When Your Prince Charming Arrives || First Years X Reader

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.”

How to win a heart of Riddle Rosehearts?

1. Fail an exam.

You stared in horror at the paper sir Train just handed to you.

The big, red mark was nothing but visible and disturbing, like the hard to swallow nut in a fluffy cheesecake. A low score like that could bring death to anyone who cared for their grades.

„Uh-oh,” Cater gasped slightly, shifting his gaze from the grade on your test to your frowning expression. Even he felt the distaste and pressure of getting only a few points, but the thing that terrified you both—and eachas the Hearslabyul's people—the most, was a dorm leader who was capable of murder; the harsh one in case of lowering Heartslabyul average. „So, what are you going to do about Riddle?”

You couldn't help but sigh at his question.

„I just need to get rid of the evidence,” you answered, squishing the test in your hands. Then you threw the paper into the trash—or at least you thought that you threw it correctly, not wanting to look at the test ever again—and quickly started to pack your books, ready to take your leave and stop thinking about the failed exam.

At the same moment, the infamous redhead walked into the room, catching the moment when you threw the paper away. He picked it up from the floor, sighing, and went to bin it properly. If it wasn't only for the Train's red marker, which caught Riddle's attention, maybe you would still be safe and sound.

Cater gave you a side nudge, with a slight but jerky movement of his head pointing towards the door. The look he gave you mirrored what happened behind you. You didn't have to turn around to know who is there, what are they doing and what will happen.

„He found you,” Cater whispered, halfly trying to make his voice dramatic. It didn't help to keep your breath calm, as Riddle slowly turned your way and started walking towards you.

Even without Cater's attempt, it was dramatic enough already.

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

2. Survive one—hour lecture.

After giving you a lecture Riddle would give up... your last moments of freedom.

“[Name]!” his voice echoed through the halls, followed by the taps of his hills against the tiles. You could swear it sounded like the ticking of the clock, counting down to execution. Your execution. And the executioner was quicker than you imagined, despite you fastening your pace. “Wait, you! How dare you skip the preparations for the unbirthday party!?”

You halted, mentally scolding yourself for forgetting. You smiled awkwardly, maladroitly turning to the dorm leader. “Sorry... I... was studying for the exam. You know, dorm leader, your words really motivated me to study.”

Perhaps Riddle heard these words many times as an excuse because he looked even more irritated.

“Ha! Studying the same way you got your last grade?” he asked, his voice showing off something you could (poetically) describe as a 'cold amusement' that gave you a shiver. Before you could even reply, the annoyance in his gaze returned. “I am not letting you off this time, [Name]. You need to re-do that exam. And you can't neglect your duties.”

“Yes, yes, I understand,” you nodded at his words, something in your stomach started to twist. Now you felt nothing but discomfort when Riddle glanced at you.

So cold.

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

3. Don't underestimate him.

“[Name], like, what can he do?” your classmate commented, taking another cookie from your plate. They were Scarabia student and were supposed to help you with revising your notes, however, when you put the cookies on the table, nothing and no one could get more attention from them than these sweets. “Only magic is making him scarier than he actually is.”

“Oh, stop,” you quieted them. “You know nothing about our dorm leader.”

They shrugged but tried to read your thoughts from your face. You winced playfully at that and got a loud 'tch' back. “Well, I know that he is giving you a hard time with keeping your grades high. Isn't he forcing you to study even if that was the only test you failed? Duh, you have great grades! You even helped me with retaking my test!”

You smiled softly at their words. It was kind of unfair. But you also knew that people much more consider other's flaws rather than flaws. In NRC everyone knew that and daily used that judging system.

“Hah...” you breathed out. “I know it is wrong, judging someone for just one thing. But, you know, even if I don't like studying when someone tells me to do so, maybe I will be able to improve my grades that way? Maybe dorm leader has good intentions... or something.”

“Keep telling yourself that, keep telling,” your friend laughed your response off, waving their hand at you.

That laugh, even if they were laughing at you more than with you, cheered you up somehow. Another mystery of Scarabia students: their laugh was infectious.

“Whatever. I am going to retake the exam and show Riddle that I am capable of writing my exam right. I will get a better grade than him!”

Little did you know that Riddle himself heard your declaration. It wasn't that hard to hear each conversation in an almost empty library.

He, just a bookshelf away, where there weren't any walls or soundproof barriers, could overhear the whole meeting. He couldn't help but smile. He also couldn't tell why. Something between amazement and proudness pierced his body.

Having a rival in a field he is excellent at? And increasing dorm status at the same time?

He couldn't wear the smile on his face off.

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

4. Bribe him with strawberries 🍓

“Dorm leader, could I not participate in today's croquet?”

Riddle lifted his chin, tearing his gaze away from data, he got from Crowley at today's meeting. Some lines were already underlined with markers and completed with bright red notes Riddle scribbled.

“And why is that, [Name]?” he asked, shifting his whole attention to you. You could feel its weight on your muscles, which stiffened in few seconds. He used a type of tone that almost made you take back your question. Almost, since you bit the back of your cheek and loudly swallowed saliva before answering.

“My friend asked me for help and I already told them I will be there... I may bring some strawberries later,” your left hand wrapped around your wrist, and started playing with the sleeve's fabric. You fidgeted in the result. Oh lord, where you should put your hands? Were they always there?

Riddle looked at you carefully, and the silence between you two during a while that you almost didn't expect the answer from him.“...Is that a bribe? The part with strawberries.”

You widened your eyes at the question, but also a smile appeared on your face. You did your best not to show how his input lightened you up. However, your muscles relaxed visibly.

“Yeah, that's one of my tactics to take over the world,” you replied sarcastically, allowing yourself to make that joke. Riddle didn't question nor disapproved your answer but nodded in—false, you assumed from the too theatrical expression on his face—acknowledgement.

“Well then. You may go.”

“Thank you, dorm leader!” You bowed. It was hard to believe that it wasn't a dream and Riddle loosened. You could only suppose that the overblot event sometimes had its breakthrough points. Or Riddle was trying to master the modern humour. “I will bring you as many strawberries I can carry!”

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

5. Remember few random rules.

“Don't you dare drink that!” Riddle warned you in a loud cautionary tone that made you spin around. You didn't even notice that he was in the kitchen until he spoke up. You also hoped for no one to notice you, preparing yourself a night snack. Now, you weren't sure what's worse—if your roommates nagged you to share your food with them or meeting the dorm leader here.

Cater, who was searching for popular drink recipes, while sitting next to you, was already one person too much in this kitchen.

“What?” you muttered the question, and the dorm leader gave you a lopsided look while pursing his lips and frowning.

“Rule 256 says you cannot drink lemonade honey past 8 pm,” he recited, accenting with devotion every word. He still gave you an unimpressed look. “And what are you holding in your hands? Lemonade.”

“And rule 622 says that you must drink something citrusy at the weekend,” you answered quickly, curious for Riddle's reaction. That Heartslabyl law was one of the few rules you remembered past the first hundred—at least you hoped you knew that much. One time you just browsed through the list of all rules. And you (accidentally) memorised that one. “And we still haven't drunk anything like that.”

Knowing the rules that included food was usually a life-saving knowledge if someone liked to eat. You did.

Riddle raised his eyebrow, as Cater for once lifted his eyes from the phone. A weak smile, forming as the surprise sank in, appeared on the dorm leader's mouth. “Oh? I am surprised you remember that rule.”

You struggled with a reply. “Of.. of course, I do. I am Hearslabyul student, am I not?”

Riddle only nodded silently. Once again he looked at you, at drinks, and Cater, before he turned his back to you and walked away, saying 'goodnight' to you two. After placing two cups of lemonade on the table, you finally sat down next to Cater.

He flashed you a grateful smile that quickly turned into a smug.

“You totally remember all the rules, [Name]-chan. With like 50 gaps between every one you remember,” he said after tasting his drink. It wasn't sweet at all. Much more, it was sour and refreshing and cold and that was the thing which lured Cater to pick that recipe.

You kicked him lightly under the table, receiving a small chuckle in return. “Sheesh, I tried to look good... Be thankful for having a lemonade.”

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

6. Teach yourself how to brew tea.

“Dorm leader! Would you like some tea?”

Riddle stiffened for a second, his eyes aimed at you as his gaze travelled from you to the teapot. He was on his way to check the condition of the roses and didn't expect anyone to be here. It wasn't rare for to somebody having tea on their own when they feel like it, but, nevertheless, Riddle still was surprised. Pleasantly surprised.

“Can you brew it well?” There was some genuine curiosity in his voice as he walked to the table. “I haven't seen you making tea at all.”

“I practised it especially for you! And also, it will help me to stay awake... I hope!” You gestured to the pile of books and notes stacked next to you. Riddle recognized not only your handwriting; he guessed that you probably asked some people for their notes. That was a good tactic, since people while listening to lectures note different things. “You can see how hardworking student Hearslabyul has!”

Riddle only gave you a smile in response. He took an empty seat at your left, and you poured him a cup of black tea, which he didn't drink until it cooled. The pleasant silence interrupted by the occasional twitter of the birds and rustling in the bushes was stretching between you two before he lifted the teacup to his mouth and started speaking again.

“Hey, [Name]... Would you mind if I asked you to stop calling me by a title..?” That was a question that lingered in his mind for some weeks. And even with many good moments during these weeks, he chose the one when he took you by surprise. If you were drinking tea at the moment, you would surely choke on it.

You answered as quickly as the first shock sank in. “...So by name then? Wait, what was your name again, dorm leader...” You theatrically pressed your hand to a forehead, as if trying to recall his name. And perhaps you were a good actor because his whole body tensed. “I am joking, I swear!”

The sudden burst of steam from the kettle distracted your attention.

You refilled his cup. “Well, here is your tea, Riddle.”

“Thank you... [Name].”

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

7. Feed flamingos while wearing pink.

Cater sometimes could be too harsh when it came to you wearing something “outdated”—out of actual trends that changed once a month—but if you ever needed any fashion tip or piece of clothing to complete your outfit, he would always be there.

“Isn't that Cater's jersey?” Riddle pointed out, seeing you in a very oversized, pink sweatshirt with dark, printed letters 'TWISTED AND WONDERFUL'. It was stylishly oversized for Cater, but on you, it just looked... too big. You had to pull your sleeves up once every three minutes, and you surely were frustrated, since feeding flamingos without making any mess was near impossible.

“It is,” you shrugged, dusting your hands off. “I couldn't find any of my pink clothes, so I borrowed them from him.”

Riddle nodded slightly, his slate grey eyes wandering to your hands, wet and with sticky animal food remnants. He reached into his pocket and took out the handkerchief he handed you. You welcomed it with gratitude and relief.

“Be careful not to dirty it, or he will be complaining all the day about it.”

You gave him a cheeky smile.

“Then next time you need to give me pink clothes,” you stated, watching as Riddle stands a little bit straighter. “Or will you grumble too?”

“I- I won't,” he replied quickly. If he was able to take his mind of thoughts of borrowing you his clothes, he would glare at you with a gaze that both electrified people and stuck them to the ground. But he wasn't able to look up at you, as he turned around to leave. “Anyway, don't be late for classes, [Name]..!”

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

8. Play chess.

You re-did your exam. And after studying the notes and textbooks for so long, you were happy that you had the light feeling blooming in your chest when you exited the classroom.

And, as the feeling predicted, it was a great score. 98 points out of 100. Sadly, Riddle didn't make any mistake on that test, so you couldn't celebrate as much as you wish to.

“Checkmate,” Riddle moved his chess piece, white knight, and trapped your king without a way to escape. The dark king on your side magically keeled over, indicating Riddle's victory.

You sighed, as all pieces themselves started to return to their original places. The dorm leader's win wasn't a big surprise. He was known for being good at chess since some rules required him to practice it at weekends. Second, whenever you thought you made a good move with your piece, Riddle's move proved to you that you could have done better.

You sighed again, and Riddle didn't pay any attention. He got used to your sighing whenever it was his turn. “Don't you want to let me win sometimes?”

“No.”

“So cruel!”

“You are clever, [Name],” he said, his voice soft and thoughtful, even if he didn't look directly at you. “You can figure your tactic by yourself.”

“Thank you... but I hope I won't win anytime soon. I would be disappointed if I won against you, who is pride and joy of our Hearslabyul, just after starting to play chess.”

“Don't worry about that, it won't be that easy,” you got a little chuckle in response. This time your chess pieces were white and the honour of making the first move belonged to you. Riddle waited patiently for you to make up your mind, as he spoke again. “You've retaken your test already, right? Even though I adore your spirit, it won't make up the two points you lost to me.”

You let him continue, which you regretted a moment later.

Something sparkled in his eyes. As much as he was stern about most of the mistakes on every test, the one you made, amused him. You weren't sure if him being angry wouldn't be better. “Hm, wasn't one of them lost, because you forgot to sign your test? Should we practice writing your name?”

“Dorm leader-! Riddle, don't you dare start teasing!” You squealed. That made Riddle smile even more. “I can't take that!!”

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

9. Try to bake and burn a cake.

“So, what were you doing with Trey?”

The aroma of strawberries and the sweetness of baked cake were filling the kitchen. There was also something bitter, ashy, but that scent seemed to be covered under other fragrances.

On the kitchen counter, there was a glass epergne with creamy cake on it. The dessert was beautiful and rich in every way as always; just by looking at it, you knew that it was a flavour bomb and decorations made by the experienced hand of a confectioner hid that sweet danger.

“A cake for unbirthday party,” you answered Riddle's question. It wasn't a lie, considering that you helped with the cake that soon will be on one of the party tables. But were there much more to this short answer? Of course.

Riddle winced, and you weren't sure if he raised his eyebrows or frowned.

“It took you so long? It always takes less time,” he noticed. His hand rested on his cheek as he was sitting next to you and idly browsing through the cookbook full of sticky notes with Trey's comments. Though his posture suggested he was uninterested, his voice was sounding opposite; it was slow, but as if he were analyzing your every word and saving in long-term memory.

“Well, I asked Trey to help me with something,” you replied wanting him to stop questions here. But somehow, he didn't stop asking. You were almost surprised that he needed such a specific description of what you were doing in a kitchen with Trey and few fellow students.

“Something like..?”

“Something that certainly isn't a cake that I wanted to give you tomorrow, but burned in the process.”

That finally caught his attention. His whole body shuddered before he became breathless. The thoughts were occupying him that much, that he couldn't function properly.

“Y-you... you wanted to bake a cake... for me?”

You hadn't noticed before, but now, when Riddle was surely flustered, and his cheeks reddened to the shade of red that resembles strawberries on the cake, he stuttered. You couldn't help, but think that was rather charming.

“I just said 'isn't'!” You protested, sounding offended, but there is a big, heartful smile on your face. “But, yes. I will ask him again to help me with it.”

There was some pause before Riddle asked another question. Not about the cake this time.

“May I help you with it this time?” He struggled with forming a sentence, but his voice sounded somehow steady. You couldn't tell the same about the face, cheeks still hot and red, eyes running on the floor, not knowing where to stop. “I know I am not as good baker as Trey... but we can make it together, following the recipe of your choice.”

“Okay... Okay, then!” You smiled at the question. Warm, fuzzy feeling exploded in your chest, leaving your face and ears in the cherry shade of red.“I look forward to my cooking class with you.”

‏‏‎ ‎‏‏‎ ‎

10. Break the rule.

“Where is [Name]?” Riddle asked Trey and Cater, his gaze shifting from one student to another. It was the third time he regarded each student that attended the party, and still, he couldn't find his favourite—in his mouth replaced by 'in need of attendant who will stop you from doing anything stupid'—student.

“I have no idea,” Cater looked around, and even considered calling you, before spotting your phone next to an empty plate, one seat from him. “Maybe they have sneaked out of unbirthday party or something. Should I go search for them?”

Riddle shook his head. “I will go. Trey, Cater, please look after students when I am not here.”

He got a nod from Trey before he headed further into the gardens. Going through the Rose Maze was the quickest and most discreet way to get to... just anywhere in Heartslabyul gardens. And not only, since some passages led just to NRC—no one knew why, but the portal was the most stable way to get there—it didn't mean that there weren't other ways.

“[Name]!” Riddle called you, as he recognised the similar silhouette. You turned around, “Why aren't you at the party?”

Panicked, you looked up at Riddle. Truth be told, you spent whole daydreaming and somehow starstruck. You didn't really know—you only had a suspicion. “S-sorry... But I have a great reason!”

...

You didn't have a good reason.

“Like?” Riddle asked, crossing his arms.

“Uh,” your gaze fell, sticking to the ground. “Like... like...” And you said the words that repeated in your mind for so long. They weren't supposed to be spoken here, but now you weren't thinking properly. “I... I love you?”

As much as Riddle reddened whenever you did something affectionate, now he was pale, not less than a sheet of paper. He looked as if he was too faint, and inexplicably the tears glimmered in his eyes.

“W-what? And... and it- is that a question?”

“Do you love me?” You asked, now really not knowing what to do. You quickly bring your hands to cover your mouth, before panicking again. “W-wait, no! Ahaha, please treat it as a joke. I... I am sick I guess. I will go to the party, right now. I am okay.”

You quickly turned on your heels, ready to run away from the scene. From Hearslabyul. From Riddle.

“W-wait-!” He cried out, grabbing your sleeve. He used his whole strength in arms, to draw you closer. “I- I do. I do love you.” He said it loudly and clearly but also panicking. After realizing what he said, his grasp loosened, but you weren't trying to escape anymore. “A-a-at least I think so.”

You opened your mouth, wanting to say something, but no sound came out. After a short while, you encouraged yourself to speak.

“O... Oh, great!” You imitated cheering, but you were still stunned. The only thing that sank in, was that Riddle didn't reject your sudden confession. Could your heart take that much happiness at once? “'Cause I wasn't joking about loving you. It was a lie when I said I... was joking.”

“Please don't lie about that,” he whispered so quietly, and you could only hear him because you were still closed in his tight embrace. You smiled lightly, your eyes filling with tears as well.

“I won't.”

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! ⭐

I saw this post and I was wondering if you write Malleus' too, is okay for you to make that?

How to win a heart of Malleus Draconia?

a/n: I started posting my writings here because I want to improve my English — so I technically wouldn't make this request. But! Someone on Wattpad (where I take requests) asked for the same thing, so I rolled up my sleeves and wrote this guide today in both languages. Enjoy~

1. Don't be afraid of him.

It is said that the first impression is the most important.

So when you first saw this guy walking through the corridor of Diasomnia, it was hard for you to get rid of that view from your head.

Illuminated both by the green magic flames set in the lobby, as well as by the moon, which eventually managed to break through the dark clouds and with a bright glow appear in the windows of the dormitory, he seemed... lonely and beautiful.

You shuddered as you took a step down the hallway and the dark-haired man turned to you. He measured you with his emerald eyes. And then you recognized him; all the conversations about the mysterious and fearsome Malleus Draconia flew through your head.

Everything told you to rush towards the hallway and run as far as possible, but a piece of you found it inappropriate. Or rather, no one would want to chase everyone away from themself... right?

When you realized you were looking at him for a while, you took a deep breath and nod slightly.

"Good evening, Draconia-san," you said quickly. After a while you added, "The moon is beautiful today, don't you think?”

 2. Smile a lot.

Today was a really wonderful day: the test was postponed, your favorite dish was given in the canteen, and for some reason, the last two lessons were canceled – your class had to make just a quick note about a topic and it took less than fifteen minutes.

"Something happened?" Malleus asked, seeing how almost in the jumps you walk past him. When you looked at him, he added, "You smile a lot.”

"I can stop smiling if you want," you made a sad face, but after a while, the corners of your mouth began to tremble uncontrollably and twisted up again. "Oops, I can’t. Today... it was such a good day... that I think I'm slowly using my life's happiness.”

"I didn't say that smiling is bad," he said. "You look so much better when you smile.”

"Oh," you sighed with apparent surprise. "Is it a compliment?"

"It’s rather a fact..?"

 3. From time to time visit him during club activities.

"Is this a class of the ‘Gargoyle research society club’?” with a deaf knock you opened the door. Malleus turned to you, making a break from browsing through the materials gathered in the library about the history of each of the gargoyles on the school grounds. And there were a lot of them.

"Yes," he replied briefly, getting up. "Do you need something, [Name]?"

"Not at all, my club don’t have a meeting today," you said, closing the door behind you.

You looked around: the room was as clean as ever, except for one desk, where were laid several huge volumes about statues in NRC.

“Are you here alone?” You said before you thought. You lowered your eyes to see Malleus nodding unconcerned slightly. You blinked several times trying to think of what else you could say. "This room... could be a secret base," that was the first thing that came to your mind. Malleus turned his head to one side, uncertain of your response.

“A secret base..? Why?”

"I have no idea," you admitted quickly. "But the very existence of a mysterious point is interesting, isn't it? Doing normal things, such as watching movies or just talking, seems more interesting in places like this,” After a moment of silence, you sighed. "You know what, this idea with the base is stupid”

"We can try," he replied with serious tone. You raised your eyes to see how he looked around the room. "But you'll just have to explain this idea to me in more detail. We can also tell Lilia, Silver and Sebek about it...” he smiled as if seeing your five together in his thoughts was a pleasure. "It will be surely... fun.”

 4. Get yourself a Tamagotchi.

"Look!" you spin a new key chain on your finger. You finally stopped and showed it to Malleus. "Now they are matching!”

A small electronic toy, in a dark green screen that, when it flashed, showed a virtual, pixelated animal. You were impressed with how good quality it was made, especially since you only gave the Shroud brothers a sketch of a toy that Malleus owned.

Your keychain was exactly the same, just a different color and with another pet.

Malleus pulled out his own device and put it on the table. He pressed one of the buttons and a small pet appeared on the keychain – a dragon.

"They can now be friends," you brought your toy closer to so-called Gao-Gao Dragon-kun.

"Do you think so?" He asked in a very surprised tone, but it sounded as if in a moment he were about to burst out with an inexplicably joyful and surprised laugh.

"Of course. Everyone needs a decent friend, no?”

 5. Gain the trust of Lilia, Silver and Sebek.

Lilia, one of Malleus' closest people. It is much more likely that you will meet him before Malleus. He will be very proud when he learns that Malleus has found a friend. If you become a taster of Lilia, in terms of his pastries, he will 100% like you, and at 20% you will leave the kitchen alive and well.

Silver, who has mastered the art of sleeping in any conditions. It's easy to get him into your plans, although with the craziest ones he will hesitate. Rather well-disposed towards everyone, he can cover for you when you are not in class— but he usually inadvertently falls asleep and both of you often have penal assignments after school.

Sebek, faithful to Malleus, if he doesn't like you, you won't have too many opportunities to stay by Malleus's side without a thunderous glances at you. He will recognize you if you will listen carefully to his monologues about his master and as a sign of your friendship, he will teach you by heart of all the titles and achievements of Malleus so far.

With this trio by your side, you can get a lot further than you might have imagined...

 6. Be a master in hide and seek.

You’d give your right arm that your breath was too loud.

You pressed your hands to your mouth as you crouched in the corner of the room.

From whose voices you already heard, you knew that Lilia had already found Sebek. This meant that you or Silver would still be helping cook dinner since Malleus didn’t come at the start of the game.

This may seem silly, but the ability to play classic games was one of the elements of the art of survival in Diasomnia.

It was thanks to games like ‘stone-paper-scissors’, hide and seek or tag that household chores fell on the shoulders of the losers. Lilia loved the idea, and there was always a proud smile on his lips when he saw his beloved children play together.

You heard the steps behind you and shivered.

Very slowly you turned around and looked up to see Malleus standing over you and wondering what you were doing, crouching in the darkest corner of the room.

Puns were also included in the survival pack.

Fearing that Lilia would hear your whisper, you put your finger on your mouth, asking him not to say a word. You put a begging eye into it – all but not cooking with Lilia. Not again.

Malleus nodded, recognizing the gravity of the situation, although he smiled.

Really, no one would want Malleus to be an enemy.

Or at least in such a situation.

 7. Do not hesitate to ask him for help with learning.

"In theory, you should focus on the space around you," Malleus pulled a wand in front of him. It flashed, and almost at the same time, a thin but incredibly strong protective barrier was created around him. “Weaker spells can be reflected. In turn, the stronger ones are better to block”

You nodded understandingly.

Defensive magic was not something easy to understand. Most depended on the person against whom the counter spell was being prepared. And there are countless people who walk on this Earth and want to start fights.

"Unique spells block or avoid physically," he continued. You nodded at every subsequent sentence, slowly feeling like all the lessons are eventually gaining transparency. “Using unique magic against unique magic, the stronger will win, both will lead to explosions or completely reduce.

He looked at you when you wrote down the last sentence in your notebook.

"I sincerely hope that you will only need this information in class," he said with a sigh. "If you need help, call me. I will come. I promise.”

 8. Sometimes be persuaded to wear extravagant clothes.

"Do you really think it suits me?" you turned around, looking at yourself from every possible angle in the mirror.

You were going to the theater in a few classes to see some era-related play that you've been discussing now in history lessons. Everyone, respecting the reputation, actions and achievements of theatre, dressed in their best clothes.

Malleus stood next to you.

He was already wearing a black and white outfit with green accessories. They all worked so well together and fitted him like a glove that you were sure that the whole outfit was made especially for him.

"Yes," he replied. "Everything you put on today suited you very well.”

Once again, with critical eyesight, you looked at the outfit, face and hair, before you quickly turned off the lights in the room and closed the door behind you.

Then you smiled at Malleus.

"We can go now," you said. You made your way through the portal to the main NRC building. "And... thank you for your help.

"My pleasure," he said. Under no circumstances was it just a polite formula. He really loved looking at you.

 9. Invite him to your birthday/party.

"Another break from school soon, huh?" — you muttered, leaning against the railing.

You took a deep breath and let the fresh, pleasant air refresh you.

"Are you going to home, [Name]?" Malleus asked. Green lights were still flying around him, so you guessed he’d just appeared here.

"I haven't decided yet," you sighed. "It would be nice to go home, but the break won't be very long... Ah, that's right!” you straightened up and turned to him. "How about spending another break together? As soon as I can, I will contact my family... although I cannot promise anything.”

Though he did not show it, Malleus' heart beat a little faster.

Spend free time? With someone? With someone he likes?

"Of course," he sounded less calm than he thought. He wasn’t often invited anywhere, even for the things he should have been on, so there was a lot of excitement growing in his body. "I don't see anything against it.”

 10. From "The Great Malleus Draconia-sama" to "Love".

"Ah, The Great Malleus-sama!" you sighed theatrically, taking from him a box of chocolates with a joyful smile. You could promise that because of this dark-haired boy here, you slowly become pampered. "Thank you for your generosity!”

Malleus frowned.

"The Great Malleus-sama"..?” he pondered, putting his fingers to his chin. "Did Sebek told you again to call me with this title?"

"No," you laughed softly at his reaction. "I did it out of curiosity. Maybe I could call you some cute nickname, hmm?" you smiled mischievously.

"For example?"

"By adding ‘-chan’ to your name?” you turned on your phone and typed something related to the nicknames. You started reading suggestions and struggled to hold back from laughing. ” ’Sunshine’, ‘star’, ‘flower’, ‘sweetheart’, ‘love’...

"I like the last one," he said, and the invisible force stung you to the ground.

"Would you like me to call you like that? Out of curiosity or out of love?" You laughed, but your cheeks were all red with blushes.

He smiled sincerely at your reaction.

"Hmm, I wonder..?"

If i'm not bothering could i ask of you still do the series how to win the heart of?

Sure!

I wish to write “how to win a heart of” guides for all twisted boys, but if you have a favourite character, ask without any hesitation!

I will be more than happy to write something for you! 😊

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..!"