Twisted Wonderland: Glorious Masquerade - Let the Bell of Solace Ring

Chapter 4-11: What About With You?

After exploring the Student Council's office, the rest of the group is able to make their way to the Bell Tower. After running up the stairs, they're able to reach the interior of the Bell Tower.

"We've finally reached the bell tower," Azul says, a little tired.

"Indeed. Now we have, but to make our way to the top floor," Malleus says.

Briar looks up, "And we still need to find out where Rollo is."

Idia however, remains silent.

Silver turns to Idia, "Idia's been pretty quiet for a while now."

"Ever since reading that diary, he's ceased his grousing for some reason. It's a welcome change," Sebek says.

"All four of them read Rollo's diary... I wonder what affected him so much," Silver wonders.

"Maybe, I mean, I did feel bad about reading his diary without him knowing, but it ended up holding the answer we need," Briar says. Then turns to Idia, "But... Idia has been silent."

Then says in thought, "And I think I know why. After all, Idia and I understand how Rollo felt."

Idia remains silent.

Malleus also asks, "What's the matter, Shroud? We've finally reached Flamme's base of operations, yet you're still frowning. Is your heart not in it? If so, then step aside now before you slow the rest of us down."

Then Azul says, "...Idia. Whatever your thoughts on the matter, you must know that Rollo is still our enemy. And yet you still hesitate?"

Idia soon says, "...Look, I'm not hesitating. I was just thinking...this will not stand. I'm invested now. I'll get to the top of this stupid, low-tech bell tower even if I have to crawl on my hands and knees!"

"Oh, NOW you're motivated? Did my words strike a chord within you?" Sebek responds.

Idia is confused, "Wut. What kind of gibberish are you spouting? Sorry, I don't speak Musclehead."

And soon enough, the fire lotuses bloom and spread across the area as well.

"...And there are the firelotuses, as expected," Malleus says.

"Of course," Azul says, "There's no way Rollo wouldn't install defenses to safeguard the bell. I imagine the inside of the tower got the largest power infusion when the bell rang, given how loudly it echoes in here."

"The firelotuses are covering every square meter, and this place was all pillars and rafters to start with. It's red all the way up, with no room for even a single step... Like a giant red sign shouting: 'DO NOT CLIMB.'" Idia says.

"Getting past all of this will be a challenge," Malleus says.

Soon, Sebek steps forward, "Malleus. Allow us to handle this!"

"What?" Malleus questions.

Then Silver says, "Sebek and I will draw the flowers away. I could never face my father if you were to fall here."

"Remember, Lilia said you would be in good hands with us. So we shall protect you, whatever it takes!" Sebek says.

Malleus is surprised, "Silver, Sebek..."

"We won't be able to protect you all the way up. For that, I can only ask your forgiveness," Silver says.

"Even should this be the last time we ever see you..." Sebek responds. Then says, "We could ask for no greater honor than to have contributed in some small way to your bright and shining future, my liege!"

"What? Are we suddenly in a medieval drama or something?" Idia questions, confused.

Briar giggles with a smile.

Azul questions, "Must these Diasomnia boys be so theatrical about everything...?"

Then Idia says, "Malleus is clearly the strongest guy here. What do they even have to worry about?"

Silver turns to the others, "Briar. Azul. Idia. Please take care of Malleus in our stead!"

"Uh, did you even hear what I said?" Idia questions, dumbfounded.

"Don't even think about slowing Malleus down!" Sebek questions.

"Silver. Sebek. I won't speak overlong. Instead, I'll say this... I have truly fine retainers. That's all," Malleus says.

"Malleus... Oh, how you humble me with your praise!" Sebek says.

Soon, Silver says, "I'll ensure it's justified and get results."

"Good. Now show me your resolve," Malleus says.

Silver & Sebek say, "YES, SIR!"

"Can we roll the credits now?" Idia asks.

"Briar. Shroud. Ashengrotto. Do not cast your gazes back. We must sally forth toward our ultimate destination-the Bell of Solace!'" Malleus says.

"The answer is no, apparently," Azul says.

"Fine, whatever... Guess we're gonna be in a drama while going up this tower," Idia says.

"Come on guys, let's go," Briar says.

Soon, the four take their leave up the stairs.

Sebek huffs, "Hmph. I could have handled this alone, you know."

"I should say the same, Sebek. You could've gone with Malleus," Silver says.

"Absurd. There's no way you could've fought off this many fire lotuses by yourself!" Sebek says.

"What about you?" Silver questions.

"Hah, are you sleep talking? You hardly need to ask," Sebek says, "What could possibly be a threat when the two of us are united? NOTHING, THAT'S WHAT!"

And with that, the two begin attacking the flowers with whatever needs necessary, their magic and their wits.