Chapter Thirty-Two: Practice Makes Perfect
[ The Beautiful Oppressor Arc: Continue! ]
The three boys watched nervously as you and Vil seemed to have a stare-off, no malice detected– and yet the air around you both was strained from the formalities you both presented.
Deuce blinked owlishly as he looked at the scene.
You, alone– were beautiful– Deuce knew that, and anyone would be a fool not to see it.
You were simply ethereal and there was no other way to describe you other than that.
But to see you standing in front of the Vil Schoenheit– a male known to bring women and men alike to their knees with a simple glance?
It was like two worlds had collided– and it was a sight to see.
It wasn't far-fetched to say that you and Vil could bring the mass majority of the world to its knees with looks alone, he thought.
Epel however– was rather worried. Nervously did his blue eyes glance between your figure and Vil, the boy having to restrain himself from chewing on his nails out of habit.
" So that's Vil Schoenheit, the Pomefiore housewarden. " Deuce whispered, glancing at Ace for a moment, who stared at the male with wide eyes.
" Dude! He looks so regal up close, it's actually imposing. And Y/n knows him?! " he whispered back, lips frowning from disbelief.
Grim whined as his ears flattened against his head. " I feel small just lookin' at him! " he exclaimed, halfway hiding behind Ace's leg.
Vil's eyes flicked off your form, his steady composition and kind expression melting into one of sternness as he looked past you, hands on his hips. " You there– spudlings," he called, lavender eyes narrowing.
Grim blinked owlishly at the housewarden. " Myah? Are you talkin' to us? " he asked, tail flicking behind him.
You watched as Vil sighed in exasperation– clearly holding back the action of rolling his eyes. " Who else would I be addressing? This is a critical time for Epel. We have less than two months until the SDC. " he said, narrowing his eyes at the three.
" He has no time to waste playing with you unwashed spuds. " he hissed, making your eyes go wide.
You didn't know Vil well, at all, really– but you certainly didn't quite expect him to be this harsh.
It was rather...rude, you bitterly thought.
Albeit, you couldn't say the unwashed part wasn't true– it was for Grim, at least.
" Do not disturb him during his rehearsals. " he sneered, leering at the three.
You watched as Ace and Deuce face's soured, your own doing so too.
Rehearsals– and yet Epel was singing out in the open? It would be one thing if you all disturbed him in the auditorium– but this was the courtyard.
Ace narrowed his eyes at the housewarden, gritting his teeth. " Excuse me? "
Deuce glanced cautiously at Ace before looking back at Vil. " We weren't trying to disturb him," he argued, frowning.
You hummed, looking at Vil. " They're right– we heard Epel singing and came over here out of curiosity. We can leave, Vil– if you need us to," you said, brows furrowed as you looked at the male.
You didn't want to get on Vil's bad side– of all people he may be one of the least you'd like to anger– if not the one.
But, you also couldn't stand here and let him be rude to Ace and Deuce for no apparent reason, over a simple misunderstanding.
Epel's blue eyes glanced at you, a frown settling on his lips as he took a step toward Vil. " Vil, they ain't done nothin' to deserve how you're talkin'! Ah was..." the male paused, face scrunching up before he coughed, correcting himself.
" I was– " the boy was cut off with a glare. " Epel, how many times have I told you to avoid improper contractions and double negatives? How are you supposed to get anywhere if you break character any time your emotions grow heated? " he asked, frowning as he crossed his arms.
You paused, blinking owlishly at Vil's choice of words.
Breaking character?
" You'll never be a bright red poison apple at this rate," he said, lavender eyes glancing at you for a moment before they went back to the blue-eyed boy. " Come, Epel. We're leaving," he muttered.
Epel blinked, turning his head to look between you and Vil, a frown on his face. " But honestly, I'd rather be– "
Vil turned his head, narrowing his eyes down at the boy. " Have you forgotten our agreement? Now come. " he hissed, doing his best to keep his composure, it seemed.
You frowned, watching the scene.
" Hey, hold up. I don't care if you are housewarden. He doesn't wanna go. " Ace sneered, taking a step forward.
You paused.
Ace had said something before you.
Ace had said something before you.
Your brows furrowed as you looked at the ground.
You've been so hesitant this entire time to speak back to Vil– to reprimand him for how he's been acting, or what he's been saying– because you're afraid to anger him, and because you want to earn his favor.
Because he's powerful.
But in the end is it really all that worth it if you exchange your morals for power?
You'd just be doing the same thing you condemn people for, you bitterly realized.
Grim pouted as he crossed his arms, looking at Vil. " And I don't appreciate you callin' us potatoes the moment you met us," he said, glowering up at the male.
Deuce looked between the two with wide eyes, taking a step back. " Guys, no! The head mage told us repeatedly that fightings against the rules! " he said, stressed.
You huffed.
" We can settle this without a fight. " you hissed, glancing at the boys before looking at Vil with a frown. " It's rather unbecoming of a housewarden such as yourself to force a dorm member to do something against their will, Vil," you said, crossing your arms.
" If you're so worried about Epel practicing his singing, I'll sit here– quietly– and monitor him, there's no need to force him to go with you," you argued.
Forcing Epel to go with him– while not the worst situation– certainly wasn't the best.
And you couldn't just stand there and do nothing, you realized.
Epel blinked owlishly, cheeks reddening as he watched you stand up for him before he turned to look at Vil. " Exactly! I'll be fine, really... " he said, voice trailing.
Vil huffed, a smirk crossing his lips as he observed the situation.
He had to give you credit where credit was due– he didn't expect you of all people to try and reprimand him for how he was acting.
And in all honesty– he would have allowed you to watch over Epel– he knows about your little escapade in Octavinelle.
But if there was one thing about Vil– it was his pride.
He wasn't threatened– not at all, but where was the fun in simply letting these boys go without showing them what he was capable of?
Especially when they had the guts to at least try and fight him– they deserved as much as a chance, no?
" Mere tubers dare to challenge my authority? A bold move. " he cooed, leering at the boys from beneath his lashes. " This should make for a fine post-meal workout. Try me. I'll make mashed potatoes out of the lot of you. " he sneered, confidence coming off Vil in waves.
You frowned as you watched them get their magic pens out, you and Epel quickly making your way out of the 'fight zone', eyes sweeping the stances the boys quickly took on.
As expected, Ace and Deuce were less refined in their stances than Vil was– bodies bent and legs spread to get a better balance, they readied their magical pens.
Vil, on the other hand– was much more poised in his stance. His back was straight, and he seemed to be looking down on the boys, eyes narrowed as he held his pen rather flippantly– as if telling them he hardly even needed to wield it properly to beat them.
And that was probably the truth.
" How childish they are– the lot of them, " you muttered in disdain, eyes narrowed as you adjusted your stance– arms crossed.
You didn't expect Vil to do something as childish as fight first years– especially not as Housewarden.
Albeit, you suppose it was naive of you to try and think of what Vil would do so early on in knowing him.
You can't calculate someone you don't know.
The fight, as expected– was over in a matter of seconds. Vil stood poised and perfect as he looked down at the first years with a sigh. " Your moves are all utterly unchoreographed. It's embarrassing to watch, frankly– and woefully inelegant, to boot," he muttered.
" You get a five out of one hundred," he concluded, leering. " Next time you pick a fight, think twice about who you're challenging. " Vil sneered, sighing as he fixed his posture. " Ihr kämpft wie kinder... " he said before pausing. " Nein, children fight better than you... " he muttered, casting the boys a glance.
Epel sighed as he watched Deuce and Ace wince from the pain. " Ah...they took all that because of me... " he muttered, frowning, head bowed as he looked at the damage.
You blinked owlishly, glancing at the male.
He was blaming himself?
Vil hummed as he looked at Epel. " My, I must seem like quite the villain," he said, lips pursed. " But know this, Epel– the fault lies entirely with you for skipping your rehearsals during the holidays. " he sneered, making you pause with wide eyes.
Vil– he had the audacity to blame Epel for what he, himself– did?
A fight wasn't needed– Vil just had too much pride to let Deuce and Ace go. It was childish.
And the entire situation made your blood boil.
Vil frowned as he looked down at Epel. " There is much work left to be done if we are to earn our places as SDC finalists," he said, pausing as he narrowed his eyes. " You don't get to be number one by relaxing. Now come. " he beckoned, twirling around.
Epel frowned, looking at the ground– choosing not to glance back at your faces. " See you later, guys," he said weakly, following Vil closely behind.
You watched with a frown– the entire scene, situation– it was all just so disturbing.
The way Vil seemed to control Epel.
The way Vil blamed Epel for something he didn't even do.
It was no wonder Epel seemed to blame himself– currently, that's all he's been told.
Watching the scene made your skin itch in discomfort, the gaze of reprimand Vil gave Epel forever etched into your mind.
Grim frowned, tail laying behind him as he watched the Pomefiore males walk away. " Mraah...after all that, he still got yoinked away," he muttered in defeat.
Ace scoffed as he glared at where Vil once stood, arms crossed. " What a downer, is there some kinda rule in this school that you can't be housewarden unless you're a tremendous jerk? " he sneered.
You sighed.
While not all housewardens here were rude– Kalim was a fine example of that– there was an unusual and highly concerning amount of powerful people in this school that used their power and positions for less than righteous reasons.
It was concerning, to say the least– and every time you encountered one, you were relieved to not be a member of their dorm.
Deuce frowned, lips pouted as he stared at the floor. " We were...unwise, to pick that fight," he muttered. " If Housewarden Rosehearts hears about this, it might be off with our heads," he said, mimicking the famed action with his finger.
You hummed. " Don't worry about Riddle– if he asks any questions, I'll just...explain it all to him. You both didn't have a fight because you simply could– you did it in order to try and protect a fellow classmate, something I'm sure Riddle will understand," you muttered, glancing worriedly at the scratches and marks that they obtained from the fight.
" Although– I do think we should get you both checked out. He may not get mad at you both for the fight– but he will be angered if you continue to become injured and do nothing about it," you muttered, gently touching a scratch on Ace's arm, and watching as he winced.
Deuce sighed. " Professor Crewel should be in his office, right? " he asked you shyly, walking next to you.
You hummed, nodding your head. " He should... "
You would know– you've been in there too many times to count.
While you all walked away– you failed to notice the green eyes that watched your form walk away. Lips curling up in amusement, the male could only watch as you left.
Bowing his head, the male watched with hidden glee. " Ma Reine de Cœur, you're far more interesting than I give you credit for. Shall we meet soon, Ma Dame," he whispered.
—
As soon as you entered the room, you could feel Crewel's exhaustion– probably from a mile away.
The male turned, steel eyes narrowing at your forms. The male's coat seemed to flow behind him as he quickly walked up to your form, bending at the waist– the male seemed to scrutinize your form. " What happened now? " he asked, standing straight.
You pursed your lips, watching as Crewel forced Deuce and Ace on cot beds. " Vil fought them," you responded plainly, crossing your arms as you watched Crewel practically dance around the room.
Crewel paused in his steps, slowly turning to face you with furrowed brows. " Pup– not that I don't believe you, but Schoenheit? Fought these roughed-up dogs? " he asked, casting the boys a glance.
Albeit, they clearly were not roughed up before Vil decided to fight them.
You hummed. " It's...a long story– but to put it simply, yes. Vil fought them, and you can see how that turned out," you muttered in disdain, watching as Crewel gently bandaged the boys up.
Crewel furrowed his brows as he stepped back, admiring his bandaged work. " I don't think I've ever known Schoenheit to fight people– just what did you two do in order to anger him this much? " he asked, twirling around.
Ace groaned as he threw himself on the bed, lying face up. " Nothing! That's the thing! All we did was try and tell him he didn't have to be so demanding with Epel, and– "
Crewel held a hand out, stopping Ace. " Well, then it makes sense now," he said, resisting the urge to roll his eyes as he held up two potion bottles, gently handing one to each male.
Deuce quirked a brow as he looked at the professor. " What do you mean, Professor? " he asked gently, taking the cork off the bottle– wincing as the smell hit him from how strong it was.
Not that it was unpleasant, just surprising.
Crewel sighed. " Felmier is Schoenheits protégé. You were most likely stepping on his toes when you told him not to be so ' demanding ' with Felmier– because that's his job. Albeit, I've seen it– and the boy can be a little rough on the first year. " he said, frowning in thought before sighing.
" Nonetheless, Schoenheit is also probably stressed with all that's to come from the SDC– although, none of this excuses him from fighting two first years only a couple days back into the semester," he said, crossing his arms.
You blinked owlishly, eyes glancing at the floor in thought.
Crewel wasn't excusing Vil by any means– you knew that. He was simply providing a new view on the situation, albeit, a slightly less and equally more informed one.
The possibility of Vil simply being stressed was entirely an option and one you could see being true.
But, none of this could excuse him for blaming Epel for something out of his control– for something Vil did.
To be completely honest– it reminded you entirely of you and your Father.
Your view on Vil had changed, however– and you couldn't necessarily say it was a good change.
Crewel's sigh brought you out of your thoughts. " Well– you'd all better be going now, free period doesn't last forever you know," he said, teasing you all lightly as Deuce and Ace jumped off the beds.
You exhaled, sending Crewel a small smile. " Thank you, Professor– for everything," you said, attempting to stress how entirely grateful you were for the male.
Crewel hummed, placing his hands on his hips as he looked at you. " You needn't worry Pup– I'm just doing my job," he reassured you, eyes gazing at you with softness.
The male watched as you exited the door, Deuce holding it open for you.
As soon as it shut, he sighed– moving his hair out of his face with his hand, he could only stare at the floor with tired eyes.
It was clear you were better– and yet all the same you were very obviously worse.
For a moment, Crewel thought back to the first time he saw you when he came back from winter break.
—
Crewel furrowed his brows, arms crossed as he walked next to Crowley, casting the male a dirty glance. " What do you mean there's been an 'incident' Crowley? " he asked, voice hissing.
The crow-masked male could only purse his lips, and suspicions rose when they stopped in front of the nurse's office– or, better yet, Crewel's second office.
Furrowing his brows, Crewel quickly pushed the doors open– only to be met with you and Jamil, who sat opposite of each other in the room.
At the new person, Jamil straightened his posture, while you looked up, eyes wide as you gazed at the heaving form of Crewel, who seemed exasperated at the sight.
Swiftly turning around, Crewel glared at Crowley. " Don't tell me. " he hissed, lips curled in a sneer as he gazed at the head mage, who only bowed his head in response.
Scrunching his face up, Crewel pushed Crowley out of the room– and slammed the door on him shut. His form stayed there for a moment, the male trying to calm himself down before he turned around, eyes flickering between you and Jamil.
Furrowing his brows, the male walked over to Jamil first, yet glanced at you as he picked the male's arm up to inspect. " Tell me– everything," he stressed, making Jamil's eyes go wide with panic.
You hummed, fiddling with your fingers. " Jamil overblotted over winter break– and since you weren't here, we tried to make do with what supplies Scarabia had on hand. There were a few minor scratches and cuts, nothing too big– " you began to explain, eyes going wide as Jamil cut you off.
" She has a headache– had, I don't know if she still has it, " he muttered, his words jumbling together as he tried to get them out.
You blinked owlishly as Jamil seemed to avoid your gaze, furrowing his brows and looking at anything and everything that wasn't you.
Crewel sighed as he stood up, making his way over to you. " A headache, you say? Did you hit your head– did she hit her head? " he asked, glancing back at Jamil, who shook his head.
Crewel hummed, looking back at you. " You didn't hit your head– so thankfully a concussion can be ruled out. Have you been getting enough sleep? " he asked, narrowing his steel eyes down at you.
At that, you paused.
And that simple pause was enough to give Crewel an answer, it seemed.
Sighing, the male pushed his hair back and walked over to the cabinet– the famed cabinet– and pulled out the familiar potions, handing them to you and Jamil. The male's steel eyes seemed to bore holes in you.
" Your headache was probably the cause of not enough sleep and stress– take this as your warning to fix that, " he said, frowning.
You only bowed your head in response– not able to give the male a sufficient answer– or even, one he would be happy to hear.
—
The male sighed, throwing his head back.
Time and time again you were thrown into situations you shouldn't be thrown into.
And your inevitable death from it all was going to be the death of him.
With one last glance at the door, Crewel turned away.
—
You blinked owlishly as you watched Ace stretch, a frown on his face as he began to mimic in anger what Vil had said. " 'Your moves are all utterly unchoreographed. It's embarrassing to watch, frankly– and woefully inelegant to boot'. " he sneered, popping up.
" 'You get a five out of one hundred.' " Grim mimicked, carrying where Ace left off. " Ooh, he makes me so mad! " the cat demon exclaimed, jumping up and down.
The cat demon huffed as he watched you get off the bench, making your way over to the group. " I'm gonna wow 'em at the auditions with my slick moves and dulcet tones! They'll all be like, ' Please, O' Great Grim, you have to represent us!' " he mimed.
Ace stared blankly at the cat demon, red eyes trailing to your own– to which you just sighed.
The red-haired male narrowed his eyes at the cat before looking at Deuce. " Sooo...Deuce. You changed your mind about auditioning. What gives? " he asked, crossing his arms as he tilted his head to the side.
Deuce huffed. " I'm not taking all that smack talk lying down! Besides...I'm a little worried about that guy. " he admitted.
You hummed, glancing curiously at the male. " Epel? " you asked, watching as Deuce nodded his head, casting you a small smile.
" Yeah. He didn't seem like he was taking part in the SDC because he wanted to. Back when you and he bumped into each other– I noticed he was crying. " he said, frowning at the memory. " As an honors student, I can't ignore someone being forced to do something against their will," he announced, making you pause.
Being forced to do things against your will– something you were all too familiar with, even here, in Twisted Wonderland.
Epel was an interesting situation from what you've gathered– because while it was almost terribly obvious he was being forced to practice for the SDC– he had, somehow, earned the title of Vil's protégé, according to Crewel.
And Vil seemed like he had Epel under lock and key– almost to an extreme extent.
Epel's reaction to the entire thing only further sufficed that conclusion.
You cast Deuce and Ace a glance. " Epel seemed rather intimidated by Vil– and while I understand that, it was almost like he was afraid of him. " you pointed out, frowning.
Epel's situation wasn't one of intimidation– it was him being scared of Vil.
And while surface level you could understand it– Vil was an extremely intimidating person, it was only natural to be a little scared of approaching him– it was also rather obvious there was more to the entire situation.
And just thinking about it all made you tired.
Ace sighed as he looked at Deuce through his lashes. " Y'know, a real honors student wouldn't refer to themselves as one, " he said before nodding. " Epel's clearly faint of heart. I mean, just look at the guy. Forcing someone like that to compete just seems...mean. " he said, frowning.
You paused, furrowing your brows.
Ace was going entirely based on Epel's looks– it was glaringly obvious– but that's not what bothered you about what he said.
What bothered you was how he was ignoring the difference in Epel's personality.
When with you, Ace, and Deuce– the boy seemed rather confident– uncomfortable, sure, especially after his accent change– but confident, and almost snarky, to a certain extent.
But when Vil showed up all of that changed– he was meek, bowing his head– and when he tried to argue, a simple look from Vil had him hesitant.
It wasn't Epel being afraid to compete– that's not what was wrong about Vil making him compete in the SDC at all– it was the fact that Epel just didn't want to compete.
" That's why I say we put on a better performance than Epel's. We can knock him out of the running for the contest ourselves. You said it yourself, right? ' It's not appropriate to audition on a lark when you're not serious about gunning for the top spot'. " Ace recited, smiling at Deuce.
You blinked owlishly.
How did he remember that all?
Tilting his head to the side, Ace grinned. " If he doesn't want the spot, we'll take it for ourselves. "
You resisted the urge to sigh– because it was rather obvious Ace was doing this less for Epel, and more for himself– not that anything was wrong with that, because you had to give Ace credit where credit was due– he was playing Deuce like a fiddle.
Using his own morals against him to get what Ace wanted– a rather smart move.
Grim cheered, obviously ecstatic at the idea of it all– and probably completely missing the purpose. " Sounds good to me! Let's start with some dance practice. Y/n, cue the music! " he chirped, pointing a paw at you.
You sighed, picking Ace's phone up– which was connected to a speaker– and pressing play.
" What am I– your dance manager? " you asked under your breath, sitting down as you began to watch them practice.
You watched the boys dance, going to their legs that moved across the floor– shoes hitting the ground, squeaks echoing through the room as they danced to their heart's content.
It was... amateur at best, you quickly decided, wincing every time Deuce managed to get his legs tangled together.
When the music came to an end, Deuce was leaning on his knees, breath haggard as he looked up at Ace– who didn't seem to cast even a sweat.
" You can't even pull off basic baby steps, Deuce. " Ace laughed, grinning as he looked down at the boy, who stood up abruptly, narrowing his blue eyes at the male. " Hey, whaddaya want from me?! I've never danced in my life! " he argued.
You sighed, standing up as you walked over to the group– looking down at Grim who winced, looking at his paws. " Myow ow ow...my hands 'n feet are movin' at the same time... " he whined quietly.
" I've danced a bit– but never something like this before... " you muttered, looking between the two boys. " If it's any consolation– it didn't look too bad from afar unless you looked at your legs, " you said, offering an amused smile.
Deuce sighed, hunching his form over. " That...doesn't make me feel better. "
The sound of doors opening had you all turning your heads– watching as Kalim and Jamil entered the room, making you furrow your brows.
You felt pricks against your skin as Jamil and Kalim walked closer to you– and Jamil seemed just as uncomfortable at the entire situation as you did, you noticed.
There was an unspoken agreement– between you and Jamil.
It was far too soon– it felt too soon– for you to be meeting again. The both of you had your own problems to work out– and the high-strung air that seemed to surround you two hadn't dissipated yet.
You didn't hate Jamil– you could say that with the utmost certainty.
But you held resentment towards him– big or small, it was there, and it was a bitter feeling.
Kalim wasn't naive to this, his large smile strained as he glanced between you and Jamil, head tilted to the side. " Are you guys dancing, too? Mind if we join in? " he asked, ruby-red eyes gleaming at you from under the gym's lights.
And for a moment it seemed like Kalim was asking you, specifically.
The small motion made your heart flutter.
You hummed, giving the male a curt nod– because who were you to say no?
Perhaps if this was a private spot– if this was taking place at Ramshackle– but it wasn't, this was a public area for any to join in– and you didn't own the spot.
Besides, you would be just like Vil if you said no, you thought in slight amusement.
Grim's tail lashed behind him as he watched the duo walk closer, cerulean eyes narrowing. " It's Scarabia's most dysfunctional duo! " the cat demon mewled, making Jamil frown, glaring down at the cat with a sneer.
" I don't appreciate you making up pet names. And we are not dysfunctional. " he hissed, arms crossed.
You blinked owlishly.
They very obviously were dysfunctional– but to each their own, you thought.
Ace hummed, throwing the two a small wave– albeit, you could see his stand-offish guard. " Hey, Kalim, Jamil. Lemme guess: you guys are auditioning for the SDC too? " he asked, tilting his head slightly.
Kalim smiled, red eyes bright and wide as he glanced at the male. " Yup! It's a big festival, and there's no better occasion to dance! " he chirped. " Jamil and I happen to both be good at that and singing. Right, Jamil? " he asked, turning his head with a smile– making your eyes go wide.
You were aware they were good dancers– they danced with you, after all.
But to think they could also both sing?
Jamil leered at Kalim through his lashes, frowning as his arms remained crossed. " I'd rather not draw that much attention to myself, personally," he said, sighing.
Kalim hummed, nodding to himself before he looked at the boys. " I saw you guys from behind, and goodness, you've all got two left feet! " he chirped, smile never wavering as he looked between them.
Ace quickly whipped his head in your direction, a glare on his features. " I thought you said it didn't look that bad! " he exclaimed, finger pointed in your direction.
You frowned. " Well– from a distance," you argued, pausing as you thought for a moment. " If you squint... " you continued.
You pursed your lips.
Oh.
Ace threw his head back with an exaggerated sigh, all the while Kalim laughed cheerfully– obviously finding some humor in the situation. " It was like watching an elephant panic and rear back on its hind legs! "
You blinked owlishly– you were happy someone found amusement in this all.
Albeit– that was both an odd comparison and one that seemed rather on-brand for Kalim.
Kalim continued, crossing his arms as he looked at the boys. " You can hardly dance, and you'll have to do that while simultaneously singing at the audition. Maybe you're in above your heads here," he said, smiling softly at them.
You hummed, taking in what Kalim had said.
He was right– perhaps the boys did bite off more than they could chew.
It wouldn't be the first time.
Deuce frowned, looking at Kalim. " The fact that you said all of that with complete sincerity makes it even worse," he muttered, glancing away.
Ace stayed silent for a minute, seemingly scrutinizing Jamil– whose face was scrunched as he looked at the male with confusion. Soon, Ace broke the silence. " Hey, come to think of it– Jamil, you taught Floyd some dance moves at Basketball practice once," he said, pointing a finger in the male's direction, making you blink owlishly as you turned to look at him.
Jamil taught Floyd how to dance?
The image in your head had to make one laugh– because the idea seemed almost absurd.
Especially taking into account how Floyd was a merman– and, to your knowledge, needed to learn how to walk at some point, from the way the four familiar Octavinelle students spoke.
" Dancing is...kinda your thing, right? Mind sharing some pro starts with us? " he asked, rubbing his head.
Kalim hummed at the idea, thinking for a moment before a grin took over his face. " That's a great idea, actually! You can't go wrong with Jamil as your coach. " he chirped.
" He asked me, not you! " Jamil exclaimed, crossing his arms as he looked at Kalim with wide eyes, brows furrowed before he scoffed, glancing back at Ace. " Anyway– teaching makes good practice for me, so...sure. " he agreed, making you stifle a laugh.
Once again– no matter how much you may hold resentment for Jamil, he was damn funny.
As Jamil started walking closer to the boys with Kalim following suit, you decided to turn back around– and headed over to get the music ready.
As you two passed, Jamil's eyes lingered on the lotus that lay in your hair a moment longer than needed, eyes wide with surprise before they drifted back to Ace and Deuce.
" For beginners, we should start with isolation. Spread your feet as wide as your shoulders... " he instructed, his words being drowned out– and into white noise as far as you were concerned.
As you watched the boys practice– you couldn't help but feel bitter.
Bitter that they got to do something so fun– and while you could, too, you were holding yourself back with the past– and that itself made you angry.
You were holding yourself back– and being fully self-aware of it all made it ten times worse, you realized.
Blinking, you zoned back in, watching and listening to what Jamil had to say and teach.
Jamil walked around Deuce, a frown on his lips as he observed the boy's form. " Deuce, ease up your shoulders a bit more. Moving your head and shoulders at the same time will make your whole body look stiff," he explained.
Deuce blinked owlishly as he turned his head, trying to see Jamil even as the boy walked around him in circles. " How am I supposed to move my head and shoulders separately?! Just thinking about that would make me fall behind the music," he admitted.
Jamil hummed, stopping in his tracks. " You won't get anywhere by thinking things out. Just follow the rhythm and work on your muscle memory," he instructed, making the blue-haired boy sigh.
As Jamil helped Deuce, you noticed Kalim was rather hyper to help Ace– and Grim– a smile on his face as he guided the red-haired male with ease since Ace seemed to be the one of the two that had a better grasp on dancing.
Before you knew it– time had flown by, Jamil glancing at the clock on the wall. " Ah, afternoon class is about to start. Time to wrap up our practice session," he muttered, making Kalim frown.
" Aww, already? Time sure flies when you're busting moves! " he said, smiling softly as he watched you get up.
You watched in slight amusement as Deuce– ever so out of breath, started to thank Kalim and Jamil with the utmost sincerity– and formality, you realized. " Jamil! Kalim! Thank you for the training session, sirs! " he exclaimed.
The two boys looked at the first years with wide eyes– perhaps not expecting it over something they deemed a simple, friendly gesture.
Ace nodded. " Seriously, Jamil. I can tell you're used to tutoring. In less than an hour, you've gotten Deuce and Grim from zero skills to...some skills. " he said, smiling.
Jamil huffed, dark eyes going to Deuce's blue ones. " Your sense of rhythm is lacking, but you've got solid reflexes. Keep practicing, and you should be able to get the hang of dance eventually," he advised, crossing his arms.
Deuce nodded his head in triumph as Jamil moved on. " It's...hard to gauge whether Grim has actually improved any, but...he's agile. I suppose. Maybe. " he said, brows furrowed as he looked down at the cat demon.
You sighed, staring at the cat demon, too. " He's Grim– that's the only way to describe it. "
Grim seemed to pay no mind to your words as he cheered. " This has been pretty fun, actually. I'll show you all even smoother moves tomorrow! " he cheered, making Jamil sigh.
" Be careful not to focus too hard on dancing. You can't afford to neglect your singing. You need to strike a proper balance between the two in your rehearsals. " he advised, making you hum.
A perfect balance– something this group seemed to have a hard time maintaining.
Deuce sighed. " True. We've still got a lot of work to do," he admitted, looking at the ground.
For a moment all was silent until Kalim broke it, looking between you all. " Hey, guys. What would you say to group practice sessions starting tomorrow? " he asked. " Jamil's a great singer, for the record. You should get him to demonstrate," he said, grinning.
Jamil whipped his head, looking at the male with wide eyes– and even though it was extremely obvious to you what Kalim was doing, it was amusing to see Jamil fall for it every time. " What– again, you're making commitments on my behalf! " he exclaimed.
Kalim grinned, almost mockingly, as he looked at Jamil. "What's the harm in that? When it comes to dancing, singing, and parties, the rule of thumb is the more the merrier! " he chirped, making Jamil sigh.
" Such a demanding bunch you are...but fine. So be it. Be warned, though– if you think I'll go easy on you, think again. " he warned, narrowing his eyes at the boys.
Ace scoffed, rolling his eyes as he waved his hand flippantly. " Yeah, whatever. We're used to being run ragged by our own housewarden. " he sneered, crossing his arms.
Jamil stared at the two for a while before sighing. " Then, before we leave, we'd best tidy things up. Go fetch some mops from storage," he ordered.
And, in perfect harmony, Ace, Deuce, and Kalim all went to go find mops– making Jamil stare with wide eyes as the Asim heir ran around to look for cleaning supplies.
" Kalim, you don't have to... " he said, words trailing before he sighed, making you smile lightly in amusement.
You glanced at Jamil for a moment. " Lively bunch, aren't they? " you asked quietly.
Jaml stared at you with wide eyes for a moment, about to respond before the gym doors opened– a familiar head of lavender hair poking through.
Azul's steely eyes looked around before stopping on Jamil, a smile forming its way onto his lips. " Ah, excellent. There you are, Jamil," he said in glee.
You watched as Azul walked in, shutting the door behind him as he cast you a smile.
Jamil narrowed his eyes at the male, arms crossed. " What do you want, Azul? " he asked, lips curling up in a sneer as the male approached.
Azul huffed, a smirk on his face as he put his hand up in an exaggerated motion, covering his heart. " Why, what ever could I have done to earn your ire? And here I thought we were the closest of classmates! " he exclaimed, obviously finding Jamil's reaction amusing.
" More to the point, you're on class duty, correct? Our afternoon Magic History period is going to be a study hall today. Professor Trein wants you to come and get the classwork printouts from the faculty office. " the Octavinelle Housewarden explained, steel eyes glancing around the gymnasium.
Jamil visibly relaxed at that, the male un-folding his arms. " Fine. I'll be right there," he muttered, dark eyes looking around the room for Kalim.
Grim blinked owlishly at the scene, furrowing his brows. " Say, didn't Azul stream Jamil's whole diabolical plan to the world? " he asked, looking between the two.
You hummed.
Azul hummed, smiling down at the cat demon. " Please– it was, more or less– a bluff on my end. I was streaming, yes– but nobody was watching due to me only streaming it to the Housewardens only. The only people who even know of the entire ordeal were those involved, the staff, and the Housewardens. " he explained, a coy smile taking over his face.
You paused, blinking owlishly.
There was an entire housewarden meeting over the Scarabia Overblot– one where Crowley went into explicit detail about how he had 'kept the stream from the public', and how it was a 'strenuous task'.
The head mage made it very clear the entire meeting that it was something he worked very hard to keep secret from the public.
And here Azul was, telling you the stream was never public in the first place?
Crowley was only spouting nonsense to make himself look more capable– something you'd never put past him– albeit, it was very disheartening to see him do it over such a serious situation about a student.
Azul scoffed as he leered down at Grim. " I can't believe you thought that I, the very soul of benevolence, would willingly destroy a classmate's reputation and social standing! " he said, looking down at the cat with fake hurt.
Jamil stared blankly at Azul, crossing his arms as he looked on unamused. " You absolutely would. " he sneered.
Grim huffed. " A real nice guy wouldn't tell such a nasty lie in the first place. " he hissed up at the male.
Azul huffed, smirking at the two. " Unlike Leona, I don't torment others for sport. I never do more than what is strictly necessary," he said, puffing his chest out in pride.
You frowned, leering at the male from beneath your lashes. " Azul– let us not forget the time you made me homeless– and made me work for you. " you sneered, making the male cough as he looked to the side.
" Yes– well, I will admit...that was a bit extreme of me," he muttered, cheeks red before he coughed once more. " Anyway– I obtained some perfectly good intel from the experience. I would never dream of devaluing my own assets! " he exclaimed, arguing with you all as if he really couldn't believe you would think so lowly of him.
It was just evidence to show that people were truly naive to how they behave, you thought.
Jamil stared at the male for a moment, lips pursed before he sighed, rolling his eyes. " Whatever you say. But you know what? I'll grudgingly admit that thanks to Azul's... " the male paused, grimacing as he spoke. " 'Benevolence', my parents and the Asim Family still don't know the real reason I overblotted– nor do the Amins, thankfully," he said, eyes going downcast.
" As for the students... "
—
The Scarabia students looked at Kalim with furrowed brows, worry evident on their faces. " Housewarden Kalim, I don't understand! Why aren't you replacing Jamil as vice housewarden? " one asked.
Another nodded in frantic agreement. " He's been deceiving us all for ages, yourself included! " he stressed. " He might still be plotting something. He needs to be dismissed! "
Kalim blinked owlishly, looking with wide eyes between all the students as he laughed sheepishly, ducking his head. " You're all so worried about me– thanks. That's really nice of you all," he said, looking at them warmly.
The male sighed as he crossed his arms. " Here's the thing though...he's not the only one at fault for this mess," he admitted, a frown on his lips as he looked at the ground. " I share some of the blame. "
The male's red eyes glanced up, looking at the boys with a light smile. " Besides, I would bet there isn't a single person in Scarabia who hasn't gotten help from Jamil at some point. Am I right? " he asked, looking around.
The crowd of boys paused, nervously glancing around– hoping, expecting someone to dismiss their housewarden and his almost naive point of view.
But nobody could.
A satisfactory smile appeared on Kalim's lips. " See? There you go! He's been a model vice housewarden. In fact, he's put me to shame. " the male admitted, laughing pityfully as he looked at the ground.
" He let dark thoughts get the better of him for a brief time– and while it's not something to look over, I can fully admit that I was part of the reason it happened in the first place. " Kalim spoke, looking up. " But other than that, he's a perfectly capable guy. " he reasoned.
A frown took over Kalim's lips as he crossed his arms. " It's true that he used you all to try and kick me out...but Jamil never once tried to hurt me before the holiday incident," he said. " And believe me, he could have. He has had every possible opportunity to do far worse things," he stressed, making sure they knew– because it was true.
Jamil had every opportunity and more to try and harm Kalim– from simple harm to assassination, Jamil could even succeed at such a thing.
But he never did– and even when grief, anger, and frustration took over his body– he still didn't attempt to harm Kalim.
Only throw him out.
Even in a wrong state of mind, Jamil never meant to physically hurt Kalim.
And that spoke volumes in and of itself.
Kalim looked up with a smile. " But he never did. Not once in seventeen years," he admitted softly. " I know I can't exactly call him a good guy– but even then," he spoke, looking to the ground.
" I can't excuse what he did– and we shouldn't. It's frustrating not being able to explain myself better, but...could you give us just a little more time to sort this out? " he asked, looking at his students– who, in turn, seemed to gaze back at him with awe.
As Kalim continued to converse with the students– doing everything in his power to try and get them to understand that such a delicate matter was being taken care of– Jamil stared in the back, frowning with furrowed brows.
Jamil was no fool to how genuinely serious the situation was– no one knew the full extent of how truly serious it was for him or Kalim.
Everyone else saw it as a simple betrayal– Jamil being fed up with Kalim in power.
And in every other circumstance, it was just that.
Betrayal.
But Kalim, nor Jamil– were not normal. They didn't have normal lives or roles.
Jamil had committed treason.
Jamil had attempted a coup– to overthrow the Al-Asim heir, a treason to the Asim family, essentially.
In the past– people who did what Jamil had done were expected to lay down their lives in order to repent.
And of course, with modern times that was frowned upon– but it couldn't be overlooked that Jamil did attempt a coup– a small one, and one over the Scarabian dorm– but a coup over the Asim Heir nonetheless.
And here Kalim was, keeping it all to himself– his lips practically zipped shut.
Jamil didn't understand it– Kalim should have been screaming at the top of his lungs to home– ordering Jamil and his family to be ripped out of the country.
And yet he wasn't.
And he wouldn't.
Because as much trust as Kalim had put into Jamil– and as much of it was tainted and lost– if there was one thing about Kalim, it was that you could trust him.
To the grave and back, Jamil thought bitterly.
—
" We've been more or less treading water ever since. " Jamil spoke, a frown on his lips. " Scarabia emphasizes mindfulness and forethought. Our students are trying to avoid jumping to conclusions. They're watching and waiting to see who's more beneficial to side with. " he said, sighing. " Myself and Kalim included. "
You hummed in thought.
The entire situation was a strained one– so strained it would be difficult to even attempt to understand, because you couldn't understand what Kalim or Jamil were going through.
They had to walk on eggshells around their families– their students, and themselves.
The trust they had in each other was gone, and who knew if it would ever come back?
Azul, however– only huffed in amusement at the explanation, pushing his glasses up as he leered at Jamil. " Classic Scarabia," he muttered. " Astoundingly shameless, one and all. I'm impressed the two of you would even dance together after everything that transpired," he admitted, smirking.
You didn't know much about their situation– to be fair nobody did, other than what they let others see. But, from what the two had shown today, Kalim and Jamil were very good at displaying partnership, even if it was currently strained beyond belief.
A part of you wanted to chalk it up to them being raised to be able to do so– and you were sure that was a large part of it.
But, you also were inclined to say that the two simply were just very good at hiding their emotions.
Jamil narrowed his eyes at Azul, huffing. " Say what you will. In my case, the overblot incident has caused my reputation at school to plummet," he admitted, frowning.
" It makes sense for me to fall in line with Kalim for a while, in the interest of improving my position within Scarabia and without," he explained.
Azul hummed, smirking as he moved his hair out of his face. " The students must be circling you like sharks, waiting for the first sign of blood so they can challenge you for your seat. " he cooed, almost sneering at the male– making you frown.
You wanted to say something– really, you did.
Because Azul was making snide remarks to Jamil about the male needing to rebuild his reputation– but the Octavinelle housewarden seemed to forget that not too long ago he was in the same position.
Every student that has overblotted thus far has had to rebuild the trust they broke, and some are still working on it.
Each incident has been isolated as far as you were aware– with only simple rumours flying around, outside of those who had actually seen the overblots.
So, damage control was easy– albeit, it seemed significantly harder for Jamil than anyone else– since the Scarabia students seemed to be so mindful about who to choose, and what to believe.
Azul continued. " If not for your clashing idiosyncrasies, it would be hard to imagine a more appealing person to serve than Kalim. He's, eventually, going to inherit an entire trove of treasure. " he pointed out, smirking.
" In our modern society, that wealth represents a power magnitudes greater than any magic. Why, it borders on omnipotence," he explained, making you hum.
" Who needs magic when you can just buy everything and everyone? " you muttered, glancing to the side.
Jamil sighed, clearly annoyed and exasperated with Azul. " Look. My holiday plot was a once-in-a-lifetime gambit. I thought that if I failed, my life would effectively be over. " he sneered. " But in the end, things aren't all that different now...thankfully," he muttered.
" As long as Kalim doesn't dismiss me, I'll continue to be his aid," he said, eyes hardening as he pursed his lips. " I'll continue to prove myself to those around me. That includes Kalim, my dormmates, my parents, the Asim and Amin family...and all of you," he spoke.
And for a moment, you were almost certain you saw Jamil directly look at you– his dark eyes meeting your own for a split second.
Like he was talking directly to you.
Grim huffed as he crossed his arms, looking up at the male. " Man, Jamil. You've gone from one person before the holidays to a whole other person after 'em. It's nuts! " he exclaimed, making you huff in amusement.
Azul chuckled. " I much prefer it this way. If Kalim ever does sack you, Octavinelle's doors are always open to you. We would gladly welcome someone with your pedigree. " he said, smiling.
You hummed, nodding. " I'll admit– it's a nice change not having to walk on eggshells around you now, Jamil," you admitted, making the male's eyes go wide for a moment before he turned to Azul.
Albeit, you still were walking on eggshells– just a different kind.
" Thank you, but not in a million years. Octavinelle is the last dorm I would ever transfer to," he said, almost sneering.
For a moment you thought of what other dorm Jamil could possibly be in– albeit, you don't think there is another dorm more befitting of Jamil than Scarabia.
Kalim's voice broke you out of your thoughts as he came jogging up to you all. " Hey, guys! We're gonna be late to class if we don't hustle! " he chirped.
Azul huffed, an amused smile on his face as he looked at Kalim. " Look at Kalim keeping us on track, instead of the other way around! I never thought I'd see the day," he spoke before glancing between you and Jamil.
" He's right, of course," he confirmed, smiling.
Jamil frowned, realizing the time– and how he still hadn't gotten what Professor Trein asked of him. The male narrowed his dark eyes at the merman. " I shouldn't have stood around chatting with you anyway. I'd better go get those printouts. " he sighed, turning around.
Before Jamil left, the male paused– turning around, his dark eyes met your own. " I'll see you around, Y/n," he spoke, ducking his head as he left– with Kalim closely following behind– waving at you as he exited out the door.
Ace looked at you with wide eyes. " Our next period is in the west building! That's a long ass walk. " he groaned, throwing his head back.
You sighed, walking up to the male and passing him his phone. " We better try and get there on time anyway– but if we need to, I'm sure I could think of an excuse," you spoke, frowning as you all walked out the door– with Grim screaming in order to try and catch up with you all.
—
It was a few days later– and, once again, the boys were training.
Vigorously, you might add.
You watched as the boys all stretched– surprisingly, none of them had problems doing so– albeit, most of them were in athletic clubs, save for Kalim, you learned.
" I've been seeing a lotta dudes rehearsing the audition number in the gym over lunch break. " Ace commented, looking up as he stretched.
From beside the red-haired male, Grim huffed in annoyance. " Those chumps better not be after the prize. Nobody takes my tuna! " he exclaimed, pausing his stretching in order to jump up and down in a fit.
Jamil, from his position on the floor– gave Grim a judging glance before sighing as he lifted himself up. " I suspect most of them are after a potential pro-debut than the prize money," he commented, making you hum.
It would be rather hard for the boys to top those who have been training for this moment– and when you thought about it, it was quite sad how some were after the money, while others– a career.
But you couldn't judge– in fact, you weren't.
Because money makes the world go round– and you can control the world, and everyone in it– with money.
Deuce hummed as he stood up, glancing at Jamil. " Now that you mention it, they do all seem like they're in their element," he concluded.
Jamil huffed as he crossed his arms. " Don't let them intimidate you. You've also made great strides with your singing ability. It's a far cry from when you started out sounding like a panicked elephant. " he said.
You paused, blinking owlishly.
What was with the elephant comparisons?
Kalim nodded, smiling brightly at the freshman. " You've also gotten better at holding a note! Vocal training isn't easy, and you put in the work. You all deserve a pat on the back! " he chirped, body swaying from side to side.
You hummed, shooting Deuce a small smile. " Kalim is right– you've improved significantly. It's better than most people, you know. " you pointed out lightly.
And you should know– you were most people.
It took you years to get to a level where you could sing on a stage, and not get booed off immediately.
And yet here Deuce was, doing it in days.
As much as you hated to admit it– you were envious of the boy.
To be fair you were envious of everyone– they weren't stuck in a new, magic-filled world with no way home– they weren't magicless, surrounded by people stronger than them. They didn't have to deal with that you did, as perhaps selfish as that seemed.
But those were, to you– okay. You had a right to be envious of them for those things.
And yet here you were, being envious of Deuce and what seemed to be a natural-born talent that he held.
Perhaps you were just envious in general– and you were projecting all of your negative emotions onto Deuce.
You don't know– you don't even know if you ever did– because it felt as if the longer you stayed here, in this school surrounded by nothing but boys– that being able to tell your feelings apart was getting more difficult by the day.
What you did know, however– was the more that you stared at Deuce, who stood getting praised– who stood while you praised him– a pit formed in your stomach.
Kalim clapped his hands, ruby-red eyes glancing around– furrowing lightly as he stared at you, who seemed to be zoned out, staring at Deuce with a light frown. " Now, let's get back to it. Today we'll focus on doing the whole song from start to finish! " he announced, practically bouncing on his heels from excitement.
One thing Kalim and Jamil had in common– was their love for dancing. Singing and Dancing were heavily a part of Scalding Sands culture, so it was exciting for the two to show off something they grew up with– and loved.
As Kalim stared at you, a smile on his lips– he could only hope that one day, perhaps you would share something you loved just as much with him.
Tilting his head to the side, Kalim beamed at you– almost blinding you with his teeth. " Y/n, do you mind hitting the music? " he asked, politeness seeping through his voice.
Blinking owlishly you came back to your senses, humming as you walked past the group.
Kalim wasn't the only one to see your zoned-out form as you looked at Deuce– Jamil and Ace did, too.
The envious expression on your face drew Jamil in– it was used by you back in Scarabia, and now, with Deuce.
It was an expression he was all too familiar with.
Ace, however– was more confused than anything. People didn't give the boy enough credit– when he paid attention, he did it well.
The freshman could discern your stare from one of wonder, or perhaps awe– to one of envy right away, because he wore that expression– multiple times a day when you interacted with somebody else, usually.
Ace was envious of many people– not that he would ever admit that– he was envious of Deuce's strong morals, or Riddle for the respect people had for him– Leona and Kalim for the wealth that seemed to drop off them in waves– he was envious of many things.
He was envious of the males that captured your attention, too.
But he's never seen you envious– it was a new expression to him. He didn't understand what there was to be envious of for you– other than, perhaps– the magic Deuce held.
It was curious, he quickly decided– but as the music began to filter through his ears, he didn't have enough time to dwell on it.
You sat politely, watching the boys dance their hearts out– and sing, too. They were in almost perfect harmony, and their voices melted together rather nicely– albeit, sounding somewhat like amateurs, but that was to be expected.
For a moment you felt as if you were watching a play– because the boys seemed to be in their own little world when they danced and sang together. The scene, the thought– it made you nauseous.
And you quickly realized why.
Because for as long as you could remember– you had been in that world– the world the boys were in now, while you sat like a bystander on the side.
Being self-aware was going to be the death of you, thought bitterly, eyes watching as the boys came to a stop, as did the music.
Deuce smiled at his accomplishment, looking around. " I pulled off the whole dance without missing a step! And I didn't blank out on any song lyrics, either. " he cheered, smiling so wide one might think his cheeks would burst.
Grim nodded excitedly, tail swaying behind him. " Myah ha! Same. I didn't step on my own tail once. "
Ace huffed in amusement at the two before he turned to Jamil, smiling boyishly. " I have to hand it to you, Jamil. It's no small feat to teach guys with such awful memories how to boogie. And in such a short time frame! " he chirped.
Kalim laughed. " It's true! Jamil makes everything super easy to understand, it's helped me a ton over the years," he said, nodding his head.
Jamil coughed, glancing to the side– clearly not used to such praise coming from someone other than Kalim. " Let's not make this about me," he muttered before sighing, looking at Deuce and Ace.
" You've got all the basics under your belt now. From here on out, you're on your own. Keep practicing for the audition. " he said, narrowing his eyes slightly.
Kalim hummed. " Guess we'll be rivals on audition day, huh? I'll still keep my fingers crossed for you guys! " he chirped.
Jamil huffed, glancing at Kalim before he gazed back at the boys. " Naturally, I don't plan to lose, either," he spoke, crossing his arms.
You sigh, gathering your things from the benches– picking Jamil's phone up, as well, which was used for music this time.
Jamil– and Kalim, by default– had a right to be cocky. They were exceptional dancers and exceptional singers to boot. The whole package, one might say.
It was a miracle the two even decided to help Ace and Deuce– but to beat them was going to be a whole other ordeal.
Ace smirked, rubbing his head. " Cocky much? Then again, I've got the same idea," he said, shrugging as he watched you make your way over.
Jamil hummed, thinking for a moment as his dark eyes watched you walk over– handing his phone back to him, he sent you a grateful nod before he looked at Ace and Deuce. " Oh, yes– have you applied for the audition yet? " he asked.
Grim stilled as he stared at the male with wide eyes. " Wait, what? "
Jamil stared for a moment– as if questioning if they were really that stupid before he let out a sigh. " Goof grief...I had a feeling. You're not exactly fastidious. " he muttered, looking at them with half-lidded eyes. " I'm glad I double-checked. "
Kalim let out a cheery laugh. " You're always on top of this stuff, Jamil! " he chirped.
Jamil narrowed his eyes at the heir. " Yes, well, some habits are ingrained in me from dealing with a certain someone on a regular basis," he said before sighing. " You need to apply in advance to take part in the SDC audition, " he explained.
" Rook Hunt in Class 3-A is handing out applications," he spoke, pointing a finger.
Ace hummed in understanding. " Oh, yeah– I remember reading that on the poster. "
The male continued. " The deadline to apply is the day before the audition. Don't forget to take care of that," he warned, narrowing his eyes.
To be completely honest– he was surprised you haven't taken care of that, having been dragged around by them with the entire SDC situation.
Albeit, he supposed you weren't their keeper– so it didn't really matter in the long run.
" Rook's easy to identify by his– " " Hat and blonde bob," you muttered, you and Jamil speaking in sync, making the male raise a brow as he looked at you.
" You know him, Y/n? " he asked, curiously. You pursed your lips as you looked to the side. " Well– I wouldn't say I know him personally, I know of him. We're in the same club– albeit, we've never talked. " you corrected.
Jamil hummed, taking in the information provided. " Well, anyhow, I'm sure you'll know him when you see him," he said.
You furrowed your brows. You've seen Rook, of course– but to people who haven't– ignoring the fact that Deuce and Ace have seen Rook before– it was a very ominous message.
Soon, you all had said your goodbyes, and you were out the door– on the way to class 3-A, in search of the famed and illusive Rook Hunt.
—
Deuce blinked owlishly at the room, looking at it with what seemed like awe.
Even though it was just a normal classroom.
" So this is 3-A...Hunt's haunt, as it were. It's kind of intimidating going into one of the upperclassmen's classrooms," he spoke, frowning as he looked around.
Students still sat at desks, either on their phones, gathering things, or just talking. Nobody seemed to pay you four any mind other than the occasional glance, and that was solely for you.
After all, the only girl on campus was in their classroom.
Ace hummed, pursing his lips as he looked around. " We barely ever interact with upperclassmen from other dorms as it is. Maybe we should flag down one of the Heartslabyul Juniors for this? " he asked, glancing at Deuce.
You huffed, crossing your arms as you looked around before your eyes landed on someone familiar.
There, sitting in the chair with his head rested lazily on the table, was Leona– whose ears twitched at the voices that filled the classroom.
" No need– Leona's right there," you said, pointing. Eyes followed your finger, watching as the lion beastman's frown seemed to deepen, his ears twitching as he closed his eyes in annoyance.
He's heard you, surely.
You watched as Grim jumped up and down, waving his hands as he yelled– gathering rather unwanted attention from the third years. " Heeey! Leona! C'mere for a sec! " the cat demon hollered, attempting to get the beastmans attention.
Green eyes fluttered open, glancing at you all– but, really, it was just a glare.
Ace and Deuce reeled their bodies back in surprise, looking down at Grim. " Grim! Why'd you have to call out to him?! " Ace asked, hissing.
Deuce frowned. " He's the Savanaclaw housewarden too! "
Grim huffed as he looked between the two, frowning as his tail swayed behind him. " So? He's the only guy I recognize in this classroom," he argued.
You sighed, glancing around at all the eyes that seemed to zero in on your forms– and the piercing green eyes of Leona's, which seemed to bore into you. " I can feel the eyes of everyone in the room on us now...including Leona's. " you sneered.
Attention was fine– you didn't usually mind it, but a plethora of emotions swept over your form at the moment– and none of them were good.
Leona sighed heavily, leaning back in his chair with crossed arms as he glared at you all– not in malice, simply in annoyance. " You've got nerve to order me around. If you want something, you come to me. " he sneered, tail lashing behind him.
Grim scoffed, rolling his eyes. " We ain't even ten meters apart! Geez, some people. " he sneered.
You sighed, walking towards Leona's desk with the boys following not too far behind.
The male seemed to leer at you from beneath his lashes, green eyes watching every move you seemed to make. His stance, while laid back– held an air of confidence and nonchalance. " So, what do you want, Herbivore? This had better be good," he asked, raising a brow at you.
You hummed. " We're looking for Rook Hunt– have you seen him? " you asked, lolling your head to the side as you looked at him.
Leona furrowed his brows as he leaned forward in his seat, lips curling up into a sneer as he peered at you. The male, for whatever reason– seemed annoyed at the mere mention of the blonde's name.
" Why? What do you want with that weirdo? " he asked, voice clear with annoyance.
You sighed, glancing between the three boys that accompanied you. " Deuce, Ace, and Grim want to apply for the SDC– we've heard Rook happens to be the person you go to for applications," you explained, crossing your arms.
" C'est vrai! " a sudden voice exclaimed from behind you, making you duck with wide eyes– for a split second, you saw Leona stand up, ears on edge as he glared at the male.
Turning around with a glare, you were surprised to see Rook– who beamed at you with a smile.
" Magnifique! I welcome all new challengers with open arms! " he chirped, extending his arms in the air as he smiled at you all.
You looked at the male with wide eyes.
The famed, illusive Rook Hunt now finally stood in front of you– his eyes twinkling in amusement.
—
BONUS:
Vil slammed the doors to the ballroom open, walking through them with stride while Epel followed closely behind, a frown on his lips as he watched Rook walk in after them.
Vil turned around, narrowing his lavender eyes at the blonde male. " I would question why you were spying on us, Rook– but I fret I already know," he said, looking at the male with a half-lidded gaze.
The blonde, in response, laughed– eyes twinkling with mischief. " What can I say, Roi du Poison– Reine de cœur is intriguing, is she not? " he asked, watching the tall male pace around the room.
Vil sighed, resisting the urge to roll his eyes. " She's the only female student at Night Raven– of course she's interesting. Albeit, I'll admit– she interests me," he spoke, humming as he thought back to the housewarden meeting.
You may as well have been the first female Vil actually paid attention to– your little comment about Neige only happened to solidify that interest.
Epel frowned, glancing between the two third years.
He, for the life of him– could not seem to understand the fascination the two held in you.
You were beautiful, sure– and intelligent to boot, Epel had heard– and of course, you were the only female in the entire school, so perhaps that helped– but there had to be more to it.
There always was with Vil and Rook.
Vil seemed deep in thought before he snapped his fingers, glancing at Rook. " Rook– tell me again just how good she is at singing? " he asked, a brow raised.
For months Vil had heard Rook sing you praises for your voice– and days went by as he listened to it.
The SDC was right around the corner– and a while ago Vil had made a plan to attempt to recruit you– as a vocal coach of sorts, he thought.
But, the SDC was close– and he had no time to find and ask you in private. Private, because he rather no spudlings eavesdrop and think they have a better chance on the team if you're on it– and, because, perhaps having a girl as beautiful as you were– there would be an influx of talentless people who just want a shot at you.
It was a headache just thinking about it, really.
But, Vil wanted to make sure you were good– great, even– and he needed to hear it from Rook one last time before he asked the male to go through with the plan of asking you.
Some would call Vil a perfectionist– he preferred the term 'prepared'.
Rook let out a sigh, almost wistfully gazing at Vil. " Roi du Poison– she has the most beautiful voice you ever did hear. Like a nightingale sings in the night, she simply shone when she sang. I just couldn't get enough. " he spoke, green eyes wide as he remembered the night.
Vil hummed, glancing at his fingers for a moment before smirking– peering at Rook through his lashes. " Ask her, then– be persuasive if you must. I will do anything to win this– and if it means hiring her as a vocal coach, then so be it," he muttered, expression shifting.
Epel could only watch in horror as Rook clapped his hands, clearly happy with the outcome.
They were dragging you into this mess as well– and he simply couldn't believe it.
The auditions and SDC were already going to be horrific enough without you there– but Epel could feel himself slowly slipping away at the thought of you watching him sing and dance.
In his head– there was nothing more embarrassing than that.
The horror on his face seemed to slip over Vil and Rook's heads as they continued to talk.
Vil glanced at his palms, making a fist he watched as his fingers flexed.
Y/n L/n– he thought in amusement.
You may just be his key to making the perfect team.
AUTHORS NOTE
WOWWWW hello.
Back at it again with Pomefiore chapter number two! Very little happened in this chapter, I think– but Pomefiore's arc happens to start off really slow in the game so what can I say </3
To make up for it you got a shit load of self-loathing MC!! Yay
MC is, as I want you all to remember– not a good person, but she's not bad, either. She has rather strong morals, albeit, they're not always the greatest. She has a lot of conflicting emotions right now, and as you can see– she's simply a mess <3
I know a lot of you want MC to go berserk– and trust me, that's happening– but also, she's very drained at the moment, as anyone would be. She's exhausted mentally, and is surrounded by people who either don't notice– or were the ones who caused her to be exhausted in the first place.
She's very conflicted about Vil right now, although, she has a less-than-stellar opinion of him at the moment (I'm so sorry Ely). She's been given two different point of views, one where Vil is simply stressed– and one where he's being outrageously rude and overbearing.
To put it simply: MC is very tired and stressed and has no idea what the fuck to think about anything right now, someone just come hold her please </3
I wanted to put a lot of emphasis on Jamil and Kalim's relationship– as well as theirs with MC. Their relationship, by far– is the most complicated and I want to do it some justice <3
I changed from the stream being a total bluff to only being half true– in order to fit with what I feel Crowley would do lol.
In Jamil's flashback, you may notice Kalim blaming himself, despite it being made clear in past chapters that it's not his fault, and that there are people Jamil should be blaming instead. Keep in mind, in the flashback, there is no one there to keep reminding Kalim, or Jamil, that there are other people at fault.
Kalim had the mindset that it is his fault– and Jamil is still trying to come to terms with the idea that he needs to blame other people, and not Kalim.
Lastly, MC didn't say anything to Azul! Why? She, herself, is not aware if Jamil or Kalim know that Azul has overblotted. Each incident before Scarabia has been, for the most part– contained to only those involved and staff.
It's not her place to say that Azul overblotted, to someone that potentially didn't know he did.
My editing software went fucking crazy this chapter so there may most definitely be mistakes in it </3
I hope all the Vil lovers (Ely) enjoyed what Vil you got LMFAO
As always, I write and edit at night, so if there are any spelling mistakes– please tell me!
Maybe I'll see you next chapter, or not.
[ TRANSLATIONS ]
Ihr kämpft wie kinder : You fight like children
Ma Reine de Cœur : My Queen of Hearts
Ma Dame : My Lady
C'est vrai : It's true
Magnifique : Magnificent
[ FANART! BY: (In order), Kal, Elli (@/emo_elli) and Ace! TYASM I LITERALLY ADORE THEM SM THEY'RE GOING IN MY FANART FOLDER LMFAO <3 ] {if you want to learn ways to send Fanart feel free to PM me!! <3}