#I've yet to have my “OH!” moment for any of them or even my Rook like I did with the BG3 cast

[optiwashere]

Going to combat today's anxiety with Dragon Age, more food than I should really eat, and an outlining sesh for a few chapters of Blades in the Night.

[local-ground-apple]

Can you do Malleus, Rook, and Azul finding out you can understand the elemental fairies. Decide to help male a small castle for the fairies in NRC?

Thank you for such cute request!

🐲 Malleus is absolutely delighted and his feelings are even stronger after seeing your bright and happy face when you were talking with elemental fairies,

🐲 when he saw you being so compassionate & kind for his own kind, he couldn't help but smile,

🐲 at first, Malleus scared the fairies away, but you quickly convinced them not to run away at the mere sight of your dragon boyfriend. Needless to say, they warmed up to him quite fast and soon enough, Malleus sometimes visited them with you,

"Tsunotarou! We should build a small castle for them!"

🐲 your definition of small was different than Malleus'. He literally used magic to create a castle that was similar in size as Diasomnia's dormitory,

"Malmal, this is...hmm..it's way too big for fairies. They mesure only few centimeters!" "Nonsense, dearest"

🐲 you needed Lilia's help to convince him to settle for something way, way, way smaller,

🐲 so you invited him to build the castle with you. This time without using any magic. Malleus had so much fun spending the whole afternoon & building a size-appropriate castle with you. He was sure he would cherisj this memory for eternity,

🏹 Rook is very impressed with your ability to understand elemental fairies. He finds it quite fascinating that you (being a human from another world and without any magic) could easily communicate with those small creatures,

🏹 he will start calling you Ma fée (My fairy) from now on,

🏹 Rook is eager to help you make a small castle for the fairies. He is quite skilled with using various tools and carving, so helping you out won't be a problem for him.

🏹 You two end up making a glamorous castle (which is way more lavish and elaborate than you first expected to).

🏹Needless to say, Rook uses this situation as an opportunity to spend more time with you (and learn something new). Sometimes, he may join you and chat with fairies (with you acting as his personal translator),

🏹You tried to teach Rook fairies' language and he is picking it up quite fast. One day, he will be able to fluently communicate with them. He also attempted to teach some of the fairies French (and he failed splendidly),

🏹Rook may occasionlly watch you from afar as you are talking with fairies. He certainly doesn't want to disturb your conversation; he is simply admiring your beauty, your bright smile and kindness dancing in your eyes,

🏹 You did catch him few times,

"Rook. Why don't you come here and spend some time with me instead of stalking me?🤨" "Ma fée! I'm coming!"

🐙 Azul's first instinct was to think of the ways he (his first instinct was to think of the ways he (and Mostro Lounge) could potentially benefit from your ability. Poor octopus almost prepared a whole business plan in his head,

🐙On his second thought, he decided not to. When he found out you could communicate with elemental fairies, you were smiling brightly, while the fairies were flying all around you. He didn't have the heart to benefit from your ability,

🐙besides, you told him "no", when he asked you about fairies,

"Angelfish, I've noticed that recently you've been spending awfully a lot of time with fair-" "No, Azul, you cannot monetise them"  "Oh, Angelfish, how could you assume something like this?" "🤨🙄"

🐙You looked way too happy, so Azul abandoned his business plans,

🐙The moment you told him that you plan on building a small castle for the fairies, Azul was already prepared. He had whole vision and a neat plan. He managed to find the best tools and high-quality materials,

🐙Azul managed to convince Jade & Floyd to help you two build a castle,

🐙In the end, the castle exceeded your expectations. It was quite enormous given that it was supposed to be a castle for quite small fairies, yet it was simply beautiful. Azul poured his whole soul and creativity into building this glamourous and elaborate building,

🐙It turned out that only Jade understood the assignment and constructed two, small castles,

[changingplumbob]

Romero Household: Chapter 1, Part 5

After a brief visit to the humour and hijinks festival Keira tries to teach Marta how to play chess.

Marta’s first language is Spanish so she is teaching Keira (and me) some common Spanish words/phrases Ay dios mio: omg equivalent Buenas noches: Good evening / Good night Gracias: Thank you Hasta luego: See you later Qué?: What? Si: Yes

The couple sit down for dinner and Keira entertains Marta with stories about her day at work. The sea otters and harbour seals are some of her favourites but there is a particular cheeky walrus you have to look out for. She mostly stayed prepping food at her current level but she enjoyed feeding, even if it was slightly chaotic.

The two make a quick stop at the humour and hijinks festival.

Keira: Sweetheart I think your hair is doing weird things to your hat

Marta: It’s worth it, I’m attached to these ponytails. Get it, attached because they’re my hair

Keira: *giggles* Someone has had to much jokesters tea already

The two go to the tables when they are joined by someone unexpected, Keira’s ex.

Morgan: So I heard you were getting married

Keira: Yes, this is Marta

Marta: Buenas noches

Morgan seems grumpy and not to keen on leaving their table so the two decide it’s best they clear out. They’re interested in their future, not their past.

Keira: Do you know how to play chess

Marta: Si. I get my pieces to the other side of the board

Keira: Not all of them, just the pawns, and that's not the main goal

Marta: *whispers* que? Why are we talking about porn in public

Keira: Oh I’m not it- they sound similar si but they are completely different words. A pawn is one of these smaller pieces

Marta: Ah. And they move forward, si?

Keira: You got it. Let me show you the rest

Keira: The rooks can only go in straight lines, forwards or backwards until they run into a piece

Marta: They are the hetero pieces

Keira: *chuckles* exactly. The bishops here, these pointy ones, they move diagonally. Again just until they run into a piece. If you run into a piece of yours you stop on the square before it. If you run into a piece of mine you take it and put your piece where mine was

Marta: Si. What about the pony

Keira: The pony? It’s called a knight but I kind of like pony better

Marta blushes.

Keira: Ponies… move to their own beat. They move like they’re making capital L’s

Marta: Que?

After giving her best explanations, the two start to play but honestly Marta is more interested in flirting.

Marta: *blows kiss* two more sleeps

Keira: Aww. Are you counting down

Marta: *grins* Si! I’m looking forward to being wives

Keira: You’re so cute sweetheart

Marta: Gracias. I would make cute infants, no *raises eyebrows and pouts*

Keira: *giggles* That has never been in doubt

The game carries on and Keira eventually wins, she does have a higher logic skill after all. But she blows Marta a kiss so who’s the real winner? Back home for bed when-

Marta: Ay dios mio! A cat

Keira: I can see that

Marta: Can we keep him carino

Keira: Since he belongs to the neighbours I’m going to go with no

Marta: *sighs* Hasta luego friend

The next day after work Marta is bring in the washing when Tiana says hello.

Tiana: Was it you that put my washing in the dryer

Marta: No, it would have been my fiancé Keira. She was in the laundry yesterday

Tiana: Ah. I wish my husband helped out that much

Lawrence: Afternoon ladies

Tiana: Lawrence dear, how are you? How is your lovely family

Lawrence: *sighs* A handful at the moment. Roger keeps getting in spats with some other kid at school so I need to supervise pick ups

Tiana: Here is where I’m glad I don’t have kids

Marta: Did you really never want kids

Tiana: No, never. I’m so glad I found a man who didn’t expect me to pop them out

Marta: How do you handle our neighbours infant shrieks?

Tiana: They shriek? Blessings of losing hearing in my old age, I've yet to hear them. I’ve never minded kids, I just have no desire to raise any

Lawrence: To each their own. Oh, I better go, school ends soon. Hey Marta, best of luck for your wedding tomorrow

Marta: Gracias. Hasta luego Lawrence

Keira has been working hard and burnout is threatening, luckily she has the wedding and honeymoon to slow her down. Sitting down for dinner she notices something strange on the floor… a cursed book? Weird. Must be a landlord problem.

Keira: Panya? Yes it’s Keira Foster from 2 Dockyard Way. Could you come and check some things? Thanks

Marta: What was that about

Keira: Just calling the property owner to come check out that book

Marta: What bo- ay dios mio! Que? Where did it come from

Keira: I don’t know, maybe I should just toss it before the property owner shows up so he doesn’t think we’re hysterical

Marta: Que? No! You cannot get rid of it. It could hurt you

Keira: What? It’s a book

Marta: But the glow, it’s cursed. Leave it for Panya por favor.

Keira relents and when Panya shows up she invites him in to check the thing out. He assures her he will deal with it and takes it out of the unit.

Keira: Oh come on! That score can’t be right. You’re using a mod or something

Joey: Can’t do mods on console, you just need to up your skills

Keira: Whatever. Don’t be late tomorrow *disconnects*

Marta: I gather you didn’t win

Keira: Not this time. I suppose we had better go pack

Marta: *smiles* for the honeymoon

Keira: I’d offer to do it in the morning but I know you’ll want to pack your own suitcase

Marta: Si. Just think, this time tomorrow… we’ll be married

Keira: You still won’t let me see your dress?

Marta: No. I want you to have surprises carino

Keira laughs and pulls Marta into a dip, raising her hand for a kiss.

Keira: Te amo sweetheart

Marta: Te amo carino

And so the two spend a few hours ensuring everything is packed for the honeymoon then lie down and try to sleep while bubbling with excitement.

Previous ... Next

[mentallyshattered]

This is part 8 of the "What if Yuu didn't want to go back?" Series!

(I, the author of this work, do not consent to this work being crossposted/translated without my knowledge or used to train an AI, ever.)

Masterlist

Vil stares for a moment, just a moment, and then smiles. Grim is still looking at me weird, but says nothing.

We leave to eat. Grim's strange looks halt when he sees breakfast: poppyseed bagels with cream cheese and lox. We eat instead of talking, and I take the time to admire just how clean this place is.

Everything is so shiny. There aren't any paintings or pictures, noticeably, but there is a mirror hanging over there. It was probably put there to allow people to look at the oven without having to turn around, given the location and angle.

Looking in the mirror... Hey, it's Korrak and Mandible! And...Rook? Looks like he's intercepting them, too. At least he's giving them food first. Korrak walks toward the stairs with half a poppyseed bagel in hand.

Oh, well. That's none of my business. I'm done with my bagel, though, so it's off to the Backstage Room!

Grim finishes his breakfast on the way, and I brush him until his coat is soft and even. He doesn't complain about me stopping this time, but he does set off on a quest of magically dressing himself.

When I finish my routine, we head off to put my new phone up, and then it's off to History of Magic.

Trappola isn't here yet, surprisingly. I figured he'd've learned his lesson after yesterday, but I guess not. Oh, well. His problem! We'll snitch again if he starts today with a repeat of yesterday.

By the time we sit down and start talking to Deuce, Trappola walks into the room- with a collar on?

"I see your stares. Don't ask."

With that, he sits. Deuce stares right at him for a solid 20 seconds before speaking.

"We don't even have oolong."

"Not what happened."

I sit there, contemplating why this kid is wearing a heart-shaped collar with a lock on it to class. Very much a "Heartslabyul" look, though. Half is black, half is red, and the outlines are gold.

The bells rings, and Trein starts the lesson. I take notes and help Grim do the same with his levitation magic. He picks up on it pretty fast, and his writing is easily legible within 5 minutes.

Crewel gives Trappola a funny look when he walks in, but says nothing and the way he teaches seems normal. This is only the second time I've had him, though.

More note-taking commences. I'm rather tempted to question Trappola where he got that and why he's wearing it, but class is ongoing, so I refrain from asking and make sure Grim does the same. He shoots me dirty looks whenever I close his mouth for him, but he stays quiet.

Grim and I actually manage to stay conscious all through P.E.! That's a win for us.

"What, you think you're special just 'cause you didn't take a nap when you fell?"

"Nope! We think we're special cause we aren't the ones wearing a collar, and one of us is a cat."

Trappola turns bright red. "What the hell?!"

"Mya-ha, that's what you get!"

"He has a point, Ace. How did you get that, anyway?"

"Shut up, Deuce."

"Hey, Trappola, remember that one time you were snarky with Deuce and wound up cleaning all the chairs in Trein's room? I do."

Trappola shuts his mouth, forgets his lesson, and speaks again. "Hey, you can call me 'Ace.' I don't mind. Why do you only ever call me by my last name?"

"That's what the headmage called you during the entrance ceremony. Besides, we also call you 'entrance ceremony claustrophobe.'"

"Behind my back?"

"To your face, entrance ceremony claustrophobe."

"Okay, guys, that's enough."

"Shut it, Deuce."

"Dude, what is your problem?" Evidently, Deuce has finally had enough.

"It probably has something to do with the collar." Okay, being a dick here won't help, but I'm bored and hungry, so I'll care after lunch.

"Yeah, it does!"

"Myeh... I'd just take it off."

"I. Can't."

"Why not?"

"You say that like you don't know."

"They're first years from a different dorm, Ace. Of course they don't know. You have to tell them."

Trappola says nothing. Apparently, that thought didn't occur to him. I'm guessing most of them don't, though.

Trappola sighs, but still doesn't say anything. Deuce, clearly fed up, turns to us. "Our housewarden's signature spell is called 'Off With Your Head,' and he uses it on Heartslabyuls who break the rules. The spell places a collar around the target's neck," Deuce motions to Trappola, "and seals away their magic. I'm not sure what Ace did to get collared, but only Riddle can remove it."

I remember one of the Pomefiore sophomores explained all of the housewardens and dorms to the freshmen, me and Grim included. That's how I know Riddle Rosehearts is the Heartslabyul housewarden, a sophomore in the dorm based on strictness. No wonder, huh?

"Myaah... hey, Redhead, did you complain about yesterday in front of Rosehearts?"

Trappola looks stunned. "Yeah... How'd you know?"

"You swear when you're mad. That's probably banned."

"...You're right."

Grim appears prideful of his accomplishment, chest out and everything. Trappola looks lost. Deuce looks hungry.

"Let's go to lunch. Come on, Ace."

Grim and I wave. "Bye, Deuce! Bye, Trappola!"

The walk back to the dorm is tiring, but it's nice knowing we're just a little step closer to whatever it is we're reaching for.

[mysteryshoptls]

R Sebek Zigvolt Halloween Personal Story

"They are the most important people to me."

[The Other Dimension – Bizarre Staircase]

Sebek: Hey you humans! Why are you all dawdling? We need to hurry!

Trey: Don't rush so. Deuce is pretty exhausted from being possessed and from fighting.

Rook: Oui. Even a hint of malaise can be fatal while in unfamiliar territory. Let us all take a break for a moment.

Deuce: Oh, everyone… I'm sorry for the inconvenience.

Sebek: A break!? How leisurely. Do you fully understand this critical situation!?

Deuce: Eh?

Sebek: Right now, every second counts. There's no time to be waiting for you humans to recover!

Sebek: Hurry and stand up! If you drag your feet, I'll leave you behind!!

Deuce: Wha… You don't have to say that much!!

Trey: Hey. Both of you calm down. Nothing good will come out of fighting right now.

Rook: Taking a rest is even more important especially when you are in a hurry, Monsieur Crocodile.

Sebek: …All of you are such weaklings! Fine, then you should rest there until you're all satisfied!!

Sebek: I'LL JUST GO ON AHEAD BY MYSELF!!!!!!!

Deuce: Hey, wait, Sebek!

Deuce: Why are you so upset? You've been acting a bit strange.

Sebek: I'M NOT UPSET!!!!!!

Trey: For him to raise his voice like that… He really is acting weird.

Deuce: No, he's always got a loud voice, but… usually he's a much calmer guy.

Deuce: Even in class, I've never seen him get so far ahead of himself like this and get yelled at by the teachers or anything.

Deuce: Hey, Sebek. You get that it's not a good idea to run off by yourself in this situation, right?

Deuce: Anyway, you should calm down a bit.

Sebek: HOW CAN I BE CALM!?!?!

Sebek: …The Young Master…

Sebek: …The Young Master and Lilia-sama disappeared!

Deuce: !

Sebek: The two of them are the two of the foremost mages in the world!! And yet…

Sebek: I don't even know if they are safe.

Sebek: To me, they are more than just my upperclassmen from the same dormitory. They are the most important people to me.

Sebek: I am always prepared to throw myself into harm’s way for them in any situation. They are the reason that I train every day.

Sebek: But I… I was unable to notice their disappearance. What a failure. How shameful…!

Deuce: Sebek…

Sebek: On top of that, I got separated from Silver when we tried to come rescue them, and now his whereabouts are unknown.

Sebek: But he's got a stupidly sturdy body. I believe he'll be fine but… If anything has happened, I need to rescue him too!

Deuce: I see. Yeah, I'm also worried about Silver-senpai too.

Sebek: Wha―! I'm not saying I'm worried about Silver or anything!

Deuce: I also get that you’re lonely since you don't have your upperclassmen to rely on.

Sebek: LIKE I SAID!!! THAT'S NOT IT!! I'M NOT LONELY AT ALL!!!!

Deuce: O-okay, okay! Don't yell so loudly right in my ear.

Sebek: …Humph! Unlike all you easygoing people, I have an important mission as a guard!

Sebek: Both the Young Master and Lilia-sama must be waiting for me to rescue them right now. That's why I will go on ahead!

Trey: Sebek… You have the physical strength, and you may have been trained to fight by yourself. However…

Trey: Don't you think that the chances of encountering strong opponents you can't deal with by yourself are more than likely from here on out?

Sebek: Well…

Trey: No matter the situation, it is always better to have many soldiers to protect the king. Right, Deuce?

Deuce: …! Yes! For a full-on assault, the more you have with you, the better!

Deuce: Sebek. This is something that [Yuu] taught me, when I would just run headfirst into situations by myself…

Deuce: "Even if your opponent is someone strong that you cannot defeat all by yourself, when we work together, we stand a good chance of winning"!

Sebek: …!

Rook: A traveling companion is a friend for life…It is fate's design that we have all journeyed together like this.

Rook: You may think of us as your Diasomnia upperclassmen and rely on us with all your might, Sebek-kun!

Trey: Well, compared to Malleus, we might not be as reliable, but… we'll support you to the best of our ability.

Deuce: I also have to restore my honor from that unsightly show earlier. Don't regret if I take all of your chances to show off, Sebek!

Sebek: You guys…

Sebek: …Humph. You don't need to worry, I'm fine by myself. I'm fine, but…

Sebek: If you're going to say that much, I'll accompany you! I'm sure you would all be so lonely if I left you all by yourselves.

Deuce: ….Huh?

Sebek: There's no way that I, as the Young Master's guard, wouldn't be able to protect two or three humans!!

Sebek: I'll be the one to bring the Young Master, Lilia-sama, and of course Silver and all of you back to the school safely.

Sebek: Alright, now that we've decided that, it's time for a break. Build your energy back up, and prepare yourself for the fight ahead!

Sebek: Make sure to check one more time if anyone is injured. Once everyone is ready to go, we'll leave.

Sebek: DO YOU ALL UNDERSTAND, HUMANS!!?

Deuce: Th-this guy…!

Trey: Hahah! I get it. So, this is the "usual" Sebek.

Deuce: Geez. As soon as he felt better, he immediately speaks rudely to our upperclassmen!

Rook: T'en fais pas, Monsieur Spade. It is wonderful that he has been rejuvenated.

Sebek: YOUNG MASTER, LILIA-SAMA, PLEASE WAIT FOR ME!! I WILL BE COMING FOR YOU!!!!

[pettyvxbes]

Colson Baker x Reader - Bucket List I

IF NOT NOW, THEN WHEN

"Yo y/n, don't you ever get tired of being single?" Rook asked as he took a hit of the blunt you had just rolled before passing it off to Colson. "You're almost thirty, and I haven't seen you date anybody."

"Thanks for reminding me, Rook." The look you gave him could have burned a hole through him.

"I'm not really single, ya dick, I'm just dating myself." you shrugged. "I take me out to eat, I buy me clothes. I love me." Colson chuckled.

"But seriously, y/n, I've known you for almost ten years, and I haven't seen you go out on one date either," Colson said, exhaling the smoke he was holding in his lungs. "It makes me feel bad like I'm overworking you and not giving you any free time or something" He passed the blunt to you. You had been his assistant for a little over eight years. At this point, the boys were family, so it never even really felt like work.

"Oh, shut up. It has nothing to do with my work schedule." You laughed, finally getting your chance to inhale the cannabis. "I've had four fucking dick pics sent to me this week, four!" you exclaimed. "And you know not one of them offered to take me on an actual date. I give up." You threw your hands in the air. "Modern dating is not dating. It's just banging." You said, shaking your head.

"I mean, she's not wrong," Slim said as the rest of the guys nodded their heads in agreement.

For the rest of the night, you were in your head, thanks to Rook. You hadn't realized how apparent your romantic life was, or lack thereof. The boys had all cleared out for the night, just leaving you and Colson, high as fuck, watching Sponge Bob.

"I think I'm gonna head home too." You yawned, reaching for your stack of books and notes on the coffee table. You completely lost your grip on the stack, and it tumbled to the floor in front of Colson. He laughed at your clumsiness before leaning down to help you collect the scattered papers. Reading your chicken scratch in the process.

Bucket list - things to do before I'm 30

"What's this?" He questioned. Skimming the page in his hands.

"Give me that!" You jumped at him, trying to grab the paper, but he was too quick, moving it out of your reach.

"Tell me what it is, and I'll give it back." He bargained.

"It's just some stupid list I made of random things I've always wanted to do before I turned thirty, but I've never had time." You explained nonchalantly. You had spent so much time focused on your education and building your career that you really hadn't given yourself any free time.

"Go to an airport and buy tickets for a random flight, bungee jump, go ice skating, learn to skateboard..." he mumbled a few lines aloud as he read through the list.

"Are you done yet?" You pondered. Crossing your arms over your chest in annoyance. You stood in silence for a moment before he responded.

"Let's do these."

"What?!?" You laughed at him.

"I'm serious y/n, let's do these! Let's cross all of this off your bucket list before you turn thirty." He exclaimed. "Please?!? It'll at least make me feel like I wasn't holding you back. Besides, then you'll leave your twenties behind feeling fulfilled and ready for the next chapter," He proposed. You still hadn't answered him, so he continued to ramble. "If you don't do it now, then when will you?!? Come on, there's a lot on this list that I've always wanted to do too, it'll be fun. . ."

"Okay!" you cut him off.

"That's my girl." he smiled at you.

"Can I have it back now?" You reached out to take the list from him, causing him to lift it in the air where you couldn't reach it.

"I'll hold on to it." He smirked.

"Whatever." You sighed, rolling your eyes at him before grabbing the remainder of your things. You figured he'd keep it to show the guys so they could all joke about it the next time you were together, and then he'd forget about it just like you did. You honestly had no idea just how serious Colson would take the challenge, and you did not expect the adventure that was about to unfold, not in the least bit.

💀 >>

[starshiningsirius]

Dr. Jerkyll and Mr. Hyde (Yandere Leech twins x reader)

An au idea I had came to mind based off @yandere-wishes Victorian twst story and @yandere-romanticaa 's Extraterrestrial story.

I love these two eels and I'm late on their birthday but it's still their birthday for me.

The clear moonlit sky shown brightly over the waters of the ocean. As yet another scream echoed within the streets of a supposedly vacant city.

The detective woke up with a start but not from the scream, but from the ringing of her phone. A report she had been writing stuck to her face from the humid atmosphere. She picked it up getting a few details from Idia, who was panicking on the other side of the line. Considering he worked in the criminal department at the desk and didn't have to see any bodies whatsoever you would think he'd be calm when trying to say what happened.

"Calm down Idia. Tell me what happened?" Her voice was gentle since yelling wouldn't help his nerves.

"Therewasanothermurder! Theyclaimedanothervictim!" He spoke so fast that his words wouldn't be understood by most but she was used to this with him and every word was caught by the detective's ears.

"Where's the crime scene?"

"In front of Sam's shop on Crystal Road, Ms. Y/n L/n." The voice of Idia's younger sibling popped up a contrasting his older brother's cowardly behavior.

He wanted to be just like his older brother so he spent his days in the office with him. Though there were times when Idia tapped out and his brother had to step in.

"Thank you both. I'll head their now." She hung up after hearing a farewell from both brothers.

The candle was long out and she grabbed her gun, notebook, and pen within the darkness, before venturing out the confines of her home.

When she got there a crowd had surrounded one spot in particular.

Cater was already there taking photos of the scene as it was his job being a forensic photographer.

"Hey, hey! Y/n's here, make way!" The crowd parted for her as soon as he announced her presence.

Whispers were muttered as she passed through into the middle of the crime scene. Mostly about how she hadn't caught this killer yet. She ignored them though and went on to meet with her coworker.

"It never ceases to amaze me how your always here first Cater, if anything you should be a suspect." She started off saying to her compatriot.

"Can't help it if I want to stay informed dectective, I just want to stay informed before anyone else." His smile on his face was out of place as he took another photo of the corpse.

"Who was it this time?"

"Such a poor fate to befall dear Monsieur Heart." A new voice joined in the conversation.

"Rook, I see you've arrived but can I get their name please?" The detective said sighing at the theatrics of her friend.

"His name was Ace Trappola, I can't imagine how Monsieur Spade must be feeling about this tragedy." Rook feigned a sorrowful look.

"Oh yeah A-Deuce kun were inseparable, I feel sorry for him. Think he knows already?"

"If there as inseparable as you say Cater then I suppose not, he isn't here yet otherwise I'm sure he'd cause a scene." She noted.

"That doesn't make him a suspect though right? I mean sure he's been a suspect in many crimes before, but Deuce kun far too soft!" Cater was a bit frantic at the thought alone.

"No, I doubt it was him he wouldn't want to disappoint his mother with something as vulgar as murder, he cares for her far too much to do that." That calmed his worries.

"You know I've heard Monsieur Heart have many laments on how his delivery to Roi d' Rose-" Cater didn't let Rook finish.

"RIDDLE?! No way he did this! Have you seen how strict his mother is? Just waltzing in their office and so much as suspecting her son is a one way ticket to hearing her screams! Besides I doubt his mother would even let him out this late anyway, he's always about following the rules set in place for him." Cater says with an imaginary sweat that could have formed to express his fear and anxiety.

"True, and I can't afford another headache from that lady, but we could get some valuable intel from him about Trappola's demeanor the past few days seeing as it may be a pattern in the serial killers motives."

"What about Sam? He's gotta know something considering the murder occurred in front of his shop." Cater's gaze went toward the shop to the right of them.

"Ah the shop keep, a wonderfully eccentric man with many secrets." Rook stated his opinion of him from what he gathered on his own free time.

"Says the French man whose got info on everyone from stalking them on the street." The detective says shaking her head at the strange man next to her who happily smiled at her statement.

"I wouldn't call it that more so getting to know my prey more personally." She sighed hearing his reply.

"A crime analyst such as yourself is such a good cover up!" Cater's response made her sigh once again.

She shook her head toward her coworkers. They took their job in a mild manner but beyond that they did do well to get it done. Even though the means of how they did it were very much questionable in her eyes.

She looked toward the ground seeing the body of the former male right on the cusp of adulthood. His orange hair was a bit disheveled and the looks of shock on his face petrified in time.

"Ah, the dectective is already using those perceptive eyes of hers." Cater's words fell on deaf ears as she was examining the crime scene closely.

"As expected of Reine de la déduction, such dedication in her work. Très bien!"

Their bones were disfigured, just like the last person. No one has this type of strength it didn't make any sense. The only lead that was given but she noticed a glowing substance in his mouth.

"Cater, Rook, I need some confirmation. Out of all the other times these cases have been appearing there weren't any liquid substances to be found beside the occasional blood right?"

"You are correct."

"Yeah, nothing else to be found from what I could see." They both confirmed her suspicion.

She had to go talk to Jade again, but first thing tomorrow she had to interrogate Sam, as well as Riddle Rosenhearts which was sure to be headache on her part.

* * *

His mother was an agitation to say the least. During her entry into his mother's office and upon stating the reason for her entry, Riddle's mother had already hated her the moment she finished speaking. Yelling and hollering about how her son would never commit such a crime even though the dectective never stated he was a suspect in the slightest.

She only asked to question the behavior of Mr.Trappola as of late before he met his end. He was under no suspicion whatsoever but she wasn't having that and kept screeching until her son had to calm her down.

It was much more pleasant afterwards but the headache Y/n had in the early morning just listening to her screeching didn't disappear throughout the whole endeavour.

Just before she bid him farewell he apologized deeply for his mother's behavior with a red face of complete embarrassment. To which she replied it was alright and thanked him for his time. Unfortunately though she had to bear that burden on her own as Rook and Cater had their own jobs to partake in analyzing the other crimes and investigating the trend within the series of murders. It was unfair but that was life. By the time she exited their establishment it was already in the afternoon a little after lunch.

Next was to venture to Sam's shop which was right where the crime had taken place. The body was already removed and taken to forensics, so the only thing left was a broken street lamp.

"Ah, well if isn't the dectective, I believe I already know the pleasure of seeing you here on this fine day," He tipped his hat to her with a smile on his face.

"Afternoon to you too Sam. I would like to acquire any information you have on the murder of Ace Trappola that occurred last night, in front of your establishment."

"Such a shame the little demon, was too young to have bite the dust. But you know as well as I my information comes with a price."

"A thousand madols should suffice a description of what you saw right?" She questioned handing a stack of the paper currency to which he smiled at.

"All I know is that last night was certainly something else. I heard a smash of a lamppost outside my window, up on the second floor. Shop was already closed though. When I looked down I saw what looked to be two silhouettes outside the window. One way taller than the other though, I recognized of Trappola on the ground and something glowed within the hands of the killer, a vial of sorts. He poured it down the throat of the little demon, but Trappola put up a good fight before it was over."

"Over? Can you specify?"

"As in he was left on the ground for dead, it looked like he was choking on whatever was consumed. The killer held him tightly after he realized he was choking. It was similar to a hug but one that was more deadly than a normal one. After he dropped him to the ground and walked away laughing hysterically at who he squeezed."

"And you weren't going to go to the police to inform that you had witnessed the murderer of a serial killer!" Her voice had raised a bit in volume as her agrevated state didn't alleviate since earlier in the day.

"I'm not one to get involved in others private life, Dectective. I've got a business to run." She understood his point though exhaling a sigh through her nose.

"Right. If you want to keep your life you keep your mouth shut. Alright I thank you for the intel." The dectective closed her notebook after writing down many notes on the case.

"Pleasure doing business with ya, Dectective! Best of luck to you as well! You'll be needing it more than anyone." She was only able to hear the first part of it not when his cheery demeanor went away.

She walked out to her final destination of the day, a close friend of hers. His name was Jade Leech, a smart man that excelled in pharmaceuticals just as did Riddle's mother but in a more different sense. His potions were revolutionary with in the subject of alchemy and his botany skills and knowledge made his fame and fortune.

He's helped her on countless cases before, with his expertise in potions it aided in knowing key components to solving head bangers such as this.

As she reached the door of his manor she knocked before waiting a moment or two to see his smile.

"Dectective, how pleasant it is to see you today." He flashed his signature smile toward me, with pearly teeth straight and white.

"It's nice to see you too Jade. May I come in?"

"Your always welcome here, though I must say you do look exhausted how about I put on some tea?" He made way for me to step in.

"You don't have to Jade."

"I insist, naturally I should show good hospitality to all my visitors. Your free to take a seat wherever you like."

"So how are your mushrooms doing?" She said starting up conversation on a favorable topic for him. He was in the kitchen that connected to the empty dining room, that opened the way to the living room where she sat.

"I imagine you didn't come here just to speak on how my mushrooms are doing alone?" He spoke it in the form of a question but he already knew the answer with a knowing smile on his face that she couldn't see but knew he had.

"You are right, my apologies, I actually require your aid with a substance that could be the key in solving the recent serial killings." She watched as he walked in with two plates in hand.

"It's fine, I'm glad you can come to me for help." He served the two plates, one in front of her and the other in front of himself.

They had pasta on both of them with the mushrooms I mentioned. It smelled heavenly. Her stomach growled loudly which caused Jade to laugh lightly.

"I'm assuming you haven't eaten much of anything have you?"

"No I had too much work to do today." She blushed looking away from him.

He sighed making a small 'tsk' noise.

"You have got to take better care of yourself, that dedication of yours is admirable but otherwise you'll drive yourself into an early grave with that sort of work ethic." He chastised.

"Ah, I just don't have the time these days, I'm sorry for all the trouble you have to go through for me." Her eyes traveled toward the food with a slight guilty feeling.

"You speak as if your some sort of burden on me, quite the contrary I worry for your safety and yours alone. You may be a skilled dectective but, I care for your well being first."

Her face grew to an intolerable temperature that would make people think she was sick. She was very much surprised by his words. The first time anyone has ever said anything that endearing to her in a while.

So to ignore the feeling of her heart racing she picked up her plate kept her eyes trained on it. Her expression looked to resemble pouting.

"L -let's just eat then shall we?" She stumbled on her first word internally cursing as she heard Jade's laughter.

. . .

After they had eaten Y/n had spent some time explaining to Jade the situation with Trappola's murder and handed him the vile of the substance found at the crime scene.

He listened attentively and chimed in few times for clarity. He said he would have the analysis of the substance done within two days. Soon enough she was on her way out the door even though he had offered her to stay the night she had declined politely. It wasn't weird since they were close friends with one another anyway. Not to mention there were times where she would fall asleep while waiting for Jade to finish his analysis and he would be nice enough to place her in a room.

"Thank you Jade, I would have loved to spend more time with you, but I've been really busy as of late with all these murders." She thought for a moment and then looked up at him. He was a bit tall, scratch that he was tall, of course so she got on the tips of her toes and placed a kiss on his cheek to show him her gratitude.

Jade's face lit a flame, cheeks flushed as he touched where her lips made contact.

"I'll see you later." Was all she said before walking away briskly passed the gates of his house not looking back.

She would've heard the glass breaking inside the male's house in which indicated another presense inside.

. . .

Two days had passed and the dectective was trying to piece together what was the link between these series of murders.

She had to go check with Lilia who is the pathologist that had completed an autopsy on all the bodies of the victims. As eccentric as he was he was more tolerable than the combo of intricacies that are her co workers. Then again everyone in this office was weird in their own way.

"Ah, dectective what great weather we're having today, is it not?" He said with a smile on his face.

Unlike Jade he was significantly shorter than him so she had to look down a little to see him or stand a few feet away.

"It is indeed, Lilia. You seem to be in a good mood today."

"That is because I have made a breakthrough on today, while working through the night." His smile grew and the magenta eyes affirmed his happiness toward the news he had to share.

"On Mr. Trappola's body, I have found something strange but interesting nevertheless! A scale and not only that, but there is something you should see for yourself!" He brought her over to said man's corpse luckily the bottom half of his body is covered and the top half as well up to his shoulders.

Lilia grabbed one of his tools for dissection and beckoned her to come closer as she showed her what he had found. That's when she saw it.

Lilia had a small knife and maneuvered it to a small spot itself, lifting up a small piece of skin that was already slit and based on the size of the knife and similarity to another a butter knife it wouldn't have been able to cut the skin.

"There are two more like this on this side of his neck and three on the other side. So it seems like they're gills.

"What about the other bodies?"

"I spent the night examining those as well and they all have the same gills but Trappola here is the only one who had a few scales."

"So maybe the substance has something to do with these oddities on him. Trappola probably ingested some."

"It's quite possible that whoever this murderer is trying to test the substance on the person instead of themselves but based on Trappola's few scales being the latest attempt it seems they are making improvement for whatever the elixir's use is. These strange characteristics it reminds me of some fairytale I heard some time ago." He drifted off sounding like an old man reminiscing.

"Enlgihten me then Lilia." Knowing just how Lilia liked to ramble on about myths and legends like he'd seen them and lived through their stories.

"Well if you insist but this one involves merfolk certainly you've heard of mermaids and such right these scales on legs don't they remind you of those types of things. Gills on their necks so that half people half fish would gain the ability to breath underwater."

"Ah right but this is reality. Seeing is believing though right? Who knows though maybe they could help with the case." She was skeptic hearing about a bunch of lore that could just be coincidental but she knew better than that. Coincidents were more than just preordained.

. . .

Now back at Jade's manor the dectective was contemplating what in the world such a myth could play a factor in a murder scene. It just didn't make any sense as to why the person would need such a potion. What type of person would you have to be to go that f-

She couldn't finish that thought since Jade had opened the door.

"Ah, Jade good day to you-" the dectective looked up toward him to see the tall man staring at her for a bit longer than a few seconds. She did notice the strand of black hair usually on his right was on the left.

Unconsciously she reached up and was about to grab it before her hand was grabbed.

"Just what are you doing little dectective?" His voice got a bit darker towards the end sending shivers down her spine for a second before she saw his eyes in front of her and thought to herself for a second.

'Was his gold eye always on the right?'

A slight tighter squeeze on her hand woke her up form her head. She was reminded of the situation again. She could feel his breath closer to her face, she was internally malfunctioning and was losing her train of focus.

"Ah, I was, I was just trying to flip your black strand of hair." She stuttered and didn't internally curse herself this time since the proximity was still a factor in her brain turning to mush.

Jade suddenly smiled a wide one at that. Usually it'd be small and polite even when teasing he'd have a signature closed eyed smile keeping the adorable image of his flustered dectective in his head. But that wasn't the case this time. This smile was more menacing and sent bad news toward all who saw it.

Jade towered over her a bit more leaning to the right a bit toward her ear.

"Dectective do you know what you remind me of?" He questioned with a wide smile on his face.

He leaned in too close for comfort his breath could be felt on her right ear, while his hand on her shoulder kept her still.

"An adorable little shrimp! I could just eat you up!" He said it slow to build up suspense but it sounded serious and at the same time.

She pushed him away feeling her face heat up tremendously like an oven.

"J -Jade!" She couldn't find the words to describe what she just heard feeling beyond embarrassed and having her heart pound loudly that she swore he could hear.

"I -I have to go, thank you for your time!" She frantically stated about to run off but before she could Jade had grabbed her wrist and pulled her back.

"Aww can't I get a kiss too, little shrimp? Besides aren't you forgetting something?" She was too put off by the request to understand the sentence, but her mind did process part of the sentence and she remembered why she came here.

He held up a folded up sheet of paper in his hands toying with her holding it out of her reach.

How could he say that in such a cool voice? Her nerves couldn't handle so much teasing, it wasn't unlike him but it seemed he had gone over his usual gentlemanly behavior.

She hurriedly kissed him on the cheek in which he hadn't expected such a quick response to his question with a blush on his face becoming apparent and his frozen stature. She took the opportunity to jump up for the paper and ran from near the doorstep bidding farewell with the sheet of paper she had took in hand leaving a blushing male to watch her run out. His smile grew as he saw her frantic behavior, excitement bubbling within him.

He ran outside to the backyard of the mansion to go share his newfound happiness.

. . .

"Jade! Shrimpy is really cute!" The one male spoke to Jade in a tone of voice that was different than that of a few minutes, one that would have made him believe he was Jade himself.

There appearances were so similar, cept for the eyes and voice they were twins after all. With a little makeup and easy voice tone change one could hardly tell the difference anyway.

"I'd thought you'd understand if you saw her up close, Floyd." Jade was actually outside tending to his mushrooms in the garden while his look alike was entertaining the female detective that had left in a hurry. Though knowing his brother he could already assume how it must have went. Thinking of his little dectective being so flustered indefinitely brought out his sadistic side a bit.

"Can we keep her?" Floyd was so fond of her seeing her turn red, hearing her heart beating loudly, when she stuttered and that kiss on the cheek pretty much sealed the deal for him. She was so full of life and it brought excitement for him since he had to stay within the manor and avoid everyone. His behavior would be brash and scare many in the public eye not only that but his strength was inhuman which could cause problems for the person on the receiving end. Especially if you were trying to blend in.

They only came from the sea to see the lives of humans and unlike one of their friends who started a business in this day and age. Jade could survive on land with the ability to easily fool others with a facade whereas Floyd couldn't do that all the time and would probably squeeze someone for no reason other than boredom.

He didn't like being confined but after seeing the dectective sleeping on the couch once, he became curious as to who she was and why Jade spent so much time helping her. He knew for a fact his brother was not at all kind or generous. He was beginning to finally understand.

"We are but you have to be patient, you did give her both sheets of paper before she ran off correct?" His brother inquired finally seeing the hunger in his brother's eyes.

"Yup, she gave me a kiss just so she could distract me and take it. Shrimpy is so cunning she makes me want to squeeze her and pay her back for catching me off guard like that." The thought alone sounded enticing to Floyd, he couldn't wait to wrap his tail around her.

"I need you to go on another 'outing' tonight we have to perfect this first if we want to have any shot at having her to ourselves." Jade's words did nothing to damper his mood as his excitement reached a new level at the thought of showing his little Shrimpy off to everyone.

They were trying to get make a potion in which a human could become a sea creature, though it was easy for Jade to make one for himself and Floyd to come on land. The same can't be said for a person that's been human and has not a single gene that ties them to the ocean. Altering genetics is difficult and delicate and one mistake and their dear little detective could end up just like those poor unfortunate souls that were test subjects. Jade would never risk bringing her with them under the sea if he wasn't sure she'd make it.

"Okay~ Jade!" He said eagerly!

Now that Floyd was on board as well he would be more motivated and inclined to help, making it more easier for Jade as he wouldn't bother and complain so much about being on land longer.

. . .

She barely slept a wink after what had occurred. Every time she thought about her encounter with Jade she'd blush and bury her face into a pillow with frustration.

She tried before to get some of her work done before that, but that didn't work out too well as her mind drifted back to the same situation.

How close he was, the warmth of his breath against her ear, it was enough to make her brain stop functioning as if he were there again.

He seemed far more clingy than usual and she didn't know how to describe it other than strange. The notes from the alchemist were neat and precise and confirmed what Lilia and her examined on the bodies earlier in the day. But that wasn't the only thing that fell from the folded piece of paper. It was another small piece with neat cursive that matched the analytics on the other page.

'Would you like to spend your day off with me?'

Yet another reason she wouldn't be getting much sleep tonight.

. . .

After getting off from work she mentioned to her coworkers how Jade had offered her to spend her day off with him. Well they asked what she was gonna do with her day off since it was a rarity. First Cater asked her if she said yes to him yet. She said no and he understood from the get go that she was way too flustered to even respond to him. So he offered to go respond to him on her phone.

Rook congratulated her and went on a rant about love even though she tried to get through his head it wasn't a date. He asked what she would wear and she had no actual clue, in which Rook took that as an invitation to lend his aid and expertise.

He brought her to one of his friend's businesses. Cater said this place was highly recommended and that anyone whose anyone came to the place for a makeover. Specifically called Vil's beauty salon and boutique. She didn't understand how a person could have both but he seemed to be managing it fine. The said shop owner gave her one look and shook his head at her appearance.

His words were, "What a poor excuse for a girl to go on date with such a potato face such as that, it's shameful for not only you but the guy as well."

He had her try on clothes and by the end of it all, she felt different. Her head hurt from all the pulling around of her hair. She had put on enough clothes that she believed she was playing dress up. The outfit settled upon was different from her usual style and she had on makeup for the first time in her life.

Rook and Cater applauded Vil's work new appearance. The dectective had to admit that when she looked in the mirror she understood why Vil had such a reputation that Cater reccomended him highly.

She had to buy all of it of course and thanked Vil immensely for his efforts. There was actually a discount considering Rook brought her and she looked so 'pathetic'. He had a victoriously smug smile on his face and complimented his own efforts before waving the trio off. She thanked her two coworkers and bid them farewell, looking forward to the her first day off in a millennia.

When she met Jade the next day at his door he was plenty surprised by her appearance. He blushed with his eyes widened in astonishment at the change. Not to mention on the side of the manor Floyd could see just how beautiful she had dressed. It was going to be a long day especially with the heels she was wearing and trying her hardest to walk in.

. . .

The two friends went to Clover's bakery where Jade offered to pay for any sweets she wanted but it seemed they were terribly busy today and the line was a bit long not mention the place was packed inside so there weren't any tables to sit in.

Trey said it was nice to see her out and about for once not on dectective business for once. He said hello to Jade as they were all friends though she only knew Trey from Jade who introduced me. On rare occasions she would go to his bakery for something sweet. He handed them two cupcakes for free but also asked for a favor for him.

"Can you give deliever Riddle this tart please? His mother isn't home and he rarely ever gets anything sweet. I usually have Ace do it but-" He looks away for a moment.

"It's fine, Jade do you-"

"It's no trouble at all, we'd be happy to." He says with an enchanting smile on his face.

Trey handed over the box containing the tart to them and they made their way over to the clinic where Riddle resided.

On the way Jade and her conversed. She asked him why he agreed so quickly and he responded with his own unique answer.

"I know it's in your nature to help others. Yet another fond trait of yours."

It's more embarrassing hearing it for the first time and out loud no less. She could feel her face heat up again.

"Then there's when you turn into a cherry, one of my favorite traits." He said in a teasing tone with a smile toward her making the dectective flush even more and look away biting into her cupcake. To ignore the laughter emitting from her friend alongside her. Now this is the Jade she knows.

. . .

To be completely honest both of them enjoyed their time today with one another. They had delivered Riddle's tart which was almost a complete disaster.

Considering she asked Jade to be lookout in case his mother came back. Long story short she did arrive earlier than expected. After she and Riddle heard her voice outside the walls right near the entrance gate, the dectective told Riddle to go before she found him with the tart. Riddle was far more worried about her but the dectective told him she'd be fine.

By fine she meant ducking in the rose bushes for cover, there weren't any thorns surprisingly all been cut off. She waited for Riddle's mother to enter the house and had to scale the wall that was located next to an alleyway. Climbing up was the easy part but getting down was the hard part. She was wearing heels and that drop looked like she would possibly break a bone if she landed the wrong way.

She came to a decision to take a leap of fate and let her heels drop to the ground. One thought passed about Vil being pissed about her ruining them. She shook her head though and pushed herself off.

Before she could land someone else caught her. Looking up at her savior she saw the two colored eyes of Jade. Who smiled happily at making it on time.

"Ah look at that, my assumption was right. I thought you'd take this route out their place. It would've been such a shame if you were to get injured."

"Thank you Jade, can you put me down now please?"

"I don't think so I'd rather hold you like this until we get to the resturant for everyone to see." He playfully said watching her face heat up.

"Wha-? N -no I can walk on my own!"

"But you might have hurt something besides someone who can't get their words out is akin to a child so they must be coddled correct?" His teasing was endless today.

. . .

After leaving the Monstro Lounge a business run by one of Jade's friends, Azul Ashengrotto, the sun had already long set.

"Let me accompany you to your apartment, Y/n it's supposedly dangerous to be out after dark correct? Or you can just spend the night again?" He offered.

"I have to decline besides I've already used enough of your generosity I don't want to take it for granted. It's been such a great day thanks to you Jade, wish we could do these more often cept for the fact I have work tomorrow." She said in a relaxed tone.

Despite all the teasing she really did enjoy herself with the man. Having her heart beating loudly all day and having her brain short circuit was all too amusing to the man beside her, but out of everyone else even his own brother she made him feel strangely different. He couldn't explain the feeling itself, but he knew for a fact he'd never do all of this for someone he would use.

"You wish to spend more time with me? I can grant that you know." Jade had said that so simply and out of the blue but in a calm tone as well.

"There's no way you can do something like that but I appreciate the thought. It's fine though you've done enough already. I'd rather not burden you with a simple wish." She said with content.

Before he could respond to that statement fast footsteps hurried over to them both and made the pair turn around.

"I saw the killer it was Mr.Leech! He ran away from the scene!" His hair was a light green, eyes full of life and the loud tone of his voice was distinct.

"Sebek what do you mean you saw Jade kill someone he was with me the entire time!We just left the Monstro Lounge Azul saw us leave!" The dectective was defensive pertaining to justice being served, not to mention her friend was being accused and she had been with him the entirely of the day.

"No it was him I saw him Felmier was killed by him!"

"Felmier was killed?! You should've started with that! Take me to the body did you make sure he was dead?!"

. . .

Sebek had spread all about the town that Jade was the murderer even though the people who had seen us together throughout the day vouched. Trey, Riddle, Azul, Rook, and Cater even Vil had seen them together. Some actually took Sebek's words in and started to distrust Jade even so.

Vil and Rook two friends of Felmier had paid for the funeral costs as Epel's family was struggling. It was admirable to see the young man take on the vicious job as Vil's protégé. It really was a shame. Vil actually kept up a face and Rook though he looked upon the casket with blank like expression it was easy to tell he was out for blood. Jade did show up to pay his respects even though some glared at him and were suspicious.

Vil came up to dectecrive during the repass and told her to make that fool pay dearly. She would of course no argument there. Epel had been a good kid and may have been a bit brash but still good nonetheless. So was Ace.

And thus a good day ended on a sour note.

The dectective would have more sleepless nights. Lilia performed an autopsy on Epel's body with Vil standing by his side to make sure he didn't damage it. Even he was shocked to see more and more scales near his legs and gills that were more prominent.

These people were getting even more closer to there goal it seemed and she couldn't do a thing. She was so frustrated at that fact alone. Jade's analysis did help some though. Looking through shops though that sold what would be the components of the elixir nothing suspicious could be found in any of the people who had brought those items. Not to mention those who did didn't have all the items brought from another store, there was no reoccurring name in sales.

Speaking of Jade though she had begun to think back to Sebek. He wasn't the type to lie not on the name of the mysterious nobleman Malleus Draconia that he served would he ever embarrass himself to stain his name even slightly. That's what Lilia told her at least.

He said Jade had did the deed. But he was with her the entire time. Come to think Sam's description had also matched Jade's strange behavior before he gave her the analysis, but it didn't make sense. Jade was one person he couldn't be in two places at once!

Maybe someone was trying to frame him and to that extent she went to go question if he had any enemies of the sort. His response was that he didn't have any as far as he knew. That could have been a good lead.

With no others she sighed looking extremely worn out and Jade had a frown seeing her state. He insisted she stay the night and she denied saying she had to finish this case even more so now. He at least offered her a meal in which he put slipped some sleeping pills that made her fall asleep after eating.

Both pairs of two colored eyes gazed at her peaceful state not liking how she'd exhaust herself with so much work. Only for the sake of others and waste time and effort for people that isn't them. It was annoying to Floyd and agitated Jade more than he liked to admit. She did say she wanted to spend more time with them right?? If only she didn't have that stupid job. Even more a reason to push the date up to the next few days.

. . .

About a week and a half had passed and the dectective had no other leads still. It was killing her to say the least. All those unfortunate victims and those families and friends that mourned definitely weighed on her shoulders, guilt eating at her insides. Such a shame too within the end of the day she was at home taking an evening nap on her day off in which she didn't even go out today. Her phone buzzed waking her up from her slumber.

A text from Jade. It had been awhile since they last talked seeing as she fell asleep at his manor again even though she didn't intend to.

Rubbing her eyes she read the text from her bright phone screen.

'Meet me at the dock at 10 today.'

She wasn't as flustered as last time in fact she considered not going as this case took top priority. But this was Jade, her closest friend, and she hadn't taken much of a break as her nap was only 30 mintues probably the only amount of sleep she would get today if she was being honest with herself.

She reluctantly sighed and decided to get ready an hour before meeting him and walk there a bit early to have some time to her own thoughts. She thought about going to Vil's shop to buy another outfit but it would have been a waste if they were only meeting for a short time. Not to mention she didn't want Vil to come to the conclusion she was slacking off with Jade even though the bags around her eyes were very much proof.

As she sat at the edge of the dock admiring the stars the waves hitting the edge of the pier calmed her head. It was nice to say the least.

She wondered what Jade would have to talk about. She looked at her phone and saw it was 10:05, Jade being late was a surprise, hopefully if she waited a bit longer her worry would ease. That atmosphere could not have lasted any longer.

A slight wind blew and during that exact moment something pulled her under by her feet into the cold ocean waters below. She managed to hold her breath and open her eyes to see nothing but darkness even with the moon behind the clouds right about now only endless shadows were there.

She could barely hear but she could have sworn something swam by her. Arms touched her waist which almost made her scream for a moment though that was something suicidal. It touch the sides of her stomach and stayed there for a moment.

Even though she tried to struggle it was fruitless when the thing that held her tickled her sides making her open her mouth and succumb to breathing in water then choking soon after. That wasn't the only thing to occur since the next second lips were on hers and a fluid trickled down her throat along with the water that she was trying to swallow. The tongue of said thing dipped inside her mouth and would have made her gag if they hadn't pulled away.

She regretted it the moment they did cause she still could breath and with her mouth open she thought she would take her final breath. Both or what she assumes were two people backed off letting her go to meet her demise with her slowly closing her eyes. She didn't notice the glow of what transpired around her lower half of her body. She could finally take in some much needed breaths except her neck for some reason felt sore and she could no longer move her legs separately to try and swim up for air.

Looking down she saw the horrid image of a long tail with a fin on the end where her legs were supposed to be. The pain form her neck was from three newly formed slits on either side of her neck. Her fingers traced over them finding this whole situation unbelievable. When she finally came to her senses she found herself hearing voices as well.

"Shrimpy's still here! It worked, Jade!" A cheerful voice could be heard in the cold waters that surrounded her.

Something slimy wrapped about her new found lower half. Pulling her closer to be within someone's arms. They held her a bit too tight like all the air, water in her lungs could have been? Did she still even have those anymore she wondered? Even still the amount of pressure put on her by the creature hugging her was able to be felt.

He was laughing happily spinning around in circles with the former human female getting dizzy by the second.

"I can see that Floyd. How wonderful, but do take it down a notch she only was just turned after all." That voice was all too familiar. She couldn't help but say it aloud, but that couldn't be true.

"Jade?" Her voice was a whisper but of course he still heard it.

"Yes, my dear angelfish what is it?" He responded in an endearing tone that was calm despite the situation she was just put through.

She glanced toward the voice to see what appeared to be a creature similar to that of an eel by the tail. Her eyes trailed up to the sight of his face. It was him no doubt about it. The eyes were exact and so was the hair the only difference was the body and skin.

"Aw Shrimpy why'd you acknowledge him first? I'm here too." A voice whined in a more child like tone directly in her ear. It brought a shiver down her spine.

'Shrimpy?' That was unmistakably the nickname Jade gave her when he acted weird.

She turned toward his way and saw a sharp toothed grin on his face when she looked at him.

"Floyd you haven't even introduced yourself." Jade sounded like his normal self and this Floyd person was just the complete opposite of him.

"Oh right Shrimpy I'm Floyd, Jade's brother and your going to be with us in the sea from now on! Isn't that great? I can't wait to show you all my favorite places you'll love it!" He sounded so excited while dread built up in the mermaid.

"What do you mean stay here?! What have you done to me? Who, what even are you two?!" She said those words with malice laced into them having them both chuckle in response.

Jade had also wrapped his tail about her upper half restraining her further. He brought himself closer to her face, a smirk etched on to it.

"My, my, Y/n you did say you wanted to spend more time with me, isn't this what you wanted?" He tilted her chin up showing a sadistic smile on his face that only built up even more dread than what his brother had already.

"I didn't realize or expected anything like this and you know that! Why would you do this?! You! You-" She thought for a second processing all that had occurred the past couple of weeks.

"You killed them you gave them that exlixir that ended their lives. Every single one of them." This time it was the other brother's turn to speak.

"There's our little dectective she's so smart!~" Floyd just made her completely uncomfortable with how he would call her that nickname and whisper words in her ear.

"Why? Why would you do this?" She became defeated knowing turf like this was theirs and she stood no chance against them in the first place.

"Eh why? Is Shrimpy really that blind Jade?" Floyd mocked her with no remorse as tears streamed down the dectective's eyes at the thought of letting so many people down.

"Why? My dear angelfish haven't you noticed? We've become quite enamored with you. Hm no better word to put it is obsessed, at first it was just me but with Floyd's impatience I just had to get him in on understanding why we didn't go back home already. As for those people they were necessary for testing the elixir for this very moment. We couldn't have you dying on us afterall." He said with absolute calmness evoking rage within the mermaid.

She clenched her fists.

"So many were sacrificed, I should've died, instead." She murmured the last half but both the twin eels heard it.

There expressions turned dark and their tails gripped the female tighter startling her from her state of guilt.

"Eh, why would you say that Shrimpy, we can't have you leaving us. We finally got you all to ourselves and I haven't had much time with you, and yet you say you want to leave." Floyd's arms contracted her more than Jade's tail already, now she understood what it must have felt like for Trappola.

"He is right Y/n dear, we only want what's best for you and having you say that only makes our blood boil so please understand." Jade gripped her chin with a scary amount of strength. This was the first time he ever seemed so much more intimidating to her.

"Don't ever say something like that again am I clear?"

From that point on she was stuck between the twin eels who loved her so. She only wished she could have been able to listen to Sebek when he said the truth. Mr. Leech did do it just not the one she thought.

[camomile-t]

I don't think I've done this for you before, but here we go. Enjoy this Drabble. Technically recycling (don't ask) and sorry, I didn't edit :)

Marcy would like to think she was a good player of Flipwart. The game wasn’t really all that different from Chess. Well, there were some key differences, but the overall premise was there.

Really it was no different, by a considerable means.

Sometimes in her spare time she would even jot down who her friends were. Marcy took out her journal, ready to write her reasonings and do little drawings. After the first temple, matching everyone to pieces had become considerably easier. Marcy could agree with the board about the Plantars.

Polly was definitely a Rook. With how far and fast she could travel in one direction made sense. She was too rash for a queen though, and Marcy had only ever seen the pollywog roll forward. So that was fine.

Sprig himself was a Pawn. Not in the sense of being something one could sacrifice, but Marcy thought that he had yet to reach his potential. He’ll reach it one day though, especially if they stay with Anne.

Hop Pop being a Bishop was to be expected. He was smart and cautious, maybe those aren;t exactly what that piece meant, but that’s what it meant to her.

Anne being a Knight also made sense. She could move pretty quickly and always jumped in front of her friends. It made the most sense.

Andrias being the King was relatively obvious. It was in the title after all.

From there things kind of go vague.

She supposed Lady Olivia would be the other Bishop. It made sense considering she was the same as Hop Pop, just a little more strict. That didn’t mean either was less of the other.

For the reason of being similar, two sides of the same coin really, Marcy placed Sasha as the other Knight. She was also always jumping into danger for her friends. Even if it seemed like Anne and Sasha were having a fight, they were still the same.

They all were despite any mistakes they have made.

Even ones the others may not know about.

Who would she be to judge?

Especially considering that she has her own huge secret.

General Yunan would definitely be the other Rook. She was very quick on her feet and very frightening. Pretty similar to Polly.

Oh frog.

If Polly grew up to be like General Yunan, that would be disastrous.

Marcy stopped drawing for a moment as she felt a shiver crawl up her spine.

That was a horrifying thought.

All that was left were a bunch of Pawns and the Queen.

Who would she be?

Marcy shook her head, she never assigned herself.

She’ll just ask someone one day, in the meantime, General Yunan looked like she only had three enormously long fingers, instead of three blades.

***

“You were the pawn.” Andrias said. He sat on the other end of the table.

Marcy hardly paid him any mind anymore. She had given up on having her own choices long ago.

The eldritch being in her mind had other plans though, pay attention to him when he speaks.

It ended the command with a sharp pain.

Marcy winced before looking at Andrias. The large newt looked amused.

“You looked through my journal?”

The king smiled and nodded, “Of course. Had to keep myself sufficiently entertained while my Chief Ranger was healing. What better way than reading her thoughts?”

Marcy could think of several better ways, but stayed silent. Neither of them liked it when she talked back.

“So you think I am a pawn.”

“No,” Andrias continued, “I know you were.”

Marcy only stared at him.

“You were never much to look at. You had no kind of meaning or power, all you had going for you was your potential. I’m just helping you reach it.”

“And how exactly does stabbing me play into these plans, your highness?” Marcy mumbled in a sarcastic tone.

She could feel the eldritch god’s amusement.

At least it wasn’t hurting her.

“Well,” Andrias began, “anytime a pawn gets promoted it gets removed from the board before coming back better. You simply,” the newt paused, “had to be removed.”

Marcy’s hand slowly traced her scar that was beneath her suit, “So I am in limbo right now?”

“Yes,” Andrias’ voice took a more serious tone, “and when you submit entire control, then you would be a better and more valuable piece in this game.”

Marcy glared at the table, like hell she would just give in.

She flinched, hands flying to her throbbing head. As she let out a small grown.

You will submit.

And just like that, she blacked out.

OH WOW OKAY. THANKS FOR THE FUCKIN PAIN MY DUDE. “She had given up on having her own choices long ago.” OUCH. ty very much for the ask, this was a joy to read

[alice-angel12x]

Cherry blossom marriage. Based on the ghost marriage event. Plus lowly tied to my fanfic on wattpad.

" Please marry me!" Epel said, " Darx I challenge you for the bride's hand,"

" Don't look at someone else. Please marry me!" Ace shouted, " Darx I will defeat you,"

 "Please... choose me as your marriage partner," Riddle offered, " Darx I shall put a stop too you,"

" Your beauty, I want to be your servant of love forever," Rook smiled, " And I shall rescue you from this brute,"

-------

Far out at sea loomed a dark storm cloud that slowly made its way towards the island of Night Raven College. A figure sat on the back of a mighty griffin in the eye of the storm, it groaned, cried as it tried to thrash against reigns. The man growled as he sharply pulled on the reins.

"Quiet pet, I hear that there is a beautiful maiden at Night Raven College. And from what I've seen on the magical, she is quite the sight," The figure sighed, " Though I wished she had more of a presence, instead of uploaded photo's from this Cater guy."

-----------

"Master, can I come with you this time?" Inir asked excitedly, " I promise to be careful this time?"

"I have a feeling you to come for other reasons," Y/n sighed.

"N-no," Inir stuttered.

"You want another playdate with Ortho don't you?" Y/n smirked at her newer creation.

"No- yeah, but he's so fun to hang out with and I promise I'll be careful and try not to break myself like last time," Inir begged.

"Inir you broke yesterday from the game of tag, and I spent all night gluing you back together, and I had to reapply the marks that keep you together," Y/n yawned as she took a sip of coffee.

"PLEASE!?" Inir begged.

----------

"Morning Ace-san, "Inir greeted.

"Oh Inir, I see y/n put you back together, " Ace smiled.

"yep cause she's the best, " Inir smiled.

"Morning," Yawned a tired Y/n.

"Wow you look awful today, did you get any sleep?" Ace asked.

"No, and I didn't feel like arguing with Inir today. Have you seen Idia or Ortho? " Y/n sighed.

"Yeah, I think-"

"Inir!" Shouted a young voice, and a flash of white and blue.

"There he is?" Y/n yawned.

"Hi, Ortho, " Inir Smiled as she hugged to robot boy, " is Idia outside today?"

"No, just me, but I saw that you were in school so I came over to play some more," Ortho said with a cheery smile, " If that's okay with Y/n, "

"Just please be gentle, I don't think I can handle another all-nighter to fix Inir," Y/n said tiredly.

"Okay," they both said as they ran off.

------------

(Location- courtyard)

"Are you sure you're going to make it through the day?" Duece asked with a worried tone as he helped Y/n walk straight.

"I can't fall behind-behind on.. on the," Y/n nodded off.

"Prefect Y/n, what in the world happened to you," Said a very smooth voice.

"Oh no," Y/n groaned as she looked up to see Vil staring down at her.

"Y/n have you slept at all, you have bags under your eyes, and your skin looks all dried up," Vil said as he poked and prodded at her face.

"I had to put Inir back together, so no sleep," Y/n said simply.

"Oh no, you shouldn't push yourself. You'll ruin your health," Rook gasped at the sight of Y/n's tired face.

"Epel please Take Y/n back to her dorm to get proper rest," Vil said simply.

Epel nodded and Helped Y/n back to the ramshackle dorm to rest. The moment Y/n rested her head she was out like a light.

-----------

The night quickly came and Y/n found it hard to sleep knowing that her sleep was very thrown off, so she decided to take a night stroll around the school. As she made her way to the main route of the great 7. As she walked past the statues she noticed a familiar shut-in heading her way.

"Oh, good evening Mr. Idia," Y/n smiled as she curtsied slightly.

"Ahh! O-oh it's you Y/n. good evening, but what are you doing up so late?" Idia stuttered.

"My sleep is completely out of wack, so I'm just walking around. What are you up too, must be something important," Y/n wondered aloud.

"I've ordered my favorite manga's newest print... along with the spacial mini colored papers, but why is it not delivered by the release date!?" Iida ranted.

"M-Manga? Is this related to the anime thing you talk about?" Y/n asked.

"Manga is the book version of anime," Idia explained.

"Oh, well sorry to hear that, it must be a good piece of literature," Y/n frowned for Idia.

"It's a shame as an otaku to not get it on the first date. There's nobody around too, I'm going to the shop," Idia sighed.

But suddenly lightning flashed in the sky and a strong wind blew past Y/n and Idia.

"...ound you...," said a distant voice.

"Eh?" Idia and Y/n gasped.

"Just now... someone's voice?"  Idia wondered.

" I finally... found you... My Bride!" Said a tall man with a black blindfold over his eyes.

"GYAA———!!!!!" Idia screamed while Y/n gasped in shock.

-------

"Grim, GRIM!" The fairy trio shouted.

Grimm gasped awake and quickly glared at the three.

"What?!" Grimm groaned.

"Y/n's missing! and the ghost has invaded!" Zephyr shouted as three ghosts appeared.

"Whoa!?" Grimm screamed.

" You dirty rats! What are you doing here!" One of the ghosts shouted, " This mansion is the Masters' reception hall. It's off-limits for outsiders!"

"Master?! Reception hall??. I don't get it, but it's my dorm. The outsiders are you guys!" Grimm growled.

"If you won't go out, you'll be in trouble," The ghosts glared, " Go out now or you'll be hurt!"

The Ghosts quickly tossed Grimm and the other creatures out of the dorm. Grimm growled as he ran over to the headmaster's office to report the incident.

"Your dorm got possessed by ghosts with white hats?" Crowley asked.

"That's right! They appeared and suddenly said that the dorm was theirs! They said something about a master too!" Grimm growled.

" Master... ah, I get it! There was nobody in that dorm last year so I let it be, but... It seems like he has come this year again," Crowley sighed.

"Again?" Vinca asked.

" The ones who chased you out was Darx's vassal" Crowley groaned.

"Darx? Who's that? I don't know if I'm supposed to be congratulating or scared," Grimm wondered.

" It seems like she was a princess of a country that was destroyed long ago. Darx is currently the world's most powerful wizard and a very narcissistic one too. He travels the world in search of a perfect partner to bear his children, wanting powerful children. He had many weddings, yet his brides always go missing after a month. Sometimes he rests at Ramshackle Dorm as appointed to be their basecamp. It's an honor for that place to be recognized by a powerful wizard," Crowley explained.

" It's not the time to brag! Chase those annoying ghosts away quickly!" Grimm growled.

" It's too annoying to chase them... ahem! Don't you think it's pitiful? Let's just leave them alone, plus I don't want to get on Darx's bad side for no good reason. besides no bride will be found here," Crowley laughed, " It only affects Ramshackle Dorm. And they'll go away after a few days. Stop those useless protests and just freeload on your friend's place for 2-3 days, wait where's Y/n?"

" Headmaster—!!!!!!!" Ortho and Inir cried.

"Oh, Ignihyde's Ortho Shroud-Kun and Inir of Ramshackle. What are you two in a hurry for?" Crowley

"It's a problem... my brother and Prefect Y/n were taken by a strange man!" Ortho cried.

"What?!" everyone gasped.

"Right Check out this security video," Ortho said as he projected a video.

"Hey! Please don't hack the school's security system!" Crowley scolded.

"shh, be quiet and watch the video!" Inir shushed.

-------

"So that man is," Grimm gulped.

"Yep, that man is Darx, and he found a bride!" Crowley gasped.

"And the Bride is Y/n!" Ora gasped in horror.

"Well she indeed a beautiful maiden and a powerful witch on top of that, fitting his criteria," Crowley mumbled.

"Yep, she is also kind and caring. Dame you Darx, what precise eyes you have!" Inir growled.

"Anyway, it seems like we have trouble, If she's chosen to be Darx bride, then that means," Crowley gasped.

Suddenly they were interrupted by all the commotion happening in the halls. They ran out to see what was going on, and to find the halls were overrun with ghosts and monsters. All the students ran out of the school to the track field, the only safe place for the student body.

"Isn't it Ace and Deuce, did you come to the sports field to evacuate too?" Riddle said simply.

"You guys got chased out too?" Deuce asked.

"Yep looks like Darx is up to something," Vil sighed in annoyance.

"Wait Grimm, Where is Y/n?" Azul asked.

"She's been taken by Darx!" Inir cried.

"What?!" everyone gasped in horror.

"It's true," Ortho said as he explained what had happened last night.

-------------

Pt.1

______

[subjectsix]

I. K. U. for the fic thing if you are still doing it. VwV

I: Do you have a guilty pleasure in fic (reading or writing)?

hmmm, I don't think any of it would be a guilty pleasure, but I'm a sucker for getting into character's heads and their motivations, as well as simply meandering in my descriptions of things kjsdhfsjkhf

K: What’s the angstiest idea you’ve ever come up with?

Gosh this is hard. I feel like all my angst stops becoming angst to me because it tends to resolve itself one way or another, but I defo have had many methinks. Dylan waking up and opting to leave NYC and the Bureau and losing contact with Jesse because it's far too awkward and there's too much baggage they aren't addressing but he wants to see her and go back to his sister but he can't face the fallout that would ensue might count as one.

Maybe wanting to write Jesse receiving his hidden hotline call from the files? Her trying to answer him even though he can't hear her, trying to will her voice to be heard, to reach through the phone lines and help him and pluck him to safety, completely helpless in her office until she sprints recklessly to his room in executive to find him unchanged, sleeping.

As far as what I've written, my friend just said that my fic where Agent 47 buries Lucas Grey is the angstiest.

U: Share three of your favourite fic writers and why you like them so much.

OH MAN so many of my friends are excellent fic writers and there's no way I could pick only three of them, so I'm going to specifically highlight some fic writers I do not know just based on my bookmarks:

- OldEmeraldEye has written some wonderful short-form Control fic on AO3-- I love their style and how they encapsulate the world of Control so well, picking perfect snapshot moments to put in a bottle. Very good stuff!

- schweinsty has a fic series I haven't finished yet called the poet-verse about Bodhi Rook and crew from Rogue One that I'm very fond of. It feels incredibly lived in and real, every little character and culture piece they include, and I'm very fond of what I've read there.

- and time for my deepest most random pull: Scratch and Dent by gamerfic is one of my favorite fics of all time, as it features one of my favorite star wars characters of all time, who got about a total of one minute of screentime eskjfhskefh

It's just. Wonderful. All the way around. The Star Wars-y novel feel, the characterization, the Death Gang, the banter, the near bureaucracy of gang business. mwah. 10/10

; fanfic ask game

[twisted-writing-mess]

Get This Right

Song fic.

Characters: Rook Hunt, Reader

Notes: Rook deserves more love so here is my participation in the “time for Rook to get what he deserves” squad. This idea came up while I was listening to the Frozen II soundtrack. Hope you’ll enjoy! Have an amazing day, wherever you are!

Also, @jangmi-latte​ you said something about wanting to be tagged on Pomefiore related stories so I did! (I hope it doesn’t bother you)

Please also note that English is not my first language, sorry for any grammatical mistakes.

Usually, Rook was not the shy type. He was the fambloyant type. Every person in this school was aware of his shiny presence. He was known for his theatrical enters, his French nicknames, his hunter habits, but also for being such a colourful yet nice person. The only one who could keep up with the strict Vil Schoenheit without any problem. He had more than one admires.

Yet, there was one person who always managed to surprise him and, I dare say, to make him flutter.

You.

He met you on his very first year here, at Night Raven College. You caught his eyes right away, with your beautiful hair, your cute face, your shiny eyes... But most importantly, with your wonderful personality. No matter what your qualities and flaws were, for him, every single part of your being was perfect just the way it was.

At first, as usual, it was a hunting game for him. He would look at you from afar, analyzing your every move and habit, taking mental notes of everything. Your physical abilities, your way to speak, your attitude toward your friends, your reactions when meeting an obstacle...

“Just go and talk to them already,” Vil sighed one day, while Rook was looking through the window with a longing look in your direction. That silly smile and blushing face... The beautiful yet poisonous student was getting tired of it, since Rook was not paying attention to their current experiment.

Yes. He is right. He should. And he wanted to. But when he finally decided to make the move, you beat him to it.

“Why are you stalking me?” You asked, as soon as you spotted him. And that was it. It was as if Cupid shoot him an arrow right into the heart. Since he was not reacting, you waved your hand before his eyes.

“Are you free for lunch?” were the first words he ever said to you. And without really knowing why, you accepted his offer.

This was how you became friends. Rook quickly grew closer and closer to you, until finally asking you out half way through your first year. This day, you made him the happiest man in the world. Until now.

Third year. It will soon be the end of your shared third year among Night Raven College. And it was also your third year of relationship. Rook was starting to have troubling thoughts. When this year will come an end, then what will happen? Will you stay here and try the fourth year? Will you go back to your homeland? The hunter was scared. He could not be separated from you. He refused to. And suddenly, a bright idea. The right thing to do. He knew it was what he wanted. But will you?

“You want to ask for their hand?” Vil asked, absolutely stunned by his friend’s announcement. “Mon cher roi de poison (1), you heard me right,” Rook exclaimed, “I can’t stand the thought of losing them, I want to be together with my sweet love for my whole life!”

This exclamation was so Rook. The hunter came to his trusted friend, and hopefully one day wing man, for advice. He wanted to get this right. It was such a rare vision, the flamboyant Rook being unsure about how to act. But his eyes were burning with determination and dedicated love. Vil sighed. He could not go against his Vice Dorm Leader.

“I will help you with the ring,” he finally said, “I can’t let you ridiculed yourself by choosing something unfitting.” A large smile appeared on Rook’s features. The Pomefiore Dorm Leader was really the best friend he could ever ask for.

Weeks passed. Weeks during which Rook rehearsed his love speech, the on-one-knee position, the ring showing moment... With the participation of a tired Vil.

And finally, he felt ready. Today was the day where Rook will propose to you.

“Mon rayon de soleil! (2)” Rook exclaimed, running to you. You stopped in your track to wait for him to catch up with you. “Hello, Rook,” you smiled before giving him a kiss on the cheek once he was next to you, “I haven’t seen you the whole day. Where were you?”

“I was quite busy, unfortunately, but just seeing you now was enough to brighten my day,” he smiled sweetly. Always so smooth. "Then, if you're less busy, let's walk together," you offered. And he gladly accepted. Now, it was the perfect opportunity for him to strike.

He made sure the walking led you away from people's eyes. He wanted to make his move away from people, just the two of you for this magical moment.

"Mon ange (3)," he called, suddenly stopping. You stopped soon after to look at him with curiosity in your eyes. You were caught off guard by the look on his face. Your lover, Rook Hunt, actually seemed unsure. Troubled. Nervous.

"Rook, are you alright?" You asked, your voice full of worries. Oh no, here, he worried you. The hunter looked down, not looking at you anymore. It only made things worse.

"Oh, Rook, I'm sorry," you hurriedly say, "you're tired and I made you come with me, I should have let you go home and rest."

"It's not you!" His outburst surprised even him. He calmed down, noticing your own troubled look. "It's me... I..." He hesitated, his cheeks turning a cute shade of pink. You really were the only person able to make the flamboyant Rook bashful.

"Mon amour (4)... You always manage to swip me off my feet, and I hope I make you feel as happy as you make me happy," he started, "there was times where I wondered if you didn't deserve someone better than me."

"What? Rook, why would you think-" "Non, non, let me finish, please," he cut you off. If he did not get it out at once, he feared he might lose his words again. He could not believe he rehearsed his proposal for hours with Vil only to stutter in front of you. This was unlike him.

"I want to get this right, to be the right one for you," he admitted. "You are the most extraordinary person I've ever met, and I am so grateful I was offered the blessing to share my everyday life with you for three years now."

You listened to Rook with absolute attention. The more he was talking, the faster your heart was beating. You could feel your cheeks grow hotter too. His words were making their way to your heart, squeezing it lovingly. You could squealed out of happiness, but you kept control over yourself, not daring to interrupt him again.

"And I would love it if you would make me the honor of... Of..." Rook patted his pocket, only to feel nothing there. "Wait..." He checked every of his pockets. Nothing. "I forgot the ring..."

"What is it?" You asked, not understanding his mumbles. Rook looked panicked now. "Rook?" You reached out to him, only for him to run away from your touch. Literally. Rook suddenly ran away.

"Rook, wait! Come back!"

The hunter ran away from his one and only. He did not dare to look back. "Good job, Rook," he thought to himself while running, "you just ruined the moment."

He could not believe it. How could he forget the ring?! He did not get this right, in the end. How would he come back to you after running from you like this? And how would he face Vil after ruining both of their efforts? Going back to Pomefiore now might not be the best idea. But the ring had to be there, in his bedroom.

Rook took some time for himself, to calm his nerves and his panic, before heading back to the Pomefiore Dormatory. His plan was to take the forgotten ring before going to search for you. He was still in time to save the situation. Right?

But everything stopped when he opened the door, only to see you in the Dorm Hall, talking with Vil. Maybe it was still time to run away again.

"There you are," your voice called out. He understood he could not run from this. You made your way to him with a determined walk. He was already planning an apology. You stopped just a foot away from him. The hunter was about to open his mouth to apologize, but once again, you beat him to it.

"Mister Rook Hunt, will you marry me?"

He was stunned. You were looking right into his eyes. You had the confidence he lost. And at this very moment, you were more beautiful than you have ever been. A large goofy smile made its way on his lips. It was as if he was falling for you all over again. What did he do to deserve such a magnificent being?

"It would be my honor!" Rook took you in his arms, turning around with you cradled against him. He stopped, setting you back down. His forehead against yours, his adoring eyes were looking right into yours.

"I'm going to be the man you deserve," he smiled. "You already are, silly," you replied.

"I will make your life the most beautiful one in the world," he added. "You're doing pretty good so far," you chanted.

You wrapped your arms back around his neck to bring him down to your level. He gladly accepted the physical invitation and planted a sweet kiss on your lips. When you parted away, Rook longingly stared into your eyes and caressed your now red cheek. "We got it right."

"No, you did not." Vil finally manifested himself, showing the ring box he was holding in his hand. Oh, yes, the forgotten ring.

---

(1) Mon cher roi de poison: my dear poison king

(2) Mon rayon du soleil: my ray of sunshine

(3) Mon ange: my angel

(4) Mon amour: my love

[kisayrichard]

Heyy! So I was rewatching fdtd last night, specifically 2x09 and when Malvado and Richie are talking about Richie getting the business etc Richie says "except I've gotta pay too." Then Malvado, "Santanico belongs to me." And then a couple of words later he says "You've witnessed the rage inside of her - what she truly wants is so much deeper." And then Richie stays silent. So my question is, after everything Malvado said and offered to Richie do you think that he could leave Kisa behind?

(Cont) Say Kisa couldn’t kill Malvado and they ended up going to el Rey or wherever and Richie did end up taking over the business. Do you think he’d let Malvado take her or if he did do you think he would rescue Kisa and kill Malvado? I’m eager to hear your thoughts!😊

Omg, I had never thought about that! I don’t know why, it’s such an interesting AU/what if scenario, and yet it had never crossed my mind. So, first of all, thank you for sending this and wanting to know my opinion on the subject! Beware, this got extremely long and I’m not even sure if it makes any sense.

I’m gonna rewind things a bit and start at 2.08 when Richie and Malvado meet. Or better yet, when Richie escaped torture and ran to help Kisa, only to find Malvado there, playing tricks with his mind. He was completely distressed while running through the halls after her, and then very much pissed at the stunt Malvado pulled out. 

Anyway, despite that, Malvado did get into his head and convinced Richard that what he truly wanted was his empire, and that the only way to get it was by making a deal with the devil (literally). The reason Malvado was so successful in his manipulation is that he is able to use Richard’s own fears and wishes against him, all he said were things Richie had thought about before, even if in his right mind he would not have acted upon them. So, Richie just accepts that Malvado is right and agrees with the deal. 

Then, we come to the scene you mentioned, where we see them working out the details of their agreement: 

Richard: El Rey, huh? How much is that gonna cost you?Malvado: Oh, some sweat and tears, mostly blood. (…)Richard: Except I gotta pay too.Malvado: Santanico belongs to me. Always has. 

I love that little crack in Richie’s voice when he says “except”and his face, he is so serious. He KNOWS this is it. There’s no turning back. There are other moments before where you can go, “this is the beginning of the end for them”, but here is where he actually acknowledges that if he goes through with this deal, there’s no future for him and Kisa. And he is balancing what he could potentially have with her against what Malvado is promising him. 

But, what does he do next? He just takes it, right, because he wants it so much? Noooo, first he tries to contact her!

Malvado: She can’t reach you. I made sure of that. You witnessed the rage inside of her. She thinks that, by killing me, she can be free of all of this. She can’t. She won’t. What she truly wants, is so much deeper. It’s something you could never give her. 

It must’ve hurt to hear that. Because I think Richie truly believes in what Malvado is saying here. He was already insecure in their relationship, he had never had another one in the first place, and theirs’ seems doomed from the start. So, all that Malvado is saying doesn’t sound like a lie to him. Plus, he has seen how she gets over Malvado and, talking about it, instead of brining the closer, brought them further apart. I think it’s understandable, then, why he chooses to betray her, to put his own ambitions before her. Not only they were never gonna last, but he thinks he would never be able to give her what she wants.  And as he later told Kate, “there’s always a price to pay to get what you want” and in his case, that price was Kisa.

The reason I went through the trouble of talking about all of this (besides the fact I seem to never be able to go directly to the point) is to explain that Richie betraying Kisa was not as simple as some people try to make it to be. It wasn’t something he did carelessly and that it didn’t pain him to do it. To think like that, is to willfully ignore not only Richard’s struggle throughout season 2 but all the times he showed how much he cares about her.

Now, talking about the scenario you proposed, let’s say Richie defeated/killed Carlos, got the blood, came back to the bar, the new boss and everything, only to find out Malvado was about to leave to El Rey with Kisa.

What’s his initial reaction? I imagine the news would be like a cold shower. Kisa is going to a place he presumably cannot follow (Malvado just told him it would take all the souls freed on the well to take them to El Rey) and it’s all because of  something him, Richard, did. It’s the love of his life and he let her go, just like that, but, at the same time, it’s a deal he made, no one can say he wasn’t aware of the consequences. 

Would he try to interfere and stop them from leaving? If Richie found out Kisa was paralyzed, fully conscious but unable to move, totally terrified, you betcha your ass he would be going after them, I have no doubt about it.

And, yes, I understand that he already knows Kisa doesn’t want to be with Malvado, he knows he abused her. This should be enough, but it’s not for Richie, and you can see he was betting on the fact Malvado wanted her so much that he would never hurt her. But if he knew that it wasn’t true, if it actually saw her, he would do something. All the times Richie actually saw or knew that Kisa was in danger, he acted to protect her. He was prepared to “kill everyone in this room” in 2.05, he got her away from that demon in 3.02, he stopped that guy from killing her in 3.08. So, it’s canon. To hell with the stupid deal (which I don’t think he would loose any sleep over breaking). He wouldn’t be able to stop himself, he would act to help her. 

Now, second scenario, what if they had already gone to El Rey, and he only found out later? Would he act to help her?

In that case, I don’t think Richie wouldn’t immediately decide to go to El Rey, kill Malvado and get Kisa back. Again, not unless he somehow knew the state she was in. 

Remember, Malvado broke their connection. They can’t sense each other, they can’t talk to each other, he doesn’t know what she is feeling or how she is. Even if she contacted him, would he be sure it was actually her and not Malvado again?

I think that, no matter how much upset/hurt he would be over her being gone, missing her even, Richie would force himself to stay put. It’s just who he is, you know? He is not gonna go running around playing the hero, no matter how much I want him to. Richie would first try and convince himself he did the right thing, that it all worked for the best. In 2.10, he tells Kisa, “I had you all set up in El Rey. You could be walking in the sun right now.” and I’m sure this is something he would also be trying to convince himself of after he found out she left with Malvado. Only when all of that didn’t work is that Richie would allow himself to regret his choice and do something about it. 

That’s not so say Richie would take weeks to do something. It could take only half an hour brooding. Or maybe he would receive a push from Seth or Ximena (“you really let him take her, Gecko? didn’t know you had it in you to be so cold”) and it would spur him into action. I just meant he would try to convince himself he shouldn’t act before doing something. 

Having said all that, I’m positive he would do end up something about it. This is the guy who kept tabs on her whereabouts in 3.02, not to know what she was doing or who she was with, but simply to know she was safe. That’s how much he cares about her. He would want to know how she was doing in El Rey, figure out some way to know if she really was safe. And when he figured out she wasn’t, he would totally try to save her and kill Malvado.  

Because, at the end of the day, that’s who Richie is. He would never be able to witness Kisa being in danger and not do something, and that still holds true despite whatever Malvado said and tried to convince Richie of.

In short, I think everything should go very Ever After (that movie where Drew Barrymore plays Cinderella), you know? Richie being stupid for a while, then finally acting and going to rescue her, only to find Kisa finishing off killing Malvado herself and setting herself free. And she would be totally surprised, “what are you doing here?” Richie would get all flushed and then say, “I came for you. To set you free.” Kisa would give him a sad smile, “I didn’t think you cared.” Richie would be silent and then admit, “I do. I thought I could just let him take you, but I couldn’t.” And, you know, both of them looking stupidly at each other, then Kisa remembering she is still mad at him and she shouldn’t let him off the rook easily. 

That’s it. I’m so sorry I rambled a lot! I hope half of this at least makes sense! And again, thank you so much for sending this question!