Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

In the early days of the new school year, fear and dread captured Yuu in its grasp, as they tried to navigate this new world, with its new rules. 

The very first night, for their prolonged stay at Twisted Wonderland, was the hardest. Yuu could not sleep. Not when ghosts were real, very real, and floated around, muttering to themselves. Not when a beast that could burn them and the place they live, sleeping next to them as if nothing occurred mere hours before. Not when the house they reside in, Ramshackle, as it was called, fell more and more apart–all the spare buckets were used to capture leaks and dirt, but Yuu could hear the wood splintering and cracking with every sway of the wind. Not when the feeling of hopelessness creeped onto their heart. There was no way to get back home, to their family, to their own world. 

Yuu was very alone. And no one would come to help them out.

Ace and Deuce were people Yuu had come to like–a rowdy duo that made the ache in their heart lessen. Although they were strangers at first, finding the magestone from the caverns, and nearly escaping death, bonded the four in a way that could not be changed. It developed further as the year went along.

Yuu remembered the fear from running away. The beast, with a head filled with ink, swinging its pickaxe haphazardly at the students, trying to kill them for their crime. Yuu remembered the long gash on their leg, from where the beast barely missed its target. 

They became victorious, and held the magestone, glinting under the moonlight, as their reward. 

Yet, they felt a bit weak, as they trudged away from the ink, shoes squelching, clothes sticky and tarnished from the black goo that the beast spilled, when its head split and shattered.

The Rose-Red Tyrant and his overblot was terrifying. Yuu, still new to the world, had never seen such a phenomenon. The boy looked to be in pain, Yuu thought, as a new monster, with a glass head shaped like a heart, roared at the students in front of them. The monster loomed over the mage, promising destruction. The boy screamed for murder, for death, for heads to be chopped off, as spells were flinged at the students left and right.

Yuu remembered the fear mirrored on their friends’ faces: Ace and Deuce were pale and shaking, and Grim hid behind them. Trey and Cater, upperclassmen that stayed to fight, looked in terror at their friend, their Housewarden, as he screamed for ruin. The Unbirthday party, with the garden all decorated, was ruined. Deserts and pastries all thrown around, tables and chairs splintered as rose trees were flung at anything in the overblotter’s way.

Yuu remembered the sharp, biting pain in their arms as they were flung away, Black, inky rose thorns tearing at their flesh, before Trey had changed the thorns to cards. Crimson and black mixed together from the wounds, as Yuu looked at the deranged boy, tearing more and more at his soul, anger and fear and hurt all trapped in his heart. 

The four card soldiers had fought with all their might to stop the mage from destroying the dorm with his anger. The garden was ruined; trees were uprooted and floating around them as deadly projectiles. Without Doodle Suit, they all would have been squished piles.

Yuu had visited Riddle in the nurse’s ward, in the aftermath. He had apologized profusely upon seeing the wrapped bandages on Yuu, when the nurse was reapplying them. Yuu had forgiven him; it was hard not to, when all Riddle had done was do what he was taught, do what he had learned, as a kid. It was not his fault, Yuu reasoned, as they sat with the boy who grew up too fast. Who knew harsh love and punishments. Who just wanted to be a kid, crying into his arms. It was not his fault; he was allowed to be human and to have fun. 

When the Usurper overblotted, Yuu was petrified. His power was suffocating; his magic was too strong. The shock and terror from seeing Leona choke Ruggie, almost turning him to sand, made Yuu’s stomach churn. 

The air was hot and dry, any moisture was sucked out as Leona fired spell after spell, his beast, erupted from the sand–its inky black mane surrounding the glass head, as it roared a melancholy cry. It was too hot, suffocatingly hot to fully understand anything. Jack and Riddle tried to fight, but Riddle could not use as much magic; he was still healing from his own overblot. Yuu looked at the mage, thinking just how powerful he was. They thought he was lazy; they’d seen him napping almost everyday, but the man in front of him roared with all his might as he attacked.

Yuu was protecting Ruggie, as he tried to wake up. They had dragged him away before Leona could kill him. He had tried to grab for the student, but Yuu, not thinking, lunged, to drag them and Ruggie away. Sharp claws dripping with ink, teared at clothes and flesh, as Yuu ran, Ruggie in tow. One glance at the mage made Yuu’s body ache. Leona was hurting, unfurling at the seams as he cried out to the world with screams about injustice, unfairness, and power. 

Yuu stayed at the nurse’s ward again. This time, the injury was more severe. Grim had cried his eyes out seeing his henchman in pain. Yuu could see the discomfort on Leona anytime their bandages were changed; the smell of iron hung in the air. Ace and Deuce shielded them away from the injured mage, but could only stay for so long. Jack and Ruggie visited; Jack actually gifted them a small plant to take care of, which Yuu swore they would, while Ruggie brought snacks–all paid from Leona’s wallet. Yuu glanced at the man in question, but all he did was huff a laugh and snatch the ham and mayo sandwich, leaving an egg salad for them to eat. Yuu had to be careful as they moved–their arm was still raw, despite the healing magic the nurse used. 

Their wound was healing, albeit very slowly. 

Yuu remembered the harsh gaze on their shoulder, bandages blooming red, as Leona turned to face them. Everyone else left, leaving the two alone. They remember his apology, his shame, his anger, his shock, and eventually his acceptance, when they told him it was not his fault. That they agreed. The world was unfair, yes, but that did not mean you had to accept it. The look in Leona’s eyes showed disbelief, before his smug grin took place. He ruffled the herbivore’s hair, before muttering about naivety. And if Yuu saw Leona turn away when he said that with a wavering gruff voice, they did not mention it. 

Yuu had thought that after two overblots, they were done. But, after seeing Azul Ashengrotto’s overblot, they realized how much trouble they were in. The merchant, losing all of his deals, cried in a fit of anger, before bursting with overflowing ink. A monster, wielding a trident, laughed maniacally as Azul succumbed to his emotions, his fears, his anger. The trident glinted and shined, glinting off of the glass head of the monster, its tentacles moving in tandem with Azul. 

Leona, Jade, and Floyd look at the overblotter in front of them, faces tense and magic pens out. Yuu remembered Grim grabbing onto them, digging his claws into their still-sensitive shoulder. Azul lunged for the group of students, casting spells to drive them closer to him, to take their magic and use it for himself. Yuu could see a variety of spells being casted towards them. They ran, Grim in tow, away from the screams.

Yuu remembered the way Azul locked on to their form, as Jade and Floyd attacked, trying to distract him. Ruggie had called out to them, trying to warm them–

But all Yuu could see were the looming eyes of the mage, gripping their legs tight, ripping cloth and squeezing as hard as he could, laughing at the face of the magicless prefect. Leona had rushed in and blown the overblotter away, as Ruggie and he launched spell after spell. Grim shouted at them to run. Yuu could not feel their legs, but they had to move.

Yuu was again, lying in bed at the nurse’s ward. This time, venom had entered their system, rendering them weak. Azul was still knocked out, lying on the cot next to them. Jade and Floyd, despite their very rocky beginnings, had warmed up slightly when seeing how Yuu, despite it all, ran away from the fight, getting terrified students away, despite the numbing feeling of their legs and the weakness in their knees.

When Azul had woken up, Yuu was there, getting their bandages changed, with the help of the nurse. Yuu remembered how shame colored the merperson’s visage, and how he apologized, formal vocabulary changed to anxious muttering, as he stared at the bandages around their legs. Yuu had taken it all in stride. They too apologized, much to the shock of the mage in front of him. The only sense of accomplishment and power Azul had, felt were those contracts, and Yuu felt guilty. They had heard what Floyd was talking about, with Azul being weak. And Yuu learned the hard way how the weak were used. They had joked, looking at Azul with a pinky out and a “contract” forming in their mind, as they said its terms out loud. The pinky promise was a very serious business in their world, Yuu explained. The shock, before bleeding into joy onto Azul’s face made Yuu smile, as their pinkies interlocked. 

Winter break was something Yuu was excited for, but working under Housewarden Kalim Al-Asim was not something they planned. After working for Crowley, doing his errands, and surviving the three overblots, Yuu wanted to rest. The winter air was not kind to their wounds. They could feel the ache as they moved their shoulder. Their legs, still weak, meant that too long distances strained their body.

Yuu remembered the honeyed words Jamil used to capture Yuu and Grim. Food was most certainly something neither said no to–Crowley would only give them so much, and Grim really liked premium tuna cans….

After being sent away from Scarabia, they had to find a way back. Kalim’s determination to get back to his best friend was admirable, and he would stop at no lengths nor waste any second to find their way back. 

Seeing a large beast slither from behind the overblotted mage was nothing except creepy. The golden headpiece balancing on top of the glass head filled with ink, glittered and shone. It chuckled deep and dark before bursting with loud laughter that echoed throughout the dorm.  Jamil himself had armies of snakes surrounding the shadow underneath them, teeth baring and bodies slithering toward their rag-tag gaggle. The two, overblotter and phantom moved as if they were caught in a dance, twisting and twirling as they attacked Jade, Kalim, Azul, and Floyd. 

Yuu and Grim, somewhat familiar with this dance now, raced away from oncoming spells launched their way. Snakes made of ink were burned away by Grim, as they evaded the dangerous creatures. But Grim couldn’t keep up with the mage, as Yuu felt the stings of tiny needles latching onto their arms and legs. Using their fear, the snakes were stomped and shucked away, droplets of crimson escaping Yuu while their hands and shoes became stained with ink. 

In the aftermath of the fight, when everything was over, Grim stayed with Yuu as they were taken care of. The snakes were not venomous, but the adrenaline that coursed through Yuu, along with the numerous snake bites, made Yuu dizzy. They remember the way Grim slept on their chest, as Yuu rested next to Jamil. Kalim had not moved an inch, staring at his friend as Jamil slept. He had made sure Yuu was comfortable, grabbing pillows and blankets and anything that he could take to make sure Yuu and Jamil were okay. When Jamil came to, he had demanded Kalim to resume his duties, and the two had an argument, one that Yuu graciously stepped out of the room for; they could tell it was not for their ears. 

When Kalim eventually left, with promises to be right back. Yuu sat in silence with Jamil. They had tended to their own wounds–moving around had made them bleed again. He looked at the damage that was done, at the bites left over, and sighed, apologizing lowly. 

Yuu had paused, and looked to the still-sleeping direbeast, who snored, oblivious to the world. Yuu had smiled, chuckling at Jamil, who looked gloomy. It was alright, they assured. Jamil was not convinced. Yuu understood how Jamil felt, just a little–after all they too were used, Crowley knew how many papers and invoices and tasks the Prefect had done for him. They had grasped Jamil’s hand, whispering about friendship, and how Kalim had stayed the entire time, waiting for him to wake. He had every right to be angry, Yuu reasoned, looking at the mage. But he shouldn’t keep those feelings to himself. Kalim would understand. Kalim would know. But how could any change happen, if he didn’t try? 

Yuu remembered how Jamil gazed at them, with a stare that they could not completely figure out, but they think, with the way Jamil scoffed and gave a small smile, that he understood.

Yuu did not expect Vil Schoenheit to overblot. He was the epitome of being cool and collected. Ramshackle had more company than ever, as they were all a part of NRC’s team for the VDC. Rook was eccentric, Epel was nice, but Vil had scared them. Yuu remembered the state of panic they were in, trying to clean all of Ramshackle to make sure the Pomefiore students were not disgusted. They remember the gazes of the NRC team as they looked upon Ramshackle. It looked better, after spending almost half the year trying to mend the broken-down dorm. It still had its faults, but with more people living there, Yuu realized how homely it felt. They had missed the feeling of companionship, and while they did have their friends, at the end of the day, they went home to an empty house, with ghosts and Grim for company. 

It felt nice to have people here. To have people to talk to. The fireplace felt warmer as everyone talked after dinner. It felt calmer to know that others slept here, and it was not just Yuu and Grim and the ghosts. 

Being a manager was not something Yuu thought they were good at, and seeing how flawless the Pomefiore students were, they definitely thought they were doing something wrong. But Yuu could see how much this competition meant to Vil. He worked hard, extremely so, to make sure the Tribe was in top shape. Yuu still remembered how Ace and Deuce would complain about the harsh training, and Epel complaining about the strict face routines. Rook would sing poems that made them giggle and Kalim would have to be wrangled by Jamil to make sure he was not fooling around. Regardless, they still worked hard.

Yuu should have seen the signs of burnout. How Vil struggled to even maintain his own standards, when his rival, Neige, was competing. When he overblotted, due to stress, burnout, and ultimately fear, it was a horrifyingly beautiful scene. Vil cackled with maniac glee as he shot his arms, decorated in ink, out. The monster, a covered figure with its glass head peeking from a ragged cloth, giggled in a raspy tone. Vil looked beautiful. His gold headpiece, reminiscent of peacock feathers, and his torso covered in glittering gold, shined. As he waltzed around the stage, his veil swayed with him, and his dress flowed along with the wind. Yuu could not help but stare at him. Even in overblot, with ink dripping down his face and hands, he looked magnificent. 

Rook and Epel, shook over their Housewarden’s state, readied their magic pens. Grim had puffed up, breath ready to fire anything away. Yuu stood transfixed. It was unlike anything they had seen. Pools of acid started to rise near the overblotted mage, as he screamed spells unlike Yuu had ever seen. Rain dropped from the sky, its green hue Yuu saw, and registered a little too late, meaning it was not regular rain. The slight sour scent should have alerted them sooner. 

It was acid rain. It did not hurt, but it was not nice to smell. Eyes watering, Yuu was unable to see the glob of poison slung their way, before hitting their chest. Smoke wafted from the acidic substance, as it burned through cloth and skin. Epel rushed to the Prefect, summoning water to splash the acid away, as much as it could, but the damage was done. Raw, red skin bloomed across their chest, as tattered clothing irritated the wound.

When Vil was defeated, he went down with grace. The pain in Yuu’s chest dulled as NRC competed. Despite the harsh battle, everyone still did their best–Yuu was the only one that could see the cracks. It was beautiful and they cheered, despite the pain that shot out from their body. 

After the competition, and NRC’s loss, Vil was rushed to the nurse–no one but their team had known of Vil passing out. Yuu was grabbed along, Epel staring at the wound with a face of worry. Vil had worked himself to the bone, before and after the overblot, and needed his rest. 

Yuu, remembering the same pattern just like the last four times, was bed ridden. Grim rested near their legs, as their chest ached. A cool gel was placed on the burn, it helped lessen the burning that Yuu felt. Vil slept on his cot beside them, and Yuu could see the peace that graced his face, and rest could finally take him away, after working for so long. 

Ace and Deuce had come and gone, talking to them about classes and lamenting their loss. Rook had scared Yuu when he came through the window of the room, late at night. Yuu was ready to throw a pillow when they recognized the voice and hat of the person that was breaking in. He had come to check on Vil, and brought flowers for him and Yuu. Epel, despite his gripes with his Housewarden, came when Ace and Deuce were not around. Yuu did not comment on the boy’s face, marred with worry.

When Vil woke, he woke to see the Prefect staring at him. They flustered, apologizing for their behavior, and Vil, from what Yuu remembered, did not care. He looked around the room to see flowers of varying colors, and apples tucked neatly in a basket waiting for him. Vil was stunned, and gave a smile at the gifts, caressing a violet carefully. When he looked at Yuu, shame colored his eyes. With dignity, he apologized, eyeing the tube of gel Yuu held, and taking a quick glance at the bandages that peeked from Yuu’s shirt. It was almost healed, but it would scar, just like the others. Yuu instead asked what Vil’s favorite flower was. 

This surprised the mage, and Yuu chuckled at the look of surprise that flashed against his features, before he looked at the prefect, confused. Yuu smiled, and gestured around the flowers that colored the room. Yuu remembered how Vil glanced at the violet, and how Yuu complimented him, describing the flower that looked so akin to his eyes. 

Yuu heaped praise upon praise on the boy, and despite Vil warning them to stop, with a blush on his face and tears pricking at his eyes, Yuu continued. Yuu mentioned to him how he reminded them of a sunflower; that despite everything, he shone and found his light. Yuu wished they had the confidence he had. And Vil, with all the grace and elegance he had, was rendered speechless. His mouth agape.Yuu took his hands into theirs, and squeezed. They hoped he understood. 

When Yuu had gone home, after seeing Mickey, they were worried about not seeing Grim. They had finally tracked him to the venue where the VDC had taken form. But that beast, it couldn’t have been Grim. Yuu remembered the ache in their hand, as he attacked them, eating another one of those stones. The shock that had filled their face and the hurt after made something inside them rumble. Grim had snapped out of it after, and apologized profusely, crying into their shoulder. 

When Grim, Leona, Riddle, Jamil, Azul, and Vil were taken away, Yuu had to do something. Rook and Epel were with Yuu, abandoning their classes to travel to S.T.Y.X. Yuu had never seen such a disturbing building with no emotion. Technology was everywhere, but Yuu felt uneasy walking around. The air had a hint of disinfectant. The place was too clean. Yuu felt strange as they traversed the place.

Going deeper and deeper underground made Yuu feel uneasy. There was deep magic around these walls, even if the place was running on technology and power. They thankfully were able to find the rest of their group. The power in Tartarus was out, and Yuu didn’t need magic to feel the power of phantoms growing. 

Yuu remembered how the group of students split up, and their plan to take on the towers and Titans with their Thunder Spears. Yuu had stayed with Vil, Rook, and Epel, while Leona and Jamil took one of the Spears, and Azul and Riddle, the other. Seeing the Pomefiore Trio defeat the Titan, a ghastly beast that resembled the phantoms Yuu and their friends had looked at before, was magical. The Thunder Spear, filled with magic, glowed as bright as the sun, as the trio concentrated. Yuu had to look away once the Titan was hit; the light and energy that released from the Spear was blinding. 

When the students were able to come out of Tartarus, it was to see Idia, all-powerful in his overblot form, laughing maniacally, as the monster behind him, his phantom, cheered him on. That…that was Ortho..? Yuu remembered the sheer desperation on the overblotter’s face, as he laughed, screaming at the students below him. The group climbed on top of hoverboards to reach Idia’s level, dodging the fireballs he cast their way. The three groups defended each other–while one readied their Thunder Spear, the other two groups defended. Spells made of wind, fire, and water were used to combat against Idia, as he tried to attack them. Yuu tried to dodge the spells from their path, they stayed close to the lower part of the hoverboard, face pale as they viewed their classmates dodging spells fast and powerful enough to create holes and craters in the building. Their focus was split–they heard Vil calling out to them–!

But they turned around too late and was hit square in the back with a blue fireball. The flames licked at any surface it found: cloth, skin, hair. The fireball, inky at the core but blue, harsh flame on the outside, was painful. Yuu remembered their screams. The smell was atrocious, and Rook was able to quench the fire with a water spell, as the ship dashed away from another large fire attack. 

Yuu remembered how the Thunder Spears took Idia down, the grief on his face as he screamed for Ortho, who broke down and fell…fell…fell. The brothers fell to the Underworld, with no hopes of being brought back, before Vil dived down to save them. 

This time, Yuu found themselves still at S.T.Y.X. with Idia. Ortho hovered around Idia, as he ate slowly. Yuu was sitting up, being careful to not disturb the bandages on their back. Ortho had checked up on them, offering them fun tidbits about S.T.Y.X. which Yuu gratefully took. Ortho watched as their burns were treated. The others were sent back to NRC–Yuu would come with Idia and Ortho later. Anytime they took a glance towards the blue-haired mage, he would look away. Yuu looked at Ortho, and gave a gesture, and nodded. Yuu slowly shifted to look at Idia, wincing at the jolting movements. Idia stammered something, something too low for them to catch. 

Yuu remembered asking about a game they bought not too long ago. They ask if Idia has played it. A quick glance at Ortho lets Yuu know they are doing something right. Idia looks at them, eyes shining, before smiling and going into a full rant about the game. Yuu remembered how happy he looked, talking about the story, his favorite characters, and the plot, before asking questions about what Yuu thought. Ortho looks happy as he sits next to his brother, adding his thoughts. Before long, Idia looks a lot calmer. His hair looks more illuminated–before, it was dull and small. Ortho had left to grab one of Idia’s consoles, announcing that he would be back shortly, and giving a look to Idia.

A wince from Yuu though, makes Idia somber. He apologizes, twisting his shirt, looking away from Yuu. Yuu laughs, which shocks Idia, as he turns his neck so fast to look at them. Yuu remembered moving closer, talking about how they never faulted him in the first place. They understood. Yuu remembered fighting the lump in their throat as they tried to continue. They love their family too, they whispered. Yuu could not continue further; it hurt to think more about them. Idia looked to the Prefect in silence, before nodding. And carefully inching his pinky towards theirs. Yuu linked them. Idia slightly jumped at the contact, but when Yuu did not pull away, neither did he. They continued their talk about video games–Yuu mentioning a gacha game they wanted to try, when they got home, and Idia, excited, made them promise that they would text him their friend ID. 

It hurt Yuu deeply to see Tsunotaro overblot. They should have recognized something was wrong when he had asked them that question that one night. If there was something that would have guaranteed them to never lose their family or friends..? They would have done anything to make sure Yuu would see their family again. 

Yuu remembered the void. The darkness of it all. They remember Malleus, regal in his overblotted form, desperate to cling to his family, as he wishes what was best for them: an eternal slumber. Yuu can still hear Lilia’s scream, his fear as he saw his ward give in to the blot, and the horror on his face as he saw friendly faces, people he knew dear, drop to sleep. 

The void was lonely. Yuu cannot remember how far or how long they were running for. Their throat burned as they screamed. For their friends, for their family. Where was everyone? Seeing Grim had brought tears to their eyes, as they ran to hug the direbeast–his tears soaking their clothes and theirs, his fur. Grim was scared, he hated the dark, and clung to Yuu as they walked. Seeing Mickey Mouse was something out of a dream, they couldn’t believe their eyes. But, their relief was short, as the darkness started to attack them. Someone clamped Yuu’s shoulder, and when they turned, aurora colored eyes stared back. 

Silver had told them of his Unique Magic. Everyone was stuck in a dream. They had to get out, they had to stop sleeping. Yuu remembered the desperation in Silver’s eyes as he looked at them and Mickey. If they couldn’t…Malleus would be killed. He couldn’t stay overblotted for a thousand years, they had to stop him.

They had to save him. 

Yuu remembered the determination in their voice, as they grabbed Silver’s hand, promising to help however they could, to save Malleus. To save Tsunotaro. Grim nodded and climbed onto his shoulders. The three waved goodbye to Mickey, before going out, to save the world from their slumber.

They tumbled through a pink and blue sky, Yuu could hear birds singing as they fell. Was…was that Diasomnia? Yuu and Silver, linked with their hands, looked around, to see a party going on. Was this…?

Hearing the boisterous shout of Sebek brought them back. They were still in a dream. It was Sebek’s. Yuu remembered how the two guards had fought, and how they all stood in shock when Malleus had appeared, in a mix of the twinkling green lights they knew so well, and a sharp crack of lightning. He was surprised to see them here, in Sebek’s dream, Yuu remembered his shock, before it twisted into grim determination with a smile, and almost sent them back to their dream, to the void. Yuu remembered Silver’s harsh grip as he tugged Yuu and Sebek close, before they were falling yet again, into that beautiful sky. 

They were in a dark forest, where they had met with Lilia, and Sebek’s grandfather, Baul. Lilia looked different. Gone was the kind, mischievous fae that floated around the campus, and instead was a harsh general, with long hair tinged with blood red, and terrifying in his battle-worn armour. It was there that Lilia had told them of their plan. To deliver the letter to the Silver Owls–their lands were being destroyed, and the princess would no longer tolerate it. 

Not after her consort, the Dragoneye Duke, Raverne, had disappeared after trying to deliver the message. Yuu had stood, mouth agape.

Yuu remembered the urgency the group moved to get to the Princess of Briar Valley. The Silver Owls were going to attack, and they would not leave without her death. Yuu was terrified to see her power. She was beautiful. She looked just like Malleus. Her elegance, despite the situation at hand, was inspiring. The Princess, who tethered on the line of life and death, hugged her egg, hiding the tears she shed, as she placed the egg–Malleus–into Lilia’s hands. Yuu, Silver, and Sebek could only watch in shock. The Princess ordered for her general to flee. Lilia begged, tears in his eyes as he held the egg, the heir to the throne, to let him fight, to let him protect her. Yuu could see how much Lilia wanted to save Malenor. Yuu remembered the warm smile she had given to her closest friend, as she held his hands that shook, calming his tremors. 

It was impossible to not love their child, Malenor had stated, the smile on her face never faltering. For he had loved her and Raverne with every fiber of his being. He would be in good hands. And with that, Malenor quickly stepped back, summoning thorns and briars to move the group away, as she turned to face the Dawn Knight. 

The group rushed away, and they spotted the Dawn Knight, who was thrown towards them. Lilia and Baul raise their weapons in defense. But to their surprise, the Knight helped them, allowing them to flee with Malleus in tow. 

The fall had knocked the Dawn Knight’s helmet away–Yuu, Silver, Sebek, and Grim all gasped to see..Silver..? It was him, just with blond hair. Silver looked devastated, stumbling at the realization. Sebek barely had anytime to react when Silver was taken away, darkness clinging to his body as he was snatched. The group ran to follow him, trying to find the boy. 

Yuu remembered how Sebek and Silver fought, crying as he shouted at Silver’s stupidity. That Lilia loved him, Malleus loved him, he loved him, and that he was never hated. How could he, when Lilia had raised him to the boy he was today? Yuu remembered how Silver cried into Sebek’s arms, both mages hugging one another as they promised to save Lilia, and their liege.

The two were separated, as Yuu and Grim joined Silver in protecting Lilia and the egg from the SIlver Owls, and Sebek joined his grandfather to fight.

When dawn rose…the group was notified of the Princess’ death. Grief blankets them all, as Lilia cries. Yuu remembered the hatred bubbling in them, when the Senate had ridiculed Lilia. They did not know what he went through, how he tried to save Malenor. How dare they. Yuu could feel anger grasping at their being, before Grim looked to them in worry. Lilia resigns, ashamed of himself, to the shock of the small group, and to the pleased grins of the Senate. The egg, Malleus, was handed to the Senate’s claws, as Lilia was taken in by darkness.

The group saw how Lilia was cast away, travelling around the world, trying to find ways for Malleus to hatch. He was getting weaker, day by day, staying in that shell. The happiness in Lilia’s eyes when Malleus hatched, was something they would never forget. But the anger in Yuu returned, when the Senate berated Lilia for touching the royal heir. For even thinking to return after all he had done. The group of students stare in shock as Lilia is shouted at. Malleus, not understanding, just blinks to the fae holding him, tilting his head in confusion.

A sharp crack of lightning revealed Malleus, looking over the group of students as they back away. His face is covered more with blot as he took in what he has seen in Lilia’s dream. He never knew about this. But no matter, he smiled, looking at the students still awake. They will forget and come back to sleep, a nicer dream with no war or unpleasantries. 

Lilia grabs Silver, now free from the dream, and wishes him and Sebek the best, as he promises to take care of Malleus, and to save the rest of the school. Silver grabs everyone, and they yet again, fall through the sky, before seeing…Ortho? 

Yuu remembered how tired they were, traversing dream after dream, grabbing onto Silver's hand as they fell again and again through the lovely sky. More and more of their classmates and friends joined, as they all grabbed Silver. They had to get everyone out, they had to wake everyone up, before trying to defeat Malleus. Who knows how their brains would have been damaged if they fought Malleus, while there were still people in their dreams. Yuu shuddered to think about it.

Next was Ace. Yuu was stunned when they got to his dream. Ace had mentioned that Yuu was able to go home..! Home…The lump that Yuu had been fighting the entire time during this nightmare, forced tears in their eyes. The others were looking at them, Yuu was sure of it, as Ace excitedly exclaimed how Yuu was able to travel from their home and Twisted Wonderland. And how happy everyone was. Dream Trey, Dream Riddle….they were having fun, celebrating without a care in the world.

…

Why didn’t Yuu dream of their home? Why were they stuck in a void filled with the deepest of blacks? A void of consuming ink? Here Ace was, talking about home, happy with his party.

Didn’t Yuu deserve a nice dream? Didn’t Yuu deserve to go home? 

Yuu remembered Cater being able to wake Ace up from his dream–the tears in his eyes still there as he walked with Deuce and Yuu. Ace was back, Deuce was happy to have him back, and so was Yuu, as they slapped his back. 

So why did Yuu feel empty and dull, as they traveled to another dream? Nails lined their throat, whenever they tried to speak. Words came out, but what Yuu really wanted to say, to shout, festered at their throat, in their heart.

Yuu remembered how Idia had successfully trapped Malleus in his own game version of Twisted Wonderland–summoning the saved students though the game. Yuu remembered seeing the housewardens and Jamil transform into their Overblot forms, and a jolt shakes through them as they stare at them. DId they really fight six..now seven overblots?

The students, Yuu remembered, use their magic to attack Malleus, who breaks down his arcane realm, and transforms into a dragon. Yuu remembered the fear, the terror, the horrifying feeling of loss as they saw their friend, Tsunotaro, turn into a giant beast, roaring its desperation, its wishes, and its anger into the sky. Green flames spew from his mouth, as he burns all in his wake. Green, sharp lightning slams down from the heavens onto the ground–Yuu’s hair stood on end as they dodged. Sharp thorns emerge from the ground, as they nick and slash at anything that comes near. Everyone slammed spell after spell, dodged for their lives, and saved one another as Malleus Draconia, Prince of Briar Valley, unleashed his rage to the world.

Yuu ran, tripping against thorns that tore at their palms when they fell. They were too slow to get up, Yuu could hear shouts around them as lightning struck at their back–their scream as electricity shocked their core. The lightning, fueled with blot burned. Yuu remembered the pain, as it made its mark on their back, traveling around the red, raw skin. They smelled smoke and iron. Grim had ran to them, rushing them away, as they stumbled, eyes dull and head foggy–all they could think of was the daggers tearing at their back. 

They had fallen to the ground, arms and legs shaking as they stared at the battlefield in front of them.

Yuu remembered how ethereal Silver looked, donning on armor that gleaned and shined, as if it were made of moonlight itself. He held a sword of immense power. Sebek, clad in viridian green, that sparked electricity as he moved, held onto the shield Idia has provided, standing side-by-side with Silver, as they stood in front of their liege, their prince, their friend, as they readied for battle. 

Malleus, with his wings stretched far and wide, snarled at the two mages that stood against him. They had fought valiantly, blurs of silver and black rushing to attack and protect against Malleus’ ire. He threw fire after fire, lighting struck from the sky and thorns lunged at the two students. 

But the knights were not enough. They were thrown to the ground, and Malleus, sensing their weakness, shot one last attack at them, green blurring towards the boys with immense speed–

Before a small figure, clad in Diasomnia wear and pink highlights that glowed from the fire, jumped in front. 

Yuu remembered the cries and shouts, as Lilia Vanrouge, stood in front of the boys, bleeding, with a smile on his face, before he fell. 

Malleus, struck by Idia, fell to the ground, returning to his human form, as Silver ran to Lilia, holding his limp body close. Silver's hair shined like spun gold, his armour, ever radiant, stained with crimson, as he held his father close, crying to the skies. Sebek fell to his knees, slamming the ground as he sobbed, digging at the dirt under him, praying for Lilia to come back.

Malleus, who woke, stared at the scene, eyes blown wide. Yuu remembered seeing tears spring into his eyes, as he rushed to Lilia and Silver, trying to summon magic, to no avail. His body trembled, as he tried to summon something, anything, to save Lilia. Bright lights enveloped Malleus and Silver, as they sent all of their energy into their one wish. 

Yuu remembered seeing Lilia’s eyes flutter, before opening. His ruby eyes, still dazed from his dance with death, mistook the three for figures long passed. Malleus, Silver, and Sebek wasted no time crushing Lilia into a hug, sobbing into him. Their tears and cries were incomprehensible, as they sank into Lilia. 

Lilia, once a general with blood that soaked every part of his body, held the three boys in his arms, smiling as he hushed away their tears. 

Yuu looked on to the scene in front of them. The three mages, surrounded by their classmates and friends, sobbed until they could barely breathe, clutching at Lilia like a lifeline. S.T.Y.X. forces came, but Idia had stopped them, looking at Malleus as he wept into Lilia’s shoulder, Silver, as he clutched Lilia’s clothes, sobbing into his chest, and Lilia, rubbing his ward’s and son’s backs, whispering words only privy to their ears. 

Yuu could not help the tears that fell, as they saw the Diasomnia students–their little family– reunite. Yuu could not help but smile as the family achieved their happy ending. Yuu could not help but laugh as they hugged Grim tight, rushing to grab Deuce, Ace, Jack, and Epel, as they cried, tears streaming down their face as they held their friends close. Yuu could not help but fall to the ground, tired from the nightmare they escaped, but glad that they were alive. 

Yuu could not help but envy the two princes, as the two boys hugged their family tight, no longer afraid of living in a world where Lilia was gone.

Yuu remembered that Malleus and Lilia stayed at S.T.Y.X for a while, as the entire Island started to restore itself. Yuu remembered the shock upon receiving the letter that invited them to a party, hosted by the Prince himself–as one out of many ways to repent. 

Yuu remembered the castle the party was held at. It was Princess Malenor’s, however, it was covered with thorns. That must have been where….

Yuu shook their head as they saw the ceremony before them. Malleus, Prince of Briar Valley, bestowed the titles of Lightning and Dream Knight to Sebek and Silver, blessing them and patting their backs as they kneeled before him. A smile, Yuu saw, genuine and true, graced Malleus’ face while he looked at the boys in front of him. 

When Silver had asked for another title, for his birthday, Malleus’ grin grew, as he declared Silver and Lilia to be true family, son and father. Everyone had clapped–Sebek was even crying behind them, which Grim teased him about. Yuu remembered laughing as they congratulated the family. 

What Yuu was not ready for, was for the palace to turn bright, as Malleus and Lilia changed the castle to its former glory. Yuu and the others were shocked as they saw the exact palace from Lilia’s dream. And standing there…in front of Malleus and Silver,  was Princess Malenor, the Dawn Knight, and Princess Leah. Yuu remembered the shock, as they looked upon the two pairs, dancing to the music, as mother and son laughed and smiled. Grim, as always, ran straight to the food, but Yuu had danced, to the best of their ability. Their back still ached, but it too would slowly heal. Yet another mark from ink. 

When Yuu hosted a sleepover at Ramshackle, days after the party, they felt content. Ramshackle was lively, with their friends playing games late into the night, as Yuu served food they were proud of making, to their guests.

That night, Malleus and Yuu had gone for a walk. Just like they had done before. Malleus had noted the way Yuu’s back was straight. On an earlier night, he had stumbled upon them adding ointment to their fresh wound, with the help of the Ramshackle ghosts. It was there, on that walk, once they sat on a bench nearby, to let Yuu catch their breath, did he apologize. Tsunotaro’s hands, Yuu remembered, were clenched in front of them, as he whispered his shame. He swore at himself, blaming his selfishness for the pain he caused, to his friends and to his family.

Yuu listened, as Malleus slowly quieted. He slowly turned to them, face struck with grief, as he apologized. His eyes held tears, his body shook. Yuu smiled at him, clasping one of his hands between their own. Yuu told him they understood. Malleus blinked in shock. Yuu continued, with eyes that were warm as the hearth, as they talked to Malleus. They did not need an apology because there was nothing to forgive. Their wounds? Just a mere blemish–it would heal. Yuu did not blame him for overblotting–they never did, not when he wanted something that anyone was guilty of wishing for at some point. Yuu apologized, for springing on the announcement of their news of finding a way home–with a pang in their heart. 

Malleus tried to quiet them, telling Yuu that they had every right to be angry, to be hurt–he had harmed them, changed them in a way where they would not be like before; Malleus had seen how severe the wound was, and it was something that would not go away. He had hurt a friend, a dear one, due to his foolishness. 

Yuu laughed, cutting Malleus short. They squeezed his hand, as they looked at him, tears shining. Yuu remembered telling Tsunotaro how silly he was that they would be angry, when, if they had any power at all, would have done the very same thing to see their family. Malleus was stunned, eyes wide as tears slipped from Yuu’s face. They tried to laugh, but their voice failed them; all that came out was a weak blubber. As they tried to wipe the tears away, Malleus’s voice quivered, as he asked for their forgiveness anyway. 

The topic of home was a sore one, and Yuu tried to not bring it up these days, the pain from their heart further fueled their emotions. 

Yuu slowly lowered their hands from their eyes, as they quelled the ache in their heart to stop, so that they would deal with it later, before Malleus had clasped their hands together again. He had a smile, a broken one, but a smile nonetheless. Yuu stared, eyes red and teary as they called him silly again, telling him they would not accept an apology, standing firm that he had done nothing wrong at all. Malleus stiffened, and Yuu quickly continued. If he wanted to be forgiven, Yuu added, they only asked for one thing. Malleus nodded, eyes filling with determination. 

A hug, Yuu said seriously.

Malleus was shocked, but nonetheless, agreed. He was not ready for the child of man to throw themselves at him as they wrapped their arms around him. Yuu had whispered how thankful they were that he was okay, that Lilia, Silver, and Sebek were okay. Their voice wavered as they hid. Malleus, albeit awkwardly, folded his arms around the Prefect, careful not to disturb their wounds further, as he whispered his agreement, before thanking the Prefect quietly. 

Ace and Deuce remember the skittish prefect, when they first met at the statues honoring the Great Seven. They did not know then how close they would become to the human resident at Ramshackle, nor of how much fun the trio, along with Grim would have. Late night studying, unplanned video game sessions, loud, boisterous lunches, were memories that Ace and Deuce held dear as they became closer to Yuu

Unbirthday parties were always a treat, Riddle would remember, when the Prefect of Ramshackle was able to attend. Seeing how the prefect reacted to magic, eyes filled with awe as they ate a sweet treat manipulated by Doodle Suit to taste like honey, despite the treat being a strawberry tart, did not fail to make Trey laugh, as he messed with Yuu’s hair. Cater would look back at the photos he took on his phone with a smile, seeing his underclassmen with huge grins on their faces.

Leona remembered how smug he had gotten as he knocked over the black king. Yuu had challenged him to another chess match, as they did, every week without fail. They were getting better, Leona noted. Yuu sighed, as they picked up the pieces to put back. It was fun, he realized. Yuu never used the same strategy twice–and it was interesting to break their plan apart. Yuu smiled, causing Leona to smirk, as they promised to beat him next week, pointing their two fingers to their eyes, before pointing it at his. He had laughed then, leaning back to lie down on the plush grass. 

Yuu joined Jack on his morning runs, despite being very unathletic. It was tough work, Jack acknowledged, but the prefect had taken the challenge. When Jack had noticed the prefect slowing down, he had matched their pace, stopping them when they were ready to collapse. With time, Jack remembered, Yuu started matching his pace. The pride he could smell from them grew as they stayed with Jack the entire run, without looking like death. 

Ruggie sometimes watched them, cackling as Yuu passed Jack, teasing him at his slow speed. When they were done, Ruggie had passed them drinks he had nabbed with Leona’s money. Yuu would invite them over to Ramshackle, to make breakfast–a hearty one at that, to which neither could refuse. Yuu had packed extra to hand to Ruggie, before the Savanaclaw students walked the trek back to the Hall of Mirrors. 

Yuu, in need of money, had been hired by Azul to work at the Mostro Lounge. How they were able to nab a job, they could not tell you–maybe Azul took pity on them. It was tough work, having to cater the numerous tables at the Lounge, but they did their best. With Jade and Floyd, the three were able to quickly take orders and cook as fast as they could. Floyd remembered how he would not hesitate, when Shrimpy had a moment to breathe, to mess their hair up completely, sometimes even chasing them around, nearing closing. 

Jade, ever polite, yet still as mischievous as his brother, would pass the prefect some drinks, as they slinked towards a chair to breathe. He remembered asking them to try a new dish he had made, topped with mushrooms, as they sat. Yuu did not like mushrooms, but started developing a taste for them. as they ate. Floyd would gag as he wrapped his arm around their shoulder, sipping Yuu's drink while they ate. 

When Azul would make an appearance, Jade and Floyd would let Yuu finish their food and talk to the Housewarden. Azul remembered joking about Yuu being Jade’s guinea pig, as they stuffed their mouth with mushrooms. Jade would slyly add how Azul became green once eating one of his dishes, to which Floyd, Azul, and Yuu would laugh at.

Kalim would remember how happy Yuu looked as they danced together in one of Scarabia’s lounges. Kalim remembered how beautifully Yuu danced, free of any burdens as they swung with the music. It was loud in the dorm, as they danced from day to night. Kalim would tell stories of his home, of his family, of his childhood, as Yuu listened, hugging a pillow close to them. The party winded down, as dormmates and classmates alike retired for the night. Jamil had started to pack up the party, taking down decorations and putting food away. When Jamil had insisted Kalim sleep, multiple times, that he was about to fall down, Kalim finally agreed, when Yuu had mentioned that they had to take Grim back, he was knocked out from a food coma. It was nice to see the prefect out, with a smile on their face as they looked at their other dormmate. 

Jamil remembered how Yuu insisted they help him clean up, a look of determination flooding their face despite the many no’s he had given. They broomed and put furniture back, while Jamil packed the food away. When they were done, Yuu had joined Jamil in the kitchen to dry the dishes he washed. It was nice to have some help, and Jamil insisted that they take food with–the dorm had too much. 

Rook would follow the prefect when he had no duties to attend to. Despite knowing this, Rook remembered how jittery Yuu became anytime he had appeared, seemingly out of nowhere. A little scream followed every time. Sometimes he would spot the Trickster playing chess with the Roi des Lions, watching their matches as Yuu tried to win. He would smile when they made a face of defeat, noting how despite their loss, they still smiled as they shook hands with Leona. Sometimes, he would find them walking through the gardens, looking at flora that, Rook listened, had never appeared in their world. Non, this would not do, as he appeared behind them, eliciting a scream. Rook remembered how he had taught the prefect of the many different flora the College took care of, telling them little known facts. He had steered them away from dangerous or poisonous plants, using magic to instead touch them. Yuu took all of the knowledge eagerly, as he spotted a notebook they wrote down in. 

Epel remembered how Yuu would sit at Spelldrive practices as they waited for him to wrap up. They would study together, and despite Epel’s insistence at Yuu meeting up with him at the library, they disagreed and instead watched the practice game play. Epel could hear them cheering for him as he scored, and instead of being embarrassed, he waved at the prefect jumping up and down. Leona barked at them to be careful of any discs as they watched the match. When practice was done, Yuu had given Epel water and some snacks as they walked to the library. 

Yuu would sometimes show up to Pomefiore, sometimes with Epel when he needed to grab something from his room, or with Rook as he showed them plants that were available only at the dorm. Vil remembered how Yuu had asked him for advice, when they had seen the Housewarden. They wanted to know where Vil had gotten the skincare he had gifted them, after the VD tournament. They were really happy with how smooth and clear their skin had gotten, but they were almost out. Vil stared at them, and Yuu, thinking they did something wrong, backed out, laughing nervously that he didn’t have to tell them, they could just get something from Sam’s. Vil had sighed, raising a hand to quiet the rambling prefect. He remembered their confusion, as he told them that were they to run out, all they had to do was ask him. The skincare was his own blend, and he provided the products for his dorm–he always made more than necessary, and would not mind at all if Yuu took some home. If they didn’t mind, he added, he asked that in return, Yuu helped him test some trial blends he made. The sparkles in Yuu’s eyes revealed their joy, as he took them along, to their supply, before handing them the products in a shiny silver box. Yuu had thanked them, and Vil gave a smile, telling them to meet him at the end of each week for their trials. 

Idia, once Yuu had given him their friend ID on a popular RPG, has become their guide as they played. They were connected through a voice call, shouts of joy and dread echoing as they battled bosses together, collected materials, and built their bases. Sometimes, when Yuu would play a gacha game Idia showed them, when they lost their full pity pulls, more currency, seemingly out of nowhere, would appear in their account. Idia remembered the memes Yuu would send at the early hours of the day, when he was still gaming. They made him snort, but Idia treasured the photos of Grim they sent him–-the photos never failed to make him grin goofily at the funny and cute photos of Grim.

Yuu and Ortho would be seen in the library at times. While Idia had helped get Yuu better technology, Ortho helped them set everything up. In return, Orhto would ask about Yuu’s world. He had a file, filled with notes and stories that Yuu had told him, along with pictures of crude drawings they had made, as well as images of the prefect, as they laughed, retelling stories of their childhood. A new world fascinated Ortho, but he also knew his limits. Ortho remembered when he asked a question about their family, and how Yuu’s energy, their brightness, dimmed, as they answered his questions with clear longing, that they hid very well. But Ortho saw it all. 

Malleus treasured the walks he and the child of man would take at night. The walks always consisted of Yuu talking about their day, and Malleus would smile, huffing a laugh as they told him of the antics Grim had pulled that day. Green lights followed lazily around them, illuminating their path as they walked. Yuu had shown him patches of flowers that only bloomed at night, their pale petals glowing soft yellow and green. He had not known of these flowers, but Yuu took out a notebook, filled with notes of the flowers. In another field, they had stopped to rest, plucking flowers to weave. Malleus sat on a log, while they scrounged for flowers to grab. He was curious to see what Yuu was doing, but they had insisted he did not look. Malleus remembered the shock he felt, as Yuu eagerly told them to open his eyes, holding a flower crown between their hands. 

The flowers, some from the glowing variety they saw before, as well as flowers that smelled divine, were carefully crafted, yet still held the human touch; places were not perfect, but Malleus could not help but smile as they rose to place it on his head. He nodded, as they asked if it was alright, before slowly, carefully setting it down on his head. Yuu laughed as they bowed to the Prince, asking if they could take a picture. He agreed, but asked Yuu to teach him how to make one, as a trade. The duo left with matching crowns, as they walked back to the dorm. 

Lilia was intrigued by the little prefect as they wandered through a world unlike their own. He remembered how they stood with Riddle and Jack, as he called out Leona’s underhand tactics for the Spelldrive tournament. Lilia remembered how Yuu was there, clinging to Silver and Sebek as Silver broke him out of the dream. He had seen them, squatting on the ground near the field, and decided to spook them. Their scream was very funny. And their tumble to the ground made him giggle, as he helped them up. Lilia questioned what the prefect of Ramshackle was looking so intently for, and with some embarrassment, Yuu muttered something about finding a four-leaf clover. Lilia’s head tilted, confused. Yuu went on to explain. Back home, a four-leaf clover meant good luck–they were hard to find, but finding one usually meant you would have good luck. It was also something to do, while classes were out. Lilia nodded, looking down to the ground. Clovers with three leaves were everywhere, and finding a four-leaved one would be difficult. 

It was also something to remember home by, Yuu had said, after Lilia raised his head to look at them. A look of determination filled Yuu’s eyes, as they squatted back down. Well, he had nothing else to do either, and flopped to the ground as well, eyes tracking for the clover. Rook had stopped by as well, asking what the prefect and fae were doing, and when Yuu had told them, Rook smiled, amazed at Yuu’s persistence, as he helped look for one, before getting a call and mournfully having to leave–Epel had gotten an injury at Spelldrive practice and Vil was going to have Leona’s head if Rook didn’t help Epel fix it. Yuu laughed, as Lilia watched, waving Rook goodbye and giving him their thanks, before turning back to the ground. 

It was nearing dark, when Lilia heard Yuu shout, and quickly turned to see a triumphant face, rushing to Lilia to show him. Yuu was excited, showing their palm to him, and Lilia saw two clovers, instead of one. Yuu was rambling on how they found two clovers, and laughed, moving side to side as they talked. Their fingers were dirty with soil and their knees were stained with green, but Yuu was happy. They handed one to Lilia, telling him they didn’t need the double luck, before the two had to go back to their dorms. Lilia, as he went back to his dorm, held the tiny plant in his palm, smiling at the prefect’s words. 

Silver had woken up to a hand shaking his arm. His eyes slowly opened, as he could barely make out the image of the prefect kneeling beside him, trying to rouse him. The afternoon was slowly slipping away, he realized, as he slowly got up. Yuu explained to him that Sebek didn’t know where he was, and Lilia had texted him, asking if he knew where Silver was. Yuu, who was walking with Sebek away from the library with books, was asked–Yuu laughed as they recalled Sebek demanding them to help–find Silver. 

Luckily, they stumbled upon him near Ramshackle. Apparently, there was a group of animals that surrounded him–and Silver now realizes they still are, as rabbits, squirrels, and birds alike surround the two. Yuu had pulled their phone out to call Sebek, and Silver winced at the volume to which Sebek answered, but Yuu looked unfazed. They helped him up, as he brushed away the dust off of his uniform. The animals resumed their activity, scrambling away as the two walked away from the forest. 

Silver remembered what Yuu had told him. If he started to feel drowsy, he could always take a nap at Ramshackle, nudging his side as they mentioned that the couch, or any of the guest rooms, if he wished to, were really comfortable. It really was no problem, if he wanted to, as they handed him a key. The next time he wanted to sleep, or felt tired that day, he used the key, and…the prefect was right, the couch was very soft and comfortable to sleep on. He woke up to see a plate of little pastries and some still piping hot tea waiting for him, with the Prefect humming in the kitchen. He could also hear his father trying to convince Yuu to let him help, to which Yuu gently declined, saying he was a guest. 

Silver remembered how the two came out, carrying cups of tea and sweets for them to eat. Lilia smiled as Silver rubbed away the sleep in his eyes. He reached out to brush Silver’s hair into something more manageable, as he sat next to his son–Yuu sat on the armchair near them. Silver thanked Yuu for the tea, as he took a sip, saying how the couch really was comfortable. Yuu laughed, having to put their snacks down, as they smiled. Silver remembered asking why Lilia was here, and Lilia giggled, saying that Yuu had let him and Sebek know where he was, and to not worry. Lilia wanted to see him anyway, and fake-sobbed at the fact that Yuu had not let Lilia nap at Ramshackle either. Yuu gave him a fake pointed look as they recalled the sleepover where Lilia had scared them near to death, making them drop a glass when he woke up from his nap…on the ceiling. Silver remembered the loud guffaw of Lilia’s and Yuu’s giggles as they ate.

When Sebek was reading, it was hard to get him out of the story he was engrossed in. Only his Waka-sama, Lilia, and Sebek were able to get him out of the trance he was in. So when he heard a shout, followed by a tumble of books, he was immediately snapped out of his story, and rushed to find the source. He knew that voice well. 

Sebek remembered seeing Yuu rubbing their head as books surrounded them. He was about to shout at them for their carelessness, before he saw the cover of one of the books on the floor. It was a series he enjoyed thoroughly. Yuu glanced up, seeing Sebek, and winced a hello. He had helped the prefect pick up the books that fell, into a pile. All were stories he had read and enjoyed, and when he questioned Yuu, they had responded to wanting to read the books he recommended them from a lunch they had together quite some time ago. Malleus mentioned one time how well-read Sebek was, and if Sebek thought they were good, Yuu said, they had to read it then. Sebek turned red from the praise, before grabbing the books from Yuu’s hands. 

They had thought he was going to leave, but when he placed the books down and turned to face them, Sebek had instructed Yuu to follow him–there were others that he wanted them to read instead. Sebek remembered how excited Yuu looked–they followed him with a bounce to their step, as they listened to him rambling about his favorites, placing the books in Yuu’s hands. 

And when Yuu finished reading all of them, Sebek had showed up to Ramshackle later, demanding to know what they thought of the books, to which Yuu smiled and went to prepare some tea.

Grim remembered how Yuu always bought him the premium tuna, despite their very small allowance. Once they were able to work at the Mostro Lounge, they had a bit more spending money, but their main focus was always to Grim first. They would always mutter about the taste of tuna, but always grabbed his favorite flavors, and got some candy for both of them, before checking out. 

With Yuu, Grim knew what a home felt like. When the ghosts teased him too much, or when his grades were not as great, Yuu always made sure to defend him. They would scold the ghosts, and tutor him on topics they themselves didn't have a good grasp on, but helped anyway. On late nights when he could not fall asleep, he woke them up, and the two went to the kitchen to make a little snack and warm milk. He nuzzled into their neck, as he sat on their shoulders. When he fell asleep on the couch, he would magically wake up in their bed, tucked in. One day, 

Grim remembered when he fell sick. Yuu had called Riddle in a panic, trying to figure out how to help him–did direbeasts have a different way to treat fevers? Was Grim going to be okay? They tried to not show their panic, but he could tell, even when the flames in his ears were dim, and his eyes were blurry, that they were worried. Riddle had told them that it was just a normal fever–but if Grim’s fever worsened by the time the day was over, they would bring him to a hospital. Riddle had told Yuu some tips on treating the ill, and what to check for, while Trey had sent some recipes he knew Grim would love. Yuu thanked them, their voice wavering, before breathing for a moment. 

Afterwards, the look of determination that illuminated their face never fell. They cooled him down with a damp towel, changing it when it became warm. The ghosts checked on him while Yuu left to make some broth–Yuu had told the ghosts to alert them of anything being wrong while they were gone. Ace and Deuce visited, when they heard of Grim being sick, and brought him more food. Ace had entertained Grim with card tricks, as Deuce went down to help Yuu. The food Yuu had made was heavenly, and Grim gobbled it all down, despite the warnings.

When he threw up the food, all over Yuu, they had not scolded him. They slowly picked up the blanket that got dirty and Grim, before carefully making their way to the bathroom. They had taken a bath, washing the vomit away from Grim, and later brushed his teeth to get rid of the bad taste in his mouth. He was given water that he slowly drank, before eating some crackers Yuu got. He ate slower this time, as Yuu tucked him back into bed. He did not want Yuu to leave, he remembered, and clung to their shirt. Yuu sighed, before kissing him on the forehead, and they tucked themselves with him. Grim remembered falling asleep to the sound of Yuu’s heart.

These were dear memories that the students of Night Raven College had of Yuu, the magicless prefect of Ramshackle dorm. Yuu was nice to them. Yuu was kind to them, even when they felt like they did not deserve it. Yuu was a lively student, a piece that made their days go by with joy and fond memories. 

So why was it that the prefect lay comatose in front of them? 

Their skin, once bright with color, was dulled to a sickly grayish hue. They wheezed, as IVs and tubes were stuck into their body. IV bags filled with the deepest of blacks, with no crimson in sight. The students looked on, grimacing at the scars that littered the prefect’s body. Gone were the pinkish scars–they had turned fully black, and slowly, mimicking tiny cracks, started to spread to other parts of their body

Blot filled Yuu’s body. It was mixed completely with their blood, Crowley had told them, clenching his cane. 

Yuu had been in a coma for seven days. The nurse looked grim as they told the news: they were unsure if the prefect would ever wake up. Blot feeds and grows on negative emotions, and for the prefect’s body to still be pumping out blot, despite no magic…the nurse had quieted, after seeing the stricken faces of those in the ward. 

How did they not see the signs? Yuu was normal only seven days prior. Yuu was fine not too long ago.

How come everyone became so blind?