Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"WHAT THE FUCK!?-" Azul shouts, dropping his cane as he is standing in the Octavinelle lounge with such a fearful and stunned expression upon his face that it almost looks like he will pass out any moment.

"Azul, what happe-...oh..." Jade walks in too and when he saw what Azul saw, he looked as if he were frozen within a block of ice, with fear glistening in his heterochromic eyes.

There in the aquarium the dead body of an Octavinelle student was floating. However, he was not floating at the top like dead bodies normally would. In the centre.

***

"So you're telling me that the student's abdomen was cut open and his organs were wrapped around the corals and rocks to keep him the centre of the aquarium?" Crowley asks with a stern look, a sense of dread and disbelief circulating within those dark eyes of his.

"Y-yes, Headmage. And his scarf was also tightly tied around his neck. I believe that he has also been suffocated." Azul is trying to keep his composure but after witnessing that sight, he's not sure if he will ever be able to forget it. "It's as if whoever murdered him wanted us to see it."

"Well you could be right about it being a murder, Ashengrotto, however it's best to not make assumptions. Now we need to get the body out and cover it up as quickly as possi-"

"HEADMAGE!! EMERGENCY!!" Kalim, as well as the other Housewardens burst into Crowley's office with terrified looks on their faces.
"Can't all of you respect our privacy and wait outside? Why do you all look so panicked?" Crowley stands up from his desk and he spoke in an annoyed tone of voice.

"Headmage, we have discovered murdered students in each of the dorms. That's why we have come to inform you."
"Thank you for informing me, Rosehearts."

Crowley seems to calm down a bit and sits back down into his seat. The whole room falls silent as he gives all seven of the Housewardens a hard and rather cold stare.

"...I can't leave my office at the moment so if you expect me to get up then I can't."
All the Housewardens sigh, Leona facepalming in annoyance at Crowley's laziness.
"Headmage, seven students are dead so you need to see what has happened before we need to get everything cleaned up!" Vil places his hands on his hips, leaning forward a bit to scold Crowley.

"Fine! Fine! Go back to your dorms and make sure that all your students are safe and far away from the crime scenes. Take pictures of it before cleaning it up. I'll look at them later. Oh, what a clever and kind man I am!" And with that, all the Housewardens leave Crowley's office.

"This is the first time I've seen the lizard and Idia out of their rooms..." Leona remarks as they are all walking back to the Hall of Mirrors at a fast pace. Then, Vil speaks up.

"Can you shut up, Leona? This is a serious situation and you're pretending like it's nothing."
"Can you stop being so pissy? I was just surprised that they finally showed up for something."
"You better shut your mouth!"
"Hmph, make me."

As Vil and Leona keep bickering, Azul slightly leans towards Riddle and speaks in a low whisper as to not bring any attention to their current conversation.
"There's quite the sexual tension building up between them..."
"Agreed."

***

Meanwhile in Octavinelle, a huge crowd of students have filled the lounge and they are all talking about what they have witnessed. The dead body of the student was still floating in the aquarium. Jade and Floyd had to keep everyone back and away from the area. Many students did not wish to comply, however.
"For your own safety, please stay back. The Housewarden should be back soon." Jade shouted so that students at the far back would be able to hear him too.
"STAY BACK OR I'LL SQUEEZE YA'LL TO BITS..." Floyd growled, the fact that there is this much ruckus so early in the morning immediately putting him in a bad mood.

"Floyd, we need to keep our students safe, not harm them. Just how disappointed Azul would be if he saw you like this..."
"At least I'm doin' the job and keeping 'em back." He muttered under his breath, turning his gaze back towards the crowd.

They are trying their hardest to barricade the students, trying to use some of the furniture in the lounge to keep them all back. On Jade's side of the crowd, a student immediately shoved his way through the crowd and tried to get towards the crime scene.

"PLEASE!! LET ME THROUGH, THAT'S MY BROTHER!!! PLEASE!!" He cried, tears streaming down his face as he tried to reach out and get past.

This caused Jade's expression to soften as his eyes widened slightly. He briefly looked at Floyd who was still cursing and shouting and making threats at the crowd on his side. Suddenly he was thinking about how his world would go crumbling down if in the dead student's place were Floyd. What if Floyd were the one who was dead?

Jade's train of thought was interrupted as Azul walked back into the Octavinelle lounge. "Everyone, calm down!" He yells, making the whole lounge fall silent.

He walks over to Jade and whispers in his ear. "Make sure to take a picture of that before you get it cleaned up,"

Azul's voice had some sort of impact on Jade. All of a sudden, a small blush appeared on his cheeks before he quickly regained his composure and headed to another part of Octavinelle to get a camera. Something about Azul's hushed tone made Jade's heart flutter. Such peculiar feelings...

***
"I DEMAND SILENCE IMMEDIATELY!!" Riddle's voice booms as he walks into Heartslabyul.

"Housewarden, what are we going to do about the dead body?" One startled student asked as he kept glancing back at the dead body of the Heartslabyul student.

He was impaled onto one of the rose trees, all his limbs hung up onto the thorns and the white roses having splotches of a deep red on them due to the dried blood that dripped upon them for who knows how long. The body was quite intact apart from one. The head was separated from the neck and it was pinned at the very top of the rose tree as if it was wearing his head as a crown of victory. Or perhaps a crown of evil?

"Riddle! What should we do about this?" Trey rushed up to Riddle, sweat dripping down his forehead while Cater was following close behind, his phone in his hand.

"The Headmage asked us to take a picture of the scene before cleaning it up. It seems that this isn't the only dorm such thing has happened to..." He almost looks frightened, trying to feign his calmness. Needless to say, he is failing miserably

"Yeahhh, so I already took some pics bc I wanted to upload it to Magicam but the post would probs get taken down and I would get an account warning so uhhh hehe..." Cater chuckles nervously as he starts to play with a strand of his ginger hair, some small beads of sweat also running down his forehead.

Riddle, Trey and Cater all rush back to the scene of the crime. Many of the Heartslabyul students were still murmuring amongst themselves while others were paying their respects to their newly lost dorm member.

Deuce still looked rather shocked as he watches the graphic display while Ace had a more grave look on his face. It reminded him of when Riddle overblotted and almost murdered him in the same way. "Mighty roses, tear this brute to pieces!" Those words still echo in his mind. He feared that those words would be the last thing he would hear.

***
"Aye, Ruggie, take a picture before we start cleanin' it up," Leona didn't exactly seem phased by what happened. However, he did stay silent for quite a while.

The Savanaclaw student's limbs looked to be chewed apart and some of them, like the torso, were impaled and placed onto the elephant bones. The smell was absolutely awful and the sight was disgusting. A few of the students had to rush to the bathroom because of the brutal sight and the horrible smell. That's what you get when there's a corpse nearby.

Jack couldn't help but feel concerned about the safety of the people around him, especially his friends. Word has soon got around the whole school that something similar to these murders have happened in the other dorms too.

"Leona, I've got the pictures," Ruggie walked into Leona's room a little while later, holding his phone tightly in his hand. His voice is quiet, indicating that the murder that has happened impacted him also.

"Great, send them to me," Leona is looking out from his balcony at the scene before him, having a clear view of the crime scene from above as well as the crowd surrounding it. His back is facing Ruggie but he briefly turns his head to look at him. "Make sure to stay safe, 'kay?"

Ruggie looks a bit shocked but he just nods and then turns back around to leave Leona's room.

***
In Scarabia, the murdered student was hanging upside down from the ceiling of the lounge. All of his bones were broken which made him look limp and almost snake-like. There was some sort of hook going right through his ankle which allowed whoever or whatever murdered him to hang him up like the laterns that are used to illuminate the lounge.

All of the Scarabia students huddled together in a small crowd, cowering in fear at the sight of their murdered dorm member. Anxiety fills the majority of them, wondering if they will be next if and when another murder like this happens.

"Headmage said that we need to take pictures before cleaning it up. Can you do that, pretty please, Jamil?" Kalim asks, his voice slightly weaker and more sad instead of being cheerful like it usually is. Even if Kalim had been kidnapped multiple times or was about to be poisoned, seeing someone else's brutally damaged body just made him feel scared and hopeless. Such an awful sight to behold...

"Yes, of course Kalim." Jamil was already getting multiple and detailed pictures of the dead body. Meanwhile, Kalim tried to help the Scarabia students back to their rooms.

***

In Pomefiore, the dead student was placed on the throne in the lounge, sitting like a regal royal with his chest busted open and foam dripping down his chin from his mouth. It seems like the student's heart was ripped out shortly after he has been poisoned. All the students in Pomefiore are keeping a safe distance away from the dead body while Rook is keeping a close eye on everyone, watching and listening to what they are all murmuring about while also focusing on the crime scene.

Vil walks in, a grim yet nauseous look on his face as he sees the crime scene. His heels click against the ground and the crowd immediately gives way to him.

"Rook, make sure to take pictures of the scene before cleaning it up. The Headmage instructed as so."
"Of course, Roi du Poison,"

Vil glances at the dead student a few times before he speaks up again. "Everyone, go back to your rooms. And remember, single file lines."

Vil starts making his way back to his room along with the other students while Rook was left behind to take pictures and clean everything up. He seemed rather calm. What else can you expect from a hunter, right?

***

In Ignihyde, the dead student's body was mangled with all kinds of wires and metal elements sticking out of the skin. His head was also partially exploded, it seems, as most of his brains were leaking out. Truly a gruesome sight to behold, just like the other deaths that have occurred.

As Idia comes walking back into the dorm, Ortho is already analysing the crime scene from a safe distance. He probably already knows what he has to do...

There isn't exactly much to say about Ignihyde. The death of the student did indeed have an impact on the other students. Their thoughts have all been riddled with anxiety and paranoia. Who wouldn't feel like that if a murderer were on the loose?

***

Malleus' boots click against the cold, hard ground as he walks back into Diasomnia. There are crowds of students surrounding the crime scene, just like all the other incidents that have happened. Everyone falls silent as soon as they see Malleus and step aside. Sebek and Silver are on high alert...

The student who died in Diasomnia has been impaled, along with numerous thorns penetrating his skin and a single rose sticking out from the middle of his stomach which is exactly where he had been brutally impaled by some blunt but strong object. The poor student's guts were practically spilling out as a pool of blood was laying still underneath him.

"The Headmage said that we need to take pictures before cleaning up whatever happened," Malleus says in that cold yet calm tone that he usually has, his orders directed towards Lilia, Sebek and Silver.

***

Yuuna and Grim have heard of everything that has happened. She's laying on her bed in Ramshackle, looking out of the window and at the school. She then gets a phone call.

"Hello?" Yuuna answers.

"Prefect! So I'm guessing that you have already heard about what happened..." It's Crowley speaking. "I need you to help investigate what happened. My reputa- *AHEM*, I mean-" Crowley fumbles over his words. Wow. "The school's safety is important. We can't have a murderer running loose. Being the kind and generous man that I am, I will give you this opportunity to solve this case for extra credit! Oh, what a benevolent man I am..." He goes on to ramble about himself, like always, before finally hanging up the phone.

This sure will be one hell of a ride...

Chapter Text

"I can't believe that the Headmage still allowed school to continue even after seven students have been murdered..." Deuce mumbles as he takes a big bite of his food.

Yuuna, Grim, Ace and Deuce are sitting in the cafeteria. It seems like none of them really have an appetite at the moment but Deuce still tries to eat. The place seems a bit more quiet than normal too which should be expected when an event such as this happens. Deuce looks towards Ace and notices how he is being quiet. Quite unusual for the one person who has the loudest mouth.

"Ace, are you alright? You're being awfully quiet today..."
"I'm fine."
"Are you sure?-"
"I SAID that I'm fine!"

Silence. Yuuna, Grim and Deuce just stare at Ace for a few seconds, not expecting him to snap back. Quite unusual. The rest of the day goes on in silence with the students walking around the halls like lifeless zombies and making their way to the rest of their lessons.

***

Ace is sitting on his bed, zoning out and staring out the window. Everyone else is out at their clubs at the moment, however something impacted Ace so much that he had to miss out basketball club.

He keeps staring out the window until he hears the door creak behind him.

"Hey Ace, I just came to check up on you," It was Yuuna.

She walks over to his bed and sits beside him although maintaining a small distance between them as to not make either of them uncomfortable. Ace sighs and looks over at Yuuna. There is just something about her demeanour that makes him feel comforted.

Although he is quite hesitant, he starts to open up to her. "I'm fine really. It's just that...the way that the student has been murdered reminded me of how Riddle almost killed me that one time he went berserk and overblotted. It just seemed so eerily similar. Never been able to forget that moment since." Ace manages to explain, even though it is quite difficult for him to do so.  He's never opened up to anyone about things like this so it seems like he feels quite akward.

Out of nowhere, Yuuna wraps her arms around him and pulls Ace into a tight embrace. It's safe to say that he was quite surprised by this gesture but he returned it, wrapping his arms around her waist and lightly squeezing her body.

"Uhh, wrong timing?-"

Deuce was stood in the doorway, looking quite flustered as he tried to avert his gaze. Yuuna and Ace immediately let go of each other and were blushing immensely.

"Nononono, Deuce, it's not what it looks like!-" Ace tried to reassure him but Deuce has already back out into the hallway, covering his eyes with his hand as if he'd just seen the most unholy thing ever. Ace turned to face Yuuna again, giving her a small smile.

"Hey, maybe you should go back to Ramshackle. Stay safe, alright? Don't want my best friend getting hurt,"

***
Back at Ramshackle, Yuuna is on call with the first years. They are all trying to work together to find out what exactly happened and most importantly, why it happened. By now it's night and quite dark so the company is very much needed, even if it's just digitally.

"Epel, are you dosing off again?" Ace asks teasingly, the mischief in his voice being very obvious.

"Look, it ain't my fault that I couldn't get a single bit of sleep last night! The walls are too fucking thin and I could hear two dudes banging in the room next door. This shit never happens on a farm!" He pauses his little rant for a moment, seeming to think for a moment. "Well, the only time it really does happen is when it's animals but that ain't the point! Ya'll should be lucky you got thick walls,"

"THICK LIKE YOUR MU-"
"ACE, NO!"

After Yuuna shouts at Ace, there is a bit of awkward silence which envelopes the whole room. Yuuna is practically frozen in the middle of her room, just standing still while intensely staring at her phone screen to see who will speak first or if anything will happen at all.

"...So about the 'investigation'..." She starts, hoping that one of the guys will have an idea where to start but it's just awkward silence again. It's clear that no one has a clue where to start.

"Come on! There has gotta be something or somewhere we can start!" Yuuna walks towards her bed and lays down on it, the coils within the matress making her bounce slightly on the bed.

"I overheard Riddle talking to Trey about how Azul was the first one in the Headmage's office to report the stuff about the murders," Deuce says, his voice sounding a bit nervous and even unsure. "Maybe we can go to Octavinelle first?"

"Deuce, you're a genius!" Yuuna exclaims, sitting up on her bed enthusiastically.
"Alright, Ace, Deuce, tomorrow we're paying a visit to Octavinelle!"

"EPEL!!" A loud shout could be heard through Yuuna's phone. It sounds like Vil.
"Shit, alright I gotta go ya'll BYE!-"

"..."
"Damn, what pissed off Vil so much?"
"Unless Epel is still alive tomorrow, we'll never know,"

The call ended and now Yuuna finally can start investigating what happened. Wait a moment-

"Where's Grim?..."

Out of nowhere, Yuuna can hear yells and screams from another part of Ramshackle. She jumps up from out of her bed and rushes downstairs, almost tripping over that one faulty step that she had yet to fix.

She runs through the halls and down into the kitchen where she initially heard the yells from.

"Grim!! Is everything alright!?" Yuuna asks frantically, panting and trying to catch her breath while leaning against the doorframe of the kitchen.

"The...the tuna ran out..." Grim sniffles, plopping down in the middle of the kitchen and sulking. All the cabinets were open and most of the place looks quite trashed.

"I thought something bad happened to you! Don't scare me like that," Yuuna walks up to Grim and picks him up from off the floor, holding him tightly in her arms.

"But this is bad! I don't have anymore tuna! Now I'm gonna have to stick with that stinky salmon until we get more," He continues whining and complaining while Yuuna starts to slowly close every cabinet and try to clean up the kitchen.

She can't get rid of this gut feeling that someone or something is watching them, lurking in the shadows and watching each and every one of the students like prey. Fresh meat that the void will soon feast on if the time runs out.

Tick, tock, tick, tock. You better hurry up Yuuna. This is just the start.

Chapter Text

As soon as Yuuna woke up, she started getting ready to go to Octavinelle and start investigating the crimes. It was a weekend meaning that the Mostro Lounge would be more busier than usual.

She got ready after about one hour and she heard knocking on her door. It must be Ace and Deuce.

Yuuna and Grim quickly went downstairs and opened the doors of Ramshackle.

"Hey, you ready?" Ace asked, looking her up and down while quickly giving Grim a side glance

"Yep! Let's go!"

They left Ramshackle and started heading towards the Hall of Mirrors. The morning felt a bit weird, as if it was more of a dream and not reality. The sky was unusually blue and the sun was shining a lot yet it still felt somewhat cold.

After a bit of walking, the four of them reached the Hall of Mirrors and stepped through the mirror that led to Octavinelle dorm.

Even before walking through the double doors into the Mostro Lounge, they could hear music playing and the mumbling of a few people. The doors swung open as the four of them entered and the dim, blue lighting of the lounge immediately hit them.

Ace, Deuce, Yuuna and Grim walked a bit further into the lounge, walking up the stairs into the main area where they immediately noticed a woman singing at the far side of the lounge. She seemed to be up on a stage.

"Dammnn, who's that?" Ace asks, pointing at the woman.

"Hehe, that's Angelfishie~"

The group got a bit startled at the unexpected reply, looking behind them at the bar where Floyd was leaning against the bar counter and looking at the singing woman, almost in a trance of sorts. He looked calmer than usual and seemed to be enjoying this performance.

"Angelfishie?" Deuce asks, clearly confused by what Floyd said. He looks back towards the woman.

She seems to be around the same age as Floyd. She's got icey blue eyes that look innocent yet captivating at the same time. Her hair reaches towards the bottom of her waist, the colour of it being dirty blonde with snow white highlights within it. Her hair also seems to be wavy and fluffy. She is wearing a midi dress, the material of it looking like it's satin or silk and the colour of it being this beautiful mix of lilac and royal purple. It seems to he a backless dress and has a slight split on the right side. The neckline of the dress is quite low, too. To be fair, it was quite hot in the lounge at the time. The woman was wearing 8cm heels which were of a silver colour, making the shoes look as if they were glass with diamond ribbons wrapping around her ankles.

The lights were dim and blue with the only spotlight focusing on her and her only. The song she was singing was "Genie in a Bottle" by Christina Aguilera. Quite a captivating and mesmerising tune. No wonder everyone is looking at her.

"Sofia, the Angelfish of the Stage!" Floyd points towards a leaflet that was on the side of the counter, showing an image of Sofia with the words "The Angelfish of the Stage" below it in big bold letters.

"Hold up, I thought there weren't any girls officially enrolled here?" Ace questions Sofia's appearance within the school, looking quite confused.

"Yeah well, she's a daddy's girl and her daddy has a lotta money so it didn't take a lot to bribe the Headmage,"

Floyd just carries on staring at Sofia as she performs on the stage, all eyes on her. She looks rich too...

"Anyway, we need to talk to Azul. It's urgent," Yuuna speaks up, turning her gaze towards Floyd.

"Yeah, he's in the V.I.P. room doing paperwork shit...by the way, Crabby, is Basketball club still on next week?"
"Ain't the roof broken in the gymnasium?"
"Oh shit yah. Apparently one of the students fucked up and accidentally flung Professor Red Squid through the roof..."

While Ace and Floyd were chatting away, Yuuna, Deuce and Grim were slowly leaving. Seems like Ace didn't exactly notice that.

"Hey, wait for me!" Ace whisper-shouts, running towards the three of them to try and catch up. Floyd just goes back to staring at Sofia's performance, still looking mesmerised like a kid in a candy store.

They walk down numerous hallways, each of them having dim lighting which gives the whole place a rather intimidating and sinister vibe however the four of them thought nothing of it. Soon enough, they reach the V.I.P. room but just before Yuuna was about to knock, some shouting could be heard from inside.

"Azul, you need to understand that you can't talk with him like that!-"
"You are the problem Jade!! It's always you!!"

Grim, Yuuna, Ace and Deuce each give each other side glances, as if asking each other what happened. There was a bit of silence in the room before the muffled sound of Azul's voice could be heard again.

"Just get out. I don't even wanna see you right now."

The door of the V.I.P. room swings open and Jade storms out. His brows are furrowed and it's obvious that he is gritting his teeth, his jaw tense. Each movement he makes has small volumes of rage leaking out, as if he would explode any moment.

"Come in, my dear friends!" Azul beckons the four into his 'office' and they do just as he says. Ace is the one closing the door behind them to have some form of privacy during this time.

"So what is it that you need?" Azul asks, fixing his glasses and giving the group a beaming smile as if he hadn't just had an argument with Jade.

"Uhh, is everything alright? We could hear you and Jade shouting at each other from outside..." Deuce mentions, looking worried and confused.

"Ah, don't worry! Just a bit of complications regarding the Vice Housewarden of Scarabia. Ahem, is there anything else you want to talk to me about?"
"Yes, about the murders. I figured that it's best if I start investigating in Octavinelle as apparently you were the first one to speak with the Headmage about this..."

Azul's smile seems to vanish and is instead replaced by a more grim and serious look. Yuuna can tell that there are some thoughts running through his head but she can't tell what exactly it could be. Maybe the argument with Jade? Or the graphic scene of the body? Who knows.

"Indeed I was first to talk with the Headmage about this but as Mostro Lounge is quite busy at the moment, I'm afraid the investigation in Octavinelle will have to take place another time." He explains, quite smoothly but with a small amount of uncertainty in his voice. Azul keeps glancing at the door and then at the clock on his desk then back to Yuuna. He's nervous.

"How about we start our investigation at Pomefiore? Surely there must be answers there. I'll join you, too, just to be sure."

The group stare at Azul with confusion for a few seconds before Ace speaks up.

"Alright, and what's the price?"
"Oh, I'll help you, free of charge! After all, I'm doing this out of the kindness of my heart,"

And with that, Azul stands up from his seat and walks towards the door of the V.I P. Room, at quite a fast pace. He opens the door and holds it open, gesturing for the group to go out first. Ace, Deuce, Grim and Yuuna all walk out and gather in the hallway before Azul walks out too and closes the door behind him.

"Alright then, let's get going!"

They all start walking down the halls of Octavinelle, with Azul leading at the front. They pass by a few of the dorm rooms, with each of the doors looking exactly uniform with the only thing being different about them are the names of the students who they belong to and the number on the doors. When they pass by Jade and Floyd's room, Yuuna's ears perk up at the faint sound of weeping. However, she ignores it and carries on following Azul.

Upon leaving the dorm and entering the Hall of Mirrors, the group walk straight towards the mirror that leads to Pomefiore, finally starting the very much needed investigation. However, Ace speaks up.

"So, Azul, what's the relationship like between you and Jade?" He asks, choosing his words carefully.

"I choose not to talk about that eel at the moment." He snaps back almost instantly, making everything a bit more awkward.

It didn't take long for the group to walk into Pomefiore dorm. They stride through the elegant hallways, golden ornaments and details in every corner, on every wall to show the luxury of the dorm. They reach the lounge, in which they spot Rook. He was going through some pictures.

"Welcome...I knew you were coming, mes amis! He walks over to the group with such poise and elegance, being quick yet stealthy with his steps. Rook greets the group and gives each of them a good stare before speaking up again. "What brings the pleasure, Roi d'Effort?"

"Oh, not much really, we just wanted to have a chat with your Housewarden...uhh, where is he?"
"Roi du Poison is currently in Savanaclaw, from what I know. I could guide you there?"

While Rook and Azul were speaking, Ace wondered around to the table where Rook was sorting out some pictures earlier. His eyes widened as he realised just what the images portrayed. Several photographs, majority of it being the non human students such as Floyd and Leona. "Is this what he does in his free time?..."

Ace's trail of thoughts was interrupted when a gloved hand smashed down onto the photographs from behind him. He slowly turned his head, afraid of what he might see yet he felt compelled to do so.

The blonde hunter was standing behind him, a rather annoyed yet frightening smile upon his face. "Don't you know that it is not good manners to look through someone's private properties, Monsieur Heart?"

All the ginger could do was gulp and shake his head, quickly leaving the table's side and returning back to Yuuna and Deuce, hiding behind the girl while keeping a close eye on Rook.

"I'd be glad to help with this enquête. After all, I was the one who helped clean up one of the bodies..." Silence envelopes the room, Rook staring hard and in a cold way at the group as if scanning every inch of their bodies.

"Follow me!" He exclaims, walking out of the lounge area of the dorm. He didn't even bothered checking if the group followed him or not but not knowing what else to do, they followed him.

***

They arrived in Savanaclaw and were walking straight to Leona's room as that is what Rook and Azul decided on, to interrogate Leona next as Vil was busy.

"Ahh, it's almost as if it was yesterday that I transferred to Pomefiore. But how can one appreciate true beauté without being in the dorm of beauté itself!"

Ace leans in towards Deuce, whispering to him so that those at the front wouldn't hear. "Yo, you sure he ain't high?-"

"I don't know but he seems more happy than usual..."

The now group of six (including Grim) walked right towards Leona's room, walking up the wooden stairs of the dorm while Savanaclaw students were giving them dirty looks and death glares. Azul gulped, praying to the lord above that he wouldn't become Takoyaki or Octopus Carpaccio though Floyd and Jade probably wouldn't mind that. Ace, Yuuna, Deuce and Grim all huddled together and moved through the dorm as a small group. Meanwhile, Rook was leading at the front, not even being slightly afraid that a fight may break out at any moment.

Soon enough, they reached the Housewarden's room but before Azul could knock, a few clattering noises could be heard from behind the door, indicating that some items fell on the floor, followed by a series of panting noises and deep breaths.

"Ugghh... Leona!! It won't- fit..." A familiar voice could be heard moaning and panting

"Vil?-" Azul asked, glancing at Rook before looking back towards the wooden door.

"Well then I'll make it fucking fit!" Leona's voice could be heard too. It sounded like he was putting a lot of strength and energy into something as his voice sounded to be quite strained.

"I would like to say something but I'm afraid I can not. Roi d'Effort, if you could do the honours?"
"From what I can hear, chances are that they're having rough sex,"
"Merveilleux, how about we visit Roi des Roses instead?"
"Yes, let's go before we get hunted down..."

The group leave Savanaclaw dorm. Meanwhile...

"You wanted me to help put this damn corset on so I'm gonna make it fuckin' fit if you're gonna put me through this shit" Leona growled, trying to tighten the deep purple corset that Vil was trying to put on.

"But it's restricting my breathing!-" Vil tries to protest however the poor guy can't breathe. Literally.

"You wanted to do this goddamn photoshoot, not me..."
"But you still agreed so- AUGH!!-"
"Sorry,"
"Be gentle! I'm not some lifeless doll, now am I?"

Leona just rolled his eyes and continued to pull the laces of the corset together, trying his best to not use as much strength as before.

***

The group walk into Heartslabyul dorm and straight inside the building. They walk through the giant, heart shaped entrance and enter the Heartslabyul lounge where Riddle is heard scolding a few dorm members...

"DO YOU IGNORANT BUFFOONS HAVE NO IDEA HOW MANY RULES YOU HAVE BROKEN!? THAT IS ABSOLUTELY DISGRACEFUL!! I AM ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTED WITH YOUR-"
"Riddle."
"-Azul? What do you want. And make it quick, these absolute idiotic donkies have broken several rules and I have not finished with scolding them." Riddle stands there, crossing his arms across his chest while looking up at Azul, waiting for an answer.

"Well, we apologise for intruding on such a, uhhh- important occasion. However, we have come here as a means of investigating the murders since that pathetic excuse of a principa- I mean... since the Headmage wishes to keep this all hidden from the public for now."

Riddle stands there in silence for a few moments while looking each member of the 'investigating crew' up and down. He narrows his blue-grey eyes when he gets to Rook then looks back towards Azul.
"Very well," He says before quickly turning around towards the three students, gripping his cane tightly. "OFF WITH YOUR HEADS!!"

Several clanks can be heard as collars appear around the students' necks, their faces filled with fear and shock. "You may go now."

They scurry off, most likely to their dorm rooms or wherever where Riddle won't find them again. That is simply the power he has over people despite being quite short. Riddle then turns towards the group again with a look on his face that seems to be more serious than usual. "Follow me."

The redhead guides them through the twisting maze-like hallways of Heartslabyul, eventually leading them to his dorm room where it's more private and less chance of anyone eavesdropping on their conversations.

Riddle opens the door, letting everyone go inside before closing the door behind him and locking it. "So, what do you wish to know about?"

"We would like to know as much information about the murder as possible." Yuuna replies, a rather grave and serious look on her face.

"Ah, yes. So..." Riddle walks over to his desk and pics up a pile of photos before walking back towards the group who are all standing in the middle of the room. Riddle's heels click against the wooden floor as he approaches the group once again.

"Cater took these photos and I had them printed out. They are from the the scene of the crime. The victim was Frank Heartlock, seventeen years old. It can be estimated that the time of death was around midnight till three a.m-"

"Ooohh, spooky!"
"Ace, not now."
"Yes, Housewarden...sorry..."
"As I was saying, the murder was most likely committed while everyone was asleep. But why would a student go out in the dead of night anyway?"

Out of nowhere, banging could be heard on the window. The curtains were closed so it could not he told who was making the noise but it certainly was frightening. The whole group huddled together and backed away from the window, pulling out their magic pens and staffs to prepare for a fight in case one ensues. However the look in each person's eyes was one of fear rather than bravery. It could be the supernatural that has come to take away their lives simply for the sin of discussing such an event. Or maybe it's someone who had gone mad and found joy in the misery and pain of others. Just like the Cheshire cat once said "We're all mad here".

A few seconds later, the banging stops and it almost feels like that discomforting presence of an entity has left. The group lower their weapons however they are still on high alert.

"This is why we keep guns in Octavinelle..." Azul mutters under his breathe
"You what?" Riddle turns around, a rather confused and concerned look upon his face.
"Nothing!"

The photos are still in Riddle's hands. He's clutching them tightly, holding onto them as if those were the most precious jewels in the whole of Twisted Wonderland.

"How about we go to Mostro Lounge to discuss this? I'm sure the place will be buzzing with information about the murders, plus, we will have more privacy and security there,"
"Fine. This day is already getting bizarre enough..."

Riddle unlocks the door in an uneasy manner before quickly strutting out of his bedroom, standing beside the door while waiting for everyone to leave and then closing and locking the door. However, he can't help but feel that a pair of eyes is watching them from up close, looking at their every movement.

Look at that silly octopus, thinking that he's so clever and smart. Same with that blonde haired freak with the fuck ass bob and the green piercing eyes, thinking that he's so skeptical. Same with the ginger prick, he thinks he can get away with ghosting his whore of a girlfriend and get together with someone new. Same with that ex-delinquent, he thinks that he has changed but he will always just he a failure. Not to mention the redheaded shortie with mommy issues, thinks that he's so big and strong but he's actually weak and pathetic. Not to mention Yuuna. Your time is running out, better hurry up bitch.

Chapter Text

The group remain close together, walking back into Octavinelle. It has gotten darker as night keeps edging closer and closer which makes everything all the more terrifying yet thrilling.

The Mostro Lounge isn't as busy as it was in the morning, which is rather unfortunate for Azul regarding profits but lucky for the group as a whole since they will get more privacy.

Azul leads at the front while Riddle and Rook are directly behind him, Riddle eyeing up the few people that are present in the lounge while Rook has one of his signature 'creepy' smiles. Grim is perched on Yuuna's shoulder and Ace and Deuce are huddled together as a way of trying to find safety and comfort in each other's company.

Without another word, they all sit down in a large booth that sits in the far corner of the lounge, somewhere where it is quiet and private yet also peaceful. Riddle's gloved hand gently places the photos down onto the table, spreading them out. From the way Azul is looking at them, it almost looks like he is about to throw up. Rook just seems fascinated by them.

"From what we know so far, the killer has unique ways of taking out his victims. They are all ways that seem to match with the dorms' atmospheres..."

Ace glances at one of the photos, a shiver going down his spine as his face becomes solemn and full of grief. All those horrible memories of Riddle's overblot. If it weren't for Trey, he would not be alive right now. Ace turns his gaze over towards the large aquarium, trying to distract himself. That's when he felt a warm hand placed on his shoulder. "Don't worry about it. It's all gonna be fine,"

Yuuna's voice was soft like cotton, giving Ace a sense of hope and comfort. His expression relaxed a little too. His cherry red eyes sparkled in the dim lighting of the lounge.

"Mm, yes, I did indeed notice. The way the student's intestines were wrapped around the corals was simply..." Azul took a gulp, trying to not throw up. "Disgusting..."

The poor guy obviously has a weak stomach. A situation such as this is difficult to digest for him. Get it? Nevermind. Riddle's blue-grey eyes scan across the photos. It was all gruesome and something straight out of a horror film. Only a monster could do such a thing like this to an innocent student. But is the student all that innocent? Everyone commits sins. It's something that's unavoidable.

The octopus mer just simply couldn't take it anymore. He quickly placed a hand over his mouth, standing up from the sofa yet still holding onto the edge of the backrest of it as he became rather weak in the knees.

"Sofia has more information...she's backstage-" He cut himself off, running as fast as his weak legs could take him towards the restrooms in the lounge.

The group just gave each other silent glances of confusion and concern. A sense of awkwardness filled the air as silence descended upon them. That was until Rook spoke up. "I'll go and keep him company."

Rook remained calm and nonchalant as he began walking towards the restrooms with such poise and elegance however his steps also left a lingering sense of authority and concern. His blonde hair bobbed up and down with each step he took, making it look like as if a jellyfish was floating away.

The group of now five ,including Grim, gathered the little things they had and carefully started walking towards the ornate doors that led backstage. Riddle pushed open the doors with ease as they were greeted by a dimly lit hallway and a grand staircase that led downstairs.

"If Azul said that the girl is backstage, then how is this backstage? Shouldn't it be downstage?" Ace asked, his expression showing genuine confusion.
"More like understage rather than downstage." Deuce replied.

The bunch walked down the steps until there was another hallway in front of them. However, on the right there was a door with the nametag of 'Sofia' on it. This must be it. Riddle knocked on the door, although hesitating a bit at first.

"Come in!" A muffled yet sweet voice rung out which gave the group the cue to go inside. The redhead opened the door and stepped inside, his heel clicking against the wooden floor.

The room was rather large, with multiple racks of all kinds of different clothing hanging off of them. There was also a large full body mirror in one of the corners and a deep purple sofa lounging against the wall on the left side of the room. Large rugs in the shapes of different seashells were scattered across the floor too. Sofia was sitting in front of her vanity mirror, her back turned against the group as she was seen brushing her hair out.

"Take a seat." She spins around in her chair. "What owes me the pleasure of seeing you all here?"

Ace, Yuuna and Deuce all sat down on the sofa while Riddle remained standing near it. Yuuna was carefully holding Grim in her lap as he had fallen asleep throughout this whole thing.

"We would like to know wether you have any more information about the murders..."

Sofia's eyebrows raised slightly as she straightened her posture before standing up and walking in front of the sofa to address the group better.

"From what I know, the victim's name was Victor Almar. He would often go out into the town to this one jazz bar where he would perform. His stage name was Rain and I must say, he was a remarkable singer. Such a shame that he's gone."

Silence falls on the room again. It's more like paying respects to those poor unfortunate souls of the students that died. Sofia adjusted her long, pink, silk robe to cover more of her body.

"He also had a brother, Silard. Imagine that, going to sleep one night thinking your brother is safe then you wake up the next morning and find out that he's been murdered in one of the most brutal ways possible..."

She sighs, a rather sad sigh and one that is full of fear. Fear of what will happen in the future. Fear of what had already happened. And fear of the current things that are happening.

"So...where is this jazz bar?" Riddle asks, getting the courage to speak up.

"I'll get Floyd to drive you guys there. Might go myself too. After all, I did consider Victor as a friend..."
"Great! So, when will we go?"
"Tomorrow night should be fine, right? The bar usually opens up at around 4pm and closes at 5am."

It's been decided. Yuuna and her investigating team are going to the jazz bar tomorrow night to get some clues about one of the victims.

The group got up and left, each of them going back to their dorms and spending the rest of the night trying to sleep as peacefully as they could.

The next morning, Yuuna spent majority of the day figuring out how to go about with the other murders. She didn't know most of the victims' names. But when the time is right, she will find out everything.

"Yuuuuuuuunnnaaaaaa!"
"What is it Grim?"
"There's no more tuna again!"
"Well you just keep eating all of it."
"No I don't!"
"Well last time I recall, I'm allergic to seafood. Tuna is a type of seafood."
"Oh...wait, you're allergic?"

Yuuna chuckled, getting up from the lounge sofa and picking up her purse, walking out of Ramshackle and all the way to campus until she reached Mr. S's Mystery Shop.

Her and Grim walked in, the little bell at the top of the door ringing as she pushed the door open. She looked around for a while, her green eyes scanning the shelves until she found the tuna. Yuuna grabbed a whole pack and placed it on the counter, ready to pay.

"Hey, wait a moment..." Grim murmured.
"It's awfully quiet. Where is Sam?" Yuuna spun around, looking at every corner of the shop to see where Sam might be.

That's weird. Sam isn't here. But he's supposed to be running the shop? Where did he go? It was getting quite late...

"Quick, steal all the tuna!"
"Grim, we're civilised people, not thieves!"

Yunna places a couple of thaumarks on the counter along with a small note of her purchase before taking the pack of tuna and leaving. It was 4:30pm already so perhaps it was time to get ready and meet up with Sofia and the rest of the gang.

Meanwhile in Octavinelle...

"Come on Floyd, I know you're in a bad mood because of Professor Trein but you gotta do this for us!" Sofia whined, pouting and looking up at Floyd as he leaned against the door frame of his room, his arms crossed and a rather annoyed look on his face.

"I told ya, I ain't taking you lot nowhere." His voice was cold as he looked her up and down. It was always difficult to find out how to put Floyd into a better mood whenever he was feeling upset.

"But this is important! We really need to get to that jazz bar!"
"No."
"Please?"
"Nah."

At this point, Sofia was running out of ideas on how to change Floyd's mood or even to just get him to drive the group there.

"Okay, how about I get you two new designer shoes?"
"..."
"And a box of takoyaki?"
"Ya got yourself a deal, Angelfish."

Floyd sighed and closed the door to his room, going to get ready to go. All Sofia could do was smile as she ran over to her room, opening the door with a big swing and running to her closet to rummage through all the clothes that she's got.

Back in Ramshackle, Sofia was on face call with Ace and Deuce while they were each getting ready.

"I don't know what to wear! What do people wear to jazz bars?" Yuuna whined as she rummaged through her closet.

"Yuuna, it's not that deep, just wear a casual dress!" Ace groaned, rubbing his towel over his head to dry his hair while Deuce was also rummaging through his closet.
"Where did that one suit go..." He mutters in annoyance.

"Of course you'd say that, Ace! You don't know nothing about fashion you ginger..."
"Hey, what's me being ginger gotta do with this!?" Ace shouted at the camera, holding the towel that was wrapped around his waist.

"Deuce, the shower's free, you can go now."
"Wait, I need to find that suit!"
"Oh my god, you and that goddamn suit!"
Ace stomps over to Deuce's closet, shoving him aside in annoyance and rummaging through the closet before picking out a dark blue suit. He shoves it into Deuce's arms before marching over to his own closet and opening the doors to it, looking through his stash of clothes.

"OH MY GOD!!" Yuuna squeeled, the sound causing the two boys' attentions to be brought to Yuuna.

"Aye, did something happen!?" Ace practically runs to his phone although it wasn't too far as it sat on the windowsill. Deuce also quickly makes his way towards Ace's phone to check out what's going on with Yuuna.

"I found the perfect dress!!" She takes out a dress from her closet. It's a deep purple dress with purple gemstone tassles on it, going in a type of zigzag pattern. Yuuna hops over towards her phone and picks ot up from where it was propped up against a bottle of water on her table. "Alright, I'm gonna actually go get ready now, I'll see you two here, love you!" And with that, Yuuna hangs up.

Ace just keeps staring at his phone, his hand still on his towel and his hair still slightly wet. Deuce is also still staring at Ace's phone, almost in disbelief.
"Did she just say she loves us?"
"What a miracle." Ace mutters before leaving his phone on the windowsill and going back to looking for what clothes to wear.

One hour later, the doorbell to Ramshackle rings a few times. Yuuna rushes down the stairs, the tassles on her dress swinging about with each step that she takes and her high heels clicking against the wooden floor. The dress that she's wearing has spaghetti straps and reaches up to her knees as well as hugging her body in a comforting way as it is a bodycon dress. Her heels are 4 inches tall and have a beautiful golden colour that wraps around her ankles. Her long blond hair is placed in a high braid along with a flower accessory in it to make it stand out a little more.

She opens the door and Ace and Deuce are standing there. They certainly do look very classy and elegant, with Deuce wearing his dark blue suit and a black coloured dress shirt underneath along with a white tie and his hair in a fancy side part. His shoes are of a leather material in the colour black. Ace on the other hand is wearing a pair of brown trousers that is pleated at the front. It's pieced with dark brown leather dress shoes and a matching dark brown leather belt with golden accents. His shirt is a creme coloured dress shirt with a few of the top buttons loose and a dark red cardigan wrapped around his shoulders like those preppy posh boys do in movies. His bangs are slicked back too to give his hair a more neater look.

"You guys are finally here! We just need to wait for Sofia, Floyd, Azul and Rook. Wait, where's Riddle?" Yuuna had a sense of curiosity and confusion in her tone as she looked around the porch of Ramshackle to try and see any signs of Riddle.

"He's still getting ready." Ace replied in a cool manner.

Yuuna stepped aside and let Ace and Deuce inside. They all gathered in the foyer as they waited for the others to come. A few moments later knocks can be heard again along with muffled shouts.

Disturbed by this, Yuuna immediately opens the door to see what's going on but she gets pushed aside as Riddle runs in and and hides behind Ace.

"That fiend is trying to eat me alive!!" Riddle shouts, pointing a shaky hand from over Ace's shoulder at Floyd who is slowly walking in through the door. "Why so scared lil' Goldfishie...all I'm saying is that you look like a freshly cooked steak in that outfit~" Floyd drags out his words as he menacingly walks closer and closer to Riddle.

"Back!! Back I say!! Begone you demon!" Riddle is still trembling while holding onto Ace and using him as a shield.

"Floyd, that's enough! What did I say about terrorising Riddle for tonight?" Sofia walks in, her hands on her hips and an annoyed pout on her face as she scolds Floyd. Her heels click against the wooden boards of the foyer with each demanding step she takes.

"But Angelfish, we're not even at the bar yet...you said that I should only leave him alone once we're at the bar..." Floyd rolls his eyes as he turns and looks over at Sofia. She still looks annoyed at him as the two of them just stare in silence at each other.

Sofia, Riddle and Floyd are also all dressed in a rather fancy manner for this occasion. Riddle is wearing a blood red swallowtail coat that has faint rose patterns on them that aren't too visible. His pants are of the same pattern and colour while the button up shirt he is wearing underneath is a dark grey colour matched with a white bowtie. His shoes are of a leather material which is also a warm white colour just like his bowtie. His hair is slicked back to make it look more neater. Floyd is wearing white trousers, similar to the one Ace is wearing, but paired with black leather dress shoes and a black belt that has gold accents to it. His button up shirt is an elegant black colour with a few of the buttons at the top loosened just how Floyd usually does so with all his shirts that have buttons. Sofia has a white dress on that has an asymmetrical bottom to it, the left side being longer than the right. The slit that it has is lined with white mesh ruffles that give it a little more volume. The dress has a halter neckline with the strings being rather thin. She's also wearing silver jewellery that isn't too noticeable but still completes the outfit. Sofia's hair is down and in fluffy beach waves. Her heels matched the white of her dress and were significantly higher than Yuuna's.

"Where is Azul and Rook?" Yuuna asks, closing the door and approaching the group.

"Azul needed paperwork to do and Rook has to help out with something at Pomefiore." Riddle replied, moving away from his hiding place that was Ace and moving closer towards Yuuna. He accidentally made eye contact with Floyd but in response to that, Floyd gave him a wide smile with his sharp teeth bared at Riddle. It gave him the creeps as a shiver ran down his spine.

"Well then we should be ready to go now." Yuuna walks over to the door, holding her purse tightly against her body as she opens it and lets everyone walk out first before she leaves too.

Once everyone is outside, she turns around towards the two doors and uses the key to lock them. But as she turned around, Yuuna could swear she saw a figure standing near the bushes. That's weird. It couldn't have been Malleus, the figure didn't seem to have any horns nor did they look very tall. Who was that? Yuuna didn't have time to dwell on whatever she saw. She had to catch up with the group that were currently walking towards Floyd's car.

She ran down the path and over towards the front gate where Floyd's car was parked. Everyone was standing around there waiting for Yuuna.

"Just telling you lot that there's six of us and only five seats in the car. Either someone goes in the trunk or somebody has to sit on someone else's lap." Floyd announces as he unlocks the car.

"Ace, you sit on Deuce's lap. It wouldn't be such a nice entrance if you had to crawl out of the trunk." Riddle's voice takes on an authoritative tone.
"But why me?" Ace now had an embarrassed look on his face, his cherry red eyes widened in confusion and shame.
"Because last time I remember, you're the one who ate my tart."
"..."
"Exactly what I thought, now everyone get in."

Riddle opens the door from the left and slides in, taking his seat in the middle while Yuuna gets in from the right of the sparkling black car. Deuce sits in next to Riddle while Ace stands near the open car door.
"No homo?"
"No homo, just get in."
Ace sighs in shame and carefully gets into the car, sitting down on Deuce's lap. He crosses his arms over his chest and huffs in annoyance and shame.

Sofia gets into the passenger seat while Floyd gets into the driver's seat. Once everyone closed the doors, he started the car and started reversing to head towards the jazz bar when Riddle spoke up.

"Floyd, you should really put your seat belt on. It's a safety risk and-"
"Does it look like I care? At least if I get into a crash I'll have an interesting death."
"...This cursed eel..."

He moves his hand towards the radio and turns it on. Rap music starts playing with quite vulgar lyrics and a fast beat. Riddle grumbles in annoyance at this, crossing his arms and slowly starting to lose his patience with Floyd. It's obvious he isn't used to listening music like this given his status and the environments in which he grew up in. It's not like he could turn the music off himself, Floyd would definitely bite off his hand or something.

Floyd speeds through the gates of NRC and down the path, heading into the town at a rapid speed. Yuuna hangs onto the handle of the car door while Riddle tightly grips the edge of his seat. Deuce also grips the handle of the car door and Ace just places his hands on the back of Sofia's seat to steady himself. No doubt that Floyd is having the time of his life while everyone else in the car is about to have a heart attack.

In less than 10 minutes they're already in the city, with Floyd doing some crazy turns and drifts around buildings while picking up the speed. They weave through the traffic, the four in the backseat getting thrown around like it was some rollercoaster.

The car eventually slows down as it comes to a stop, parking in front of a vintage, old-timey looking building that looked like a bar. At the top it had a small sign hanging down from the side of the building with a saxophone on it along with a few musical notes. Even from the outside, jazz music could he heard as well as people talking and glasses clinking together. It really did seem like a joyous atmosphere.

"I'M GETTING OUT-" Ace immediately opened the door of the car and stumbled out, having enough of sitting on Deuce's lap like he was made to.

Deuce gets out of the car next with a sigh while Riddle and Yuuna get out from the other side. Floyd turns the car off, taking the keys and shoving them into his pocket before also getting out of the car. Sofia does the same on the other side, being careful to avoid any accidental wardrobe malfunctions.

"Alright, we're here. So what's the plan, Goldfishie?" Floyd turns to Riddle. He seems much calmer now than he was before back at Ramshackle.

"Well first we're going to walk in and determine the situation from there-" Riddle gestures towards the door by nodding his head in that direction, walking towards the crimson red double doors and pushing them open.

The lighting inside the bar was rather dim but boy was the place beautiful. Round tables covered in clean, white table cloths were placed neatly on the two sides of the place, dark wooden seats surrounding them. There was a path down in the middle that led to the actual bar where a bartender was cleaning some glasses. On the other side, in the corner, there was a stage where a jazz band was playing. The music was calm and could be heard all around the lounge.

Despite the lack of customers, it was still lively and there were a few people here and there, drinking and eating and having fun.

"Okay, so, the plan." Riddle began taking a step further into the lounge. "We're gonna split up and go towards different areas of this bar to try and get more information on Victor. Sofia and Floyd, you go to the bar. Yuuna and Ace, you two get a table near to the stage. Me and-" Riddle got cut off when a familiar voice sounded.

"Shouldn't you little imps be back at campus?" It was Sam! But what would he be doing here?

"Sam! So that's why you weren't at the shop..." Yuuna speaks up, stepping a bit closer to where he appeared out of.
"I enjoy coming here when I've got nothing better to do."

Yuuna smiled and chuckled however her smile got wiped off her face as soon as she caught a glimpse of Sam's shadow moving. It seems like the others also noticed as they became rather startled too. Except Floyd.

"Seahorse, your shadow moves? That's cool!" He giggles, reaching out a hand to poke the moving shadow.
"Floyd, don't touch it!" Sofia smacks his hand away, giving him a glare of disapproval

"Well what can I say, I've got some friends on the other side. Toodaloo my little imps!" Sam opens the doors and walks out, walking out of the sight of the group.

They stare after him in silence before Riddle speaks up. "So does everyone know the plan?"
"Yes, yes we do."
"Then let's go."

The group split up into the smaller duos and walk over to their designated areas. Sofia and Floyd walk over to the bar, Ace and Yuuna walk over to a table that is closest to the stage and Riddle and Deuce sit nearer to the entrance.

Sofia pulls out a stool and sits down, Floyd sitting on the stool near the edge of the bar counter. The bartender turns around and spots the two of them, his eyes lighting up at the sight of new customers.

"So, what can I get for the lovely couple?" He asks, an innocent smile upon his face.

However, that comment immediately causes Sofia's face to flush. She didn't even feel anything for Floyd, why would someone just assume that they're a couple!?

"We're just friends...not a couple..." She mutters, covering her face with her hands to avoid the gaze of the bartender.
"I'm so sorry! It's just, a lot of couples come here for dates and-"
"Don't worry about it!"

The bartender calms down, his expression going back to that calm smiley one that he had before. Meanwhile, Floyd didn't seem to be in much of a good mood as he simply just kept quiet.

"So what can I get for you?"
"Actually, we would like some information about one of the performers that used to come here. His stage name was 'Rain'."
"Ah, Rain...yeah, he used to be absolutely adored by many of the regular customers. Even the newer ones! It's such a shame he is gone..."

As Sofia and the bartender carried on their conversation, Floyd was looking around the area. He saw Yuuna and Ace sitting at one of the tables, Riddle and Deuce at another. There wasn't really anyone else there and the band that had been performing earlier were gone now. Was probably the end of their shift and now calm jazz music was playing on the radio. That's when he noticed a mysterious looking person person sitting at the table in the far corner. Floyd's gut feeling told him that something was wrong...

"...Yeah, a few weeks ago a mysterious customer kept coming to Rain's performances but only when he was performing. Lowkey gave me the creeps but-"
"Sofia, we have to get out."

Floyd interrupted the bartender, reaching out a hand and gently placing it on Sofia's arm to get her attention. She looked over at him with confusion before she looked in the direction where Floyd was looking before. She noticed the person muttering something before he slowly stood up and...

He pulled out a gun.

He pointed it in their direction.

And he fired.

Sofia was frozen in shock as the bullet was speeding right towards her. She almost seemed too scared to move as if thousands of landmines were planted around her. But Floyd quickly lunged at her and pinned her to the ground underneath him before the bullet could do anything at all. He scrambled to knock over one of the tables, using it as a shield to cover the both of them while also keeping her protected.

"Are you okay!?" Floyd's eyes widen as he sees that the bullet has slightly grazed her shoulder, causing Sofia to bleed a bit. While he was focused on her minor injury, the mysterious person had fired another shot that had hit Floyd's right thigh.

He let out a loud hiss of pain, grabbing the wound and trying to put pressure on it.
"Floyd!!" Sofia immediately reacted, a wild look of concern in her eyes as she tries to see the wound.

Floyd's blood had started seeping into his clothes, turning the white fabric of his trousers to red like blood in snow after a winter hunt. Sofia's eyes dart around, seeing how the others have taken cover too and trying to escape through the door while the attacker is focusing on the two of them.

She reaches down and rips the frills off of her dress, moving quickly to wrap them tightly around Floyd's wound as a makeshift bandage until they get to safety. Sofia's hands move quickly while Floyd is laying on the floor, propping himself up with his elbow. "You're gonna be okay, I promise!"
"Forget about me Angelfish, save yourself! Your dad's gonna kill me anyway..."
"Don't say that! The guy's still firing bullets at us!"

That's when something unexpected happens. Floyd reaches into the loosened part of his shirt and pulls out a gun. Wait what?

He sits up and fires a few shots, hitting various parts of the attacker's anatomy. His last shot hit near his chest, causing him to stumble backwards and loosen his grip on his gun. Blood seeps out from all the holes that those bullets have punctured into him. Sofia and Floyd took this opportunity to scramble to their feet and make a run for it to the door.

The others were already outside, running to the car to save their souls. The last two also run, Floyd's body running on the adrenaline. Each step was painful and difficult but he managed to make it out. They all got into the car as fast as they could and sped away. Not sure where but somewhere away from the jazz bar. It was now left in ruins. The news will probably be full of it by the morning.

"I know a place where we can be safe..." Sofia speaks up, still catching her breath.

That stupid idiot! He was supposed to fire at that insolent eel guy, not the girl! The boss is gonna get mad. They got away. What a stupid fucking idiot. 'Refined Hitman' my ass! Can't even hit a target without dying. The boss will be mad. What will he think, knowing that his precious daughter almost died? I don't wanna be the next skin that he sells...
Watch out Yuuna. I'm coming for you and your time keeps ticking and running out

Chapter Text

Floyd, still bleeding, was speeding through the city, listening to Sofia's directions. She knows a place to go, somewhere where it should be safe for them until they can go back to campus. Floyd's body was mainly running on adrenaline at this point which is why he hasn't passed out yet. Same with the others, their bodies were running on adrenaline so each and every one of them was on high alert.

"Left!!" Sofia shouted and Floyd took a sharp turn to the left, speeding down the street.

In the backseat, Deuce, Riddle, Ace and Yuuna were all crammed together. Unfortunately, they suffered some injuries too. Ace had been shot in the shoulder, Riddle had badly scrapped his knee while scrambling out of the building, Yuuna had various bruises on her body from constantly falling and Deuce had been shot in the leg.

"Ace...if this is the end...just know that I'll always cherish you." Deuce huffed, tears slowly coming to his eyes.
"I'll always cherish you too bro..." Ace's voice wavered a bit as he tried his hardest not to cry. He kept a hand pressed to his shoulder, putting pressure on the shot wound.

"Nobody is dying tonight! We're all gonna be safe!" Suddenly Riddle's booming voice shouted. It was obvious that he was concerned but he couldn't help his tone of voice. At the end of the day, he was just as scared as the rest of them were.

Floyd took various turns as the dead of night followed them. The feeling that they were being watched was just undeniable and it was terrifying but they had to keep going, seeking safety and to get away from the attackers as fast as they could. This was a life or death situation and if something went wrong, they could be more closer to death than life. They didn't want more corpses piling up.

They reached an area that was near the beach and further out of the city. "Here!" Sofia shouted as Floyd's foot pressed down on the break and the car abruptly stopped right in front of a medium sized building.

It was a Mediterranean style house, sitting all alone in it's glory and surrounded by a stone fence, a black iron gate shining in the moonlight while the sounds of waving water from the beach could be heard. No wind. The air humid with warmth leftover from the day.

The gates open on their own and Floyd slowly drives into the driveway of the house. The stones crackle underneath the car tires as he slowly pulls into the driveway. He takes heavy breaths, the fatigue slowly getting to him. It's only a matter of time before he passes out. Same with the others.

The car comes to a stop and it's shut off, everyone hurriedly scurrying out of it and towards the door of the house. Despite it being a medium sized house, it still seemed quite large and grand...quite expensive too. Sofia places Floyd's arm around her shoulder, trying her hardest to support him while Ace and Deuce were doing the same, helping and supporting each other towards the door. Sofia urgently opens her purse and fishes out a house key from it, sticking it into the keyhole and opening the door.

They hurry inside, their footsteps pattering on the stone floor of the foyer as they all limp towards the living room. Sofia, being the least injured out of all of them, has to now take responsibility, running around to make sure that they are all protected. She leads Floyd towards the living room's sofa, gently sitting him down before she runs back into the foyer and closes the door. One little click of the lock and it was secure.

"Come upstairs, I'll help you all." The care in her voice was undeniable as she looked at the five of them. They were all battered and bruised.

Sofia kicked her heels off, shoving them into a random corner before walking over to Floyd and helping him stand up again. His wound was still bleeding, his trousers becoming even more stained with blood than it was before.

He reached out an arm towards her, allowing Sofia to help him. "I don't wanna die, Angelfishie..."
"You won't, not under my watch.."

She lifts him up with the very little strength that she's got remaining and carefully leads him towards the wooden steps that lead upstairs. Yuuna is helping Ace while Riddle is helping Deuce. They all have to work together to make sure nobody dies tonight.

They carefully walk up the wooden steps, walking down the hallway and into a large bedroom. It seems to be the guest room in the house. Riddle opens his mouth for a moment, wanting to ask a question before closing it again. It's not exactly the right time to be asking things when three of the people are severely hurt.

"We can all stay here. Riddle, Yuuna, look after them while I go and find a first aid kit." Sofia darts out of the room, urgently looking for medical supplies yet still being able to keep her cool.

Silence falls on the room, making the atmosphere more grim and slightly uncomfortable. Riddle's eyes dart around the room, observing his new surroundings to try and gain a better understanding of where they are exactly. Floyd and Deuce are sitting on the bed, both of them pressing a hand onto their wounds. Floyd is staring into space, his face contorting in pain from time to time. Deuce is staring over towards Ace and Yuuna, who are sitting down on the floor, to try and gain some sense of comfort from his friends. It only dawns on Riddle how dire the situation is. Realisation comes across him as he remembered the events...

"Floyd, why did you even have a gun on you?..."

Floyd tenses up as he is pulled out of his trance. He stares up at Riddle with menacing eyes, as if he just murdered his entire family.
"Shut the fuck up, Goldfish."

Now that was unexpected. Everyone in the room is staring at Floyd in shock, not expecting him to reply like that. Perhaps he's simply in a bad mood because of what had happened. Maybe it's something else. Either way, he got quite annoyed. The door opened and Sofia walked in, holding a basket full of medical supplies. She placed them down onto the nightstand before turning towards the group who still seemed to be frozen in shock.

"Since we can't exactly go to a hospital, we'll have to heal those gunshot wounds here. A little magic should help to make it safer..." Sofia takes out a few medical supplies from the basket, bandages, scissors, painkillers, etc.

"But it's still dangerous to do so. The areas in this house could be unsanitary and therefore causes more of a risk for infection."
"Riddle, we can't go anywhere else. Who knows wether that guy has followed us here or not!" Yuuna interrupts.

She's right though, they don't know how safe they are. Ace is still clutching his shoulder, looking up towards Riddle, Deuce is holding his leg and softly crying. Such a traumatic experience for all of them.

"There's about four bathrooms in this house from what I know. They should be the most sanitary places. I'll guide each of you there so we can safely heal ourselves." Her voice was solemn as she said that, her mind wandering to darker places. Sofia's afraid that she may not be able to save her friends, it will be all her fault if they end up dying. She moves over towards Floyd who is still sitting on the bed and looking quite dazed

"Floyd, will you be alright waiting in here for now?"
"Yeah...do your thing Sof." He sounded barely alive. This is getting bad...

She couldn't exactly do anything else at the moment. Yuuna stood up, helping Ace up as he kept his bloody hand pressed to the wound on his shoulder. Deuce also stood up, Riddle's hands gently holding his arm to help him. He placed his arm over his shoulder, giving Deuce some sort of support.

Sofia's hand holds Floyd's cheek for a few seconds before she lets go and hastily makes her way over to the door of the room. They all walk out and the door closes, leaving Floyd all alone in the room...

"Shit...what am I gonna tell Jade and Azul..." He says that out loud, contemplating life. His mind wanders towards the many different possibilities of what could happen tonight. They might get attacked. They might all die. Or perhaps they'll live.

Silence enveloped the room as the eel waited for Sofia to come back. It was scary how silence could be so loud, he could practically hear the blood rushing through his veins. Blood that was pouring out of his wound. Blood.

The door creaked open and Sofia was back in the room, gently closing the wooden door behind her. "Sorry if I kept you waiting for too long!"

Her voice as sweet as ever, even in the most fearful situations. Some things really never change, do they?

"Nah, don't worry. But this bullet in my leg is really startin' to get on my nerves." Floyd chuckled. It's truly a wonder how they can bring light into darkness just simply by being there for each other.

"Come on, let's get that bullet out." Sofia helped Floyd stand up from the edge of the bed, gently leading him towards the bathroom that was within the room.

Meanwhile Riddle, Ace, Deuce and Yuuna were all together in the main bathroom of the house which wasn't too far away from the guest room. They figured it would be best if they didn't get separated. However the four of them being together was a bit...chaotic, shall we say.

"ACE TRAPPOLA, YOU STOP MOVING AROUND RIGHT THIS INSTANCE!"
"BUT IT HURRRTTTSSS!!-"

Of course, they are struggling a bit. Riddle using his magic to make the extraction of the bullet as safe and precise as possible. But unfortunately there aren't any painkillers that are strong enough for poor Ace.

"My eardrums are gonna burst..." Deuce muttered, still clutching the wound on his leg.
"I'm in love with a fucking man-child." Yuuna also muttered
"What?"
"Huh?"
"Huh?-"
"Mind your own business Deuce."
Deuce looked a little offended but not too much. He knew it really was just friendly banter.
"Damn, okay then."

Back over in the bathroom of the guest room, it was more calmer. However, that was simply the calm before the storm. Sofia was doing everything she could to make the extraction of the bullet as painless as possible. It wasn't exactly working too well though, she isn't a professional surgeon after all.

"Those were my favourite pants, you know..." Floyd muttered as he looked over to the piece of cut off fabric, tossed over to the side. He had been shot, the only way to access the wound was to cut off the part of the fabric that was covering it.

"There's millions of these in the world, you can always get a new one so quit whining!" Sofia scowled, not taking her gaze or focus off of what she was doing. Floyd stayed silent after that apart from the occasional whimpers and grunts of pain. Extracting a bullet from a wound is no joke!

Once Sofia got the bullet out, she used the little healing magic that she knew and tried to heal the wound, trying to close it up before blood starts gushing out of it. She did manage but it didn't heal fully. Meanwhile the silence from Floyd was getting suspicious. Sofia looked up from what she was doing and saw that Floyd was silently crying from pain.

"I'm sorry..." Her voice was quiet but tender as she apologised to him, sitting up straight and reaching a hand out towards his cheek, wiping away his tears with her thumb.

Sofia found herself moving closer and closer towards Floyd, slowly closing the gap between when-

"We're all done. I came here to lend a hand." Riddle was standing in the door, Yuuna, Ace and Deuce standing behind him. Ace's hand was resting on his now bandaged up shoulder while Deuce could be seen limping and leaning onto Yuuna with his arm around her shoulders.

Sofia immediately moved away from Floyd and averted her gaze while he cleared his throat in an attempt to make the situation less awkward. "Work your magic, doc." Sofia stood up and let Riddle crouch down towards Floyd.

Riddle was much better with healing magic than anyone in their group. It was more advanced and therefore more accurate. Floyd's wound was soon closed up with the help of the magic and all it left was a scar. However it was still rather painful which then led Riddle to wrap a bandage around the wound. For what reason? Well, I don't know.

"Can you stand?"
"Goldfishie, does it look like I can stand? I got shot in the thigh for Sevens' sake!"

All Riddle could do was roll his eyes, slipping Floyd's arm over his shoulders and trying his best to help the eel guy stand up. The height difference sure made that difficult though. Riddle, being the posh boy that he always has been, struggled to lift Floyd up. He wasn't gonna be so quick to admit that.

"...Do you need a little help?" Sofia asked, moving over to Floyd's other side and placing his other arm around her shoulder. This made everything much easier for Riddle as he didn't need to struggle as much anymore.

The group left the bathroom, helping each other back into the guest bedroom where they will be spending the night. All the rushing around the house and grabbing all kinds of stuff really did tire out Sofia. But she still had to make sure that they all would be safe. The Great Seven forbid that something horrible were to happen to them...

"I'll go get some blankets and pillows. It will be safest for all of us to sleep in one room for tonight." Sofia didn't even have time to finish her sentence before she hastily left the room, once again leaving the others in silence.

Floyd had stumbled his way towards the bed, laying down on it and making himself comfortable. Ace and Deuce sat down on the floor, sitting next to each other as they had practically passed out by now. They were both fast asleep and using each other as pillows. Riddle and Yuuna were the only two that were still standing though barely.

Riddle looked over at the clock as it read 12AM. "This is way past my bedtime..." He mumbled to himself, turning his gaze over towards the window. It was pitch black outside, the light of the moon barely illuminating anything.

It's been a few minutes before Sofia came back inside the room, the door closing behind her with a small thud. She was holding 3 large pillows and 4 blankets in her arms which all were of the same creamy white colour.

"So who is gonna sleep where?" She asked in a quiet voice as to not awake any of those who were already sleeping.

"It doesn't exactly matter but me and Yuuna will also be sleeping on the floor. It's best if you take the bed with Floyd. Knowing that eel, he'll probably fall off by morning and break his neck." Riddle narrowed his grey-blue eyes, looking over at Floyd's sleeping form that was sprawled out on the bed before his eyes darted back towards Sofia.

The three that were awake gently placed the pillows under the heads of the two idiots, draping a blanket over each of them. Then it came to the other side where Yuuna and Riddle would be sleeping. They placed the pillow down as Sofia passed them the remaining two blankets.

"Stay safe and sweet dreams." She gave the two a warm smile, moving over towards the nightstand and turning on the lamp before turning off the lights. The lamp seemed to give off a sense of security as it's warm rays of light illuminated the room.

The blondie climbed up onto the bed next to the sleeping eel, pulling out the duvet from underneath him and softly draping it over the both of them. Her eyelids fluttered closed as she fell deep into a dream...maybe this world will be safe someday. Maybe once upon a dream.

Morning quickly arrived, the sun slowly rising and shining through the window. The group were drapes in a coating of warm sun, the rays bathing them in the daylight's glory. Riddle was the first one to wake up, slowly sitting up as he squinted his grey-blue eyes to try and get rid of the tiredness from waking up.

Looking around the room, he noticed the different proxemics of the people there. Sofia and Floyd cuddling together, holding each other tight, Ace and Deuce looked like they were having a wrestling match in their sleep with Ace's arm draped across Deuce's face and Deuce's leg resting across Ace's stomach. Yuuna was pressed up against the wall, resting peacefully.

Riddle slowly and gently stood up, walking over to the door and gently opening it, slipping through the gap and into the hallway. Everything looked much more different now that it was morning. It all seemed more peaceful and calm. At least he had time to look around a bit, to familiarise himself with the new environment.

Back in the room, Floyd was the next one to wake up by the sound of his phone ringing. With stiff movements, he pulled his phone out of his pocket, his other arm still cradling Sofia, and clicked the green call icon to pick it up.

"Hey?.." His voice sounded hoarse and groggy as he answered the phone.
"WHERE THE FUCK ARE YOU!?" Azul screamed through the phone.

Floyd's eyes narrowed his hand flinching away from his ear as he got bombarded by Azul's frantic shouting.

"Damn, calm down..."
"Where the hell have you been!? Do you even know how worried me and Jade were? Where's Sofia and the others?"

All Floyd could do was roll his eyes before replying.
"It's fine, Azul. Sofia's right here in the bed next to me and-"
"Wait, in the bed? What did- did you two?-"
"Get your fucking mind out of the gutter, I literally got fucking shot. Same with little Mackerel and Crabby...Shrimpy and Goldfishie are more alright but still injured."

Azul, sitting in his office, just stared into space with an annoyed and sleep deprived look on his face. Was he hearing everything right?

"I'm assuming that you got healed by the way you're speaking?"
"Well what do you think?"
"I'll take that as a yes."

All Floyd could hear was an annoyed sigh from the other end of the phone.

"We have to get the dorm ready for the parents that will be arriving this Friday for Parents' Week. Just...stay safe, will you? And keep a close eye on Sofia."
"Yah got it."

Floyd hung up the phone, placing it onto the nightstand behind him. He really did need to listen to Azul's words. If Sofia were to get hurt, who knows what he father would do. He's a wealthy businessman of high status. You know what society is like, the rich can get away with anything.

He held Sofia tight against his chest, his eyes gazing down at her peaceful face. Her dirty blonde hair framed her face as it flowed down her back in beautiful waves, the white streaks bringing attention to it. He felt lucky to be the best friend of such a beautiful girl.

Back downstairs, Riddle was letting his curiosity get the best of him as he continued wondering around the house. It was almost like as if Alice were exploring Wonderland for the first time. As he was looking around the living room, he spotted a framed picture on the mantle, just above the fireplace. As he moved closer to it, the picture became more clearer. It was a family portrait! But...there was a sinister vibe to it. The man, who seemed to be the father was holding something in his hand behind his back. It looked like a-

"Riddle?"

The redhead whipped his head around towards the location of the voice. Yuuna and the others were all standing there, watching Riddle as he slowly turned around. A light blush dusted his cheeks as he looked at the group in slight shame and embarrassment.

"I was just looking around. I figured, since we are in a safe space,  should familiarise myself with this new environment."

Back at NRC, Azul was sitting in his leather chair, holding the fish bone quill while desperately trying not to break it. So many things have been frustrating him, especially a certain someone. With Parents' Week coming up, he had so much to do. Riddle, probably the only other reliable Housewarden apart from himself, wasn't there, Leona was most likely napping in the botanical gardens, Vil was doing his morning skincare, who the hell knows what happened to Malleus, Kalim is most likely still snoozing and Idia...we know what he's like.

But oh, there was just someone who the octopus mer just simply couldn't get out of his mind. As much as he hated to admit it, he was in love!

With a loud sigh, he stood up and walk out into the hallway, following the dimmed lights to the doors of the Mostro Lounge. He really needed something to drink to ease his woes and worries, his sorrows and pains. He couldn't let...him..find out about what had happened. It would cost him his life! And Azul simply didn't want to risk that.

Since Floyd and Sofia were away, Jade was stuck running majority of the lounge. At least there were no customers around so there was peace. For a bit, that is. Azul marched into the lounge, making his way to the bar and sitting down one one of the stools in the middle.

"Ahem." Azul coughed, trying to get the other mer's attention.

Jade had his back turned as he was trying to perfect his tea making skills. It was only when Azul 'coughed' that he straightened up his posture to show that he knew he was there.

"And what would you like..." Jade muttered through gritted teeth, slowly turning around to look at Azul while his whole body was tense.

"Simple wine will do for now." The octopus mer had a smug look on his face as he answered.The two mer's relationship hasn't exactly been the best since the argument they had.

Jade swiftly moved forward, almost lunging at Azul as if he were to jump over the bar counter and pin him down against the ground with that insane look in his eyes and baring his teeth. Due to the sudden and swift movement, Azul flinched back a bit yet Jade still managed to get close to him. There were barely inches in between them as their breathing mixed together. There it was, that insane look that Jade occasionally puts on. This looked genuine. Was he really going insane? Yes. Going insane from a crush who is blind. Literally.

"What does Jamil have or do for you to be so head over heels for him?" Jade growled, his gloved hand slowly slithering it's way towards the back of Azul's head.

"Why do you want to know?"
"Why wouldn't I?"
"You seem to be fond of him, asking all these questions."
"Shut the fuck up."

That caught Azul off guard. Jade never curses...and that's when he felt a sharp tug as Jade grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled his head back.

"Let me go you bastard!!-" He seems to almost squeal in pain before the other quickly lets go. Sure, he can be sadistic at times but in order to get what he wants, he has to wait patiently. And hopefully this lonely eel's love will be returned...

"And you wonder why I always get Floyd to do everything. You're practically useless, Jade. Get the fuck out of my sight."

The eel mer's eyes softened, his face loosening up into one of shock and sorrow. It felt like a stake encrusted with fragile diamonds had been driven right through his heart. If it were any other person, he would just shrug it off. But this was Azul. It was Azul...

He quickly got up from his seat and stormed away, most likely to his room or the V.I.P room, leaving Jade standing there in shock. His legs felt weak, his whole body trembling. He couldn't take it. Not at all. His body fell to the ground, sitting on the cold floor as the other felt his heart shatter into millions of pieces.

Azul was right. He is useless. He just gets in the way. But what can he do about it...

There we go, another body that will soon be on top of the pile of helpless corpses, crowned as the new king. Such a shame those bastards got away. If only that idiot didn't miss and aimed for the tall guy with the weird hair...the boss isn't gonna be happy. He's gonna keep trying until he gets what he wants. Talk about a retelling of Macbeth.

Chapter Text

The weekend went by fast with the crew coming back and Azul running all over the place like a headless chicken, trying his hardest to make sure that the parents will be impressed with the appearance of the lounge. Floyd was resting with Sofia helping him. Although his wound was almost healed, it still hurt to move around and it would occasionally bleed since it didn't fully close. And Jade...he wasn't exactly seen throughout the weekend. The other dorms prepared for Parents' Week too but it was safe to say that Octavinelle put in the most effort. By Octavinelle, I mean specifically Azul. He spent all nighter's ordering ingredients for foods, buying decorations online, filling out paperwork, etc.

The last of the preparations were done Sunday night, last night. It also seemed rather peculiar that Jade requested to sleep in one of the spare rooms. But Azul gave it no further thought, simply assuming that Floyd was bothering him. Monday morning came around and by 08:00am parents were starting to arrive at the school. Azul looked at the ticking clock on his desk, an indication that he should open the Mostro Lounge and greet the parents.

"Dear parents! I welcome you all to NRC's Parents' Week!" Crowley greeted all the adults that have started gathering in the Mirror Chamber. The other staff members were there to help out to make sure that everything will run smoothly.

"I don't get paid enough..." Crewel muttered, still keeping a smile on his face though it was obvious that he was getting tired.

"Don't go frowning, Divus! You'll scare them away." Crowley whisper shouted at him.
"The only other way I'll smile is if I get backshots but I'm not a whore and you don't have money so it's lose-lose situation."
"I shall pretend like I never heard that!"

Crowley made his way back over towards the large group of parents that have gathered. People were talking left and right, ghost staff members were rolling trolleys around so the parents could place their bagging onto them and it could he taken to the hotel that the parents will be staying at.

However as there was excitement buzzing im the air there was also grief and sorrow.
"I'm very sorry, Mrs. Almar, but I fear your son has been murdered..." One of the ghost staff members calmly explained.
"B-but...Why? Why us?" The older woman sobbed into her hands, her husband gently rubbing circles on her back to try and comfort her.
"Is Silard at least okay?" Mr. Almar asked in a quiet voice.
"Yes, he is fine physically but we fear the sight of his dead brother may have scarred him for a lifetime..."

"Parents and guardians! You can now make your way over to Mostro Lounge for breakfast or do whatever you want!" Crowley announced at last.

As the parents moved over towards the exit of the mirror chamber, Crowley moved closer to Crewel.
"Hey, on a scale of one to ten how gay are you-"
"I'm not gonna let you fuck me."
"Worth a shot."

Back in the Mostro Lounge, Azul was standing at the top of the steps, breathing to calm his nerves. Talking in front of so many people, especially adults, has always been nerve wracking. But at least it gives him an opportunity to show his maturity and how much he has accomplished.

"Don't worry Zuzu, you got this!" Sofia placed a gentle hand on his arm, giving the octopus mer a soft smile and warm eyes.
"Yeah! You don't gotta worry Azul!" Floyd joined in, ruffling Azul's grey-lavender hair up a bit.

"Hey! Stop that! I did my hair this morning..." Azul grumbled in response, turning his gaze to the doors as they opened and the parents came flowing in.

"There's my lovely son!" A sweet voice called out from among the crowd, the sound of heels clicking against the floor increasing as an average sized woman with wavy teal hair and bright yellow eyes came running up the stairs with open arms.

"Mama!!" Floyd shouted, opening his arms too to welcome his mother. The two collided, holding each other close. Sofia smiled at the beautiful moment, almost wishing that her father were here too.

A tall man, who's hair was also teal but with black streaks, slowly climbed up the stairs and stood near Floyd. "Papa!" The two hugged as well before Mrs. Leech spoke up.

"Where's Jade?"

.

He laid out everything he needed onto the bed. The rope. The hook. The bloody razors. The gun. It was all there. And it was all calling out to him.

.

"I'm not actually too sure Mrs. Leech...last night he decided to sleep in room 190 which is a spare room..." Azul replied, feeling slightly worried.

"Then it's best if we go there. I can't just shower Floyd in love and affection and then not give Jade any!"

.

He secured the hook into the ceiling, getting off the chair and reaching his gloved hand towards the rope. Azul was right. He's useless. No purpose whatsoever.

.

The further they walked from the crowd the louder the echo of their footsteps. They were all getting worried, especially Azul. Jade isn't one to be late to events so this was most definitely peculiar behaviour.

.

The noose has been tied and he had secured it onto the hook. Jade stepped up onto the chair, silent tears rolling down his cheeks as he placed the noose around his neck..

.

"Here!" Azul shouted, pointing to room 190. With swift movements, he opened the door. His expression dropped as soon as he saw the sight that was to behold.

Mrs. Leech gasped, Sofia placing her hands over her mouth while Mr. Leech and Azul simply looked stunned. All they saw in the dimly lit room was Jade's unconscious body hanging from a noose. Floyd took action and ran.

"JADE!!" Hot tears ran down his face as he ran over into the room, urgently taking Jade from off the noose and setting him down onto the ground.

"DOES HE HAVE A PULSE!?" Sofia shouted, squeezing her way into the room and making her way over towards Jade, her index and middle fingers on his wrist.
"He has a pulse!"

"My baby!" Mrs. Leech cried out as she swayed a bit, become dizzy and faint from the sheer shock of it all.
"Take him to the infirmary!" Mr. Leech shouted, his hand placed on his wife's shoulder.

Azul simply stood there, stunned as he watched the situation unfold. Jade had tried killing himself...beacuse of him.

"Move your fat ass Azul!" Floyd yelled as him and Mr. Leech gently took Jade out of the room, making their way to the infirmary.

When everyone was gone, Azul was left standing there on his own, guilty slowly filling him up. He really should've treated Jade better. He shouldn't have said all those things.

And all that because he liked someone else. Oh Azul, you let your heart control you again! And we all thought you've become more mature. You will always remain that old octopus boy who everyone always made fun of.

A couple hours later, when everything had calmed down, majority of the school was empty as people were hanging out with their parents in the city and various other places.

Sofia was leaning against the stone railing of one of the many balconies in the main building of the college, cigarette between her gloved fingers as she took another drag from it. She was in her dorm uniform which consisted of dark brown mesh tights, white heels, a black pencil skirt and a light purple button up shirt as well as the scarf draped around her arms and her hat tilting to the side. The sight of Jade really stressed her out. She's always seen him as an older brother figure or even a father. The stress caught up to her and she had to try and relax. This was her only way.

"You know smoking is bad for you, right?"

Sofia perked up at the sound. She could recognise that British accent anywhere.

"Doesn't take a genius to figure that out..." She muttered as she took another drag of her cigarette, blowing the smoke out into the open air.

Riddle walked over next to her, his heels clicking against the stone floor of the balcony. He leaned against the railing also, staring at the bright blue sky. No clouds whatsoever. Just the sky in all it's glory.

"So...where are your parents?"
"Daddy is usually on business trips. Mommy is...ill."
"...My condolences."

After another bit of awkward silence, Riddle spoke up again. "You should really put that out unless you wanna reduce your life span..."

In response, Sofia blew some smoke in his face and watched him cough and wheeze before putting out the cigarette by dropping it on the ground and firmly slamming down her foot on it. While Riddle looked annoyed and was still wheezing all Sofia did was smirk and look out across the campus.

"So I'm guessing your mom didn't show up either, huh?"

Riddle fanned away more of the smoke before he looked at her, tears welling up in his eyes from how much it stung.

"No...she never does. When I ask her about it she says that if she praises me I won't try as hard...so she nevet visits during Parents' Week." The redhead sighed, standing side by side next to Sofia and looking out over the campus. "So how's Jade doing? I heard what happened to him."

The blondie froze, icey blue eyes widening before she quickly relaxed again. The question really just startled her, nothing else. "Damn, word spread that fast, huh?"

"Well, it spread all the way to Heartslabyul so I guess so."
"He's in the infirmary. Floyd texted me saying that his breathing was restricted and he had fractured a few bones in his neck. Some self harm scars have also been uncovered on his arm, too."

Riddle's eyes softened at the information, losing his stoic demeanour for a second. Even though he hadn't experienced something such as a close friend trying to kill themselves, he could still feel the pain and worry that Sofia was also feeling. She's known Jade ever since she was young so that sight that she had to witness must have been traumatising.

He looked down at the courtyard, looking at the few people who decided to spend the day at Night Raven with their families. Younger siblings prancing about, parents chatting with their kids and having fun. Watching all that made both Riddle and Sofia feel hollow. Neither of their parents came..

"My darling seashell!"

..Or did they?

Sofia could recognise that voice from anywhere. She swiftly turned around and ran towards the taller, older man, jumping into his arms.
"Daddy!!" She squealed in excitement, holding him tight.

"I missed you so much! How have you been doing?"
"I missed you so much too! I've been doing well but...well, Jade attempted to kill himself today morning..."
"Oh, I'm so sorry sweetheart...come on, let's go and get you something nice in town, how about that?"

Sofia eagerly nodded and the two of them walked off, leaving Riddle on his own. He stared at the two in sorrowful silence, trying to recall at least one memory where his mother was nice to him. But none. The redhead walked back on over to the Hall of Mirrors, black heeled boots clicking against the floor as he rushed back over to his room.

However he couldn't shake off the feeling that someone...or something...was watching him. Something lurking in the shadows, it's eyes stuck on him. He had to go to his room. It wasn't safe out here. He started running, running as fast as could, running like the White Rabbit when he was late, just running to safety. But is any part of this school safe anymore?

He ran down the stairs, across the main street, dodging students and their families, running to the Hall of Mirrors and entering Heartslabyul as quick as he could.

Running across grass in heels sure is difficult but Riddle somehow made it look easy. Cater was just outside the rose maze, taking pictures when he saw Riddle.

"Oh hey Riddle, how's it goi-" The poor guy didn't even get to finish his words before Riddle rushed right passed him, heading to the entrance of Heartslabyul. "Okay, ignore me then, that's fine too-"

At this point everything was a blur with nothing on his mind but getting to his room. Everything was...going dark...he saw flashing colours...and then.

...

A few hours later, Riddle woke up in a small bed with white bedsheets. Wait, this isn't his room! As his eyes adjusted to the dimly lit room, he realised that he was in the infirmary. He was in his pajamas, his dorm uniform draped over the railing at the foot of the bed. His grey-blue eyes scanned across the room before they landed on the presence of a familiar friend.

"Trey?..."

The green haired guy heaved a sigh of relief, his frown vanishing and instead being replaced by a warm smile. He placed his hand on top of Riddle's as a warm gesture however the action seemed to dust the redhead's cheeks a rosey pink.

"Riddle, I was so worried about you! You passed out while running and I found you laying face down on the ground. Luckily you didn't suffer any major injuries, just a scrapped knee and elbow."

What are these warm feelings? He knows it's simply a friendly gesture but...he can't help but feel that it's more than that. Riddle quickly shrugged it off. He's not gay! Or at least that's what his mother tells him...

That's when Riddle's stomach suddenly grumbled. His face flushed in embarrassment as his hand moved to his stomach, as if that would cancel out the noise...

"I'll go get you something from the cafeteria. I'll be right back!" He stood up and swiftly made his way out of the infirmary. This only left Riddle in the room.

"Yo."

A polite sounding voice called out, startling the shorty as he looked around in shock. His head whipped over to his left side only to see Jade a few beds down. He was sitting there in a baggy t-shirt that had a cute mushroom on it however most of his body was covered by the white sheets.

"I heard what happened earlier. Are you okay?"
"Riddle, I tried to kill myself and had backup in case it didn't work the first time. Do you think I'm okay?"

Whew, he silenced him real quick. The redhead didn't reply and remained in silence for a few seconds.

"My condolences..."
"Good enough."

Jade looked out the window, watching as the sun was slowly setting. Floyd had promised to get him some Shiitake mushrooms while him and their parents went out to buy food and snacks for Jade.

Meanwhile somewhere in the town...

"Mama, I feel like we're forgetting something..."
"Mm? Are we?"
"...OH MERDA, THE SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS FOR JADE-"
"Floyd, stupido idiota di figlio, come hai potuto dimenticare l'UNICA cosa di cui tuo fratello ha bisogno!!-"

.

"I'm hoping they come back soon.."

Jade slowly drifted off to sleep, wondering wether Azul is able to sleep with a calm heart knowing the words he said hurt Jade so much that he was willing to take his own life. Hurt him so bad that he was willing to give up his promise of protecting Floyd, just so the pain could stop.

Riddle stayed awake, reading a book as he waited for Trey to come back. The infirmary was quiet and becoming darker as the sun set.

That was until Riddle heard something fall to the ground near the entrance. Someone had been watching them. And whoever that someone was swiftly vanished. Throughout the rest of the night, Riddle held his magic pen in his hand.

***

"HELP!! SOMEONE!! CALL THE POLICE!!"

The Scarabia student screamed, almost passing out from the mere sight of what he has uncovered in the school's toilets. People quickly gathered and they all seemed to have the same reaction of shock and dread as they saw the sight to behold.

Lying on the tiled floor of the bathroom was the body of a 16 year old Heartslabyul student. His hair was painted a crimson red. Or well, what was left of his hair that is...

His magic pen layed on the ground next to him, covered in a deep red while his brains were pilled out across the floor, the splash of blood from when it happened dried onto the mirror behind him. It was obviously a suicide, the remaining blood dripping into the puddles of clear, pure water, blood in the water.

What was worse was the cryptic message left written on the mirror in his own blood. All it read was "Blood will Rain".

Look at that, more people dying but not the ones who HE wants dead. Your time will run out sooner or later Yuuna. You can kiss goodbye to all your friends.

Chapter Text

"We need backup to keep the students back." The officer yelled into her radio, trying her hardest to keep all the students back and away from the crime scene.

The body had already been discarded but the student's parents were still weeping. His mother trying her hardest to stop but she simply couldn't. His father was also weeping.

"I just...I don't understand why he would want to kill himself!" The mother sobbed, barely being able to make coherent sentences.

Jade was in the crowd, staring. He'd been let out of the infirmary that morning after the nurses did some further checks and helped his injuries with healing magic. His mind could only think of the possibility if that were someone he loved. Azul. Sofia. Floyd. It could have been anyone. Perhaps maybe even himself. In his mind he had thought of it being a rather silly matter, the fact that he was so desperate for someone's love that he was willing to end his own life. He needs to be there for his loved ones. Especially Floyd. He simply cannot leave him to be on his own after the 'incident'.

He slowly turned around and made his way out of the crowd, pushing past everyone. He had to get back to Octavinelle to rest his mind...and his body.

Riddle was there at the front of the crowd. It was one of his students that passed, after all. Of course he would want to help the police with the safety precautions.

"Stand back! Queen's orders!" He yelled, his eyes darting across the people that were so desperately trying to catch a glimpse of the crime scene. The matter was frustrating, nobody wanting to listen at all and he was starting to lose his temper.

"LISTEN ALL OF YOU!!-"
"That is enough, Mr. Rosehearts."

Crowley makes his way towards the crowd. Everyone went silent, apart from the few whispers that would break out here and there. The Headmage carried an air of authority around him, something that isn't common to happen. Even he knew to take this situation seriously.

"Everyone, to their dorms! NOW!" As soon as he shouted that, the crowd scurried off into different directions like rats running off and ravens flying away.

Riddle stood still, watching as all the other students migrated. A gentle hand touched his shoulder which made him flinch a bit before he turned around to see who it was.
"You should rest, Riddle." Trey said in that gentle tone he always uses with Riddle.

Meanwhile, Cater was staring from a distance, a look of obvious jealousy on his face as he kicked himself off the wall that he was leaning on and started making his way towards the Hall of Mirrors.

***

"Another death...and it was a freshman too." Azul smacked the news article down onto the table as Yuuna sat opposite him with a nervous look on her face.

"Not to mention that cryptic message he left behind." Riddle joined in, picking up the newspaper but immediately cringing in disgust from the picture that was taken. "Whatever did he mean by "blood will rain"?" The redhead narrowed his eyes, his eyebrows furrowing as he looked over at Azul.

Silence from all three of them. That was until Floyd skipped along with their drinks.

"Here you guys go! One Sunset Delight for Shrimpy, One Sex on the Beach for Azul, and a fucking boring glass of water for Goldfishie." Floyd narrowed his eyes in disappointment as he placed Riddle's drink in front of him, and in quite a harsh manner too as he walked back over to the bar.

Riddle just stared at him in confusion, raising an eyebrow as he glanced at Azul and then back at Floyd and back at Azul again.

"I just don't enjoy alcohol." He muttered as he took a sip from his glass of water. "Why do you even sell alcoholic drinks in the first place?"

"Oh Riddle, people nowadays don't really care about anything unless it's about social media, drugs and alcohol or sex. What has society become, I still wonder.." There Azul goes being his dramatic self. But there is truth in his words.

"You're right. Just last week I had to punish five students for meddling with drugs."
"What kind, may I ask?"
"Weed."
"Weak asses."

Riddle almost jumped out of his seat as the familiar sound of Floyd's voice rung out behind him.

"Don't scare me like that you bloody buffoon!" He takes a few deep breaths to steady himself before turning back towards Floyd who was leaning on the booth's seat behind him.

"I'm just sayin' that weed is nothin'. If those fishes want somethin' to really mess with their brains then they should opt for something like coke."
"And how do you know this?"
"I have a few buddies in prison. Guess why."

The redhead just gave him a side eye before turning back to Azul.

"He's just joking!" Azul gave Riddle a nervous smile.
"Says who?" Floyd smirked at Azul.
"Floyd...I'm trying to cover for you!"
"Yo mama."

Azul facepalms and heaves a heavey sigh. He was losing braincells and it was obvious.

"ANYWAY." His voice cracked slightly as he said those words. "Floyd, go bother Jade or Sofia."

Floyd just rolled his eyes as he left, walking back over to the kitchen in a lazy manner, dragging his feet after himself.

"Okay so...now we have eight deaths in total. Right?" Yuuna spoke up after being quiet for so long.
"Precisely."
"Which means more work for me. Right?"

Both Azul and Riddle looked a bit nervous and shocked, looking at each other before turning back to Yuuna.

"Of course not! My dear, sweet child, just let Uncle Azul handle all of this! Free of charge!" Riddle's head snaps in Azul's direction, looking at him as if he just said that he gave birth to twenty five window blinds.

"I'll head back to Heartslabyul. I know the parents and some other students are grieving so I must be there. Farewell Azul, Yuuna." Riddle nods goodbye to the two of them as he stands up and leaves, his golden heeled heels clicking against the floor as he leaves.

Azul picks up his glass and takes a sip, watching as Riddle walks away. The silence that was left behind only meant one thing. Trouble. Azul could feel it deep in his gut, like a dagger that had been driven into his stomach and wrenched out again.

Just then the doors of the Mostro Lounge burst open, multiple masked men entering with rifles in their hands and others with ropes and other types of equipment in their arms. The octopus mer stands up in fright, rushing over to the scene.

These masked men started capturing those students who have non human features. Beastmen getting arrested, fae being restrained. Azul looked around frantically when he spotted something he dreaded to see.

"LET ME GO YOU BASTARD!!" Floyd growled, his arms being restrained behind his back as a metal muzzle was placed around his mouth. Next to him was Jade, also being restrained but instead of shouting he was growling and hissing.

"NO!! STOP! I DEMAND THAT YOU STOP THIS! LET THEM GO!!" Azul shouts as he runs up to the two of them. He didn't get very far until one of the men stopped him.

"I'm sorry son. We're taking away the non humans. You and your other human peers stay safe."

Azul jumped and ducked and did everything to try and get to his friends. He didn't get to see much due to the masked man's tall stature but he did see Sofia trying to set free Floyd, although brutally being pushed away. It was a heartbreaking sight to him.

Angry tears flowed down his cheeks as he tried doing everything to get to his childhood friends. Those same friends who stayed with him through everything. Those friends who he loves and trusts. Those friends who he sees as family. Not just colleagues. Not just acquaintances. Family.

The lounge became much quieter and much emptier as the students that have been captured got taken away. Azul stood there, stunned and tears flowing down his face. This has to be a nightmare. It's the only logical explanation! Please let this be a nightmare...

But it's not. It's the reality. The screams of distressed parents and students could be heard outside the lounge as the masked men and the people they have captured left Octavinelle.

"AZUL! PLEASE!! DO SOMETHING!!" Sofia ran up to Azul, shouting and screaming and crying, pulling at his sleeves like a child that just fell over and was asking for help from her parent. But Azul couldn't do anything. He was stunned. Silent. Scared.

But those feelings quickly turned to something else. Anger. Greif. The need for revenge. "Come on." He muttered under his breath as he began running out of the lounge.

Sofia followed after him, her tears still flowing as the two of them tried running after those mysterious people. They left Octavinelle and now were in the Hall of Mirrors, not hesitating and running outside onto the main street. There they spotted a familiar figure also running. That short blonde hair that fades into purple is unmistakable.

"Vil!?" Azul calls out in surprise, running up to the taller man.

"They took away Leona and practically the whole of Savanaclaw! I've sent the few that managed to hide to Pomefiore to make sure they're safe."

Such devastating news...who even went forward with this attack? To kidnap teenagers!? Is it for a sort of experiment? Or something worse?

That was when Azul, Vil and Sofia heard murmuring and pained groans coming from behind one of the trees in the main street. They all carefully approached, Vil and Azul taking out their pens in case it's an attacker.

They creeped closer and closer to where the noise was coming from until they reached it and-

"FLOYD!!" Sofia shouted, running up to the injured boy and urgently trying to locate his wounds.

"I'm cough cough not okay..." He hacked up some blood, trying his hardest to sit upright despite the pain. It seems like he had been stabbed, with various bruises and scratches and grazes covering the exposed parts of his skin.

Stupid, stupid eel! But the rest were caught. That's what we need. Pay should be good this week.

Chapter Text

Hi everyone! Just wanted to let you all know that chapter 8 of Sick and Twisted is coming just maybe a bit later. I'm quite busy with school and I haven't really had much motivation to write but I am working on it! I'll make sure to finish this fanfic, no matter how long it will take.

Also my new tiktok user is @thefloydleech in case ya'll wanna check it out!