Twisted Wonderland 2

I Dont Regret It

The next day, the moon shines brightly onto Fluer City. Casting brilliant moonlight onto the streets below and illuminating the way to the statue of the Righteous Judge.

Epel lets out a yawn as he stops by the statue. "Oof, I almost overslept... This is where we're all supposed to meet up for the ball. I wonder if everyone's already here."

"You look like you're asleep on your feet, Epel."

Epel whirls around to see Riddle approach. "Riddle! Sorry, guess you caught me yawning. After the firelotuses went away, some guys from Noble Bell College helped us to our rooms. I passed right out and slept all day, but I'm still tired."

Riddle chuckles. "I can hardly blame you. All that flying must've left you exhausted. For my part, I'm not tired in the least, since someone ensured I got PLENTY of sleep."

Epel nervously laughs, scratching the back of his neck. "Are you, um... mad at me?"

"Am I mad, you ask?" Riddle scoffs. "I should think so! You used your signature spell to put me to sleep and then handled the fight by yourself. That was far too dangerous! One misstep and you could've lost your magic! How could you do something so rash?"

"I'm sorry, Riddle!" Epel bows his head. "I apologize for using Crimson Slumber on you. But from where I was standing, it was the only way out of that mess. So I don't regret it!"

Riddle sighs. "Really, now. To think that you, a freshman, would save me. I know they took me by surprise, but I'm still beyond mortified. You did well, Epel. Thank you."

Epel laughs sheepishly.

Deuce and Rook join the two boys.

"Hello, Housewarden." Deuce greets.

"Greetings, Epel." Rook smiles. "I hear you deserve a standing ovation."

Epel looks to Deuce with worry. "Deuce! I heard you twisted your ankle. Are you okay now?"

Deuce nods. "Yeah. I ate a ton and slept a bunch, and now I'm right as rain!"

Riddle shakes his head. "I don't think it's quite that simple. The first aid you received here probably deserves most of the credit. And Deuce, I heard you performed just as admirably as Epel did."

"Indeed he did!" Rook cheers. "Would that you could've seen it, Roi des Roses. He let out the most heroic roar. And the way he stood boldly in the face of our foes, it was like a card soldier from legends!"

Deuce smiles, rubbing the back of his neck. "Gosh, now you're making me blush."

"Azul also told me how he used your signature spell at a critical juncture." Riddle adds. "You showed courage in rescuing Idia, and made a quick, crucial decision to trust Azul with your most valuable spell. You've performed admirably. I must hold a tea party in your honor once we get back."

Deuce's eyes widen. "Huh? A tea party for me? I'm flattered. But if Ace finds out I got riled up and said all that stuff, he'll make fun of me for days."

Rook pats Deuce's back. "Non, non. There's no cause to fret. I've no doubt that even Ace will sing your praises! After all, you deserve nothing less. Your beauty is seared into my mind. The way you shone was an inspiration to me when I nearly lost heart."

"You say that, but I saw you singing while you were tearing up flowers." Deuce says. "You looked pained, but it was like you were still enjoying it. It was like watching a musical."

Epel chuckles. "Eeyup, sounds about right. Bet it threw you for a loop, huh?"

Riddle smiles. "I never imagined two freshmen would display such heroics. It's surprising, wouldn't you agree, Rook?"