In the Diasomnia Dorm lounge, Sebek is expressing his distress and disappointment.
Sebek says in despair, "No... How could this be? How could Silver and I win the raffle instead of Malleus and Lilia?!"
"There are always winners and losers when you draw lots. That's the way of things," Lilia says, and turns to Malleus, "Wouldn't you agree, Malleus?"
"I do, yes," Malleus says, "Why lament this turn of events? You should rejoice that you were chosen as our representatives. Admittedly, I didn't make it there in time for the headmage's drawing..."
"I have trouble rejoicing as well," Silver says, "Sebek and I are supposed to be your guards, Malleus. It would be wrong for both of us to leave you and venture into another country..."
But Lilia says, "Oh, don't fret about the details! The young should make the most of such opportunities when they arise. Besides, I've enjoyed more trips than I can count. Now it's your turn. No more fretting, go off and enjoy yourselves."
"Lilia speaks rightly. Have enough fun for all of us," Malleus says.
Sebek responds, "M... My liege... Such compassion! I, Sebek, shall devote my life to serving you!"
Suddenly, they hear knocking at the door.
"Hm? We seem to have a visitor," Malleus questions.
The door opens and headmage Crowley walks in.
"Hello there," Crowley says.
"Why, if it isn't the headmage," Lilia says, "What brings you here?"
"I have something important to discuss regarding the social," Crowley says. Then turns to Malleus, "Draconia! I know this is short notice, but I'd like to add you to the guest list!"
"PARDON?!" Everyone reacts in shock.
"You would add me? But you selected the 10 representatives fairly. What about the raffle?" Malleus responds, confused.
And Crowley explains, "Actually, when I informed Noble Bell College who would be attending, they specifically requested your presence. 'We positively MUST have the renowned mage Malleus Draconia at the social!' They said."
"Hm..." Malleus replies.
Crowley continues. "'Only a headmage of your caliber could nurture such a great and powerful mage!' They added. 'Hats off to you! Would that I could be half as great as you!' And how could I say no in the face of such a clear fact?"
"'Nurture'?!" Sebek questions, upset, "How dare they! You weren't the one to nurture Malleus! He's standing right here—"
"They requested Malleus specifically, hm..." Lilia says.
"Interesting. Now I understand. In that case, I shall join you," Malleus says.
"Oh, indeed? Are you certain, Draconia?" Crowley questions.
"Of course. If they requested my presence directly... That makes it...an invitation, doesn't it?" Malleus says.
Sebek & Silver answer, "Of course...!"
"It would be poor form to turn down such a courteous invitation. I gladly accept," Malleus says.
"Yes, of course you would..." Lilia says, "But I suppose this will be a good experience for you. I won't object."
"But this means we'll all be going to the social without you, Father," Silver says.
And Lilia says, "Khee hee hee, it's not a big deal. I'm at a school, aren't I? I have plenty of classmates—not to mention clubmates—to keep me company. Besides, we enrolled in Night Raven College to broaden Malleus's horizons. What better way to do that than attend an interschool function in another land? And I know he'll be in good hands with you and Sebek. I expect you both to guard Malleus diligently so he can enjoy the social."
"Yes, sir!" Sebek & Silver say.
"Sorry to leave you alone, Lilia. I'll bring back more gifts than you can hold in your arms," Malleus says.
"Absolutely! You can count on that, Lilia!" Sebek says.
"Ooh, yes! Bring me the shiniest, most fascinating souvenirs you can find!" Lilia says.
"I'll pick out something that perfectly suits your tastes, Father," Silver says.
Soon, Crowley says, "Oh, thank goodness! Now I can save face! You needn't worry about safety in Fleur City. It's a very nice place. Besides, the Noble Bell student council president who extended our invitations was a most upstanding, trustworthy individual! I'm sure it will be a delightful event."
"Still... Hm. They invited me personally..." Malleus says, and smiles, "Such a gesture merits a fine thank-you gift. What shall I do about that...?"
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Twisted Wonderland: Glorious Masquerade - Let the Bell of Solace Ring
FanfictionThe Students of Night Raven receive an invitation to a school social from Noble Bell College. When they arrive in Fleur City, they are met with the sound of bells ringing, as the streets come alive for a yearly festival! However, a fiery blooming pr...
