A fairytale of a beautiful maiden, the beloved Frost Flower Princess was supposed to be staying in the comfort of her castle masquerading as a cage to protect her from the dangers outside, imprisoned by her own brothers.
That is, until a mysterious...
Group A had stopped at another shop nestled along the stone path of Fleur City.
"Is this a general store?" Azul asked, adjusting his glasses as he studied the cozy exterior.
"That's right. Go on and have a look around." Rollo confirmed smoothly, stepping aside.
The group stepped inside, the scent of cedarwood and old paper greeting them. Shelves were lined with curiosities—jewelry boxes, handmade soaps, finely carved charms, and knick-knacks.
"It looks like the perfect place to do some souvenir shopping." Deuce said, looking around with wonder.
"True. Perhaps I'll pick out a few things for the Octavinelle students." Azul mused aloud, fingering a delicate pen carved from deep sea blue wood.
"Bwha?!"
Both Deuce and Epel gawked at him, completely floored.
Azul arched a brow. "What's with that reaction? It's rather rude, you know."
"Azul?" Epel muttered, squinting at him like he was seeing a mirage.
"Buying souvenirs for students?!" Deuce blinked hard.
Azul turned his head slowly, expression unreadable behind his calm smile. "What's so surprising about that?"
"You're going to actually give them away...for FREE?!" Deuce asked, stunned.
Azul's gaze sharpened just slightly."That's generally what you do with gifts, yes. What do you two take me for? I'm capable of caring for my fellow Octavinelles. This is a fine chance to convey my gratitude for them."
"Okay, yeah, makes sense." Deuce finally muttered, scratching his cheek with a nervous sweat. "Sorry for suggesting otherwise."
"Golly." Epel added, sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck. "Vil said you were greedy and told me to be careful around you... But you're a caring housewarden, Azul!" he brightly smiled.
Azul chuckled softly, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. "Heh heh heh, just so. I'm a VERY caring housewarden."
His smile lingered a bit too long—syrupy sweet with a glint of something unreadable in his eyes. "Though I never said I wouldn't expect anything in return..." is tone dipped into something quieter, something sharper, just under his breath.
Before the boys could question it, Azul's attention drifted toward a shelf near the counter. "Hm, What's this? Wooden blocks with letters on them?"
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