The three boys continue running down the stairs, and the Phantom is on their tail.
"We gotta stop that Phantom," Azul says.
"I'll get it," Tanzanite says.
He then uses his magic to stop the Phantom in its tracks. Tanzanite continues to fire his magic without signs of stopping. The Phantom fights back, but Azul quickly turns around and helps Tanzanite fight off against the Phantom. Soon, the Phantom ends up getting defeated and begins to melt.
As it melts, the Phantom says, "CURSE YOU... CUUURSE..."
Soon the Phantom has melted into an ink puddle.
Tanzanite sighs in relief, "That was close."
"My word, that startled me," Azul says, "I certainly didn't expect them to drop down from the ceiling. What is this, a horror movie?"
Riddle breathes heavily, "I was more startled by you kicking me! You almost knocked me down the stairs!"
"Sorry, octopus habits are hard to break. I meant to reach out an arm, but I inadvertently used my leg instead," Azul says.
"That's a lie if I've ever heard one," Riddle says. He then notices a footstep on his cape, "Ugh, there's a footstep on my cape now. You may look classy, but your behavior's anything but."
"Still beats having your head covered in blot, doesn't it?" Azul says, "I can't worry about acting classy when someone's life is in danger."
"You make it sound like you're in these kinds of situations all the time," Riddle responds, "Is life under the sea truly so treacherous?"
"Well, we live closer to large carnivores and venomous creatures than people tend to on land. But they're nothing to be afraid of, as long as you know how to deal with them. Especially if you can use magic," Azul says.
"How old were you when you first learned to use magic, anyway?" Riddle asks.
"I learned basic things like pulling objects towards myself about when I was eight. Both my grandmother and mother are mages, and they taught me some fundamentals... But I wasn't always a keen learner, and my family was more laid back. They didn't ask much of me except to do my homework. I didn't start studying magic to earnest until around the time I started middle school."
"Ahh, so I see," Riddle replies.
"Wow," Tanzanite says, a little surprised.
Azul is shocked to hear it, "...You don't have to say it! I am keenly aware of how spoiled I was, thank you very much!"
"Huh?" Riddle reacts, "I didn't say anything about it."
"I regret it now, believe me. I spent years just lounging around, doing whatever I felt like, and barely studying... Yes, It was an abysmal routine. I wasted time and gained precious little!"
"I mean, okay, it sounds like there was some room for improvement..." Riddle says.
"I resolved to do better, and threw myself into studying everything I could... But it's frustrating to see so clearly the difference between me and someone who's worked hard their whole life. If only I'd gotten an earlier start," Azul says.
"Well, that's a healthy amount of self-awareness," Riddle says. "But if you'd focused solely on your studies the way I did as a child... I doubt you'd have the same ambition and drive that you do today."
"Is that... a compliment?" Azul questions.
"I'm not trying to insult you... Nor am I really complimenting you, but still," Riddle says.
"Ambition, huh..." Azul replies, "Heh. you know what? You're right. I've yielded the vanguard position to you for now, but I have no intention of relaxing on the back line indefinitely. One moment of inattention, and you might find me giving the valedictorian speech at graduation."
Riddle scoffs, "Hmph. I hate to break it to you, but the word 'inattention' isn't in my vocabulary. I'll continue to stand at the fore as long as I'm in school - and after it as well. I won't lose to anyone, ever. Not even you.
"Heh. We'll see how long that smug attitude lasts," Azul says. "Sounds like we have more reason than ever to stop the world from being reset."
"Um maybe..." Tanzanite replies.
He then says, "But still, I suppose everyone has a different lifestyle, and some are harder than others. In fact, I remember that Jasper and I had to do things on our own once our parents passed away.
"I remember you mentioning it as well. It must be difficult for you. However, I can tell that you've been able to use magic. I have to wonder, how old were you when you learned magic," Riddle says.
"Jasper and I learned how to use magic when we were five. Both our parents were mages as well, so they taught us a lot, both education and casting magic. However, Jasper and I have different styles of magic, and studying methods. I like to learn magic from reading while Jasper likes visual learning. Ever since our parents died, we both had to do a lot on our own, especially our living situations," Tanzanite says.
"I see. In other words, you and your brother lived a difficult life, but also gained independence. You self taught magic, and learn from each other," Azul says.
"Yes. However, since we got to the school, it's good to be able to learn magic from the teachers and from you guys," Tanzanite says.
"Yes. That is true. As upperclassmen, it's also important to set good examples for first years," Riddle says.
"For now, it's best we get going. I'm not sure how long Idia and Ortho got with their plan," Azul says.
"Right," Tanzanite agrees.
The three continue walking down the stairs and soon spot something ahead.
"Ah, I see a containment facility up ahead. According to the map, it's the last one," Riddle says.
"Which, in turn, means it houses the most dangerous Phantoms of all," Azul says. "Let's proceed with all due caution."
Riddle and Tanzanite agree to the idea.
YOU ARE READING
Twisted Wonderland Book 6: The Watchman of the Underworld
FanfictionAfter Grim attacked Briar after the SDC, she and her friends search for him, but captured by Ortho. A few days later, the school has been invaded by strong people is armor, and has captured, Riddle, Leona, Azul, Jamil, Vil, and Briar, and has Grim i...
