Twisted Wonderland Book 6: The Watchman of the Underworld

Chapter 7: A Performance Fee

This comes as a shock for Briar, the doormats, and the boys of the team.

"Ain't nobody asked fer yer money!" Epel says, in a refusing tone.

But Vil says, "It's a performance fee, plus compensation for the month of nonstop rehearsals. It's not an unreasonable sum when you look at it that way."

"But..." Deuce says, trying to speak up.

But Vil continues, "'You cannot buy my feelings with money.' That's what I said to my manager, yet here I am, unable to think of any better recompense. The irony isn't lost on me, I assure you. But I simply won't be able to move on otherwise. So please, accept it. For my benefit, if not your own."

Everyone remains silent.

Just then, Kalim says, "Okay, sure! I'll take it!"

"Kalim?!" Jamil questions, sounding surprised.

"Just to be clear... I still don't think this is your fault, Vil. But if that's what'll help you move on, then I'll take the money. And now that I've accepted it, I'm going to donate my share to Ramshackle Dorm!" Kalim explains.

Everyone but Jamil exclaims in shock, "WHAT?!"

Jamil rolls his eyes, "You and your snap decisions... Let me guess, the story about Neige gave you the idea?"

"Pfft, no!" Kalim denies.

But then says, "...Well, maybe a little. But also, I was truly shocked when we stayed here.

It's SUPER run-down!"

"You don't need to shout," Jasper says.

Sereia giggles, "You should've seen it when we first got here."

"Yeah. It was really rundown," Briar says.

And Kalim continues, "The hot water ran out when I showered, the roof leaked when it rained, it was always drafty... I'd never lived like that before! They sure don't call it Ramshackle for nothing! Ha ha ha!"

"...Yeah, I won't deny that," Jamil says.

Kalim continues, "Briar, Seria, Jasper, Tanzanite, Trinket, and the ghosts living here were such gracious hosts during our training camp. I honestly had a blast! So I want to give Ramshackle a little facelift as a token of my gratitude. The money's ours, right? Which means we can use it how we want.

"Roi Doré, your noble heart makes you worthier than ever of your golden appellation," Rook happily says.

And Jamil says, "Kalim's gesture would feel hollow if I didn't follow his example. I accept my share of the pay, and will donate it to Ramshackle as well. I was never in it for the money anyway."

And then Epel says, "I made a deal with you, Vil. But at the end of the day, I still couldn't out-charm Neige. It wouldn't feel right to take your money when I couldn't hold up my end of the bargain. But I understand what you've been through, and I know how hard this is for you. So I'll take the money... and put it all towards fixin' up Ramshackle Dorm! Wouldn't it be great to give it the ol' spit shine and surprise Grim when he gets back?

"Are you all sure about this...?" Briar asks.

Kalim, Epel, and Jamil nod their heads in reply.

Ace deflates, "Maaan, talk about peer pressure."

"Rrgh... That money would go a long way for my family. But still..." Deuce replies, frustrated by the pressure.

And then Ace says, "Oh, I'm taking the money. If Vil's offering, who am I to say no? He put us through the wringer. And I've been eyeing some new clothes and shoes lately."

"Me too, but... It just doesn't sit right..." Deuce says, still scaling on the situation.

And then Ace says, "Come on, Deuce, quit it with the goody two-shoes act. Let's be real about this. We auditioned because we wanted the money. Why hold back now that you're getting paid?"

"Well... I mean..." Deuce says, still skeptic.

And then Vil says to Deuce, "Deuce, no one should donate money because they feel pressured to. I'm aware this won't entirely make up for my behavior. But when I sent out that call for applicants, I promised a share of the winnings. Hence, I am simply acting in good faith. You all saved my life. Now hold your head high and claim what you deserve."

Deuce then thinks of it more and soon says, "All... All right. THANK YOU, SIR!

"Were you listening at all? You don't have to thank me for something you deserve," Vil firmly says.

And Rook says, "I shall donate my share to Ramshackle, as previously agreed upon. The beautiful time we shared together, sweating and striving toward a common goal, is all the reward I need. Who could ask for anything more?"

Kalim cheers, "Woohoo! We can make so many repairs with this much money! Fixing the leaks is a given, but it'd be nice to replace the faded wallpaper and curtains too! I mean, this whole place just lacks pizzazz. Oh, I know! We should reupholster the couches!"

"Slow down," Jamil says, "Our priority should be repairing the plumbing, gas, and any other essential utilities. We'll start by listing out the necessary repairs and seeing what the budget can cover..."

"Ahh, I can just picture the renovated splendor now," Rook says.

"Well, I'm not gonna donate my share..." Ace says, "But when Grim gets back, I'll treat you both to a nice lunch at the cafeteria."

"Good idea. I'll throw in some lattes and dessert!" Deuce says.

Briar smiles and says, "Thank you. Thank you all so much. And I'm sure Grim will thank you too."