Petals in the Dark

Enter Candy

Chapter 15: Enter Candy

The magical boys had just wrapped up another intense training session when, unexpectedly, a soft and high-pitched voice echoed through the clearing.

"Wow! You guys are even more amazing in person!"

The boys turned in unison, only to find a small creature approaching them—a fluffy, pink-furred being with curly yellow pigtail-like ears adorned with pink bows, big dark blue eyes accentuated with yellow wing-like markings, and pink and yellow heart symbols glowing on her forehead.

Mateo squinted, trying to make sense of what he was seeing. "What... is that?"

Candy skipped forward with a bounce, her little stubby legs working overtime as she made her way to them, completely unfazed by their confusion. "I'm Candy! The cutest, most fashionable magical guide you'll ever meet!" She twirled on the spot, her frilled pink collar bouncing as she did, showcasing her curly yellow tail.

Riku raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "A guide? What do you mean by that?"

Candy crossed her tiny arms and pouted, clearly unimpressed by Riku's attitude. "Duh! How do you think magical boys like you stay on track? I'm here to help with that... and make sure you don't mess things up!"

"Great..." Haru muttered under his breath. "Another responsibility."

Mateo, ever the mediator, crouched down to meet Candy at eye level. "Hey, it's okay. So, you're here to help us, right? How do you know about us?"

Candy's expression softened at Mateo's kindness. "I've been sent to assist you. The magic you boys are harnessing is ancient, and I'm here to make sure you unlock its full potential. I can sense great power, but you need guidance."

"Wait, so you're like our supervisor?" Yuki asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Kind of!" Candy hopped up and down. "But don't get it twisted, I'm not just any old supervisor. I know style, I know power, and most importantly—I know how to fight."

Despite her cutesy demeanor, there was something in Candy's serious tone that made the boys pause. She had an aura of authority, hidden under her bright, frilly appearance.

"What does that mean for us?" Riku asked, standing protectively in front of the others.

"It means you need to be on top of your game! You're magical boys now! And trust me, you're going to need every ounce of strength in the battles ahead. No slacking off!" Candy wagged her stubby finger at them.

Suddenly, Candy's tough demeanor softened again, and her lower lip quivered. "B-but I also just wanna help... and make sure you all look fabulous while doing it!" Her eyes welled up with tears, showing her childlike vulnerability.

Mateo immediately stepped forward, placing a comforting hand on Candy's head. "We'll take good care of you, Candy. And we're glad you're here."

Riku, still cautious, nodded. "We could use all the help we can get."

Candy beamed, her tears disappearing as fast as they had appeared. "Great! Now, let's talk strategy—and maybe we can fit in a makeover, too!"

As the boys prepared for the next phase of their journey with their new guide, Candy's enthusiasm filled the air, though none of them could have imagined the key role she would soon play in unlocking their ultimate potential.