Hey Hey! Is The Request Still Open? If It Is, Can I Request For How To Win A Heart Of Azul? I Really

Hey hey! Is the request still open? If it is, can I request for How To Win A Heart Of Azul? I really love your fanfics!

How to win a heart of Azul Ashengrotto?

a/n: I gave the reader a job — since I can’t see Crowley organizing and checking any documents he’s responsible for, the burden of dealing with NRC organization plans will fall upon you, a very competent human being.

Also, I am terribly sorry, anon, for the long wait... A really long wait.

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1. Decline an offer.

„Is that a no?” Azul's hand drops a little before he shifts the contract he laid out on the table a few centimetres back.

"Does it sound like a yes?" Your reply makes Octavinalle leader retreat and sit back in his armchair. His brows bend in a subtle frown and you can almost see how he bites the back of his cheek, not to retort quickly. "Of course, it's a no! These terms are obviously ridiculous, and, what you probably didn't expect, I can read discerningly."

Azul would have doubted that statement two minutes ago when you first entered his office.

In awe, gaping at each decoration in this stunning room, he couldn't help but recognize that the intimidation of Octavinalle greatness and the stressful situation you have fallen into was having a big impact on your sense.

What he didn’t know was that it didn’t mess up your mind and ability to think clearly as much as he hoped.

To his surprise, you could actually read and think. Such uncommon talents between anyone, who Azul wanted to force a contract, once they entered Octavinelle grounds.

"Well then," Azul starts again. He almost can't resist adjusting his shirt cuff, but it would make him seem nervous. Is he nervous? "We can surely negotiate. From me, I can guarantee you having any request done if it’s in my power. Also, until the end of this semester, every day, you won’t have to pay for one item on your menu. Does it satisfy you? I think it is equal,"—if not more, his tone suggests,—"a glance at the plans for next school event Principal Crowley entrusted you."

The word spreads quickly or Azul Ashengrotto knows too much. Perhaps both—the fact that Crowley suddenly conscripted the organizing committee in the shape of you and one student from Ignihyde is a too big piece of information to keep for yourself.

Winning some kind of contest—what the contest was about? Azul tries to recall your profile he studied yesterday's evening. Creative thinking...? Art of manipulation? Getting on the nerves of Octavinalle students?—with your fellow Ignihyde colleague made you in charge of planning new events on the school's behalf. No one knew much, but from the brief introduction to the school's new year events, there was no one in the school whose interest wasn't picked by any of the festivals.

There is no doubt the events will interest many people outside of NRC.

And that's why Azul must have the plans.

"Forget it," you say curtly, getting up from your chair. You spare Azul last glance, just to see how his hands subtly shake in the irregular rhythm of frustration throbbing in his veins. A trace of a reluctant smile appears on your lips and Azul's expression goes blank for a second. "This time, you will have to try a little bit harder to get what you want."

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2. Start a war.

Azul takes pride in touting people to sign a contract.

Most students of the campus, plenty visitors during NRC's events, commoners, royals... And it is usually them craving the opportunity. Not vice-versa.

“What is that you want?”

You don’t have to turn around to know who has been searching for you all day. Messages from your friends that Azul Ashengrotto was asking about your whereabouts, made you almost avoid him, just to irritate him more.

“I wish for love,” you turn on a heel to face him. The sigh that escapes his lips slowly makes you stop batting your eyelashes theatrically. “Joking. That's pretty cliché thing to say, you know?”

Azul lifts one unimpressed eyebrow. “What is it?” He repeats his question.

Finally, you fall quiet and he takes the silence as you ponder. “Hmm... I don't know. This trade can get any of my wishes to come true after all, no?”

“...You will know where you'll find me if you find your answer.”

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3. Love the food.

“Here again, [Name]?”

The question welcomes you the moment you enter Mostro Lounge. You raise your hand as a quick “hello” before making your way to him.

There aren’t many students in the lounge, and that’s most likely because of the hour; it isn’t either early or late, and people just started to get hungry. It makes the atmosphere special with only a few tables being occupied and just by quiet people.

You can hear a jazz beat that always fades when people gather here at the evening hour.

“Don’t judge me,” a subtle smile plays on your lips as you sit next to him. Some days Azul just goes to Mostro Lounge (probably to collect information; people are often really cheery to share their thoughts and gossips once the food is served), and you just happen to join him.

Giving him the hope to get some news from you is a very tempting hobby you can’t deny yourself.

“I could never,” states Azul, politely shifting some documents to another side of the table. He doesn’t bother to hide them at all since you will be the one checking these in Crowley's place.

“Are you also taking guilty pleasure from eating sweets?” Azul jerks his head at you with emotion you can’t describe as surprise or shame. Perhaps both, but the latter is still increasing as Azul registers his reaction.

Your lips curve in a teasing grin.

“Wh- What?” Azul breathes the question at last, just after other Octavinalle student served your ordered drink. You are delighted whenever he’s in distress. Unwittingly playing with the straw, there is a noticeable shade of smugness on your smile. “No. I’m not that type of person you’re thinking of.”

“Yeah, right,” you take a sip of your drink, throwing Azul an unimpressed look. His papers are completely forgotten as other arguments form in his head. “Good luck with convincing yourself.”

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4. Don't get manipulated.

Good luck.

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5. Befriend Leech twins.

"Nee~ Shrimpy~ Entertain me!" Floyd’s wails ring in your ears, as his thoughts are roaming through the room for the sixth time.

You exhale deeply. He is being difficult on purpose.

"I don’t really want to," you say resolutely, which doesn't stop Floyd's whines. His complaints lack, however, amusement from before and you start expecting the moment when his mood will snap. Before that could happen, a polite chuckle from behind makes you shift your attention to another Leech twin.

“Floyd and I were hoping that you will have a better idea to spend an enjoyable break,” Jade comments, and all you can do is give him a flat stare. When Leech twins suddenly try to get close to you, how could you not get suspicious?

The question is, are they doing it at Azul’s request?

“Well, what do you want to do?” At your question, Jade, without any special inquiries, looks at his brother who gives you a little hum in response.

“Do you wanna play a prank on Azul~?” Floyd asks. There is no threat in his voice, but you can feel being tested.

...But who are you to refuse to investigate Azul’s weakness with his close acquaintances?

“Sure.”

“I will join as well,” Jade says, a professional camera in his hands. The little mushroom sign on it tells you that it’s part of the club's equipment. “Azul’s reactions are too valuable to have not been saved in a photo.”

“It will serve as a blackmailing material, won’t it?”

“It will.”

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6. Avoid PE together.

He opens the door.

"And what you might be doing here?" Azul shudders from surprise, and his head snaps in your direction. You wave in his direction and observe how his muscles relax once he recognized a familiar face.

You couldn’t blame him for his reaction. School’s storage filled with all necessary items for PE lessons is not popular enough for two people to meet up. Especially, if the said lesson hasn’t even started.

"...I don’t know,” he answers carefully and tries not to make any unnatural moves as his eyes scan your silhouette. Judging from your sporty attire and a broom that was unceremoniously tucked into the corner of the room, you were prepared for the next PE lesson. “And what are you doing here?”

“I don’t know!” A lot of frustration was put into your words. You pinch your nose to collect your thoughts, feeling a headache already forming at the back of your head. Your gaze returns to Azul. “...But I know that I don’t want to attend Mr Vargas’ special lessons.”

“That makes us two,” he says and crunches next to you. You couldn’t help but smile subtly at the thought that these words were his most sincere expression since your first talk.

“Right... Don’t you have any dorm-related duties that you can use as an excuse?” You ask, and his eyes flash at you, stars of sudden amusement making them twinkle. He clearly remembered something. Seizing a great opportunity, you decide to take it. “I can be your assistant! The idea was mine, and I am terrified about Vargas’ new tutoring program.”

“...I guess it’s fair enough.” He feigns the resigned sigh, and you reach your hand to help him stand up. Unconsciously noting that your hand is much warmer than his, he accepts it. “Let’s go.”

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7. Be a help.

When Jade told him there is someone who would like to work half-time at Octavinelle, Azul didn’t expect them to be you. Don’t you already have a lot of work from Crowley? Better question: why? Do you urgently need money for something?

He decided to ask. “Will you be working for money? I believe it’s not a friendly help.”

There is a lot of lethargy in his voice, although his attention is fully focused on you. His eyes scan your appearance but find no sign of something going wrong. At least, at first glance, you seem healthy and well.

He lets out his breath now, hesitantly noting how stiff he has been since you walked in.

"I guess so," you give him an informative nod. “I am short on cash right now.”

“Why?” You give him a shrug as an answer. It always seems like you have less money than you think you have. There is a note of worry in his voice and it makes you somehow pleased. “Are you having financial problems?”

“Well, it’s good to have an additional coin in your pocket,” you chuckle. “People say that money can’t buy happiness, but you all Octavinelle students, are pretty hyped in general, you know?”

You can see how Azul holds back to roll his eyes.

“I think we are having a bad influence on you, [Name].” He adjusted his glasses, but blue eyes never left yours. He only breaks eye contact to search for a contract. “Either way, welcome. Jade will assign you your tasks for the next month.”

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8. Remind him of his worth.

There will always be bad days in your life. In Azul’s too.

“Sorry for my appearance...” were Azul’s first words once you meet him at Mostro Longue, and by that, you already know that something is wrong.

Your brows furrow in concern, as you take a seat next to him.

There is only a menu at the table, no papers related to work are in plain sight. There is no particular reason for you two to meet up, but none of you points it out. The silence between you two would be comfortable if Azul wasn’t creating a depressing aura around himself.

“You look as always,” you start slowly, weighing your words. From the empty shade in Azul’s eyes, you read that this conversation enters a minefield where a bad word can lead to ruin. “Well... Are you going to order yourself anything?”

One just exploded.

“You-! You don’t understand—!” He raises his tone, students from the next table subtly start listening in. Sharply, in rigid movements, he leans on the table and hides his face in gloved hands. His tone is much more lowered, barely louder than a whisper. “I can’t! I really can’t... I can’t let myself get out of shape again, because I...”

He falls silent and you take a moment to form a sentence before speaking up.

“I don’t know,” you say in the most soothing voice you can bring up. At first, you aren’t sure if he listens to you. “But if you need someone to tell you how awesome you are, I can introduce you to my friends. Do you know what they told me? That you’re ‘a handsome gentleman, who knows his business. Maybe it’s a little embellished description.” The indifference was harder to keep up with increasing difficulty. “They never signed a contract with you, however, and I would say in addition that you can be a bit too stingy in terms of money.”

Azul was now sitting properly. Except for some paleness on his face (but it could just be light), he didn’t look as if he just had a breakdown. A momentary breakdown, but still...

Trying not to notice his gaze that is inexplicably stuck to you, your hand goes to the menu and shifts it closer. Only after briefly glancing over the list of desserts and drinks, do you dare to look up at him again.

“Besides, people who aren’t afraid to eat in front of people are hot,” you gesture generally around Mostro Longue. Most students here wasn’t afraid to order whatever they wanted and food filling their plates was a measurement of their palate, confidence (or indifference) and budget. “And that all food is waiting for you. And, Azul, you have impeccable taste in picking out treats.”

“...Allow me, then,” he takes a menu from you. He is really grateful for the blue lights in here, that mix up with the red on his cheeks. Just after receiving your order, he clears his throat, focusing your attention on himself and plates full of ice cream in front of you. “...If I will gain weight, you will have to join me at my training.”

You take a spoonful of your ice cream, winking at him when you catch his gaze. “Deal.”

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9. Give him hope.

“I will sign the contract,” you told him. “I will be at Octavinelle in the evening, so wait for me.”

He has no idea what to think.

He should be excited, shouldn’t he? Then, what’s wrong? Why something is eating him from inside? What is eating him from inside?

After all, he will finally have the plans. It won’t probably put much pressure on you from Crowley that will forgive you this time (since you do a great job). But other dorm students? Won’t they know about the deal? Will they start to mistreat you?

Something twists in Azul’s stomach.

“...I should worry about whatever I will have to trade for the plans...” He tries to shift his attention. It doesn’t work as he is antsier than a few minutes ago. Being in his office isn’t calming at all peace that haunts the room doesn’t distract him from unpleasant thoughts.

He sighs with frustration. He can’t even relax.

“There are few hours left...”

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10. Have him indebted and at your mercy.

“Won’t you be in trouble because of this deal?” He asks the moment you enter his office. You smile at the question and reply just after taking a seat in front of his desk.

“I asked my friend about it and they said that only Octavinelle is so fixated on this event,” you admit. So you also thought about other dorms, Azul notes. “There is no big loss for me.”

“I assume you came with an offer.” His tone is business-like. It does not fit his eyes with the voice, as they give you an impression of everything that Azul tries to hide at the moment; a little bit nervous, mostly concerned and quite... lonely?

You lower your gaze.

“I ask for a favour in exchange.”

“And what it might be?” Azul asks. “I can’t give you money if that’s what you-”

“Go on a proper date with me.”

“-ask for.” A moment of silence stretches through the room. Does he have auditory hallucinations? Is he dreaming? What? What? “What?”

“Will you go— on a date— with me-?” You ask slowly, but there isn’t as much confidence in your voice as before. The words catch up in your throat and with Azul’s shocked and confused eyes on yourself, you start to have second thoughts. You lower your lashes. “If you don’t want to, just say no, and I will think of something else. I think, however, it’s a pretty good deal for you,”

“No! I mean, yes!” He says in an indifferent-feigned tone and your eyes don’t fail to let go of his blue ones. Crimson colours burst on his cheeks. “Yes, well, I agree.” He repeats. “I agree.”

Pomegranate Rule || Idia Shroud x Reader

Obligatory pair work with someone you like very much on a school project and have a chance to fall for each other more? - cliché.

The difference with Idia was that he kidnapped his project partner.

Idia leaned out from behind the column, whispering words of encouragement and summoning up the plan of this meeting he compiled at yesterday’s evening. He practised this conversation all night in front of the mirror, but as soon as he gained confidence, he forgot the text and desperately searched for the next line in the script.

There was a faint blush on his pale cheeks. Not from the sun, not from the fatigue, but nervousness. He hadn't left his room for someone in a long time, and what he was about to do required from him new social skills...

…to ask you to be his project partner, that’s it.

Ortho stood right next to Idia, leaning out from behind his older brother's silhouette and shifting his gaze once at the courtyard, once at him.

Idia cuffed his fingers on the sleeves of the sweatshirt.

Ortho's presence helped him a lot to keep on the promise he made to himself: today he will actually talk to you not on the phone, but face-to-face and suggest that you could do Sir Crewel’s project together.

He knew that you didn’t have a pair, since Grim went off where he could bug Adeuce combo, and even if he didn’t, you two would be counted as one student. But, to at least make some progress, you were picking up leaves you suspected to be just right for the experiment.

With each bush, you were getting closer and closer to the column behind which Idia was hiding, and he knew that if he won’t hurry with his proposal, someone will enter the square, dispatch the last pieces of Idia's courage and disperse you, and take you away.

For example someone like Epel and Jack, who have just entered the courtyard using the entrance on the opposite side.

This coincidence seemed to Idia to be as unfortunate as if all the forces of the world wanted to stop him from what he was planning and yet to validate his theory that it was not worth ever leave his room. On the other hand, since he was already here, and it took him a good few dozen attempts to motivate himself, he could not lose this unstarted game.

Idia, in an act of desperation, rushed towards you, hoping that the first-graders would not notice you.

You both keel over into the bushes as Jack and Epel headed towards you.

"Jack Howl, Epel Felmier!" Ortho greeted them, distracting all possible attention from the bushes that had just been approached by two people, both unaware of what was going on. "How is your project going? What topic did you choose?”

"Ortho-kun! What are you doing here?” Epel replied, coming closer to the young Shroud.

As Ortho distracted them with a conversation, Idia had an intimidating thought: what would happen if they saw your two in the bushes? He was madly blushing at the scenarios that created in his head. He put his hand on your lips—he was afraid that you would say anything that would attract unwanted attention—he slipped with you through the empty corridors to the dorm of Ignihyde.

…He forgot to explain what he was doing, and it likely looked like him committing a crime, but nothing will happen if he explains everything in his room, right...?

You were able to ask Idia what was he doing, once he closed the doors. Till then, on every question you asked he hissed “Sheesh! Do you want us to be found?!” and “P-please! Let us get to headquarters where I will… explain the mission…”.

Soon enough, you found yourself in his room; electronics was the main source of light, and the screens glowed bright blue around them. Although you didn't see any exposed windows or lamps lit to illuminate the room, everything was clearly visible.

There was a mess there, a mixture of the cardboard disorder that prevails after moving a house and the chaos of a man whose constantly working on something, desk always cluttered with papers, pens and documents.

You were sure you would stand on some lost Lego block or pin if you put your foot behind the bed where Idia has set you down.

“So, Idia,” you started. “…What exactly I am doing in your room?”

"Uh, well...” he stuttered, trying to remember the speech from yesterday's practices. “I wish I would know what you're doing here... I mean- I know why I brought you here. I wanted to ask you something. Ask, yes.”

"Ask? About what?” you didn't mention that you can ask outside of your own room, and you wasn’t going to correct that.

Idia tried to explain the whole situation. He skipped the preparation process, his speeches and ideas, he didn’t even mention the project, so all he said was hard-to-understand, abstract justification from the current situation.

He said, at least, that he came up with the idea to take you somewhere further away, where there were no people, as first-grades entered the courtyard.

“So I'm here by accident?" you asked after listening to Idia, slightly cocking your head at the side. “I don't understand…”

“It was an accident. A bit,” he wanted to loudly groan at his helplessness but finally bit his tongue. “I didn't want you here. I mean, I wanted to, but I didn't plan on it. I mean- Aah, it’s so hard to explain!”

You waited in silence, only nodding, letting him take his time.

"Sorry, I just... I feel weird talking to you...” Idia admitted, lowering his head.

The definition of Idia’s "weirdness" was different from yours.

When you heard that he was calling you strange, you felt a pang in your heart. Really? After so many months of acquaintance and quite frequent texting on the phone, when finally there was one of those few moments when you could talk face-to-face, he says it's awkward?

The "weirdness" of that feeling in Idia was something he could not explain easily: the joy of talking to you, anxiety that he would say something wrong, an uncertainty that you would change your mind and stop talking to him, excitement because he knew how interesting person you are and the frustration for every accurate, teasing comment…

"Oh, I see," you tried not to sound depressing. "So let me leave.”

"No, wait, that's not what I meant..!”

Oh, no. Idia’ plan went downhill again.

Idia jumped to a drawer and started looking for something in it, digging through notebooks, cables and lost items.

“...Don't worry, Idia, we can end this conversation on the phone... or something.”

“No, no, no, wait, please!” discreetly took out a round metal box before he dashed to you, blocking the only way out, heavy equipment surrounding you that now seemed to be an impassable wall.

"Uh?"

He took the hard candy from the container he took from the shelf, though he did it so subtly, forcing himself to stare at you and keep your gaze from tearing away from him, so you couldn’t notice candy in his hand.

They were pomegranate drops that had been presented to him as a funny joke from a student who knew that a box, just like its contents, was enchanted by Vil's unique magic: whoever tasted them will not be able to move more than twenty meters from the place the fruit drop was eaten.

Haha, because you know, the members of Ignihyde don't go outside and won't even notice they were cursed.

Idia was sure that even Vil did not know that the candies had fallen into his hands.

"Huh? What are you-“

As soon as you opened your mouth, Idia pressed fruit drop up to your lips and covered them with his hand, in case you tried to spit it out. His movements became very mechanical and heavy, probably most of his muscles were strained. Because of that, you also couldn't push him away.

He only stepped out of your way you once swallowed the candy.

And so you were bound by a spell that you discovered the moment Idia let you towards the door. You stopped more than a meter from them, unable to even grasp the doorknob.

You swung your hand a few times as if not believing that none of your movements was moving you forward.

“Idia. I know we should talk, but by cutting me off from the door?”

Surprise with this solution, Idia's embarrassed smile, dripping sweat from the stress he felt, and a sudden dose of delicious sugar made you burst into laughter.

“This. Is. Great.” You accented each word, becoming more and more amused with each one as if you had just heard the best joke of the era. “Is it the fault of those drops?”

Idia, surprised by your reaction, finally relaxed. Your sudden, inexplicable outburst, hearty laugh calmed him down a lot. He even came to the conclusion that he really likes the way you laugh.

Ortho soon entered the room. You two shortened the story and explained that you probably have to stay here for the night.

"Oh, so nii-san finally asked you to do a project with him?"

“Project...?” you repeated. Then you turned your head to Idia and smirked at him. “So that was what it was for?”

He answered you with a shrug as if last day Idia didn’t have any thoughts screaming “Project!” and that followed by “[Name]!”.

However, Ortho said it for him.

Idia, of course, tried to stop him, but Ortho knew how much time his brother spent just planning to talk to you. A wave of shame flooded Idia as you listened to Ortho's words with interest. And maybe with a pinch of delight spilling over your heart—Idia did so much for you! You could feel the flush on your face and a smile spread across your lips every time you heard about Idia's efforts.

Soon after, after the excitement of this conversation had died down and you thanked Idia for his planning efforts, a package of cookies and biscuits was opened. You couldn't go to the cafeteria to eat anything, and even ordinary snacks from school vending machines taste better in pleasant company, right?

“We haven't had many opportunities to talk like that, have we?"

You took a sip of the warm tea Idia had made—it was incredibly bitter but chilled enough not to burn your tongue—and watched the screen where Idia was working.

He pushed himself away from writing some codes with some slowness, but he didn't look at you.

“You're right...”

After a pause, he started speaking again, this time in a whisper, but you heard him very clearly.

"I've always admired you, [Name]-shi..." he said, pressing his knees against his chest. “Talking to so many different people and solving their problems... I often find it tedious and self-righteous to interfere in the affairs of others, however…. Everything you do always ends well. I-I couldn't do that.”

“I should be saying it!” You said after a moment of silence as if you were processing words you completely didn't suspect him of. “You deal with electronics like a professional. Wait, you are the professional! How many programming languages have you already mastered? How many devices have you already created? You have a wonderful talent and... even your brother little is proof of it.”

You both looked at Ortho connected to specialized equipment. "CHARGING" was displayed on the screen, and by minutes the numbers were close to 100%.

Idia didn't smile at your words—instead he seemed incredibly focused. With each passing second, he had a more and more sincere expression of pleasant frustration, which was also reflected in his long hair behind which he tried to hide his face.

He couldn't even answer and just nodded.

"And... I have to confess to something," you began after another minute of pleasant silence, which you felt sorry to interrupt. "If you previously seemed quite average to me, maybe even a little pale-faced, now I know that you are special."

These words were already his limit. He couldn't take his eyes off you, forgot how to breathe, forgot how to blink, and his lungs refused to cooperate.

His heart crashed for good after your next words.

"So... if you please," you got up and smiled at him. “Idia Shroud, will you do me this honour and become my project partner?”

"The curse already faded.”

You could reach the door and go to the farthest corners of the room. You could leave.

The project has been completed. With the light help of Ortho, who also wanted to contribute to the project, by two in the morning, you finished doing experiments, writing out data, conclusions and completing them with graphic documentation.

And then you played games for the next three hours; each game was digital and very engaging—it wasn't for Ortho, you and Idia wouldn't fall asleep even for a minute. Even when you went to bed—and there was a whole five-minute debate about where you were going to sleep—you talked in whispers about everything and nothing until one of you fell asleep.

Even if the attachment to Vil's magic was gone, you couldn't deny that you became attached to a certain blue-haired boy who followed the last lines of your conclusions with his golden eyes.

It was really fun.

He and Ortho probably would have done this project faster, but the collaboration of the three—you, Ortho and Idia—seemed so pleasant that if he could, he would do it once again. Even if that meant another research about hyper-difficult projects Crewel liked to torture his students with.

"I will come again," you said as suddenly as if you were reading his mind. He flinched at those words, and your tone of voice changed to a more biting tone. “You don't have to kidnap me this time.”

"I d-didn't..." he tried to deny but was stuck on the next words. “...Really? Will you really come here?”

“Your charm bound me more than candy, I can promise you,” you gave him one last smile before you closed the door behind you and rushed through the corridor with a strange, blissful feeling, looking forward to your next project.

So did he.

When your Prince Charming arrives || First Years x Reader

What if someone from RSA seemed to be your dreamed lover?

Ace Trappola

It isn’t easy to make Ace seriously worried, about something that wasn’t caused by his friends, wanting to get revenge on his poor—as they defined them—jokes.

From the first sight he knew, that a boy, who “accidentally” bumped into you, was a danger. Some kind of.

He seemed just… too perfect: tall, muscular, with beautiful hair and natural charm, charisma. His clothes complemented the colour of dark as cosmos eyes, and his manners were impeccable. Ace started doubting that even Vil Schoenheit himself could point out anything to him, but he wouldn’t bet on his arm.

With each trait, something was pushing Ace away from the boy more and more.

If he hasn't paid much attention to him, then you definitely did. By the time the day was over, you managed to tell him ten times how he helped you get up—"You fell because of him," Ace replied while rolling his eyes—and characterized the boy verbally, so that no teacher would complain about not enough words on your opinion essay.

“Agh, enough-!” Ace got upset when, even while playing cards, you didn't talk about anyone else but that handsome hero who helped you get up faster than Ace did. He got up from the floor. “Marvel at him in his face! He will certainly want to hear all these compliments in person.”

He stormed out of the room before you could stop him.

His arms were shaking once he got out of the dorm, to the Rose Maze. He emanated with anger and grief; he swore to himself, that he will kick this guy from RSA the time he sees him. Though he wasn't sure... would you be mad at him...?

“Wait, Ace!” you had to run as fast as you could to catch up with the boy and bump hard into him. You hugged his waist tight, worried that he would run away as soon as you loosened your grip. “Sorry. I really didn't mean to upset you.”

Ace turned around to see your eyes. The corners of his mouth quivered before twitched into a weak smile.

"It's alright," he said, but his voice slowly cracking. “The better one wins, right?”

"Of course," you tightened your embrace so that your cheek was pressed tightly against Ace's body. “I won't be with any guy who can't destroy a chandelier with friends.”

The boy took a deep breath before finally wrapping his arms around you.

The warmth he felt from you and the one inside him caused a strange feeling in his stomach and chest. He didn't know exactly what he felt, but he didn't mind at all.

“Out of my advantages, you chose this particular one?” He said, his face showing a mischievous, a bit mocking, but still friendly smile. "I guess it was at the top of such a long list as ‘Advantages of Ace’"

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎‏‏‎ ‎

Deuce Spade

Deuce didn’t know what feeling was responsible for twisting his stomach, once he saw you and a boy from RSA, introducing him to some NRC classes.

Does his dark, rebellious side finally want to see the light of day?

Not as much as he wanted to hit that boy, he’d rather preferred to take you somewhere far away from him. From everybody.

“Someone's jealous!” Ace laughed when Deuce told him about his worries.

“Again, why did I come to you with this...?” The dark-haired man sighed, placing his hand on his hair and tightening it tightly. "You really think I'm, uh, jealous?"

“And not?” Ace tucked his hair back, laced the fingers of his hands together, and blinked several times. “Oh! My hero!” He said in a squeaky voice. “I will have to give up my lovely Deuce for you because you helped me up. A~aah!”

Deuce snorted and slapped Ace on the forehead. He fell onto the bed. The redhead burst out laughing as he looked at the nervous, sulking Deuce.

“Go Deuce,” he said, sitting down on the bed, still with an amused sparkles in his eyes. “Fight!”

Without waiting for any further words of encouragement, Deuce ran out of the room, towards the school. He went through all important, busier spots in the school before he found you in the cafeteria.

Of course, with that RSA guy.

He felt his body tighten like a tight string as you spotted him between the heads of the other students and waved at him.

"This is Deuce, my boyfriend," you introduced the boy to your dinner companion, and the dark-haired man looked away. So what if you guys were dating for months? The title "boyfriend" always made his heart run wild. “And this is [Boy's Name], a student from RSA.”

"Nice to meet you." Deuce reached out his hand and squeezed the boy's hand. He did it with such force that you could almost hear the crunch of bones and a soft gasp as the student jerked his hand away. “Now, I'm so sorry, but I have to take [Name] with me.”

He felt a twinge of guilt as you walked away, and the RSA boy was massaging his hand. However, now-not-yours prince charming will definitely go to the nurse, and on the way, he will surely run into one of the most beautiful students in NRC. It’s always like that in fairy tales.

You have to fight for your true love, right? They both have to find and keep the love of their lives.

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

Epel Felmier

Just give him a chance, and he'll definitely try to kick that fop in the knee so hard he won't get up again.

"Fight fire with fire," Vil advised him during their usual dinner at Pomefiore. Even though Epel had said nothing about his worries, Vil could still sense a depressive aura from him that was definitely ‘not beautiful’.

The Pomefiore leader was also not very happy with the arrival of some students from the RSA. But until they were more beautiful than he was—not that anyone like that existed—their presence did not irritate them that much.

Of course, you didn't forget about Epel—you felt so drawn to your new acquaintance's aura that you sometimes lost track of time, but you make sure not to skip your meetings.

He felt like a pawn in a game of chess, not a player. He was attractively dressed, and now standing next to that RSA boy who had attracted your attention all too often. He took you with him a lot, that one day he almost offered to take you with him to the RSA. It would only require some paperwork, wouldn't it?

“[Name]” Epel turned to you, his voice trembling with anxiety and anger. He took a deep breath but didn't feel any cooling down. “The final decision will always be yours. But I want to say something about it here.” He pointed at the visitor and glared at him.

He felt a sudden need to straighten his hair and his clothes as silence fell around him. All the witnesses waited for his next move, and even though no one was saying anything, he felt like he was the new hot topic of gossips.

He went over to you and locked you in a hug as if he didn't want to watch all those onlookers.

"I know you may not believe me, but I really am not sure if he can bring you the happiness you expect," he blushed here. “I-I mean… I don't know if I can offer you a life only filled with happiness you want, but… I will try… So, uh, please don't go with him…!”

“Huh? There's no way I'm going with him,” you said, tearing away from him. "I'm addicted to apples and a certain apple boy, and I won't survive without this combination."

Epel breathed a sigh of relief, feeling his cheeks flush with shame, and memories of words that even sounded too serious for him.

Even though he felt terrible in this elegant garment, he couldn't think of it as his feelings exploded in his body.

Ah, yes. He couldn't want to love anyone else that much.

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

Jack Howl

Jack never wanted to stop at anything other than "true love".

When you two started dating, he saw no other way than planning his future with you... But this RSA guy was never included in your plans.

"He's joining us," you told your new friend, pointing at Jack. He had his arms crossed and he was at least a head taller than the boy, so the boy had to raise his chin to see Jack's ears. “He offered to help us with cleaning.”

"Ah, yes," [Boy's Name] cleared his throat, trying to remain indifferent. He felt overwhelmed by Jack's presence and Jack made no effort to make it easier for him. Because what was he supposed to do? Squat down so that he doesn't feel trapped like surrounded by tall rocks? "We'll definitely need someone strong."

Everything went very agile and neat.

Even if you and the RSA student previously thought it would take a long, long time, in half an hour you managed to do more than you were allotted to. Maybe it's because your loved one didn't allow too long conversations between you and [Boy's Name]?

It would certainly have been hours if the two of you were left for each other. Ideally, a lot of time to make another appointment, exchange phone numbers, cancel your joint vacation plans with Jack and change your school, right?

“Thank you for your hard work” you put the broom in the storage box. Cleaning with magic was definitely simpler and easier, but as long as you can clean, magic can feel a little sloppy while comparing the cleanliness of rooms.

"Thank you for your hard work," [Boy's Name] replied, dusting his hands of the fluff. "Maybe... you'd like to go together, just the two of us," he stressed the last words, "to the cafe?”

"I'm sorry," you smiled apologetically. You looked at Jack who was just coming back and started walking towards him with a smile on your face. “You may not see it, but this one needs a daily dose of hugs because later he will be very sad.”

Jack silently denied as he turned his head to the side out of intimidation as you hugged him tightly.

… For moments like this, the existence of people like [Boy's Name] is needed.

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

Sebek Zigvolt

“We need your assistance, [Name]” just after taking the left corridor, Sebek appeared in front of you and a student from RSA. The green-haired man had a stoic expression and his hands were behind his back, what made him seem much more composed than he thought himself. There was so much going on in his head that it would be easier to talk about what he wasn't thinking about. “It's urgent.”

Without further ado, he grabbed your wrist, knocking the RSA student's hand off your shoulder. He gave him a frightening look before he turned on his heels and you and you walked far, far away from this place.

"Hey, Sebek," you broke the silence that had been with you since you stepped out into the uncrowded corridor. “Something happened?”

“What do you mean?” He replied in a gruff voice and picked up the pace.

"For example," you panted, trying to keep up with him, "you're almost crushing my hand."

As if on cue, Sebek immediately let you go, doing it as quickly as if he had touched hot coal. With a surprised look, he glanced at your wrist, which turned slightly red from his tight grip.

"Ah, uh, forgive me," he muttered, rubbing his temple. "I still feel sick to see that human from the Royal Sword Academy."

“You mean [Boy’s Name]?” you asked, and Sebek made a face at his name. For him, this boy will always be "human" in the worst tone and sense of the word. "Some have described him as ‘so sweet that he is so bland’”

“It suits him.”

“You don't like him too? Too cute by Diasomnia standards?” you guessed jokingly. “Or were you jealous, hehe?”

“T-that's not the point!” He growled, feeling his face flush red. You looked at him in shock, now sure, you guessed it, and Sebek felt even more exposed by it. "It's just that this human looked at you so... so strange! I didn’t not like this.”

"There is a way," you said, smiling frivolously at him. “You can invite me to tea and vice versa, and then we will not see him anymore.”

Snow White and Juliet

trigger warning: suicide and just whatever happened in Romeo and Juliet & Snow White but darker.

People tend to define different things with the same word.

According to some, the lack of life is simply death. Others include there people who do nothing but work. They have no love, no passion. Those who remain unmoved by the suffering of others. Heartless ones.

For one poison vendor, "lifeless" meant being unable to move, drink, eat, but think. Think for eternity about nothing, what is described harsher than real death.

◆◆◆

„Test 103 was accomplished with success.”

There is confusion in the experiment hall. Researchers run from monitor to monitor, all comparing unexpected, but desired results.

No errors in documentation. No lapses in research. No difference in subsequent attempts.

The team of researchers was cheering in awe: the antidote for one of the biggest poisons in Twisted Wonderland, the "Poisoned Apple", has been found.

It's time to wake Neige Leblanche up.

◆◆◆

The Leblanche Tragedy happened almost two years ago when many haters got to harras Neige and his fiancée, [Name], who just announced their relationship. You were meeting already for quite a time, and knowing each other even longer. It wasn't easy to break any of you by hate.

But it wasn't also easy to live with people, who despised you with all their heart.

"It's alright," Neige whispered, his fingers combing the hair of his beloved. His voice was tranquil and soothing as always, almost by itself vanishing every bad experience. "It will be alright. I will make sure it will be."

"I know. And I am always thankful for that," you replied, cuddling him even more. Neige scent was another thing that hadn't changed over years; it was still the same aroma of wild, but soft flowers and heartwarming sunrays. Another wonderful feature. "I love you, Neige."

"I love you too."

That was the last discussion you had before the disaster happened.

And it started from no one else than Vil Schoenheit, who wasn't even aware how his actions will take a completely another turn than everyone expected.

◆◆◆

"Will it solve it? The sleeping potion?" you asked, turning the vial in your hands. It was no bigger than your little finger, and the potion there was taking only half of the space.

Not so long ago, around an hour, you found yourself invited by Vil to a tea party. You couldn't figure if he had been struck by your "help me" aura or was searching for a company, but you ended up in gardens, staring at the porcelain pot in which the tea was brewing.

It favoured the first meeting you two had: the tableware with the same, old-fashioned flowery pattern and the rich aroma of tea leaves of Vil's choice. Only a plate with sweets and fruits was something new—it was hard to convince Vil to bring anything sugary and even harder to make him try it. He finally ate a small (microscopical, in your opinion) piece of hand-made shortcake, but that was all you could do to let him appreciate the sweet energy shot.

"I cannot guarantee anything," Vil replied, watching you examine the bottle's content. "But it may work. With an emphasis on 'may'," he added, tearing his gaze away. Vil was your dear friend, and even if he didn't approve of your taste in men, especially your pick for a future husband, you were close enough to have him help you come up with a solution. "Use it as a last resort. I... am sure you will be able to find a better, safer way. For example, dumping your fiancé."

You giggled, but both of you knew his proposition was impossible. You could never leave Neige.

"Thank you, no thank you," you answered with a smile. The only thing that didn't let it last longer, were your problems. "Again, I am indebted to you. Thank you for being the best and the best prettiest in my life."

Vil puts the tea away, its taste suddenly feeling bitter and hard to swallow.

"...Well then. [Name], don't be reckless."

"I will try my best not to. I promise."

◆◆◆

You found a solution.

If you were the reason which made people attack Neige on social media and not only, why wouldn't you just disappear?

Not for eternity. Only for a month, maybe a few weeks, until the turmoil would silence. You and Neige could get married this way, inviting no one else than the closest of the closest people for the ceremony. Announcing your marriage and fake death wouldn't be that much of a shock as many could assume. There is a field called effective business, and everything can happen under that name.

I know how reckless is that, you were writing your thoughts on a paper. Once the dwarfs you invited to yourself saw the letter, they would give it to Neige. And you two would no longer have anyone who could undo anything. But think about it, Neige! If we may finally be together, isn't it a great chance?

You reassured him in the letter that you would wake up after few days. You also highlighted that he doesn't have to use your plan and let you two fight against the darker side of Wonderland together. He could just let you have week-long beauty sleep and with a fresh mind, try to solve your problems by less drastic measures: the press or announcements.

Maybe you were only overthinking and complicating the situation too much.

Your most loving fan, [Name]

You signed yourself and closed the envelope.

Your gaze returned to the sleeping potion. I am exaggerating, you thought. Your plans could fit into a script of a good film but in real life? What you were about to do felt... irrational and foolish.

Maybe you would change your mind if not the rush.

Once you heard footsteps on the floor and your friends, dwarfs, calling your name, you knew it is time to make a decision.

You quickly unscrewed the bottle and put it in your mouth. The sweet, sleepy fragrance with a hint of rosemary sent you to a sleep that devotedly resembled a death. The crash and sound of breaking glass as you fell to the ground immediately alerted everyone in the mansion. You couldn't hear the accelerated footsteps, screams, cries and commotion that was going on over you.

Before anyone could think to do something other than trying to wake you up and calling the hospital, the letter with your plan flew outside the window.

That night you broke two things: the promise you made to Vil and a heart of Neige.

◆◆◆

The death of [Name], the fiancée of the most adored man in the world.

Marriage cancelled? The mystery behind the death of [Name] [Surname].

A Dead bride.

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

Neige scrolled through the media, each article made his heart ache. He ignored a great count of calls and didn't manage to appear at your funeral in time.

He was a broken toy, who just lost its batteries. He was a wrack of what he was before. Beautiful on the outside, blank on the inside.

Wearing a dark, a bit too oversized suit, he laid against one of the roadside trees. He closed his eyes, trying not to focus on any people, buildings or sounds except his breath. It was slow and steady until he remembered why he tries to calm down; then he would choke on his breath, tears falling from his eyes and trying to not lose balance.

"Would you like an apple?"

Neige wiped his tears in a sleeve and slowly turned around to see an old lady behind a stall. It was ruined and seemed unattended for years. The counter was doty, wood softened and tore off in big pieces by the wind and rain. Between beautifully decorated shops and cafes, this stall seemed to be a remnant that no one ever wanted to touch.

"Thank you, but I am fine." Neige replied in his polite tone, but the smile he sent her looked like nothing near 'fine'. "I am not allowed to take anything from strangers, but that is really kind of you!"

"Not just a bite?" the lady continued, putting an apple on the counter. It was brown, slightly green, and Neige would never guess it was an apple. Maybe more like a rotten apple, but no one would say that this apple was unfresh. Adversely, it contained freshness, but not of the common kind. "Wouldn't you like to join your lover?"

Neige held his breath.

"You mean... to die?"

"What I mean has no value. You will understand it the other way, even if I tried to explain," she replied. Her voice was squeaky as she repeated the question the same enigmatic way she did the first time. "So, would you like an apple?"

"No, thank you..." Neige bowed slightly. He hesitated, before trying his best to speak up. "I- I think [Name] would hate me dying. Only if she could understand this too..."

"Maybe she did" the lady replied. There was conviction in her voice, and Neige couldn't help but take her words seriously. "Or maybe not."

Neige hoped you did. How he loved you and how your death changed him from the happiest man in the world, the saddest one. He didn't know why you took your life and why he didn't notice anything before. He regretted spending not as much time with you as he wanted to.

But nothing could be done to change the past.

"I will get going," Neige said. He glanced towards the old lady, who smiled at him and showed some of her lacking teeth. "And... could you fetch me this apple, please?"

◆◆◆

Once Neige's gaze settled on your figure, the world was immediately forgotten.

He could hear his pulse pounding in his ears much more than silence who was your only companion.

No flowers, candles and golden ornaments of the church could divide Neige's attention, as his pace fastened with every step he made towards you. He didn't hesitate to lock his fingers with yours. He squeezed them, wishing his warmth could reach you.

"[Name]..." he whispered, getting his face closer to your sleeping face. He gently removed the lost strands of hair from your face, not believing that you won't wake up anymore. As much as he wanted to, no mage in Twisted Wonderland could bring the dead back to life. At least not in human's form. "I love you so much. T-too much, I think. How can I live without... my life?"

He gave you one last 'farewell' kiss on the lips, his body next to yours. "See you soon, [Name]."

His expression is the softest one he ever wore, as he reaches for an apple.

He bit it.

And then 'died'.

No sooner than the poison completely took control of his body, you woke up.

"Neige...?" you murmured, bringing your hand to his cheek. The anxiety mingled with your thoughts once you look around yourself. "We are... in a coffin?" You sat. It required effort, after not using muscles for a whole week. By the time, you took a break, you conjectured what happened. You jerked your head around and let your hands cup your lover's face. "Ple-please, please, Neige, don't do this to me. Please."

He didn't respond and the bitterness you tasted when you kissed his still warm lips confirmed that he didn't use Vil's potion. He was poisoned, and the amount left on his lips wasn't enough to take you to the same place as him. "Why didn't left anything for me? Neige..."

Your eye caught the glimmer. You went closer to notice the dagger, resting on the floor. It wasn't that visible as the weapon would be, and until you were a step from it, you could see how thin the blade was. As edge as sturdy.

The fear paralyzed you, as you came back to the coffin. But the remorse and the sight of your lover's dead body were stronger. Your whole body was shivering, a tremor affecting you more than you could ever imagine, making you go mad. Insane.

With one sharp move, you dug the blade into your chest, scared and closing your eyes.

"I am a fool."

By the time anyone arrives, it is too late to rescue you or stop the poison coursing through Neige's veins.

◆◆◆

In the morning sun rises, and everyone in Wonderland wakes up.

It is also the first time in two years since Neige fell asleep.

He can't feel anything. He can't sense the flaxen shirt the doctors changed him in. He can't get his mind through the haze, that has been floating around his thoughts just after he drank the poison. He can't answer the calls of the doctors and his friends, dwarfs, who are gathering around his bed.

But he can open his eyes.

And once he does, the silence is overcoming. When the fact finally sinks in everyone's heart, a great cheer flies across the room. Some of the gathered give Neige comforting touch or reassuringly squeeze his hand.

It takes him some time to realize what is happening, why is he in the hospital room, why people are crying around him and why you aren't the first one he sees once he wakes up. His habit of kicking you while sleeping was something you complained and teased him about. Even if he didn't wake you in his sleep, when he was getting up, his knee would always hit your arm or stomach, waking you up and having you buck him off the bed as revenge.

What he also can do, except for trying to stay awake and catching things his visitors chatter around him, is to try to remember. He didn't lose his memories! It just needs some effort to get them back from the darkest recesses of his mind! And then to regret it.

A whole wave of memories hits him like a tsunami, not leaving him space to breathe and see anything else than chaos, now replaced by the memories of you two.

The kisses. The promises. The vowes. The proposal. The struggles. The tenacity to get over your problems. The plan. The dead body of yours.

He doesn't have to turn around to know that you aren't in a hospital bed beside him. He remembered some of the talks of his friends when he was sleeping. Now everyone is waiting for him to return.

"Neige! You've finally woke up, huh!" Che'nya chippers, his voice cracking at last words. He is relieved about the news and only bad Neige's condition stops him from throwing himself at his arms and spreading the revelation to everyone... No, not even Neige himself can stop him from the latter.

Neige wasn't going to stop him. His mind still replayed the "finally woke up" part, as if the film stopped at the most painful scene, then broke and started to replay the scene once again. And again.

He turned his head on the side, letting the tears run down his cheeks.

He really can't feel anything.

"That," Neige manages to whisper under his breath. It is the first time he tries to say anything, and grievously struggles to put his words together. "is- is... so cruel." Everyone stared at him in silence, the same way they did when Neige and his dead lover were found. His cry brings tears to everyone's eyes, having many people bow under the weight of sorrow and put a hand over their lips to not let themself break again. "I didn't want to wake up..!"

i like your writing a lot. the kaeya diluc one has really impressed me,, i hope to write like you some day

Oh, thank you for your kind words!

However, I believe - no, I know - that there is still a long way to get myself to the point where I would like myself to be. And I think you should be aiming higher as well!

I wish us both good luck and having fun with writing, Anon! ⭐

Hi :)) i asked for the jack one and im fine with waiting, take the time you need 💖

Thank you so much!!

It puts a great weight off my heart.

I hope once I write your request, you will like it!! 💕