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Chapter Text

It was a breeze Sunday night and Finn was going back to his Adler dorm. He had spent the weekend at home with his brother, since Rayne graduated last year and was almost all the time in the magic bureau; they barely see each other anymore, so when the older Ames noticed he had a free weekend, he didn’t think twice and propose his younger brother to hang out together for once. It had been a nice change of pace, but now it was time to go back to school with his friends and his boyfriend: Carpaccio Luo-Yang, who he was sure had missed him lots if the puppy face he gave when Finn told him he was not gonna be at Easton for a couple days was anything to go by. I hope Paccio likes the sweets I got for him, the young wizard said to himself, smiling at the thought of reuniting with everyone. But that bright smile he had suddenly banished when he felt someone moving nearby.

Easton was surrounded by a thick forest, so hearing animals was normal, but whatever it is Finn felt was no animal, the movement was more calculated and oddly fast. It’s almost as if it was teleporting to different points around me, he thought while reaching for his wand as he continued to walk toward the school territory. If possible, he would like to avoid fighting, but if that thing actually decided to strike he’s ready to use his magic. Inevitably he felt a bit proud for his bravery, all the events involving Innocent Zero last year had really changed him.

–Desamoris– a female voice was heard behind Finn.

What the….? But I didn’t hear anyone approaching!

Before he could do anything, Finn saw something coming out of his chest. It was a magenta orb that looked made out of light. The woman who presumably did the spell was now in front  and took the orb in her hands. The only thing visible was her black cloak, and just as she appeared now she was gone.

He fell to the ground, completely alone once again. There was no wound or blood, or even pain in his chest where that strange orb thing had come from. He didn’t feel or see anything different either. Still he stood up and ran as fast as possible to his dorm. If anything had actually happened to him, his friends were the only ones who could help him.

Once in the Adler territory, Finn gathered all his friends and explained what just happened with the weird woman. The orb thing that came out of his chest, how she disappeared so fast, the strange spell she had chanted… or at least the part that he remembered, it was a word he had never heard and couldn’t recall completely.

–It was like… amor? something moris? I didn’t hear it well sorry– he apologies at his futile attempts to remember the spell.

–It’s fine, you were probably more worried trying to stay safe– Lemon reassured him.

–I don’t see anything wrong with you though, maybe her spell didn’t work?– said Mash next to her.

–Mash is right. As far as I can see you’re completely fine, but I fear there may be something we’re missing– Lance added taking another look at the smaller one.

–Hey, have you tried asking Carpaccio? Isn’t your boyfriend a genius or something?

–Dot has a point for once– Lance added while the redhead looked extremely offended at the implication –Maybe he knows something we don’t.

–And I’m pretty sure he would be happy to finally see you. He’s been missing you all weekend– said the girls, ever so romantic.

–Carpaccio…?– right! it hadn’t crossed his mind to ask him, but his friends had a point, if someone knew anything about weird spells it was probably the resident genius and master cane user –You’re right! I’ll go ask him right away. Thank you guys!– and with that he went to the Orca dorm rooms.

–That's weird– everyone turned to where Mash spoke with an interrogating gaze –Carpaccio is usually the first person he thinks of, but it looks like he didn’t even consider it this time.

–It is kinda odd, yeah– Lemon said as she analysed the situation more.

–I mean it was an emergency, maybe he just needed his friends more in this situation. You know, bros before ho-

–Graviole– Lance casted before the other could finish his vulgar statement.

–YOU WANNA FIGHT PRETTY BOY?!– and any suspicions got lost as the two of them started their usual bickering while Mash and Lemon only watched them in resignation. In both their minds only one thing.

These two need to date already…

It had been a long weekend for Carpaccio without Finn by his side. He usually likes to have his own time to do research on whatever topic it is that he is currently obsessing over, but after getting used to having the weekends for him and his boyfriend it was not pleasant to feel his absence, he was a creature of habits and Finn was one that he really enjoys. So when he heard a knock on his door, the Orca student couldn't help but get excited at the prospect of who was on the other side. He quickly opened it expecting the warm embrace he had waited for all weekend, but unfortunately it never came.

–Paccio, I got attacked on my way here. Can you like… examine me…?– he could lament the lack of affection from the other later, this was more urgent.

–Come in and tell me exactly what happened– he moved to the side and let his boyfriend inside the room to give every detail he remembered from the atack.

What follow was Carpaccio doing all sorts of questions and analyzing every detail of the story as well as the place where Finn saw something coming out of his body, for once not enjoying having the other with his chest exposed, being too busy worrying at the idea of Finn getting hurted in some way. And then he noticed something.

–Your eyes, I think they look different– Carpaccio pointed out giving him a mirror.

–My eyes…?– he started checking himself in the mirror, failing to see what the other was referring to. –I don’t really see anything different in them. What is it that you see again?– he questioned, wanting to understand what Carpaccio was referring to.

–I feel like your gaze is different. As if you’re not looking at me as always– he had his finger under his chin, that look of scientific curiosity present on his face – Perhaps, have I done something to upset you?-- he asked, as blunt as always.

–What?! No, not at all. I promise.

–Understood– he said, getting closer to Finn, still trying to decipher what was different about his boyfriend’s gaze that had him so puzzled. The other looked a bit uneasy by the proximity and intensity in those deep burgundy eyes. Carpaccio exhaled, accepting his defeat, but knowing there was something there he just need to research further –At least you’re feeling fine, we just need to keep observing you in the next days– he said placing a gentle hand on Finn’s cheek where his magic mark was –I’ve missed you all these days you know?

–Yeah, Lemon told me something about that– he chuckled a little –Thank you for your help, I’ll let you know if I feel anything during the week.

–Good, I’ll investigate spells with the description you gave me.

–Thank you.

What followed were some seconds of uncomfortable silence while the taller boy was still caressing his mark. At least it was uncomfortable for Finn, it felt as if he had nothing more to do in that room and all he could think about was going back to his own and falling asleep. And when Carpaccio got closer to him for a kiss, he couldn’t help but turn his head making the other’s lips land on his other cheek instead of his mouth.

–Uhm… well, I’ll be on my way now. Thanks again Carpaccio.

–Yeah…sure, anytime– he stayed in his place confused at the rejection, watching as the other left his room. He’s probably just in shock and needs some space… the master cane user tried to rationalize his boyfriend’s peculiar actions. Whatever that spell has done to HIS Finn, he needed to investigate it.

The next week went… normal? Finn hadn’t felt anything different, not any drop in his health of any change he or his friends could point to. No one but Carpaccio had noticed ‘’that’’ in his eyes, Dot had made a joke about Carpaccio not sleeping for days again and probably just hallucinating whatever ‘’that’’ was and, not to be rude to his own partner, but he could see that actually happening. Carpaccio was someone with a lot of bad habits after all, even with his abilities there was no way those couldn’t affect him in some way. It had never annoyed Finn before, but now he was noticing a lot of little details about the other that were… odd, weird, not really the most attractive if he was honest.

That evening he had asked Lemon to meet him while Mash was out exercising, he needed his best friend’s opinion.

–I think I’m gonna break up with Carpaccio…– he finally said it out loud.

–Finn…– next to him, Lemon looked worried –Something happened between you two? Did he… hurt you again?

–NO! NOTHING LIKE THAT!– he jumped to assure her –It’s just… I don’t know, I don’t feel the same anymore. Guess I just… fell out of love with him? He hasn’t done anything bad, this is completely on me. And I don’t think it is fair for him, or me, to keep going like this… am I being selfish?– he asked looking at his friend, he couldn’t help feeling a certain guilt. After all they had been through together, everything since the divine visionary exam, Innocent Zero, summer vacations officially as boyfriends… but he couldn't lie to himself, he just didn’t feel the same anymore.

–I don’t think you’re veins selfish Finn– the girl next to him started to talk –sometimes these things just happened, you shouldn’t force yourself into a relationship if you don’t feel love anymore and I think Carpaccio wouldn’t want you to do that either.

–Yeah, I guess he wouldn’t– a couple tears started to form on his eyes –I’m just sad it couldn’t last a bit more– and when the tears finally escaped his eyes, he could feel how the smaller girl hugged him tight. 

Even when he was sure of his decision, it was still hard. How does one go from wanting to spend all the time with a person to now feeling uncomfortable every time they are alone? Carpaccio was just not in his mind as before, some days ago he had to through away the sweets he had brought for him, completely forgetting about then since the weekend, realising the other was just not on his priorities as before, that had led him to a night of introspection and to the final decision for what he was crying on Lemon’s shoulder now.

It took him some time to calm down and continue talking. Finn had told Lemon how he was planning to tell Carpaccio the next day. ‘’As soon as possible is for the better I think’’ he had explained to her, and she had promised to be there waiting outside the Orca’s room to make him company as soon as that difficult talk came to an end, which he had thanked her for profoundly. Shortly after, Mash had come back from his training and they said their goodbyes.

Needless to say, that night Finn didn’t sleep.

Carpaccio’s week had been busy trying to investigate what exactly had happened to Finn, it clearly was nothing that affected him on a physical level so now he was reading every book about any other kind of spell that could affect one in other ways. Any kind of hypnosis didn’t seem to be what was happening, nor a brainwashed or some memory alteration… So what was it?

A sudden knock on his door put him out of his multiple hypothesis. He stood up ready to tell Macaron to let him alene and that he didn’t care if it was against the library policy to borrow so many books at the same time… but when he opened he saw Finn.

–Hi Carpaccio, can I come in? uhm… we need to talk.

–Sure, I’m always available if it’s for you– he said somewhat flirtatiously to him, not earning any response from the other tho. Carpaccio just closed the door once Finn was inside –You can sit on my bed.

–I’m fine, it’s gonna be quick…– Finn was now looking at the ground clearly worried about whatever it was he was gonna say.

–Finn, is everything okay?

–Just… listen to me please– he finally raised his face and was now looking him directly in the eyes. Carpaccio couldn't help but notice the difference in his eyes again, still not sure what it was, but now scared of what was coming –Carpaccio I… I wanna thank you for all these months we've been together, it has been really great. All our dates, sneaking out at night, everything you have done for me… but I… I’m sorry– someone as Carpaccio who was incapable of feeling pain is not used to fear, but with every word he felt how his hands began to shake. What was Finn exactly trying to say?

–I don’t follow… Why are you exactly sorry for?

–Just listen to me please– and he nodded, indicating that he was listening with all his attention –Carpaccio I… I can’t keep going with this, I’m breaking up with you.

Oh… so that’s what he was trying to say…

–Finn…– for the first time in his life, Carpaccio’s voice was starting to break, the words heavy in his throat, not wanting to get out –Have I done something wrong? Did I hurt you again without noticing?– in his head, he was examining every small detail in their relationship, anything that could indicate where he went wrong and how he could mend it. He was angry at himself for not noticing his mistake, and got angrier the more he recollected all his memories and failed to notice where the mistake was. It hurted, the idea that he had harmed the person he loved yet again hurted a lot.

–It’s not you, you haven’t done anything. I just… I don't feel the same way anymore. I’m sorry– but that… those words hurt 100 times more. Because a mistake he can try to correct, but this… he could never force Finn.

–I see– he said as calmly as his distressed mind allowed him, thanking he could partially cover his eyes with his hair so Finn couldn’l notice the tears that were starting to form on them –If that’s how you feel then there’s nothing else to do– if his heart didn’t feel so heavy right now, Carpaccio would probably brag of his ability to maintain the composure at this moment.

–I’m sorry this didn’t work…

–Don’t be, you were everything I could have asked for and I thank you for the time you gave me– he meant every word, he knows he’s gonna cherish every memory Finn had gave him and that he will be incapable of hold any grudge against him for not corresponding to his feelings anymore.

–Thank you too Carpaccio– he didn’t know it could hurt to hear one's own name, he was discovering a lot of things –I won’t steal more of your time. I’m going now.

–Yeah, that’s fine. Goodbye Finn.

–Goodbye– and just like that there was only one person in the room again.

Carpaccio fell on his bed looking at the ceiling, he had seen other people cry before, he had seen Finn cry before… he had made Finn cry before, it was certainly poetic that it was Finn the reason why he was feeling his face burn with every tear that slid from his pupils. He didn’t sob like he had seen others do, he was completely silent and barely breathing as if in way too much shock to even dare to make a sound, but the salty fluid didn’t stop coming out of his eyes. And the pain… the pain was at full force. From the pressure on his chest to the knot in his throat.

That day the great genius, the magic prodigy, Carpaccio Luo-Yang learned two things.

1. The Goddess Statue doesn’t cure emotional pain
2. How bad the pain of a broken heart can be.

He had lost the sense of how much time he had stay like that, just staring at the ceiling while his face got wetter and wetter with tears, but now the room was dark and he didn’t feel like standing up to light it up, maybe he wanted the darkness of the night to swallow him whole and stay there, maybe that could numb him enough to not feel so miserable anymore. But what he wanted apparently didn’t matter, because even in his state he could hear steps in front of him as if someone had just landed in the middle of his room.

–Finn?– he straightened up in less than one second and saw into the dark in front of him, deep down he knew it was impossible for it to be Finn, but the words left his mouth on its own.

–Unfortunately no, but trust me you’re gonna be thanking me in a minute– what he heard was a feminine voice he didn’t recognize. Even with a broken heart he could identify when someone was up to no good. The red head quickly took his knife, ready to stab himself at the minimum movement from the other person, but without warning he heard her speak once again.

–Desamoris– and then his room was illuminated by a magenta light that was coming from his chest. When he looked down at the source, an orb-like object was coming out of him and once fully outside flew directly at the hand of the woman who had chanted the spell.

–It was you who attacked Finn a week ago– he said, fully confident in the statement.

–Clever boy. They don’t call you a genius for nothing– her face was barely visible thanks to the magenta light emanating from the orb in her hand, most of it still covered by the hood of her black cloak tho, but he didn’t need to see her to stab.

The knife went deep in his shoulder and her whine of pain was audible. He casted a spell to fully illuminate the room and see her more clearly, but when the lights were on he found himself alone once again, just a puddle of her blood on the floor. He was disappointed to not be able to cough her for further interrogation, but at least he remembered the exact spell she had used.

Desamoris uh…

Without losing more time, he turned to the pile of books he still had in his room and started looking for that specific spell. But in the middle of a paragraph he notice something:

The pain was gone.

It was the day after Finn had broken up with Carpaccio, classes were over and Mash, Lance, Dot, Finn and Lemon had decided to postpone their usual study session in favor of hanging out and relaxing a bit in the Adler common area. Everyone already knew about the dissolution of Finn and Carpaccio’s status as ex-couple and had offered their unconditional support imagining the boy would be devastated after going through his first relationship ending, but he was not. If anything, Finn looked unusually calm, as if what he had felt for the other had never been there in the first place. On one hand, the group was happy to see their friend doing so well, on the other, they were worried something was happening and Finn didn’t want to share or worse.

–Guys, I swear I’m fine– he assured his friends again.

–If you need to talk we won’t judge or anything, man. Even if you cry! 

–You can have one of my cream puffs if you feel sad.

–We’re here for you Finni!

–Looking at the picture of my sister always makes me feel better. I can let you look at it if you want.

–I appreciate the good intentions, but really I’m…

–Finn Ames, we need to talk– all the group turned to find Carpaccio standing in front of them holding a book –Come with me– without any ounce of care, Carpaccio took Finn by the arm and started dragging him out of the Adler common area.

–Wait! Carpaccio, wait! What are you even-?

–Just shut up and walk– Finn recognized a coldness in his voice he hadn’t heard since… the visionary exam. What’s got into him? Is he mad at me? gathering all his strength, the smaller one was able to free his arm from the other’s rough grab.

–I’m not going until you tell me what’s happening. Are you mad at me or something?

–Don’t be stupid and just…

–He said he’s not going– behind Carpaccio were now the rest of the group, all his attention going directly to Mash Burndead who had that awful tennis racket in his hands that brought back his traumatic first experience with physical pain. He exhaled in defeeted, cursing Finn for having such friends.

–Fine, we can go somewhere more private and I can explain to everyone.

The six of them ended up in the Adler room 302 where Carpaccio finally opened the book he was carrying. Said book was a compendium about magic use specifically to manipulate feelings and emotions and on the one page he had opened a word could be readed as the title: Desamoris.

–This is the spell that was used on you–  he said bluntly –In terms you all can understand, what it does is basically extract one’s ability to feel romantic love and any related emotions to it, such as nervousness near the person of your interest, the fear of rejection or the pain of a heart break.

–Does a spell like that even exist? How are you so sure it is what's happening to Finn?– Dot asked, reading the page that was opened in front of them.

–I know it’s what happened because the same witch used it on me yesterday.

–EH?!– everyone exclaimed at the same time.

–All of you are so loud– he said annoyed at the Adler students –It was just as Finn described, she said the word and a magenta orb came out of my chest. Next thing I know, the pain from the broken heart Finn gave me was gone as well as any kind of love I used to feel for him– the dissonance between the coldness of his tone and the words about heartache and love was almost laughable and a bit disturbing –Finn is always so worried for others’ feelings he probably was too distracted to notice what happened. But that would explain the sudden change in his feelings for me and the odd look on his eyes only I notice. You were looking at me differently because you no longer had the ability to feel romantic love.

–And how can we be so sure that’s what happened and you’re not just trying to manipulate Finn into coming back with you?– Lance asked, his icy gaze directed at the student from the other dorm. Carpaccio got ready to defend his hypothesis as any good scientist would do, but someone else beat him to it.

–I believe him– Finn spoke, surprising everyone –I mean… it would make sense actually. I assumed I just fell out of love with Carpaccio, but if I see it in retrospective it was just so sudden and it would explain why I’m not feeling anything even after we broke up– they all look at each other, every time more convinced that what Carpaccio was saying was right and the odd behavior of their friend had an explanation more complicated than just a high school romance that died out naturally –Plus, when I look at Carpaccio now… I think I get what you said about my eyes now– those burgundy irises that just the day before looked almost bright and then felt out with tears the Orca student tried to hide were now so… empty, almost foggy as if there was nothing there.

–Great! So now all we have to do is find that witch!– Dot said and stretched getting ready to go behind that person.

–Do we even have a clue of where that woman could be?– Lance asked, trying to analyze what options they had.

–I was able to harm her when she entered my room and taking in consideration that she attacked Finn in the periphery of the school, I think it’s believable that she’s still somewhere in the woods waiting for the wound to get better before she leaves– Carpaccio added closing the book and standing up from where he was reading –Good luck to you all finding her.

–You’re not coming?– it was Mash who asked just as he was reaching for the doorknob –Didn’t she steal something from you too?

For a few moments the room was in complete silence, Carpaccio could feel 5 pairs of eyes on him but refuse to meet any of them. When he discovered the true nature of what was happening last night, he had wanted to regain what was stolen from him and Finn, for everything to come back to normal and continue with their oh so idyllic high school romance, but then he remembered the pain, the pain something as minimum as the other leaving had inflected. A kind of suffering his magic couldn’t do anything about. That’s the power he had gave Finn when he let him into his heart, because as strong and talented as he was, he had releases there was nothing he could do if the person he loved decided one day to hurt him.

–Carpaccio…– and that person was now getting closer to him.

–I’m not going– he finally turned to give the coldest gaze he could manage –I came to give you this information in honour of what we had, but I’m not interested in regaining anything. If you want to feel those useless emotions again go and reclaim them, but don’t expect me to want the same.

–That’s not fair!– the girl of the group standed up from where she was and looked at Carpaccio with anger –If Finn regains his love for you, but you don’t, you’re gonna leave him heartbroken! Don’t you care for him at least a little?

–Lemon, don’t…– Finn tried to speak.

–Fair?– Carpaccio repeated from the door –It’s not like I’m forcing him to do anything, I’m giving him the choice to decide what he wants to do. Not like him breaking my heart yesterday– and to that no one said a word.

–If I had known before what was happening I would have never…

–It doesn’t matter now– Carpaccio interrupts Finn once more, all his attention on his now ex boyfriend. Two pairs of loveless eyes looking at eachother but the burgundy seemed a lot more angry –I’ve made my decision. Finn Ames, since the moment I met you, you have shown me nothing but pain, first physical and then emotional. Excuse me for not wanting to gain that back, but I think it’s natural if I rather avoid it. If you'd prefer to succumb to the pain of getting back your love for me it’s not my problem. Do whatever you want. Goodbye– and then he left and the room was silent again.

None of them could believe such words, they all fully believed Carpaccio had changed since he got closer to Finn, that the cold and cruel boy who stabbed others with no remorse had learned some empathy and was an overall better person, but all of those things had vanished after his speech. Mash was the first to move, walking towards Finn and landing a reassuring hand on his shoulder to show support, to everyone’s surprise, when he turned he looked as calm as ever, as if the guy he used to date had not just said he didn’t care for him.

–I think this was enough proof that he was right, I can’t feel anything– he explained himself with a sad smile –Even if Carpaccio doesn’t want to come back with me when I regain my feelings for him, I don’t wanna stay like this. Let’s go find that witch– he gave his friends a decisive glare, they all nodded in acknowledgement and got out of the room agreeing to meet outside the school after gathering their brooms.

On her way to the main gate tho, Lemon decided to take a quick departure to the Orca lab where she usually hangs out with Carpaccio. They have found a special kind of friendship when he and Finn started dating, finding a lot more in common than initially imagined, as if a similar aura binds them. And even after the awful thing he had said earlier, she wanted to try and talk some sense into him, because wanting to avoid pain was natural, yes, but at the cost of a loved one potentially getting hurt… there was something he hadn’t admitted earlier and she was gonna make him do it.

–You’re not gonna convince me to join you on your little quest, my decision is final– he said as soon as her presence was felt behind him from where he was taking some notes on his latest experiment.

–Maybe what I said earlier was wrong, it’s not unfair of you to not want to feel pain– did she come all the way here just to tell him he was right? now she has his interes –what you’re really being is a coward.

–Excuse you?

–You heard me. You felt pain and you ran from it like a little kid– what happened to the girl who was as scared of him as Finn during their first encounter? Is this what friendship brings to him?

–I don’t have anything against you, so you better stop talking before I want to hurt you, Irvine.

–I won’t, and I know you won’t harm me.

–And why is that?– he took out his knife showing her the shiny blade.

–Because we’re friends– a simple answer, but that was enough to make him drop the weapon, because she was right. Carpaccio didn’t want to have the blood of the girl in his hands –And sometimes friends have to tell each other when they are being an idiot. You’re being a big big idiot right now.

–Is it really that bad to not want to feel pain if I can avoid it? Don't people put their hands out of the fire to avoid the burn? The heartache I felt yesterday was worse than any fire and I couldn’t do anything about it. My magic can only protect me from physical damage so it’s up to me to protect myself from any other kind of pain. And if what the witch did can get rid of those hindering feelings then…

–Have you stopped to think about why it hurts so bad?– she interrupted him, ignoring everything he just stated.

–What are you getting at?

–The more you love someone the more it hurts when they’re gone. If what you felt yesterday is as bad as you’re saying then you must have really loved Finn. That means you must have been really happy during the good moments, haven't you?– the other remain silent. She was not wrong in her assumptions, but the ache… –Maybe you’re right and loving someone is like putting your hand directly on a flame, the more intense the flame and the further you get it, the worse the burn gets. But fire can algo warm you up and brighten up the darkest nights. Isn’t that how you felt with Finn?

–Lemon, I… I don’t want to be hurt again…

–No one wants that! but if you give up on that, you’re also giving up on equal happiness. Loving someone is like having a permanent tear in your heart, if they want they could easily carve it further in, but it also means that person will always make you feel more alive than any other– in her eyes there was sadness, Carpaccio was aware last year Mash had rejected her one last time when he confessed he was already interested in someone else, if anyone knew about the pains of a broken heart it was probably her and even so she was standing there giving all her reasons for him to go and regain what would maybe be the reason he hurts in the future, trying to convince him despite the cons there was good –I know you’re scared, it was the first time you felt how the person you love hurt you, but… if your fear makes you give up all the good things love can bring… then I’ll say it again, you’re a coward Carpaccio Luo-Yang– and maybe he was, and maybe he even knew it from the start.

–Is Finn going behind the witch?– was all he could ask.

–Yes, everyone is probably already waiting for me so we can leave and look for her. He wants to regain what was stolen even if you don’t.

–I see…– he was not able to look her in the eyes, focusing on the numerous rings he usually wore and noticing how the one that used to be in his pinky finger was missing. Right, I gave it to Finn after a month of dating… he reminded himself, yet the memory didn’t bring any feelings.

–That was everything I came to say. I’m leaving now.– she finally said, turning towards the door.

–Good luck finding the witch.

–Thank you, Paccio.– he couldn't help the shy smile at the sound of that nickname. A couple months ago she had started to call him that after hearing Finn used it so often. Finn… he recalled how much it broke him when Finn called him by his full name the day before when he finished the relationship, but then also the warm feeling he used to have when the other used the cure short version of it, warm he can no longer feel as well as his broken heart.

And in the middle of the empty lab he started to analyse every word his friend had just said.

–I’m here! Sorry it took me so long– Lemon excused herself as she caught up with the rest on the entrance of the school –Let’s go find that witch!

–YEAH!– they all chant in unison.

Chapter Text

‘’Do you wanna come to my room tonight?’’ the master cane user asked Finn some days after he had come back from his brother’s. He was waiting for him in the common area expecting to eat lunch together like usual.

‘’Oh sorry, I’m feeling a bit tired actually. Maybe another night Carpaccio’’ Finn politely declined the offer, not wanting to admit that he had felt odd in the other’s presence, as if his boyfriend was a stranger who he had nothing to talk about or any kind of connection with and was trying to avoid being alone with him.

It was like that all week.

Finn should have known something was up, he should have been able to identify his own feelings for God’s sake. Or the lack of them… he kept repeating in his mind, constantly blaming himself for all of this.

–Finn, are you okay?– Mash asked next to him, he was riding Dot’s broom next to where the yellow eyes mage was flying.

–Y-yeah, everything is fine– he answered.

–We know you may be still in shock after what Carpaccio discovered, but we all need to concentrate if we want to find that witch before she is able to run away– Lance reminded him flying on his other flank. He’s right.

–I understand, don’t worry, I’ll focus on the mission.

While the magic users were searching from the sky, Mash was left on the ground sounding the area of the forest that surrounded Easton. Sooner than later, he had found a suspicious looking cave, there were traces of someone being there before: some footprints and a stain of dry blood where the person they were looking for probably laid against. He proceeded to alert the rest of his friend group.

–I can definitely feel a magic user inside– Lance said when they were all at the entrance –It does not feel too strong though.

–Good! Then it will be no problem to defeat– Dot said entering the place with his wand in hand.

–Wait! Even if she’s not that strong, she has a way to escape easily. If she notices any us coming for her she’ll probably just disappear like the night she attacked me.

–Carpaccio also said she just appeared and disappeared in his room REALLY FAST– Lemon added.

–Our best option is a surprise attack then. We need to be as stealthy as possible and ambush her. So I think Finn and Lemon would be our best assets in this mission– Lance explained.

–US?!– they both looked as surprised as scared at the idea.

–Hate to admit it, but the pretty boy has a point. Out of all of us, your magic is the least flashy, not to mention Mash can only use punches– Dot continued.

–Indeed, plus an explosion, my gravity or anything from Mash could be counterproductive in an enclosed space like this. If she tries to escape, Finn can change places with her and Lemon can chain her without being noticed. So you go first– the blue hair wizard said while the other two gave a thumbs up encouraging them. It didn’t help the pair from wanting to cry.

–Well…

–If there’s no other option…– they stand in front of the entrance, the darkness from the interior looking directly in their direction. It was like a black void that’s gonna swallow them to never come back, and their target was inside.

Slowly turning their heads back, they were met with the reassuring sign of their friends, if anything were to happen, both knew they had three strong magicians covering their back, fully trusting in them to help in case it was needed. At this point, the group has survived way bigger threads and this was in favor of recovering something very important. Finn and Lemon looked at each other and nodded in agreement. Taking each other's hand they look at the dark once more, ready to enter.

It doesn’t make it any less scary tho… their minds coinciding on that while they took their first steps inside.

Finn had cast a small light spell to guide the way, it was just a small light bright enough to see where they were walking, but not enough to raise any suspicions from their target. The group walked for some minutes until they were able to see something. Some meters from where they were, a camp set up was visible, illuminated by a light orb on the rock ceiling. Under it there was a tall blond woman with a noticeable magenta lipstick and a long black cloak that had the hood down letting her face be seen for the first time, she was analyzing a shiny magenta sphere on her hands. Finn turned to the ground giving an affirmative look to let them know that was her.

They found cover in the form of some rocks near the walls of the cave. If she hadn’t noticed the five students this close, that means her magic power was not as refined as to be able to sense other magic users, indeed she was relatively weak. They just need to get closer and catch her; or according to the plan, get her closer to them by making Finn interchange their places and have Lemon restrain her. He took his wand out and looked in her direction ready to strike.

–Changeas– and like that he was now standing in the middle of the camp equipment, but when he turned to check on his friends she wasn’t in the place he previously occupied –What? where is…?

–Right here– he heard the familiar voice coming from above and when he looked up, the witch landed with a kick on top of him.

–Finn!– Lance and Dot scream worried.

–Levios Cuffus!– from the floor emerged a pair of chains that went directly to the woman, they should have got her but yet again she disappeared and Lemon’s magic got Finn instead.

–What the hell? How does she do that?– Dot asked, looking at his surroundings Lemon running toward Finn to free him.

–I know how she does it, I saw it– said the now free magician –It’s that black cloak she has, looks like it serves as a kind of portal that allows her to vanish in less than a second.

–Good job! not even your genius boyfriend was able to notice– she was sitting on top of the rock they have previously used as a hiding spot –Or I think ex-boyfriend would be more accurate, the poor guy was so destroyed when I found him he even called your name when he noticed my presence, so desperate and wishful thinking. Such a good harvest!

–Harvest? What do you want with me and Carpaccio?– Finn said, starting to get mad, even if he was not able to feel the love he used to, it was infuriating to hear someone talk about such important feelings like that.

–Well you see, my magic is completely useless for combat, so I found another way to get the best of it! Did you know human love is a great ingredient for powerful potions? However it’s also also very hard to get by and, well, illegal. But a girl has to make ends meet somehow don’t you think?

–So you steal people’s love and… sell them in the black market or something?-- Mash asked.

–Exactly! It can be a high risk but it is also a high reward job so…

–Why don’t you just get a normal job? you could just work in a bakery– the mushroom head boy suggested.

–Or work at a daycare.

–Or cleaning.

–Or at a farmers market.

–Or a pet shop– each gave their suggestions for different jobs, the woman looking more exasperated with every word that came out of the teenagers mouth.

–You are just a bunch of brats that know nothing about adult life. This was my only option!

–No it wasn’t– Mash deadpanned.

–JUST SHUT UP YOU…!

–Why did you target Carpaccio and I?-- Finn interrupted her angry whining.

–Finally! Someone asks something smart! Well you see, at the start I only wanted the love from that Carpaccio kid, the genius prodigy master cane user fell in love? That must be really something, but then I thought… if his heart is broken the value of it increases. And so I stole this from you first– she showed a small sphere the size of a ping pong ball, it had the already familiar magenta light coming from it –And a week later, I was able to collected this one– on her other hand was another sphere the exact same but with one noticeable difference: the interior looks fragmented as if the solid cristal was breaking from the inside out, if that was even possible –A heart that just experienced it’s first love, a love so strong it would have probably last all his life, and now a heartbreak. It’s gonna sell for hundreds if not a couple thousands! I must thank you, Finn Ames, you did help me a lot– Finn wanted to cry out of pure rage, the way this witch talks about feelings as nothing but goods to be sold, it disgusted him.

–Give them back– he said.

–Excuse me?

–I said give them back, you witch! You can’t use other’s feelings like that! So give them back you fucking monster!– Finn shout at her.

–Oh geesh, I was planning on giving yours back as a thank you, but if you're gonna be like that I will change my mind. Your love is gonna sell well too anyway, meeting the person you're supposed to love for the rest of your life after they tried to kill you it’s quite the rarity, strong love with a lot of strong emotions. Too bad you’re not gonna feel it anymore– she raised her cape ready to disappear once again, but this time Finn was faster.

–Changeas!– the witch appeared in the middle of the group where Mash quickly grabbed her.

–You won't be able to get away from me.

–Then you’re coming with me mushroom head– with a swift move, the cloak enveloped both Mash and the woman, making them both bannish. 

–Where did they…?

–Outside the cave, she’ll probably try to escape– Lance indicated and they all run.

The moment they were finally out, Mash was falling from the sky and landed in front of them leaving a crater where he had crashed. While Lemon and Finn assisted him, Finn with his healing magic and Lemon with a cream puff she had brought just in case, Lance looked at the sky finding the witch flying on a broom.

–Graviole– he chanted, concentrating his magic on the place where she was. They all saw how the augmented gravity started to make her fall fast to the ground, but again that damn cape allowed her to teleport out of the range of Lance’s spell.

–I see her! Explomb!– the explosion managed to make her lose her balance for an instant, but then again she teleported to another point in the sky –Dammit! Explo…

–Wait! The cape has a range– Lance informed before Dot attacks again –Just attacking her won’t be useful, for what I can see she can only teleport some meters from where she currently is. Let’s cover her whole range– they both looked at each other knowing exactly what to do.

–Machine Gun Explomb!

–Graviole Torture Pole!

The witch saw how 4 pillars surrounded her, starting to feel the gravity she tried to grab her cape to escape, but then a bunch of exploiting cover all her perimeter. Damn kids, they cover all my range! she thought, getting ready to impact the ground. They all watch her fall not so far in a place in the forest, Mash was already healed thanks to Finn, and a cream puff, so the five of them run to where the thief had landed.

They found her bleeding yet still standing against a tree, her surrounding proof of the rough landing. Mash got closer first, ready to knock her unconscious and take back what was his friend’s.

–Stay away!– she ordered holding both spheres in front of her –Any of you come any closer and I’ll teleport them to the sky to fall and break! These things are very delicate, you know? it’s a miracle they’re still intact after the little scene you just pulled off– she looked at Lance and Dot. Mash pulled his fists down to prove he was not going to hurt her–Good. Now, I want the freckled one to heal me like he did with you and maybe I won't…– but her demands got interrupted by a sudden pain in the stomach and a cough of blood.

Then she fell to her knees graving the wound in her abdomen, her shoulder started to bleed too and she could no longer hold the two spheres that fell to the floor.

–Lemon, now!– Finn called his friends to act.

–Levios Cuffus!– two chains came out of the floor holding both her hands to the ground.

–Take her cloak off!!

–On it– in a fast move, Mash had already got rid of the problematic clothing article. And finally, Finn grabbed what they came here for from the ground. It felt weird, having such strong emotions on the palm of his hand felt overwhelming, he wanted both to laugh and cry, it was as if both love and pain were emanating from the small shiny objects he was holding. He even got a little dizzy and almost fell to the ground if not for Lemon helping him regain his balance.

–Finn! Are you okay?

–Yeah, I just…

–So you decided to come in the end– Finn raised his head at the sound of Mash speaking once again and directed his eyes to where the other boy was looking, lo and behold there was Carpaccio standing with his knife in hand.

–I figured you were gonna need help– he said with a calculated voice –And I also came to get back what’s mine– putting the knife away, he walked towards where Finn was holding the magenta orbs –Could you please give it to me?

This was what Finn wanted if he was honest. If they both regained their feeling for each other everything could come back to normal! They're gonna be a happy couple again and none of this incident would matter anymore. Then again… Finn was holding not only Carpaccio’s love but also his heartache. Just holding it gave him a small taste of what the other had felt the day prior when he finished the relationship, his good nature couldn't help but feel so much remorse over what he had caused. Even if it was because of a spell… It must have been really hard for him…

–Finn?– he heard Carpaccio’s voice once more –I want that back please.

–I… I can feel it, your heartache– the other opened his eyes wide in surprise.

–You can?

–Not fully, but just having this in my hands is showing me part of what you felt and even just that is making me want to cry. I’m sorry I hurt you Carpaccio– a couple of tears escaped from his yellow eyes.

–Don’t be, you were under a spell. It was not your fault…

–Still! so…– he took a deep breath, getting ready for what he was about to say –So let’s exchange them. You can take my love and I’ll take your broken heart instead!– around him everyone gasped in surprise. That was certainly unexpected.

–Yo witch, is that even possible?– Dot got closer to where she was chained and asked.

–My name is Taylor, thank you very much. And… I can’t really tell, no one has ever tried something like that but in theory, it is possible I guess?– she answered.

–You heard her, so please let me take the pain I cause you with me. I don’t wanna make you feel it again Paccio– oh that name he used to love so much. Even if the brightness in Finn’s eyes signaling his love again was still absent, Carpaccio saw in his actions the same bravery he remembered from the divine visionary entrance exam. He saw the same scared guy who endured way more pain than he could ever do in favor of helping a friend, only this time he was willing to do it for him, not just because he loved him, but because Finn was like that and would take any pain if it meant taking it away from others.

–Even if I can’t feel it right now, I can see why I fell for you, Finn Ames– he said giving the shorter one a smile –So thank you, but I can’t take your offer– the burgandy hair boy took the broken orb from his hands.

–But…

–I won’t let you surpass me again. I accept all the pain if it means feeling my love for you again.– he eyed to the side where the rest was standing next to the culprit for all of this, Lemon gave him a smile full of pride.

–Okay… if that’s really what you want.

–It is– Carpaccio affirmed one more time.

Almost as an instinct, they both put the orbs to their chest where it slowly merged into their bodies and back into their hearts where it belonged. Finn could feel a warm sensation running through all his body, a happiness he didn’t know he had lost overwhelming him, making him laugh like the dumb teenager in love that he was. His mind told him just how much he wanted to be as close as possible to Carpaccio, but when he finally saw the person in front, the guilt came back. Carpaccio was crying, the pain in his eyes indescribable. He was currently feeling everything from the day before as if it had just happened again, the sign of Finn laughing only making it worse since all his brain was telling him was that he had just lost that smile and they are no longer together and…

–Paccio, please don’t cry!– Finn jumped into him, hugging him tightly as he started to cry too –It’s over! the spell is no longer there, we can go back to how we were. Please don’t cry!– he looked up at the other.

–Finn, you’re not leaving me right?

–NO! No no no. I’m never leaving you– he said burying his face on the taller one’s chest. And after the so needed affirmation, Carpaccio returned the hug with equal, if not more, force than his now again boyfriend.

The tears of guilt and sadness were being replaced for ones of joy at the reconciliation, neither of them cared that there was a group looking, way too busy not wanting to let go of the other under any circumstances. Each was remembering every happy memory they had with the other.

It is very curious how after a week without your emotions, when they come back they feel even more intense. It was like rain after a drought, certainly overwhelming but not unpleasant. And thankfully their friends had the consideration to stay quiet while the couple had their little romantic scene at least for a little while.

–I’m so happy it all turned out good in the end– Lemon discreetly said to the others, not wanting to be loud and ruin the moment for the pair of lovebirds.

–They both look happy, that’s good– Mash added.

–Yeah, sure. Good for them– the witch, Taylor, complained from the ground where she was still chain nos only on her wrists but now also on her unckles, just like Mash when he first met Lemon on the Easton entrance exam. Good memories –What are you even gonna do to me?

–Hand you over to the police. Duh– the wizard with the explosion magic said, showing her the middle finger.

–You kids are so cruel! You would have been such a good harvest too! This is not fair at all!– now she was fully trouthing a tantrum from her place. So childish , it’s what all of them thought seeing the grown up woman lamenting her current situation.

–Wait, what do you mean us?– she recognized the guy as the one with gravitation magic.

–You’re all quite the interesting group. I mean we have unrequited love– she said looking at Lemon.

–Hey! That's personal.

–Love in denial– now she was looking at Dot, who started to get as red as his hair.

–No! I-i… I don’t…!– he stumbled in his words trying to hide his eyes behind his bandana.

–There’s also you– she now looked at Lance, who was starting to regret asking her in the first place –Still surprised to discover you would even fall in love, and with THAT person uh?

–Graviole– and she was now kissing the ground. It was not usual for him to act in such an impulsive manner, but it was also not usual for him to be blushing and not look as collected as always.

–That’s not the proper way to treat a lady! What’s wrong with you? 

–I think we have heard enough from you– he said, putting away his wand.

–Ugh, you guys are also boring. I haven’t even mentioned the mushroom head and his secret love…– before she could spit any other word, Mash gave her a fast punch to the head rendering her unconscious.

–I think we heard enough from that weird woman too.

–Mash– he jumped a bit at the sound of his name, slowly directing his face towards his friends. Mash was met with three pairs of inquisitor eyes that made him feel like the first time he received help with studying but worse.

–What did she mean you have a secret love?

–Are you keeping a secret from your friends, Mash?

–I-i-i…– and while that was happening, the happy couple was still holding each other in blissful ignorance to the rest of the world.

Carpaccio had started to caress the other's soft black and blond hair while he was playing with the gold necklaces his boyfriend always has on. Even if Finn hadn’t noticed the absence of his feelings during the week, now it was as if he had been absent and wanted to compensate for the time lost with the other young man. In his mind, he was already planning to stay the whole night in the Orca student’s room and was very sure his boyfriends wouldn’t oppose the idea at all.

–I’ve missed this all week you know?– the taller said, making Finn look up from his place snuggled in Carpaccio’s chest.

–I know… I’m still sorry, but I promised to make it up to you– he promised with a dust of pink starting to form on his cheeks, the other immediately figuring out what was going on through his not as innocent as he looks boyfriend.

–Really?– he took Finn’s chin, getting their faces closer together –Then I assumed you’ll come to my room tonight?

–Yeah– and the space between them disappeared in a kiss. It started soft but got deeper, Finn surrounding Carpaccio’s neck with his arms and the taller one grabbing him by the waist getting them even closer.

It was a nice kiss that they wanted to last forever. Unfortunately what Finn heard was kinda impossible to ignore.

–I’ve been dating Rayne for almost a month now, I’m sorry I didn’t tell you guys.

–YOU WHAT WITH MY BROTHER?!– to Carpaccio’s displease, Finn broke the kiss and looked in the direction of the non magic user as well as all his friends –I spent all past weekend with him and he didn’t say a word either. You two are the worst!

–I-I’m sorry– Mash kept apologizing for some time until all of them made the decision to go back to the school before it got any darker. 

They fly on their brooms with Lance carrying the criminal, Dot carrying Mash and Carpaccio insisting that Finn goes with him, which he didn’t complain about, because between staying closer to his partner and flying, an activity he didn't particularly enjoy, the answer was obvious. They hold hands all the way.

Once on the school territory, they gave the witch to the respective authorities and went back to their rooms. Finn warnned Mash that tomorrow he wanted to hear EVERYTHING about that secret relationship he’s been having with Rayne as well as promised to call his brother and interrogate him in the same way, but for that night he was sneaking out to Carpaccio’s dorm to fulfill a promise.

The lights were out and Finn was sitting on Carpaccio’s lap, both of them on the bed without their school cloaks. They started kissing some minutes ago, letting the other know how much love they felt with each kiss. It was passionate and deep, only separating when it was completely necessary to breathe. The one with the yellow eyes was the first to start unbuttoning the other’s shirt, leaving his boyfriend's chest exposed.

–A little eager aren’t we?– the taller one teased, but also started to kiss the Finn’s neck and loosen his tie.

–Paccio…– he let out a sign feeling those lips kissing behind his ear and down to the mark on Finn’s neck that was left the first time they met. He knew that deep down, even if he had forgotten Carpaccio a long time ago, the master cane user would never forgive himself completely and so when they were intimate like this, he will always kiss that spot with the most care as to silently apologise once more and let it be know that he will no longer hurt him or let others do it. Finn intertwined his fingers in Carpaccio’s wine colored strands as he continued kissing and got rid of his tie and shirt.

–Finn, I’ve missed you all week. You avoided me every time I wanted to spend time with you– he said matter-of-factly.

–Y-yeah I know, I’m sorry– he knew Carpaccio was not trying to rub it in his face or anything, he was always blunt like that, but he still felt a bit guilty for the affair.

–Don’t be, I know it was not your fault– he gave a sweet kiss to his cheek and then stared into his yellow eyes without saying anything, but there was something else in his mind he was not letting out.

–Paccio, is there something else you want to say?– and of course Finn was able to figured it out, that proficiency he has for reading others is one of the things Carpaccio likes the most about Finn, that empathy being one of the things he most admires from the other, but in this specific moment he wished his boyfriend wasn’t so kin on it.

–Yes there is… you see, considering how young we are, asking for this may be too much but…– it was one of the rare occasions were Finn saw him stumble on his own words, such a rare sign to see the great and always so calculated Carpaccio Luo-Yang… nervous.

–But…?– he encouraged him, having a feeling that what was coming must be something important.

–But don’t ever leave my side… please– those dark reddish eyes looked so different from how they appeared some hours ago. In front of Finn, the person he loves was begging him with everything he had to never leave his side. An unnecessary prayer taking in consideration that the other magician didn’t want to ever do that. So he just smiled as wide as he could and kissed him once more.

–I won’t, I’m not leaving you at all Carpaccio– those bright yellow eyes were again so full of love, the love he hadn’t seen in a week that felt eternal, but now it was back and he knew he could trust in those words.

–I love you Finn– it was the first time he said it out loud, by this point he was sure of it for some time, but still decided to keep it until it felt right and that, apparently, was now.

–I love you too Paccio– and they kissed again.

The kiss got deeper and heated again, Carpaccio changed their position to be laid on the bed without breaking the contact and so they continued merging into each other, making sure they felt each other’s warmth all night.

FIN