, utilizing your skills and resources to create positive change just like the Sea Witch would do, wouldn't she?
We wish you the best of luck.
Sincerely,
Night Raven College.
The Octavinelle housewarden couldn't help but feel that letter as a silent threat. Even if it had everything he represented written on it, the invitation somehow had a tricky tone.
Night Raven College, the prestigious arcane academy focused on art, was known for being strict with its students. The school prioritized the magic connected to the students' true selves. Unique Magic and the power of one's spells were crucial, along with the chosen art field each student decided to excel in.
Magic and art were closely connected through their creative processes, both involving imagination and expression. Just as an artist envisions and brings forth their creation from a blank canvas, magic often relies on the imaginative construction of rules, rituals, and unique powers to shape its world. In NRC, arts formed the foundation of the students' magic. Their chosen art branch was an extension of their unique magic.
There were those who practiced literary arts, needing to fortify their spell's creation and control. On the other hand, there were great mages who excelled in both magic's power and spell control, focusing on physically demanding arts to strengthen their bodies to handle the large quantities of blot required for their levels. Then, there were those who practiced performative arts—ambitious mages wanting it all. Azul was one of those.
Azul managed to focus on performative arts thanks to his resourcefulness, thanks to his skills, and thanks to his hard work. Perhaps his insecurities played a part, but that invitation felt like an implication that the faculty didn't see the situation as he did.
And he wanted to prove them wrong.
"Whatever the faculty is planning," Azul said, "we have to be one step above."
Jade placed his right hand on his chest, making a polite remark. "Of course."
Outside the lounge, the sea was calm as the afternoon began to fade into the night, but if one paid attention, some little fishes were swimming erratically and beached themselves, signaling an ill omen, as in ancient times.
₊.⋆☾⋆⁺
As night approached, Silver moved with elegance amidst the tranquil beauty of a frozen lake, carefully preserved solid thanks to the school's magic. The moon cast its silvery glow upon him while Silver traced intricate patterns on the ice, lost in his own world.
The cold air whispered around Silver, carrying the faint sound of blades cutting through the frozen surface. He was not practicing anything in particular, but he enjoyed that time of the day, when he could feel the icy weather on his skin while freestyling all the tricks he had learned throughout the week and gather a small audience of forest animals to watch him.
However, he rarely got as much alone time as he desired. His serenity was quickly shattered as a voice pierced the night. "What on earth do you think you're doing, Silver?!" A loud, irate tone shattered the peaceful ambiance, causing Silver to stumble mid-spin.
Turning towards the source of the disruption, Silver's serene expression faltered as he spotted Sebek stomping across the frozen lake toward him, his face etched with disapproval.
Silver sighed, already knowing the reason why Sebek was there. Sometimes Sebek wanted to act like his older, overprotective sibling, even when Silver had already spent a whole year in Night Raven College without any incient. "Sebek, stop screaming. Your voice will scare the animals away."
"You're supposed to be in the dorm, helping our liege with the chores, not prancing around after hours like you own the place!" Sebek kept scolding him.
"I was not practicing." Silver replied with a scowl.
"It doesn't matter! You know the trouble you could cause if you happened to fall asleep while practicing alone in the middle of the night, when nobody knows your whereabouts? It's almost the day of the pedagogical exhibition, we don't need those problems!"
Silver knew that was Sebek's way of expressing worry for him, but he couldn't help but feel frustrated at the minor's attitude. If Lilia himself didn't have any problems with Silver's nightly getaways, what was the problem? Silver couldn't just mold his entire life around his sleep curse.
Regardless of Silver's thoughts, he was too tired to argue further, so he made his way off the ice and retrieved his belongings from the ground, swiftly changing his skates with magic.
Silver spotted the invitation of the pedagogical exhibition sticking out of his backpack, and he was reminded of the theme for the festival. "What was your assigned card?"
"Eh?" Sebek looked at him. "I don't remember, I have the invitation back in my room."
"It's improper for you to forget such things." Silver told him. "You should start planning your performance or else you won't pass."
"I know that!" Sebek became defensive again. "I was... just focused on learning Mr. Malleus' one." He confessed, and Silver sighed again.
"You know that if you don't pass the year, you can't keep helping Malleus, right?"
"Of course! I wouldn't dare to dishonor Diasomnia's name!" Sebek yelled again, and Silver almost rolled his eyes playfully. Even if it was a little bit annoying, his last year on the school had felt incomplete without Sebek's insufferable demeanor.
And if he wanted to keep on being in the school with his family, he should make sure of presenting a good performance for the end of the year. That, of course, implied not falling asleep in the middle of his stage.
He was not completely concerned. His main worry centered only on interpreting the theme in a compelling manner.
⋆୨𓄿୧⋆
Dear Silver Va̷n̷ɍøᵾǥɇ,
It's an honor for us to invite you to explore the enigmatic and mysterious essence of the Moon card from the Tarot deck—a symbol of intuition, hidden truths, and inner reflection.
This invitation beckons you to embrace the depths of your intuition and delve into the realms of the subconscious. Just like a light knight in a shining armor, embrace a journey of self-discovery, unveiling hidden aspects of yourself and embracing the wisdom found in shadows.
May you find illumination in the darkness, revealing hidden truths that guide you towards a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.
We wish you the strength necessary to encounter this.
Sincerely,
Night Raven College.