Twisted Wonderland 2

Things Growing Dire

You're lying down on one of the couches, having fallen asleep. After traveling for who knows how long down those stairs and facing against a titan, it can wear someone out. But unbeknownst to you, you've accidentally fallen asleep on Vil's lap. He doesn't seem to mind though. Gently running his fingers through your hair.

The Thunder Spear glows bright once again and the timer shuts off. Vil hums as he glances back down to your sleeping form. "Looks like the spear's ready to go. Pity that I have to wake Y/N up."

Vil gently shakes your shoulders. You stir, wrapping your arms around his waist. Vil chuckles as he shakes his head. "My little flower, you make this much harder for me."

Vil shakes you again.

You blearily blink your eyes open, staring into Vil's eyes. His face is so close, your noses are practically touching. Your eyes widen, now fully awake. You quickly clamber off Vil.

"Oh, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to fall asleep on you!"

Vil only chuckles as he waves you off. "No need to fret over it, little flower."

You feel your cheeks go red as you look anywhere but in Vil's direction. Rook smiles as he stands up, stretching his arms. "Now that we've had ample opportunity to rest, let us make haste and continue on."

Epel starts stashing the snacks into his bag. "We'll be facing even stronger phantoms up ahead, and possibly that Titan again. Using magic really works up an appetite, so we should bring plenty of food for the road!"

You nod, grabbing a few yourself. "You can't fight on an empty stomach. I hope Grim isn't too hungry."

"True." Rook agrees. "It's always wise to be prepared."

Vil clears his throat as he examines the map. "According to the map, there's another supply hangar two sectors down. Remember that we still have to carry the spear, so don't get too greedy when loading up on supplies."

Epel sighs. "Okay."

You and the boys step out of the room and begin walking down the next flight of stairs. Epel glances over to Vil who's carrying the heavy spear. "Oh, Vil, let me carry the spear for you. I'm used to hauling stuff around with magic. I do it all the time back home."

Vil quirks an eye with a smirk. "My, now you're volunteering to carry my things? What brought about this change of heart?"

Epel rubs his arm. "I wasn't that useful when we fought the Titan. So I figured a little heavy lifting was the least I could do."

"I'm insulted." Vil scoffs. "You seriously think a little lifting would tire me out?"

"Ah, that's not what I meant." Epel shakes his head. "I just think you should conserve your magic as much as you can, for when we really need it! Y/N and I aren't as useful in battle as you and Rook. So, y'know, I just wanted to help out in other ways."

You nod. "I can help in any way I can."

Vil hums in thought. "Normally you're the first to the rush to the fore, despite my objections. Why the sudden crisis of confidence?"

Rook chuckles. "He's recognizing his weaknesses. That's proof he's growing stronger. But Monsieur Pommette, Y/N, you need not fret so. You're already doing your part perfectly well."

"Rook's right." Vil agrees. "The last thing I need is for you to push yourself now, then pass out at an inopportune time later."

Epel nods. "Yes, sir."

"Nonetheless, whenever I see Vil schlepping around heavy luggage, I too, get the urge to carry it for him." Rook laughs. "When we first enrolled, people would volunteer in droves to carry his bags when they heard he was going shopping at the school store or in town. And it wasn't just Pomefiore students. Sometimes people from other dorms would join them! Wherever Vil goes, a crowd follows, I suppose."