"𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐊𝐎-𝐒𝐀𝐍, 𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐊𝐎-𝐒𝐀𝐍..." || TBHK SWAP AU

8. - 𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐄, 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐒𝐀𝐘 ...?

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In the classroom, Amane pushed his food around with a solemn expression on his face. He let out a dejected sigh, murmuring, "I guess... People from different species really can't understand each other..."

Tsukasa observed his brother closely, noting his downcast demeanor and the hint of melancholy in his voice. With a concerned tone, he inquired, "Amane... are you in love, by any chance???"

"Rice cakes..."

"RICE CAKES?!"

Amane's gaze remained fixed on his unfinished bento box as he continued to pick at his food. He let out another heavy sigh before murmuring, "Maybe it would have been better if I were a supernatural too..."

Tsukasa's worry grew as he observed Amane's disheartening demeanor. He remained silent for a moment before replying, "What's that supposed to mean??? Can we just go to the canteen already..."

"Well now, you wish to become an apparition?" A boisterous, disembodied voice abruptly broke Amane's musings, declaring, "What a delightful coincidence! We shall grant your wish!"

Amane's eyes darted around, searching for the source of the voice. "Who's talking to me?!" he questioned, his confusion evident.

Tsukasa, standing nearby, trembled in a mix of fear and concern. "A-Amane..." he stuttered, his voice quivering.

"Look down. I am down here." the mysterious voice prompted.

As Amane glanced down, his eyes fell upon a pair of fish swimming in a puddle on his desk. They greeted him politely, "Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Your Highness."

"F-F-FISH??!!!" Amane let out a startled shriek, startling the rest of his classmates who turned their attention towards him.

Out of concern, Tsukasa asked, "Are you alright?" but Amane darted a quick glance at Tsukasa, mumbled something incoherent, and dashed out of the classroom without providing a proper explanation, leaving his twin brother confused and worried.

"AMANE?!?!?!?!?"

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"Just so you know, I am the assistant to one of the School Seven Mysteries, plus I'm friends with a super great exorcist!" The boy exclaimed. "I don't know who you are, but if you lay a fin on me... you'll get worse than just burned!"

Amane clung anxiously to a tree in the schoolyard, attempting to assert himself before the two fish that loomed before him. He pointed a shaky finger at them, trying desperately to portray confidence.

The pufferfish remained unfazed, replying calmly, "Pardon me, but you're not all that convincing."

"It's true! You will get worse than just burned!!!"

The pufferfish continued with its composed demeanor as it floated in front of Amane. "Your Highness," it began, "please remain where you are and hear us out. We have come to free you from the clutches of that loathsome School Wonder."

Amane's eyes widened in surprise. "To free me from Hanako-chan? Why would you fish do something like that???" he questioned, his voice filled with disbelief.

The pufferfish continued, its voice matter-of-fact. "Has your highness forgotten? You carry a portion of our mistress' body within you."

"You mean... that scale?"

The pufferfish acknowledged his understanding. "Precisely." it replied, its tone calm and collected.

The pufferfish floated closer to Amane, its voice steady and firm. "It is our law that one who consumes the flesh and blood of our mistress will become our next ruler," it explained. "In other words, Your Highness, you are our prince."