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Reblogging to add. Another guest account replied to my sarcastic comment. Not the same guest. And then I get a Wattpad comment as well. The account was created literally an hour ago. Bots (im pretty sure it’s a bot) are getting way too rampant. 💀
This is actually stupid. I’m going to make the decision to block guest comments.


Got another one, how fun! Genuinely can’t tell if it’s a bot for this one. Commented on three different parts.
I know I should probably disable guest comments, but I have a couple of regulars that comment as guests and I’d feel bad alienating them because of dumbasses (bot or living) like this. 😩



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Got another one, how fun! Genuinely can’t tell if it’s a bot for this one. Commented on three different parts.
I know I should probably disable guest comments, but I have a couple of regulars that comment as guests and I’d feel bad alienating them because of dumbasses (bot or living) like this. 😩



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She’s a Monster [Twisted Wonderland X Fem!Reader]
Chapter 5
Rose Thorns
Back to Masterlist | Previous | Next
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
You didn't expect to be awestruck by NRC, but you are. Having been living in solitude — in the heart of nature, no less — you've never really bared witness to the craftsmanship skills humans have honed. It's quite extravagant and, in your opinion, maximalism taken to the utmost of levels, but you can definitely appreciate the effort that went into making such beautiful and intricate designs, despite your preference for minimalist, natural living.
Main Street, as the boys have called it, is a long walkway of polished stones that goes all the way up to the main building. It's lined with greenery at the sides and statues of very familiar historical figures. Up in the distance, you can see the large, castle-like building that is, apparently, the school you've been hearing about over the last days.
"Night Raven College is quite grand, no? I was not expecting as such. This is all man-made?" You say as you walk alongside the group.
Deuce nods. "Yeah, it's impressive, isn't it? It's at least a century old," he says, looking up at you. He then sheepishly rubs the back of his neck. "Oh, uh... but I guess you're older than NRC, huh?"
You offer a small smile, nodding. "Yes, quite."
"Huh," Ace hums. "You don't look like an old lady. More like you're not much older-looking than your mid-twenties."
"That's merely how we age. Plenty of monsters and non-humans do so far more slowly than humans," you say. "Ah. Those statues. They represent the Great Seven, don't they? Night Raven College holds them in high regards, then?"
"Yeah, apparently they were the top mages in this word," Tatsuya muses.
"Hah! Even (Y/N) knows who the Great Seven are!" Ace says, elbowing Tatsuya.
"Ace, darling, Tatsuya isn't from this world. You cannot fault him for not knowing of them," you say, making Tatsuya give Ace a look that just says 'eat shit'.
Your group isn't the only one on Main Street. There are other students walking the path on their way to school. You don't pay much mind to the other humans surrounding you; your attention is mainly on the scenery and your boys, though you are somewhat unsettled about being in the middle of the civilization that used to hunt yours so much.
Your ears, however, they pick up on whispered voices. Friends and classmates question themselves as their eyes flicker over to you, curiosity about your identity and presence taking over.
"Is that a girl? Shit, it is. What's a woman doing at Night Raven? She can't be a student, right?"
"I dunno, she's not wearing a uniform. Not that I mind the view. God damn."
"Is she a fae? She's got those horns and pointy ears like Draconia."
"I have no idea what she is, but that giant woman can do things to me."
"Watch your mouth! Lady looks like she could snap you in half!"
"And what a way to go."
"Why is she bare foot?"
"Why are you looking at her feet...?"
Tatsuya rolls his eyes as he overhears some of the comments, throwing his head back in exasperation. "Ugh... keep it to yourselves," he mutters.
Grim, bless him, completely lacking any kind of self-awareness, skips on ahead of the group. There's a pep in his step as he stands tall — as tall as he can be, poor little short stack — and proud as he smirks.
"Heh! Look at all of 'em, staring at me like that! These chumps KNOW greatness when they see it!" Grim boasts. "Hey, hey! Yeah, you! Step aside! Night Raven College student coming through."
"Oi!" Ace says, brows furrowing. "We're all NRC students here. You're not that special!"
"Uh... besides," Deuce adds, eyes glancing over at the various, curious students that are practically ogling you. "I don't think it's you that they're looking at."
"Of course they're lookin' at me!" Grim counters, flicking his bow proudly. "The collar's catching everybody's eye! I don't see none of 'em sporting such a cool collar!"
"The only reason you've got a collar is because you don't have opposable thumbs and are useless at holding things properly!" Ace says, clenching his teeth as he gets closer to bursting a blood vessel. "You look like someone's little pocket pet."
"Guys, it's too fucking early for this shit," Tatsuya says.
"Well, it's so much cooler than the one you're stuck with! You know? The one that makes it so that you can't use magic," Grim says. He then begins to cackle, snorting a bit. "B-But ya know, I'm sure the school could use another janitor. BWAHAHA!"
"Okay, Grim, that's enough. He's suffered enough already," Tatsuya groans.
Clenching his fists, Ace snaps. "Oh, you little shit! I swear to god, when I get my magic back, your hide is the first on my chopping block!"
"Ace!" Deuce hisses. "What is it about 'no more incidents' don't you understand? The headmage JUST told you yesterday!"
You sigh, shaking your head. You look over to Tatsuya who gives you an exasperated shrug in return. He makes a vague hand gesture towards the bickering guys, giving you the green light to take matters into your own hands. So, you turn around, narrowing your eyes at them as you show your teeth a bit.
"That's quite enough out of you!" You say in an authoritative voice that has both Grim and Ace freezing and blinking up at you. Even poor Deuce, who hasn't done anything wrong, can't help but flinch under your gaze.
Now that you have their silence and attention, you bend down to pick Grim up by the scruff of his neck, lifting him up to eye level with yourself. He wriggles around in your grip.
"What might be the end goal of purposefully riling Ace up as such? My congratulations to you for making it into Night Raven College, but your attitude will get you eaten up by those larger and stronger than you. Open your mouth wisely," you say.
It's the cold, hard truth, but it seems to make Grim pause for a moment as his ears flop, unable to find a retort. He looks as though he's been scolded by a disappointed mother. Letting him stew in your words, you adjust the little cat monster in your arms, no longer holding him by the scruff, and look at Ace with sympathy.
"Breathe, dear," you say to Ace, gently running your claws through his hair. "Letting your head be so fogged with anger will not aid you in having a civil, meaningful conversation with your housewarden."
"Hmph... fine," Ace huffs, looking off to the side.
Deuce nods. "Yeah, what she said. But you're gonna have to accept that you won't be able to participate in class without magic, regardless. So, let's just go to the housewarden right now. We have time before classes. The sooner you get the collar off, the better."
"Yup, remember that was the plan in the first place, Ace?" Tatsuya says. "So, let's make it a field trip. To Heartslabyul we go."
"It's not a fucking field trip!"
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
The lot of you had made a quick detour to the Hall of Mirrors, the location in which the portals to the various dorms are located. According to Tatsuya, there are a total of seven dorms; eight of them, if you count Ramshackle, though it doesn't appear to be an official dorm anymore.
You head over to a mirror where a heart-shaped crest labelled 'Heartslabyul' rests atop it. The heart is red and black, split down the middle. The black portion has little symbols engraved in it, resembling a spade, heart, diamond and clover in that respective order. Atop the heart, there's a crown.
The crest makes you think of the Queen of Hearts. With the statues you've seen on Main Street, you come to the conclusion that the Great Seven must have inspired Night Raven's dorms. It's an interesting way of commemorating and bringing homage to these historical figures.
Mirror traveling is something that boggles your mind quite a bit. Being able to walk through a solid, inanimate object and find yourself in a completely different location is something you've never experienced until you've come to NRC. For you, traveling has always been done physically, slithering your way to from point A, to point B, even if the journey could take days. The experience has always been worth it, to you, but you suppose these students have places to be. Fast.
You still question the safety of dimension traveling through mirrors, however, and for the time being, it still makes you pause every time you have to go through one.
Grim, Ace, and Tatsuya all walk through the rippling glass, and as Deuce is about to enter himself, he looks back and notices your cautious glare. With a shaky smile, the blue-haired man holds out a hand towards you. "Come on, (Y/N). It's okay," he says.
Tilting your head, you accept his offer. "Well, aren't you the sweetest," you coo in a purr-like rumble.
Deuce squeaks out a 'no problem' as his cheeks turn pink, a bead of sweat trickling down his forehead as he internally chants to himself to not let his hand get all clammy from nerves; that wouldn't be a great look for him. The two of you walk through the mirror; a feeling of lightheadedness overtakes you momentarily as you feel like you're floating through a swirling vortex.
As your surroundings clear, and you find yourself at Heartslabyul, you hear Tatsuya whistle lowly, followed by Grim exclaiming. "Dang! This place is swank! Much nicer than our dump of a place!"
"We're making due with what we have..." Tatsuya mutters.
The cobblestone walkway is lined with rose bushes, as well as pots sitting upon pedestals that contain the same flowers. Considering the Queen of Hearts' affinity with the flowers, you're not surprised by the theme. Hedge mazes also seem to span the gardens. The main building is decked in red, white and black; its entrance in the shape of a heart, and the windows shaped like diamonds. There's a large fountain at the entrance, also laid upon a heart shape in the stone.
"Welcome to Heartslabyul," Deuce says.
Ace grumbles in retort. "We're not here for funsies, Deuce. Let's get this shit over with."
As the group begins to head towards the dorm building, you stop as your ears pick up on a voice, not too far off. Looking over, you spot a young man who seems to be... painting the roses on the tree? Odd.
"Aww, yeah! Gettin' my paint on!" He hums cheerily, slathering the roses with red paint.
The man is a little taller than the ones in your group. His hair is a light orange colour and mid-length; the top portion of his hair and bangs is pulled back into a short ponytail. A few stray strands of hair fall loosely at the sides of his face, and the rest is tucked back behind his ears, which seem to have some type of jewelry. His eyes are green, and on his right cheek is a small, red marking shaped like a diamond. These symbols seem to be quite common among the Heartslabyul students, you begin to notice.
"Ah... is that the housewarden you've been looking for over there?" You question, making the boys pause and look in the direction which you're gesturing.
Ace's brows furrow, but he ultimately shakes his head. "No, that's not him. What... what is he even doing...?"
"They all gotta be red, or it's 'off with my head,'" the unnamed man hums.
Tatsuya blinks at that. "Déjà vu much? Wait, this is..." he mutters under his breath.
Finally noticing the eyes on him, the man turns around, raising a brow. "Hmmm? You guys need something?"
"What are you doing there?" Ace asks, vaguely gesturing towards the roses that are dripping with red paint.
"Are you blind?" He says, tilting his head as though it's the most obvious thing in the world. "I'm painting the roses red. Duh."
"What a peculiar thing to do," you mutter. "Why not just leave those flowers be?"
"Uh, yeah...?" Deuce echoes the sentiment confusedly. "Just... why?"
The man giggles. "Aw! How adorably naive! You really are little newbies, aren't you. Oh, heeey! I totes recognize you! You're the lot who broke that billion mark chandelier! You almost got expelled for it on your first day, didn't you? That's rich!"
Ace groans. "Ugh... that's gonna haunt us until we graduate, isn't it?"
"Mhm, you're not living it down, I promise! But you, grumpy and collared, you ate the housewarden's tarts, right? And on the same night, too?! That's SO funny! You guys are, like, THE hottest topic around campus right now!" He says.
His eyes then lock onto you, and he lights up, seemingly getting all giddy. "And you! You're that mysterious woman that's been spotted around campus. Well, aren't you just the prettiest thing to look at."
"Thank you...?" You say, eyes narrowing.
Ace guffaws at that. "Wait, she's only been publicly out with the rest of the students for five minutes at most! How do you already know about her?!"
The man waves a little rectangular device around— a device you've noticed most, if not all, of the students possess.
"Word travels fast on campus, silly! It's all over Magicam!" He says, showing an image of you with the boys, walking along Main Street.
"Mysterious hottie spotted on campus!! Is she a student?" The orange-haired man reads the caption out loud. "Oh, I've just gotta get a shot with you! C'mere! Gonna get a real nice selfie of us! You're, like, super cammable right now and I gotta get in on that fleeting fame! No filter needed when you're this gorge!"
You look at the boys, so adorably perplexed that you barely register or fight the sudden arm that wraps around you, making you lean down to his level. Until a sudden shutter sound echoes. The guys can pretty much see the various buzzwords float around your head. Magicam? Cammable? Selfie? Hot topic? Filter?
And you have absolutely no clue what any of it means.
"Okay, okay!" Ace says, prying the guy away from you. "Easy there! Who even are you?"
"Oooh... possessive, aren't you?" He says. "Cater Diamond! I'm a junior here. But just Cater is fine. Or Cay-Cay if you're cray-cray! Soooo nice to meetcha!"
Tatsuya's eyes narrow. "This guy's so superficial. Makes me wanna hurl."
Cater pouts. "Me? Superficial? Hon-ey, you've got me all wrong! And don't think I don't know you also, mister magicless! You're the so-called prefect of that dump of a dorm? No filter can salvage that place."
"It's Tatsuya, asshole," he says. "And that's Grim," he adds, pointing to the cat.
"This guy's done nothin' but diss us," Grim grumbles.
"Yeah, and I'm Ace Trappola," Ace adds, followed by the rest of the group introducing themselves.
"Deuce Spade."
"You may call me (Y/N)," you say.
"Fab!" Cater says, but then his eyes widen a bit as he smacks a palm on his forehead. "Gah! What am I doing? I've gotta get back to painting the roses!" Cater hastily gets back to colouring the white roses into a crimson, turning his back to your group.
Your brows furrow. "If it's imperative for the roses to be red, why not simply plant red roses as opposed to white ones? It seems like a waste of time, and surely that cannot be healthy for those poor flowers."
"Listen, sweetie, it is what it is. At Heartslabyul, it's just how we do things! We're having an unbirthday party, and you can't have an unbirthday party without the roses being red! Not to mention, it's crucial to play croquet with seven coloured flamingos as mallets and a hedgehog as a ball!" Cater says. "Speaking of! I also gotta paint those flamingos!"
You and Tatsuya exchange glances. You both look confused. Surely this isn't normal human behavior? All of this sounds like absolute nonsense to you, but a quick glance at Ace and Deuce shows that they are also a little baffled by the outlandish claims coming out of Cater's mouth.
"Oh!" Deuce exclaims, as if getting some kind of clarity that nobody else is understanding. "It must be Riddle's birthday, then! Is that why he was so mad Ace ate that tart?"
Cater shakes his head, waving Deuce off as if he was dumb. "No, no, it's not Riddle's birthday. Or anyone's for that matter! It's a special tea party we throw when no one has a birthday. Well, if the housewarden feels like it. It's our dorm's tradition!"
Ace scoffs. "That's so unnecessarily wacky. What's even the point?"
"Again with the questions," Cater chastises. "Look, y'see, the Queen of Hearts made—"
"— made those rules herself, way back in the day, and the housewarden is all about following the rules to a tee..." Tatsuya finishes Cater's sentence. "Sounds about right?"
Cater goes silent, blinking rapidly as his mouth opens and closes, unable to find the words. "Oh, well, yes, that's exactly right. See, Acey, even Tatsuya can figure it out. What a smart boy!"
"Don't call me Acey," Ace grumbles crossing his arms.
Grim places his paws on his hips, staying close to your legs. "Man, this guy's so condescending..."
You nod in agreement. "Agreed, little one. It is dreadful."
"Hmm... oh, I know!" Cater says, clasping his hands together. "Since you lovely little lot are here, just sitting pretty, why don't you help colour the roses with magic, or something? Riddle would freak if he saw us doing it like that instead of paint, but it'll be sooo much faster. Oh, but I guess since Ace is on magical house arrest, and Tatsuya's a total normie, you'll have to stick with paint buckets."
Deuce rubs in chin in contemplation. "Recolour the roses red with magic...?" He muses. "Can't say I've ever done that before."
"Me neither," Grim says. "But how hard can it be?"
"Guys! We have shit to do—" Tatyana gets cut off by Cater.
"Oh, amazing! I'm sure we'll be done in a jiffy with all of us working at it!" He says with glee.
As the group begins to follow Cater, Tatsuya shakes his head. "And we're just gonna ignore me. Great! Love it!"
You sigh and place your hand on Tatsuya's shoulders squeezing in a reassuring manner. "Worry not. I'll make sure the job is done quickly and efficiently. We won't daddle for long."
He calms down a notch and nods. "Yeah, great. Knew I could count on you. But hey, I need you to trust me on something. Hear me out?”
"Always."
"Okay, I think something's gonna happen. Keep an eye and ear out for trouble with this guy?" He says, jabbing a thumb in Cater's direction.
You look at the far-too-jovial man and nod, eyes narrowing in a suspicious glare. "I understand. I promise to keep you all safe."
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Standing at your respective rose bushes, you wait for Cater's instructions. Tatsuya and Ace will be working on the same bush at the same time, figuring it would be quicker if the two non-magic users pair up.
The junior student claps obnoxiously loud, his voice ringing loud and clear through the garden. "Okay, gang, listen up! Time to paint those roses! I don't want them pink, or green! Not aquamarine, either. It's crimson red or nothing, understood? Don't wanna have your heads on the chopping block!"
"Yeah, yeah," Ace calls out. "We should be able to bang this out in no time, magic or no," he says.
Tatsuya shrugs, already steadily brushing paint on the roses. "I'm an artist, back in my world. This is nothing. Think of it as some kind of weird colouring book."
"Aww yeah!" Cater cheers. "Tatsuya's got that steady, and skilled hand! Ace, you could learn a thing or two... you're putting paint on the bushes!"
"I'm trying to keep it on the flowers, fuckhead!" Ace barks.
Meanwhile, ever-so-the loudmouth and show off, Grim exclaims: "I think I'm getting the hang of this.
Lookit me! I can get all of 'em at once! MYAAAH!" He concentrates his magic, turning all of the white roses a nice shade of red at once. He's about to showboat, but his pride is quickly turned to confusion as all the roses revert back to white. "M-Mrah...?! What gives?!”
Cater clicks his tongue and heads over to Grim. "Nope! Gotta do it more like this!" He flicks his pen, and the roses turn red once more. This time, they don't change back.
"Huh. I guess being a junior does make a difference. Kind of," Ace admits, although begrudgingly.
"Yeah, well, maybe he can use that junior hocus pocus prowess to help out instead of standing there and watching!" Tatsuya exclaims loudly.
"Attitude, attitude...." Cater mutters. "I'm supervising! Speaking of, (Y/N), pretty girl, darling... why aren't you getting to work?"
You glance at Cater, unimpressed and unbothered. To you, he's but a small man, whose authority is nonexistent to you. Still, wordlessly, you turn to the roses and concentrate your magic. Your magical energy tends to look like fire; a stark contrast to the sparkly waves of energy the boys seem to cast from their little sticks. So, it does make Cater panic for a moment, thinking you're about to burn down the maze.
"H-Hey! Hey, hey, don't do that—"
You puff your 'fire,' making it swirl around various rose bushes. When it dissipates, not only are the three, targeted bushes unharmed and in pristine shape, but the roses are all red.
Cater's jaw drops, even he can't tend to that many bushes at the same time. "Oh, well, damn! Baby, you had me going there for a moment, but I'm impressed!"
"Hm..." you huff. "My magic functions differently from yours. Refrain from doubting my abilities, going further."
"Heh. Roger that!" He says, throwing a little peace sign your way, not that you're aware what that hand gesture means.
You turn your head over to Deuce as you hear him muttering to himself. His brows are furrowed in concentration, pen brandished towards the roses.
"Red, red, red..." he chants. "C'mon! Turn these roses r– gah?! Why's it blue?"
Deuce begins to panic a bit, waving his pen around in a desperate attempt to fix it, but he goes through every colour of the rainbow. Except for red, of course.
"Damn it!" Deuce says. "Why can't I do it?"
You abandon your work, making your way to Deuce. You stand behind him and place your hands on his shoulders, resting your chin atop his head. Your chest rumbles in that purr-like vibration in an attempt to calm him down.
"A-Ah...! (Y/N)! What are you—" Deuce stammers, brain seemingly ceasing all functions.
"Hush. Calm down, dearest," you say. "Your panic and overthinking will lead you nowhere. It's simpler than you think."
Deuce gulps, but he nods and squares up, regaining his composure. "Right, you're right! Can you show me?" He asks, looking up at you.
You nod, tongue flicking out. "Of course."
You point to a rose. "As a beginner, it really is as simple as engraining the image of red rose into your mind. Chanting it out loud will bring you nothing if your mind wavers."
"Yeah, okay. Got it. I'll get it right this time," Deuce says, pointing his pen at the stubborn, multicoloured flowers.
"Turn these roses red!" He exclaims.
The roses don't turn the exact shade Cater is looking for, but they are a nice burgundy, signaling that Deuce is getting closer to his goal. Deuce, however, takes it as a failure instead of progress, and slumps in defeat.
"Better. You're getting close, Deuce. Try again," you encourage patiently.
And this time, he does get it right! Deuce's features immediately light up, both relieved and proud of himself. And the more he does it, the more fluid and solid his transformation magic is. There are a few missteps with the wrong shades of red, but he quickly corrects them.
"It is pretty simple, actually! Thanks a lot, (Y/N)," Deuce says. "I'm getting the hang of it."
"Of course. Soon enough, it will come so naturally you will not need to think about it," you say.
From a distance, Ace observes and huffs. "Maaaan! I wanna use magic so bad!"
"Quit whining and get painting!" Tatsuya says.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Cater hums as he looks over the garden, a hand on his hip as he analyzes every flower to make sure the shade is perfect. After all, he doesn't want Riddle to pop a blood vessel over the slightest imperfection.
"Uh-huh.. yeah, yeah! That'll do! Looks like you lot aren't completely incompetent!" He calls out.
"I still don't get why you couldn't just keep them white. They look perfectly pretty an' stuff to me," Ace says, stretching his arms over his head.
Clicking his tongue, Cater shakes his head. "You still don't get it? I told you: it's all about tradition and rules!"
"Yeah, well, your rules are all insane!" Grim says.
"I have to agree. Yes, rules are important to maintain safety and peace within a community, but none of these so-called rules bring anything of value, other than a strange form of power abuse from the one enforcing them," you say.
Cater chuckles, rubbing the back of his head. "Looook, my hands are tied here. Riddle calls the shots. His word is law here. But even I will admit he can be pretty extra. Even more than the last housewardens, T-B-H..."
Getting annoyed, Ace scowls. "Yeah, no shit! But you know what? Enough of all this nonsense! Is Riddle here? I need to talk to him."
Cater hums. "Uuuh... yeah, probably. But you look a little empty-handed there,” he says, pointing at Ace.
Ace's brows furrow. "What does that even mean?"
"I mean that you didn't even bring an apology tart to replace the one you ate. That's not too smart, you know?" Cater says.
"Uh. No," Tatsuya responds. "We didn't up and bake at ass-o'-clock in the morning."
"Yeah, we came straight here," Ace echoes.
Cater tuts, shaking his head. "Ah ah ah... that could be a problem. Have you forgotten rule 53? Stolen items must be replaced. If you're not in compliance, then I can't let you in, sorry!"
Deuce's eyes widen a bit. "Is... is he serious?"
Your eyes narrow as Cater begins to reach for his little magic stick. Magic pens, as the boys call them. All friendliness that was previously portrayed in Cater's eyes is dimmed and replaced by something far more ominous. You had given him the benefit of the doubt, but you had been able to smell the mock amiability. Completely superficial, and now he's threatening your boys? Tatsuya had been right to have you on guard.
His next course of actions should be chosen wisely. You won't be docile and impassive.
"While it is polite to bring an apology gift, making it an obligate rule is not pertinent. Let us through, and we can all go about our business without chaos befalling us," you warn.
"Sorry, sweetie. All dorm residents must obey the rules, and that includes our little Ace here," Cater says. "Riddle would have my head if he knew I let this slide. Sorry, Acey, but you're gonna have to leave before the housewarden spots you," he adds.
Ace guffaws. "He's actually gonna throw us out?!"
Tatsuya grits his teeth. "He's dead serious. I knew he'd be a problem."
Ace takes his pen out, pointing it at Cater. "Like hell I'm letting this clown turn us around. I—"
He pauses, pressing his lips in a thin line as he remembers that his magical abilities have been locked down. Well, doesn’t he look like a right dumbass right about now?
"What's wrong, Acey?" Cater laughs. "Oh! Right! You're kinda useless right now, aren't you?"
"ARGH!" Ace groans out loud. He then turns to the rest of you. "You guys— do something!"
"Why should WE do anything?!" Deuce exclaims. "This is your problem!"
Grim nods rapidly. "Y-Yeah! I ain't dealin' with this, I'm outta here!"
As Grim turns around and begins to leave, a faint 'Split Card' can be heard muttered from Cater, and the lot of you find yourself blinded by a bright light. Once you all regain your senses, your group finds itself surrounded by... multiple Caters?
"What the hell even?!" Tatsuya says, looking around, utterly baffled. “As if one wasn’t obnoxious enough.”
Ace steps back, though there isn't much room with the Cater doubles closing in on him. "There's like... one, two... six of them?!"
"Please make sure you bring that tart next time, m'kay?" One of the Caters says.
"Mhm! What he said!" Another one says. "We're gonna throw you out now!"
"Buh-bye, darlings!" Another one adds before the gaggle of doubles charge at your group.
You have to admit that it's pretty entertaining to watch Tatsuya grab Grim, holding him at arm's length and using him like a flamethrower to fend off the Caters. However, more of them appear to materialize. For every Cater defeated, a new one takes its place.
How bothersome, but it appears that Cater has a good hold on — what you assume to be — his signature spell. Mages have those, if you remember correctly.
Ace, desperately trying to defend himself without magic, ends up on the end of a rough time, getting handled with no gentleness. The Cater doubles appear to be tangible, as if they were actual people, which makes them far more dangerous than harmless illusions or projections. They could do real, legitimate damage.
You won't stand for it.
Quickly racing to Ace's side, you concentrate your magic. (Colour) flames swirl down from your shoulder and all the way to your claws. Imbedded with powerful magic, you quickly swipe your enlarged claws down at the double that's currently targeting Ace. You do not hold back, hearing the air break around your hand.
The blow instantly makes the double disappear, leaving the boys shocked as they realize you're not playing around; if that double were a real human, they'd be dead.
"Ace, get behind me," you order.
Ace blinks, mouth falling open uselessly. "I can handle myself!"
"Get behind me," your order again. This time, it comes out as a growl. "I refuse to let you get harmed while I am here to defend you."
Alright. Ace isn't gonna argue with the big snake lady. He's gathered that you're a protective creature, and that is in your instincts to be as such, but you seem violently defensive. Cater's lucky you're not in your original form right now. Ace doesn't even think Cater realizes that he's barking up the wrong tree...
You quickly glance over to Deuce, Grim and Tatsuya, gauging their safety. They seem winded as they fight off waves of doubles, but they've joined forces and are covering one another's blind spots. They're not in immediate danger, which brings you a sense of peace of mind. You can focus on ensuring Ace's safety.
You catch a double that lunges at you, smacking both of your palms on either side of its head as your claws dig into its head to keep it in place. Acidic venom seeps through your pores, corroding the double away. It's reminiscent of the way you had melted that monster's weapon back at the mines.
Another comes your way, trying to sidestep you to get to Ace, but you quickly twist your body and bone-crushingly sink your fangs and pointed teeth into the double's shoulder. You can hear the bones crunching, feel them giving you under your powerful jaws.
The double screams out in pain, doubling over and collapsing onto the ground. As you remove yourself, a string of saliva breaks and clear liquid drips from your largest fangs. Venom. Nagas are venomous.
Ace can't help but flinch a bit at the aggression you're displaying. It's as disconcerting as it is awe-inspiring. Maybe even a little hot, because who doesn't go heart-eyed for a giant woman who can squeeze your head off? But Ace won't say that out loud.
"Holy shit, (Y/N)!" Ace exclaims. "As much as Cater annoys me, I don't want him dead!"
You look over your shoulder. "Calm yourself. I can smell which ones are decoys."
Your tongue flicks, gathering particles that retreat into your jacobson's organ. It allows you to pick up on magical particals that are near-undetectable to human noses. Your eyes jump from one double to another, until, just a bit off to the distance, your tongue catches the scent of a human.
You point a clawed finger at Cater. The real one. "Him. That's the real Cater."
Cater raises his hands in mock defense. "Hmmm? No, no. You've got it all wrong. I'm him, and over there, he's me! We're all real! Heh."
Your eyes narrow. "Ace, sweetheart, go to Deuce and Tatsuya. Stay close to them."
"Got it," Ace says, going over to the group.
You turn your attention back to Cater and head over to him. "You cannot fool my sense of smell. I know you are not one of your doubles. Your magic is well-honed, but you are but a novice compared to me."
There's a bit of panic from Cater as he sends doubles your way in an attempt to slow your course, but you make quick work of them with claw attacks and your acidic venom.
Now standing in front of Cater, the man chuckles nervously. "Hey! Now, now, sweetie! We can just talk it— URF!"
With incredible strength, you don't shy away from throwing Cater down to the ground, lying him face down. You're practically on top of him, your full body weight pinning him with your knee pressing into the middle of his back. Your hand is pushing his head down into the dirt, claws digging into his scalp; it’s not enough to draw blood, but enough to be uncomfortable. You aren’t trying to kill him, after all, but lessons do need to be taught.
Having the wind knocked out of him and struggling under you, Cater's concentration completely wavers, and all of his doubles vanish into thin air.
The moment the fight is over, Deuce huffs, throwing his head back as his shoulders loosen, the tension from the fight leaving his body. The rest of the group also sigh in relief.
"M-Myah... I-I think my fire's extinguished..." Grim huffs, ears flopping tiredly.
Ace nods in agreement. "Yeesh. The fucking nerve of that guy."
"I don't think you get to complain, you didn't fight at all!" Deuce says. "Uh... by the way, should we, you know, stop her?" Deuce says, pointing over to you.
"Nah," Tatsuya says, waving Deuce off. "Let her spank him around a bit."
Ace crosses his arms and nods. "Yeah. It's deserved."
Cater wriggles a bit under you, but you're not budging. You can hear muffled noises coming from him; it's a mixture of exhausted groans and an attempt to speak.
Gripping his hair, you lift his head up by yanking firmly. "I cannot hear you with a mouthful of dirt. Speak now."
"A-Ah... mm..." Cater groans. From your position, you don’t see the way he bites his lip bit. "Geez, honey, you don't hold back at all, huh? You're one strong woman."
"No," you simply say. "We will leave quietly, but know that if you threaten my boys again, I won't be so gentle. Understand?"
"Loud and clear," Cater says. "But that's your definition of being gentle? I kinda wanna see you go all out, now."
"Believe me, you do not. At least, not if you are on the receiving end," you say.
You stand up, dropping Cater's head back to the ground. The man lets out an oof and pathetically lies on the dirt for a while longer as you walk off wordlessly to join your group.
You inspect the group, leaning down to nuzzle your cheek against each of them as a comforting gesture, also making sure to cradle the tired, overworked Grim.
"Come on, darlings. Let's take our leave. Perhaps we can catch your housewarden at a later time?" You say.
As your group walks off, going through the mirror to exit Heartslabyul's dimension, Cater gets up from the ground and dusts himself off. His bones and muscles pop. He looks over in the direction you've gone off, rubbing the back of his neck. Geez. What a woman. Honestly, he wouldn't mind getting roughed up by you again. In a different context, of course.
But for now, he has an unbirthday party preparations to make, and it’s gonna be hell to do so with the soreness overtaking his body.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Did I make Cater obnoxious and hint at him being kind of a masochistic bottom? Mayhaps. And I regret nothing. I know who’s getting dicked down first.
I didn’t totally take a whole two months to update, so yay me! In my defense, I uploaded three chapters of another Twisted Wonderland book I’ve been working on. It’s a Pokémon crossover! So, I’ve been busy. ~
I hope you’ve enjoyed yourself, and I’ll see you next chapter! A nice mix of non-canon and canon coming up. Woop!
Thank you for your continued support and lovely comments, it really makes a difference, and I appreciate every single one. <3
#twisted wonderland#twisted wonderland x reader#fanfiction#female reader#x reader#monster reader#twst cater#twst ace trappola#twst deuce spade
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I’ve done it! I’m finally caught up with cross posting my two Twisted Wonderland books ‘Monsters & Magic’ and ‘She’s a Monster’ to Tumblr. Going forward, all future updates will also be added to this platform, and my pinned post has been updated to include links to their respective masterlists!
Happy reading, and let me know if you’re interested in being tagged in updates!
Also, feel free to send me things in my ask box if you wanna discuss anything! 🥹
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She’s a Monster [Twst X Fem!Reader]
Chapter 4
A Monster Among Men
Back to Masterlist | Prev | Next
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
It's early when Tatsuya rises from bed. Glancing over at one of the few clocks that still function, he can see that there's at least an hour and a half left before classes should start. It's a record for the man. He had such atrocious habits back in his world when he'd get up for school, waking up at the last minute and only giving himself about ten minutes to get ready.
He groans a bit – god, he doesn't want to return to school. He's already been through this song and dance before; he already has a degree in his world. But it is what it is; he'll get through it, for Grim's sake, and the sake of having a place to stay during this fever dream. He can't really afford to go homeless in a place where he doesn't legally exist.
But today he has some things that need to be taken care of before classes.
It's not about Ace — though that's undoubtedly on his to-do list for the day, much to his chagrin — it's about the elephant in the room that needs addressing. Or, rather, it's about the naga in the lounge, because he does suppose that NRC staff should be made aware that a giant snake will be chilling with him for a bit; Tatsuya does have a bit of courtesy, even though he's making an announcement rather than asking for permission.
He's careful not to jostle Grim as he gets out of bed, not wanting to wake the cat up. As silently as the creaky, worn floorboards will allow, Tatsuya puts a shirt on. He scrunches his nose a bit at the realization that he's been wearing the same outfit for the third day in a row. He really hopes he can get his hands on a washer soon. Hell, new clothes, too. He doesn't bother with his hair for the time being, keeping it down and unbrushed. He'll worry about that later.
As he's about to exit the room, he curses under his breath as he accidentally smashes his toe against a table, making quite a bit of noise as the force slides the piece of furniture along the floor.
"Mrah...?" Tatsuya hears Grim grumble from his position on the bed. He looks over to see the cat monster sitting up on the bed and rubbing at his eyes with his little paws.
"Henchhuman...? What are ya doing up? Is it time to get up already?" Grim asks groggily.
Tatsuya shakes his head. "Nah, not yet. You still have a bit of time to catch some Zs. I just have something to take care of."
Grim blinks, but he ultimately flops back down without a word, knocking out into dreamland within nanoseconds, making the occasional air biscuit. It seems like Tatsuya didn't wake him up too badly, so without another word, he heads down the stairs.
The sight that greets him when he reaches the lounge area is... sweet. Very sweet and dare he say wholesome. There you are, in all your glory, turning yourself into a pillow for Ace's comfort, the latter seeming very cozy all curled up into the nook you've made for him. For once, his features aren't smug or sharp, no trace of that annoying arrogance and overconfidence, just pure, unadulterated peace.
And his face is practically smushed against your chest — a young man's dream, to be honest — so maybe that's why he looks so happy. Ah, the power that tits hold over a man. Tatsuya silently chuckles at the thought.
But nevertheless, Tatsuya knew Ace would come around eventually. Hell, he didn't think it would take long for Ace to begin accepting your presence, and as for you, well, you seem right at home caring for Ace. Nagas really are nurturers, huh? Maybe he should add reading up about nagas to his to-do list. You're so goddamn fascinating.
He takes a few steps towards the door, not realizing that you've been awake since he's come down. Your solid, (colour) eyes open, half-lidded.
"Leaving so early?" You say in a hushed voice, not wanting to disturb the peace.
"Hm?" Tatsuya hums, turning back towards you. "Did I wake you up?"
You shake your head, pointed ears twitching for emphasis. "I have very sensitive hearing and am very aware of my surroundings, even during sleep."
"Heh. Guess I should have known that," Tatsuya says. "As for your question, yeah, I'm heading out for a bit."
You tilt your head. "Do you need to be accompanied?"
Tatsuya chuckles at that, shaking his head. "Nah... I won't be long. I just need to speak to the headmaster. Can you hold down the fort for me?"
You blink. "Hold down the fort....?"
"Right. Human idioms. Not your thing. I mean, can you look after the place while I'm gone?" He reiterates.
You perk up and nod. "Of course, dear. You can count on me to keep your dwelling space safe."
Ace grumbles in his sleep, muttering incoherently as he stirs. You lean your chin against the top of Ace's head, effectively cocooning him in your warmth. Your chest rumbles in a sort of low, grumbling noise. It's not a purr — you're not a feline, obviously — but it sounds like it would be the naga equivalent of one. Whatever it is, it seems to put Ace right at peace.
"And that goes for its occupants as well. They're safe in my presence," you add.
Tatsuya nods, giving you a warm, trusting smile. "I don't doubt you on that one. Not even a little. Grim's upstairs. Keep him out of trouble, yeah? Though I don't think he'll be waking up anytime soon."
"Of course. Safe travels, now," you say.
Tatsuya chuckles; you're making it sound like he's going on some elaborate journey, when in reality, he's not going very far, but your sentiment is sweet. He gives you a flick of his hand in goodbye before heading out the door.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
NRC's halls are vacant, showcasing just how early it is. The number of people Tatsuya has run into can be counted on his hands. He supposes that, no matter the world, there will always be model students up and ready to start their day way before classes begin.
He was not one of those, but that's besides the point.
He tries his best to remember the path he and the Heartslabyul boys had taken to reach Crowley's office, but NRC is a goddamn castle that winds all over the place. Would it kill these fuckers to put up signs with directions? Or a map plastered on a couple of walls like malls tend to have, with that big 'you are here' circle?
He blinks as he steps into... the Hall of Mirrors?
"How did I end up back here...?!" Tatsuya mutters annoyedly to himself, whirling around to backtrack and take another path. He had taken directions from one of the talking paintings, which was a mistake, in hindsight.
Maybe he should have asked for directions the moment he'd seen someone wandering the halls instead of trusting his memory. Or a painting. Talking to a painting sounded like a better option than having to speak to a student – he's gotten the impression that all of them are arrogant brats.
Hopefully, he'll run into someone who might actually be helpful and not give him false directions or a headache. It's too early, and he's yet to have his coffee.
He passes a few classrooms, the cafeteria, and more classrooms. Damn it. Tatsuya is so concentrated on looking around for the proper room — or stairs, as he recalls the headmaster's office being on a higher story — that he almost runs into someone.
"Now, now, watch where you're going, pup."
"Pup...?" Tatsuya mutters, taking a step back to put distance between himself and the man. "Yeah, yeah, sorry. I was lost in thought there."
Decked in very classy attire of a black and white tuxedo and a red tie, not to mention the thick, black and white fur coat draped over him and silver studs in his ears, this guy obviously has expensive tastes, and his outfit alone is probably worth more than all of Tatsuya's belongings combined. He has narrow gray eyes, and his hair is parted to the side and coloured black and white, seemingly split down the middle perfectly. He appears older than most of the students, leading Tatsuya to realize he might be part of the staff.
He's holding a teaching pointer that's decorated with what seems to be dog collars, which he's tapping against his palm. A strange choice in aesthetics, but it works, in a way.
"Hm... and what might you be doing wandering around so early?" He asks. Upon further inspection, he raises a brow, seemingly recognizing him, somehow. "Ah. Might you be the bad puppy that's caused quite the scene during the opening ceremony? I've heard a questionable decision to enroll you as a student has been made by our... ahem... gracious headmaster."
"Technically not my fault, that was the cat thing. But I'll spare you the spiel and just go ahead and say that yeah, that's me, I guess," Tatsuya says, tilting his head. "And it's Tatsuya, by the way."
"Ah, right, so you are. I believe you'll be one of my potionology students this semester. You may call me Crewel. I'm interested to see how you'll fare in my class," he chuckles lowly.
"Right. Well, since we're here. I could use a bit of help with something. I'm looking for Crowley's office. I'm... a bit lost." Tatsuya says. "The, uh, talking paintings didn't help me much."
"It's best not to give too much weight to the words of some paintings. Some have been known to lead unsuspecting students astray," Crewel hums.
Huh. Then, he supposes that it was a lucky break that one painting in the classroom had given him Ace's location the day before. But hey, he's learned his lesson to be a bit more wary, even of things that seem as small as a sentient work of art. For this world's standards, of course.
"Noted..." Tatsuya mutters. "Anyway, can you point me in the right direction, sir? I need to talk to Crowley."
Crewel frowns. "I very well can, but I'm afraid the headmage has not made his appearance yet."
Tatsuya clicks his tongue in annoyance, hands shoved in his pockets. "Great. You'd think the headmaster, of all people, would be the first in office."
Crewel hums in agreement. "I do agree. Crowley does not have the most reliable of reputations, I'm afraid."
"I've noticed," Tatsuya deadpans.
"Well, what might be so important that you've gotten up this early to have a chat with dear old Crowley?" Crewel asks.
Well, Tatsuya has never been one to beat around the bush. Blunt and honest as he is, he doesn't hesitate. "It's about a naga."
Crewel seems like a collected man, but that simple statement does elicit a reaction in the widening of his eyes, his posture straightening somewhat. Tatsuya suddenly has Crewel's full attention. "I beg your pardon?"
"Yeah, a naga. You know, those half-snake, half-person, giant monsters that—"
Crewel cuts Tatsuya's explanation off with a wave of his hand. "Hush, pup. I know what a naga is. What about one?"
"Well, some of my... classmates and I ran into one yesterday, and I may or may not have brought her back to my dorm. The abandoned one. So, I just wanted to give Crowley a heads up so he doesn't squawk about it. But he'll probably do it anyway," Tatsuya explains with a shrug.
"You're telling me that you've encountered a real, living, breathing naga, one of Twisted Wonderland's rarest creatures, and are currently housing it on school grounds?" Crewel recapitulates, disbelief evident in his tone.
Tatsuya purses his lips and nods slowly. "Yup. Sounds about right. And she. Not an it."
"Are you sure you're not mistaken?" Crewel says. "Nagas have not been sighted in many, many years and have been thought to be extinct."
"No, I'm pretty confident. No, scratch that, I know for a fact that I know what I'm talking about," Tatsuya says. "If they were thought to be extinct, there's at least still one out there."
Crewel's gaze seems to harden, and Tatsuya's not sure what to make of it. Is it a good reaction? A bad one? Hell if he knows. He then blinks when he finds Crewel's pointer inches away from his face.
"I will go get Crowley, and then you will take us to your dorm, understand? I need to see this for myself," he says. "You best not be lying to me, pup."
Tatsuya raises his hands in mock surrender — is everyone in this world dramatic and insane? "Sir, yes sir...?"
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
You've been awake for a while, though you've yet to move a muscle. You don't want to bother Ace before his body is fully rested, which you're sure he needs after the day he's had yesterday. So, you remain a protective blanket of scales for him, looking down at him with interest.
It's been a while since you've been so close to humans, and you've forgotten how... soft and delicate they look. It makes you want to shield them from the world and its dangers. Or, at the very least, these particular humans that you've met. Some others, well, the violence they'd meet if you were to get your claws on them would be unspeakable.
Your tongue flicks now and then; it's your primary means of gathering information about your surroundings through scent and particles in the air. You're in a new environment, so you can't help but try to amass as much information as possible, and you're also trying to smell Tatsuya's return.
However, when a new smell reaches your forked tongue, you tilt your head. You turn to the front door before the person even reaches it. It's not Tatsuya's scent; he has a herbal scent reminiscent of sage. This one smells more like burning pine, which isn't unpleasant.
"Hm... this person's scent is familiar. Could it be – what was his name again – Deuce...?" You mutter.
"Ngh..." Ace grumbles as his red eyes blink open. "What time is it?"
You look down, giving Ace a small smile. "Good morning, dear. Did you have a peaceful slumber? I do hope I've not woken you up, but I believe we have company on the way."
Still groggy from sleep, Ace doesn't quite understand at first. "Huh...? Yeah. Yeah, I slept fine. What are you talking 'bout...?"
You point over to the door, and as if on cue, the navy-haired man with a side-swept style walks in. He does so cautiously.
"Oh, it's open. Ah... hello? It's Deuce," he calls out.
"Ugh... Deuce," Ace grumbles, throwing his head back against your chest.
Walking further into the lounge, Deuce looks around. Specifically for Ace. After catching wind of what happened overnight, he figured that there'd be no other logical place he'd end up.
"There you are. I figured I'd find you here," Deuce says, walking further into the lounge and spotting him. "So, you... y-you... uh... w-wait a minute."
The young man's green eyes go wide, a bead of sweat trickling down his face as he spots you cuddling Ace so nonchalantly. He has to take a step back and crane his head back to get a good look at your imposing stature.
"Hello, Deuce," you say, tilting your head. "How have you been?"
"Uh... good? Good!" He stammers, unsure of how to act.
He clears his throat, cheeks flushing pink as he turns his head off to the side. Seeing Ace so comfortably smushed between your breasts and resting on top of your body, well, he feels like he's walked into something intimate that he shouldn't be seeing.
And naked woman. That also turns his brain to soup.
"Should... should I leave?" Deuce says, pointing to the door.
"Why would you leave?" You ask, completely oblivious.
"I-I don't want to interrupt... whatever it is you're doing," Deuce stammers, eyes darting back and forth.
"Sleeping?" You question. "Ace here was cold and uncomfortable during the night, so I provided warmth and comfort," you simply explain, one hand resting atop Ace's head, while your free arm presses Ace further against you.
The redhead guffaws at that. He's certainly awake now. It's as if he's just now realizing the position he's in.
But, looking over at Deuce's expression, satisfaction wells up in Ace's chest. Deuce can act all modest and honourable as he wants, but Ace can see plain as day the interest and envy in his expression.
With a shit-eating smirk pulling at his lips, Ace can't help but parrot you: "Yeah, she sure kept me warm and comfortable," he confirms, making your chest rumble with satisfaction at having taken care of him properly.
"I-I see," Deuce stammers, clearing his throat once more and straightening his uniform. There's still a flush on his cheeks as he attempts to steel his expression, so he doesn't come across nearly as confident as he wishes. "How... erm... noble of you."
"Of course. I adore caring for others. Please, don't shy away from asking to sleep with me in the future. I've plenty of room," you say.
Yeah. That'll do it. Poor Deuce is heating up a few degrees; he doesn't think you even realize the insinuations. After all, you're not human, so the connotations are probably lost on you. So, he'll take it in the literal sense and desperately try not to conjure up inappropriate images.
"Alright, alright," Ace grumbles, sitting upright and stretching to pop his muscles. He then stands up, wriggling away from your grip. "What are you even doing here?"
Quite frankly, Ace could have gone without the interruption, and he's not too keen on the thought of sharing his newfound, comfortable bed.
Shaking his head. "I heard about what you did, and when I couldn't find you at Heartslabyul, I thought you'd wind up here. So, you really ate the housewarden's tart? You're really an idiot, Ace," Deuce sighs.
Ace's eyes narrow, jaw clenching a bit. "Oh, shut up, will you?! Like you're one to talk. You're not exactly the pinnacle of intelligence! Uh... speaking of..." he adds, voice going quieter as he sheepishly rubs the back of his head. "Does he still look mad about it?"
Deuce hums, pondering his classmate's question. He then shakes his head, though he doesn't seem too sure of his own answer. "No...? I don't think so. Well, maybe a bit irritated, since a few of our classmates overslept..."
"And...?" Ace presses, crossing his arms.
"Um... well, some of them got your treatment. The, uh, the collar," Deuce answers, only to quickly add: "B-But only three of them! That's not that bad, right...?"
Ace gapes, eyes widening. "You call that 'not mad anymore'?! Sounds like he's still on a rampage to me."
"So, if I'm understanding this correctly," you interject. "Others have been shackled with this collar because they slept too much? Is this... customary for humans?"
"No, not at all! The housewarden is insane," Ace says.
"Um... well, humans are sometimes on a strict schedule. Like, as students, we need to be in certain places at certain times," Deuce tries to explain. "But, I guess it is a bit extreme of Riddle..."
"Riddle is this 'housewarden' person collaring you boys?" You say.
They both nod.
Your eyes narrow. "He appears to be abusive of his power, no? I'm not sure I care for that very much."
"Yeah, well, me neither, and– hey, wait a minute... where's Tatsuya?" Ace says.
Just realizing his absence, Deuce blinks. "Oh, right. Shouldn't he have come down with the ruckus...?"
You shake your head. "Only the little one is upstairs at the moment. Tatsuya had to excuse himself to take care of something. He should be back shortly, I presume."
Ace crosses his arms. "Well, he better be quick. He's supposed to be on my side for Riddle today."
Your ears twitch as you pick up the sound of hushed voices approaching the dorm. One of which you recognize as Tatsuya's voice, but there are two others that aren't familiar.
"Okay, okay, just don't make any brash moves. She's not above defending herself."
"A-Are you insinuating that she's violent?!"
"Only if you deserve it."
"Excuse me?!"
"Pull yourself together, headmage!"
The door opens, and in walks Tatsuya, accompanied by two men. "Honey, I'm home," Tatsuya says. "And I've brought company."
"Hah...? What's the headmage doing here?" Deuce asks.
"Probably about (Y/N)," Ace mutters. "Hey, isn't that the alchemy teacher?"
Hastily, Crewel makes his way further into the lounge; Crowley following a little nervously behind him. "Step aside, puppies!" He says, and when he comes face to face with you, he's awestruck.
"So it's true then. A naga at NRC. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my eyes," Crewel says, making you tilt your head. You don't sense any malice coming from this man, only admiration and wonder. "What an exotic creature you are. Absolutely beautiful."
"So I've been told, thank you," you say.
Tatsuya steps forward. "(Y/N), this is Divus Crewel. He's one of the teachers here. And this," he jabs a thumb towards the raven-masked man. "This is Crowley. He runs Night Raven College."
You nod. "A pleasure to make both of your acquaintances. I do hope my presence does not complicate things. I pose no threat, I assure you. Tatsuya has been kind enough to allow me to reside in his dwelling space."
"BWAH?! Where are her clothes?!" Crowley squawks upon getting a good look at you.
"Man, take a shot every time someone loses their shit over her being naked," Tatsuya mutters.
Crowley clears his throat. "Ignoring that. Y-Yes... I've just been made aware of this, mind you. W-While your presence is an honour, I-I'm afraid NRC isn't quite for... ahem... women, or monsters... a-and considering you aren't enrolled as a student... w-well I'm not quite sure—ACK!"
"A word, Crowley?" Crewel says, dragging Crowley by the collar away from the group.
"What a peculiar lot..." you muse. "Are all humans so eccentric?"
"Eh... NRC just has a certain flavour of weird," Tatsuya says. "At least, that's what I'm starting to understand about it."
"Like you're one to talk..." Ace grumbles.
"I'm the most level-headed of y'all. Don't test me."
As the boys bicker, your ears tune in on the conversation between Crewel and Crowley. Their voices are hushed, obviously intending to be private. You don't mean to pry, but your sensitive ears can't help but listen in.
"What do you think you're saying, headmage?" Crewel says.
"Divus, I-I've already made some major exceptions in having Grim and Tatsuya enrolled here – a monster and a magicless person. W-What would be of NRC's prestigious reputation if we were to begin making exception after exception...?" Crowley says.
The headmage looks over his shoulder, a strangled gasp escaping him as he makes accidental eye contact with you. He hastily turns back to Crewel.
"A-And, pray tell, how could we even begin to accommodate a naga?" Crowley says, voice lowering to the quietest whisper he can. "Grim is one thing... but this woman is..."
"I'm going to stop you right there, Crowley. Allow me," Crewel interjects. "If this is truly about NRC's reputation, then what would become of NRC's reputation if it were to come out that you denied accommodating our land's rarest creature?"
"Well... that is..."
"Think about it: nagas are on the verge of extinction. If she's not the last of her kind, then the numbers are excessively limited. Allowing her to stay at NRC, now, wouldn't that be the golden opportunity to learn and study? To protect and conserve?" Crewel says.
"Well, I suppose when you put it like that..."
Crewel nods. "What would they say if it came to the public that you, the 'ever-so gracious' headmage, were to pass up on this golden opportunity?"
Crowley sighs. "Very well. It's... it's true! As gracious as I am, the naga is more than welcome within our fine establishment!" He chuckles nervously.
Crewel crosses his arms and nods. "That's what I thought. Now, go on and give her the news."
"Me?!" He squawks before composing himself. "O-Of course. I am the headmage, after all."
Heading your way, Crowley clasps his hands together. "Well, miss (Y/N)! You're in luck!" He exclaims dramatically. "I have decided to give you special permission to remain at our prestigious, magical academy that is Night Raven College! For I am so gracious indeed!"
You can hear Tatsuya groaning.
"Wait, does this mean you'll let (Y/N) be a student?" Deuce asks with wide eyes.
"Ah, well, yes! That is exactly what I'm insinuating," Crowley says.
You raise a brow. "With all due respect, Crowley, at my age, I don't believe I've much to learn about magic," you say. "However, I won't deny that I have an interest that's been developing in human customs and experiences."
"I... yes. Then, I suppose that settles it. I will officially enroll you as a student!" Crowley says. "Ah, but... you cannot — and I repeat — absolutely cannot roam our halls, er, in the nude..." he adds, gesturing to your body.
"I was afraid you'd say that," you scowl. "I take it this means I will have to wear clothes...?"
"Er, yes," Crowley says. "What you do in your downtime within this dorm is... your business. However, I'm afraid it's not quite becoming of an NRC student to be nude like so."
He then adds underneath his breath: "It would be far too distracting and none would focus on their lessons..."
"Very well. If it can't be helped," you say.
Crewel interjects for a moment, waving his pointer around to grab your attention. "If I may... I would be happy to provide something from my collection for you. As for the proportions, well, nothing a little magic can't handle fixing. Worry not, I will ensure that it's light and does not hinder you at all."
"Bah...?!" Crowley squawks. "NRC has a strict dress code!"
"And we will be making an exception here, no? After all, such an esteemed guest should be treated with utmost respect," Crewel says, shutting Crowley up.
"I suppose so," Crowley mumbles. "Ah! But one last matter..." he trails off.
You tilt your head. "Which is?"
"Ah, well..." he says, vaguely gesturing towards, well, all of you. "Your size, miss (Y/N). You're quite large and might take up a bit too much space."
"Yo...?" Ace says. "Night Raven's a castle. That shouldn't be a problem."
"But with the hustle in the hallways. And the limited cafeteria space and classroom space..." Deuce says.
"That shouldn't be a problem, though," Tatsuya says, shaking his head. "Have you guys already forgotten that she can shift?"
"I can indeed," you confirm. "Though I would rather limit the transformations. But, if it's to facilitate this whole procedure, then I suppose I'll shrink myself down to a more humanoid shape when convenient."
"Ah! Splendid!" Crowley exclaims. "Your cooperation is endlessly appreciated! Now, I will take my leave. As headmage, why of course I have oh-so-many responsibilities! You'll be exempt from your classes today, miss, but tomorrow, I expect a model student out of you. Ta-ta!"
As Crowley quickly makes his exit without letting anyone slip in a final word, Crewel sighs and pinches the bridge of his nose. He offers you a small bow of respect, making you mirror his actions.
"I apologize for our headmage's behaviour. However, on behalf of Night Raven College's personnel, I would like to formally welcome you to the student body. It's an honour to have you," he says, straightening up.
The teacher looks over to Tatsuya. "I will make a quick trip to my quarters for miss (Y/N)'s clothing.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
It doesn't take very long for Crewel to make his return. In the meantime, Tatsuya excused himself to his room to get ready for the day, as well as make sure that Grim is awake and not taking his sweet time. Time is ticking, and classes are going to begin soon.
What Crewel hands you is simple, but true to his words, it's light and not hindering. It's definitely not school-appropriate, but your monstrous and wild nature calls for a few modifications.
There's a somewhat long piece of cloth that's to be wrapped around your waist. It's long enough to cover your slit, yet short enough for you to not trip on. He also hands you a strange garment that you're unfamiliar with. It's like two cups on a string. It's very pretty, you think; the design and texture remind you of soft scales.
"What is this?" You ask curiously, holding it up.
"Ah," Crewel chuckles, surprised and yet not at all by your ignorance towards such a mundane garment that the majority of people with breasts wear. "That's a bra, dearest. It covers your chest. Ah! I should mention that your clothes have been enchanted with magic, therefore, when you transform between your forms, your clothes will shrink or expand accordingly without damage."
You look at the 'bra' again, nodding. "I see. It makes sense, even though I don't quite understand the human need to cover your bodies. But thank you; I appreciate your attempt to accommodate me to the best of your abilities. I can most definitely feel the magical properties coming from them."
Crewel smiles; it's refreshing to have someone so polite on campus. A stark contrast to the arrogance and egos that often clash with these young up-and-coming mages. "Please, it's my pleasure. Now then..."
He turns to the Heartslabyul boys. "I will see you in class, pups," he says sternly.
"Yes, sir!"
After the teacher leaves, wrap the cloth around your waist, tying a firm knot to keep it in place. Although you're not a fan of covering your body, it doesn't feel too bad. You don't feel as though you're wearing something. You aren't uncomfortable.
Now, as for the bra...
You look at the boys. "Darlings? How do these 'bra' garments work?"
The boys can only blink at you. They turn to look at one another, their expressions mirroring one another's. They look back at you again. They certainly didn't think they'd be explaining to a grown woman who's seven-knows-how-old how to put a bra on.
"U-Uh...!" Deuce stammers. "Y-You... put your arms through the, uh, straps... n-no, not there– yeah, yeah! Those. Just like that..."
His hands are waving around in vague motions, as if trying to mime to you what to do. Ace can only shake his head and sigh, feeling exhausted by the awkward way Deuce is explaining to you the ways of the bra.
"A-And then, you just... clip it behind your back," Deuce adds.
You attempt to follow Deuce's instructions, pressing your lips in a thin line as you fumble with the bra clip. This is... oddly difficult. You're not a fan of this thing. Human women really wear these all day? You pity them.
"I'm afraid my fingers aren't nimble enough in this form for these small clips," you say. "Deuce, dear, would you mind helping me?"
"WHAT?!"
"Oh you've gotta be fucking– lucky bastard..." Ace mumbles.
"So, then, no?" You say, tilting your head.
"No! No– I mean, yes! I-I'll help!" Deuce squeaks, voice rising in pitch as he waves his arms around, cheeks a deep red.
He gulps and steels himself, walking up to you and settling himself behind you. His hands are shaking, clammy from nerves. He fumbles around with the clip himself, muttering curses and apologies under his breath. He can't remember the last time he's been this close to a woman.
"Oh brother... hurry up, Deuce! We don't have all day," Ace grumbles, arms crossed.
"Shut up! I've got this..." Deuce shoots back, concentrating and finally grounding himself enough to clip the bra, wanting to prove a point to Ace.
"There, got it," Deuce says, flashing you a timid smile.
"Thank you. I appreciate it," you say, rubbing the top of Deuce's head.
The boys can only watch in gobsmacked silence as you nonchalantly cup your breasts, tugging at the cups of the bra. Though from your perspective, you're merely inspecting.
You're not a fan of it. It's not overly tight, but there is a certain resistance that you're not fond of. You suppose you'll get used to it, but for the time being, you'll be loathing the moments you must wear it.
It's at that moment that Tatsuya comes down, looking quite dapper in his new NRC uniform, which Crewel has generously provided. He has a black and white ribbon wrapped around his arm, and Grim, who's perched on his shoulder, has a bow tie of marching colours.
"Did I miss something...?" He asks, looking between the three of you, sensing some kind of tension. "Looking great, by the way, (Y/N). Crewel really knows fashion. Anyway, is everyone ready?" He asks, earning flustered nods from the boys.
You shrink yourself down, taking on a humanoid form. You crane your head from side to side, popping your bones and muscles with a mildly uncomfortable groan.
"Ready."
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
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She’s a Monster [Twst X Fem!Reader]
Chapter 3
A New Perspective
Back to Masterlist | Previous | Next
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Ace can't seem to fall asleep. Despite the exhaustion from today's events, his mind still races. The excitement from the threat of expulsion, fighting some crazed monster in a mineshaft, and having a chance encounter with one of Twisted Wonderland's rarest creatures is still fresh.
He turns his head, eyes squinting as he can make out Deuce's silhouette in the dark, fast asleep like a damn log in his bed, along with the two other faceless Heartslabyul students he shares a room with.
The redhead throws his head back against his pillows, groaning, and that's when his stomach starts to growl. Damn, he had missed dinner, hadn't he? He and the other guys had gotten back to NRC so late in the evening that dinner had already long passed.
Making up his mind, Ace rolls out of bed and silently walks out of his dorm room, making his way down to the lounge and over to the kitchen.
"Man... I'm starving!" Ace mutters to himself. He smirks slyly as he pads over to the fridge, having gone undetected. "Got anything for me to chow down on in there?"
He opens the door and inspects the contents, and he breaks out into a grin when he spots a delicious-looking treat just sitting there, unattended and begging to be eaten. "Hah, score! Tarts! These look amazing."
He looks behind him, shrugging when he sees nobody. "There's plenty to go around, too. I don't think anybody would notice if I sneak in a teensy little slice, yeah?"
Ace grabs one of the slices, popping it into his mouth, munching rather noisily and nearly squealing in delight. "Mmph... SO good! I'm in pastry paradise right now! Maybe just one more..."
Busy with his little fridge raid, Ace doesn't register the footsteps approaching behind him. At least, not until a stern voice speaks up.
"Of course they're good. Trey made them. His tarts are always exceptional."
Dumbly and still not registering the trouble he might be in, Ace peeks over his shoulder and nods. "Yeah, but I mean, these are CRAZY good! Like, he could totally sell these at—" he then does a double take and nearly chokes, eyes widening. "GAH! H-Housewarden?!"
Riddle Rosehearts, the housewarden of Heartslabyul stands before Ace, arms crossed and blueish-gray eyes narrowed as his features are schooled into that familiar, stern look he's often seen with. Despite his shorter stature, Riddle somehow never fails to instill some kind of dread in his peers.
"To think that you would touch something of mine..." Riddle starts, eerily calm, but it's a calm that spells incoming disaster. "Well, I'm impressed with your audacity, at the very least."
Ace chuckles nervously. "Ah... haha. These were yours...? Funny, I didn't see a name on them, or anything like that," Ace mutters, which he'll immediately regret running that sarcastic mouth of his.
Riddle scowls. "I think that the Queen of Hearts' rule 89 is quite clear. "Never eat a tart without the Queen's permission. The theft of tarts is a serious crime!" He says, tone rising.
Ace blinks, gaping at that. "Rule... 89? Are you serious— oh, you've got to be kidding me!"
"Do I look like I am joking here?" Riddle asks.
"Look, can't ya cut me some slack? It's my first week here! You can't seriously expect me to know all the rules day one! And there's no queen around for me to ask permission anyways..." Ace argues.
"Silence! As a student representing Heartslabyul, it is your duty to familiarize yourself with the queen's rules! And as the housewarden, I embody the queen. Therefore, I am the law," Riddle states. "Off with your head!"
Ace doesn't get another word in before a large, heart-shaped collar snaps around Ace's neck, preventing him from using his magic until Riddle decides to let him do so.
"Wha..?!" Ace guffaws, pulling at the collar. "You can't just do that!"
"Consider this your punishment. Maybe you'll think before you act next time," Riddle says, clicking his tongue before walking off.
At a loss for words, Ace is left alone in the kitchen to his own devices. He tugs and yanks at the collar, desperately trying to get the dreaded thing off, but it won't budge.
"Damn it...!" He mutters angrily.
His jaw tenses, and his teeth grind together as he makes the bitter – and rather petty, you might say – decision not to go back to his dorm room. Instead, he turns on his heels and heads for the exit. Ace doesn't really feel like staying under the same roof as a rule-obsessed tyrant who's just a tad too trigger-happy on punishment for his liking.
Where will he go? He's not so sure himself, but his feet take him to the Hall of Mirrors. Scanning the area, he sees the mirror portal that leads to Ramshackle, the dorm Tatsuya is staying in. The dorm's name and symbol atop the mirror is smudged and worn out, leaving Ace to wonder what it used to be called before being abandoned and left to rot with a ghost infestation.
Pressing his lips into a thin line, Ace contemplates his decision. Surely Tatsuya and Grim wouldn't mind an extra addition to their dorm? It's not like it's overcrowded, anyways.
His decision is made, he's going to Ramshackle. So, with a nod, he steps through the portal.
Ramshackle's atmosphere has... much left to be desired. It's not exactly appealing. Everything is wilted and gloomy, and it's apparent that it's been abandoned for a long time.
"Man..." Ace whistles as he opens the rusted gate and heads up the path to the dorm building. "This place needs some serious TLC."
As he approaches the front door, he walks past a mass of (colour) scales curled up on the lawn. "Who'd wanna willingly stay in this dump...?" He mutters.
"Asides from the chill of the night air with little shelter – nothing that a puff of fire could not fix, mind you – this place has a certain charm to it," a feminine voice replies.
Ace scoffs. "Sure... if you're some kinda forest dweller, maybe. Uh... hey. Wait a minute."
A pause. A blink. Ace comically backtracks, turning his head to come face to face with–
You tilt your head, which is currently resting on your forearms as you comfortably remain coiled on yourself, your bulky body serving as a decent pillow.
"Hello there. Ace, was it?" You ask. "It's quite late for you to be wandering around, no? I believe you should be resting, especially after such a long day."
"You... uh... what?!" Ace guffaws, eyes wide.
Oh dear. Are you scaring him? Why is he reacting this way? You don't quite understand, and so you wiggle around a bit, trying to coil even more so that you may appear smaller, though you're not sure you can go much further than this. It's getting quite uncomfortable for you.
"What are you doing here?!" Ace manages to ask, shock conveyed in the pitch of his voice.
"Tatsuya was kind enough to invite me to his dwelling space," you say.
Ace blinks at that, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Tatsuya– oh you've gotta be kidding..." he mutters.
Your eyes zero in on the young man's hands, making you perk up as you gently take his hands into your large, clawed ones, inspecting the skin that had once been burned.
"H-Hey what are you doing, lady?" Ace says.
"Your hands are as good as new. That makes me quite happy to know you're no longer injured," you say, tongue flicking as you give a small smile that shows off rows of pointed teeth.
"Eh..." Ace says, freezing in place for a moment as his mind races. He then manages to yank his hands away, if only because your hold on him was gentle and barely there. "Uh... yeah. Those leaf things helped."
But as you notice the collar around his neck, Ace's heart does a weird flip in his chest as you lean into his personal space to inspect the foreign object.
Your tongue flicks out, gathering particles that tell you that this collar, although appearing to be made of a heavy material, is only really composed of magic, making you sigh in relief. You would have hated to know that Ace was carrying something heavy that could potentially hurt his neck.
Still, that can't be comfortable.
"Ack...!" Ace gasps as you curiously tug on the collar. "Knock it off!"
"Oh, I apologize," you say, letting go of the collar. "Did I hurt you? I meant no harm. This collar... what's its purpose? It seems far too bulky to be around a delicate human neck," you mutter softly, running your finger along the skin just above the collar, as if trying to soothe it.
The action makes Ace shiver. He finds himself... not completely despising the sensation, but it's still odd to be doted on by a monster girl so much. Is this a naga thing? Or is this a you thing? Ace can't really tell. He doesn't know enough about nagas to answer that question. Hell, he doesn't know enough about you, for that matter.
"Yeah, well, try telling that to my housewarde," Ace grumbles underneath his breath before backing away slightly. "Never mind that... I've gotta talk to Tatsuya."
You tilt your head. "I believe he's sleeping. Is it urgent?"
"Damn right it is!" Ace says, crossing his arms.
"Well, it would be rude to awaken him, no? He's also had quite the day. Perhaps you can slumber outside for the night and wait for daylight to come?" You suggest.
Ace blinks. "Eh? Uh, look... maybe you're built for the outdoors, but I'm not freezing out here."
You tilt your head. "I'll keep you warm."
Well, that's not what Ace expected you to offer. Then again, he's starting to see a pattern with you, so maybe he shouldn't be surprised that you're basically offering to, what, cuddle him to keep him warm? Be his personal weighted and heated blanket?
Ace shakes his head. "What? No! No. No need for that. I'll just... stick to my original plan. But, thanks? I think?" He says, pointing to the front door as he slowly begins to inch away from you.
"Well, if you insist," you say, lying your head back down. "But if you're left stranded, you know where to find me."
Though, as you watch Ace leave, you can't help but want to follow after him – to check up on everyone, of course. And so, you stretch your body out and slowly slither on after the student.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Meanwhile, in his bedroom at Ramshackle, Tatsuya struggles to get a decent night's sleep. It's not the lack of a comfortable mattress that keeps him tossing and turning, nor is it because of the stressful events that have occurred these last days. After all, he's managed to sleep properly the night before.
He's dreaming, dreaming of a hand hastily slathering red paint along white roses. How odd. He wonders whose perspective this is. It's not his, that's for sure.
"They all gotta be red, or it's 'off with my head,'" he hears a voice hum. The tone is far too cheery for what had just been said.
In his dream, Tatsuya sees an entire orchard of white roses, all of which he assumes will need to be painted red. It seems a tad extreme. What's the purpose? What's the meaning of this? And the whole 'off with your head' thing — he's heard that phrase before. Not too long ago, in fact.
The hand halts, humming in a questioning tone before the person turns around to face a few figures. One, two, three... Tatsuya can count five in total, but they're blacked out; he can't make out any of their features.
"You can't have an unbirthday party without the roses being red! Not to mention, it's crucial to play croquet with seven coloured flamingos as mallets and a hedgehog as a ball!" That same voice echoes. It's as if whoever's eyes he's looking through could hear his dreamland thoughts.
"Gotta follow the rules, otherwise it's off with our heads, you feel?"
No, Tatsuya doesn't get it. What kind of insanity is this? Whatever it is, it gives bad vibes. There are pieces of the conversation missing for it to make sense.
"Y'see, the Queen of Hearts made all those rules herself, way back in the day, and the housewarden is all about following the rules to a tee!" He says.
The Queen of Hearts? Oh, right. It's that lady who's depicted on Main Street among the other six important figures of this world. The statue Grim and Ace had damaged. A queen who supposedly ruled over a kingdom of madness in a maze-like garden. Ace had said that none of her subjects dared to defy her or her rules; otherwise, the punishment would be immediate decapitation. No questions asked.
A tyrant who got off of controlling others, is what it's more like, one who would abuse her power to hurt those beneath her. Nothing respectable about that. Yes, a ruler should be able to put their foot down, but there's a balance to be had. To be able to command respect and authority without fear and violence being the main, driving points.
Tatsuya has a bad feeling about all of this. This dream — it's no dream, nor is it a coincidence. It's happened before. It's—
"Hey... hey! Henchhuman!" That familiar, raspy yet screechy voice calls out to him.
"Hah...? What?" Tatsuya says, jolting upright in one, fluid motion.
Blinking the sleep and confusion away, Tatsuya assesses his surroundings — he's in his room, at Ramshackle, still in that strange world. He's in his bed, Grim at his side and giving him a weird look.
"Finally, you're awake!" Grim says. "You've been tossin' and mumblin' nonstop. Nearly kicked me outta bed!"
"Ngh... did I? Sorry 'bout that, Grim," Tatsuya grumbles, though his heart's not all into the apology as his mind is still on the dream he just had.
One hand goes to his forehead, feeling a dull throbbing, and his other hand moves up to his nose, pinching the bridge of it as he feels a bit of blood trickle down his nostrils.
"Myah?! Why's your nose bleeding all of a sudden?" Grim loudly asks, little arms waving around.
"It's still happening, huh? Even in this world," Tatsuya mumbles to himself. "Something's gonna happen..."
"What are you going on about—"
Tatsuya waves Grim's worries off, quickly wiping his nose clean of blood. "I just have a weird feeling," he says. It's partially the truth. "But let's not worry too much about it; It's probably nothing. I'm fine alright? Let's just go back to bed. It's late, and we've got classes tomorrow."
Grim blinks, tilting his head. "If you say so..." he says. Although not entirely convinced, the cat monster lets it go.
Just as Tatsuya is about to lie back down, he hears knocking.
He blinks. "Huh? Did I hear that right? It's the middle of the night. Who in the hell...?" He mutters.
"Maybe it's those pesky ghosts playing tricks on us again. They just don't know when to give it a rest," Grim grumbles.
Tatsuya shakes his head, throwing the blanket off himself; the cloth covers Grim and elicits a muffled 'hey' from the cat. Tatsuya swings his legs over the edge and gets up, moving to grab a shirt to cover himself quickly.
"Nah. That definitely came from outside," he says.
He runs a hand through his hair, now out of its side braid and hanging just a bit above his shoulders as he makes his way down the creaky, decrepit stairs. Grim hops down and follows him.
The knocking picks back up. Louder this time, and Tatsuya rolls his eyes.
"I'm coming, I'm coming! Geez..." he says.
"It's Ace! Just let me in already!"
Grim and Tatsuya look at each other, the latter shrugging as he moves towards the door.
"Ace? I wonder what he wants this late," Grim says.
"We're about to find out," Tatsuya says.
When he opens the door, the Heartslabyul student immediately barges in. It takes all but a second for Tatsuya to notice many things. For starters, Ace looks all sorts of annoyed and baffled. Not to mention that big, bulky collar around his neck.
Huh. That collar – isn't that the thing that was put on Grim during that whole opening ceremony debacle?
"Yo, Ace. What are you doing here this late? And what's with the collar?" Tatsuya asks.
Ace whirls around, mouth opening and closing with wide eyes. "Uh...! Never mind that! I'll put a pin in that one, because why the hell is the naga chilling in your front yard?!"
Ah. Right. That.
"Well, we clearly don't have the same priorities," Tatsuya hums.
"No, we don't, and I'm kinda worried about yours," Ace says, crossing his arms. "So? Spill."
"Well, first of all, her name's (Y/N). Not 'the naga,' so don't be rude," Tatsuya says, narrowing his eyes at Ace. "And as for what she's doing here. Well..."
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Earlier...
You tilt your head, curious as to what the human's proposition could be. "Yes, go ahead. I'm listening."
Tatsuya nods. "Okay, so, what if you, I dunno, came back to Night Raven College with me?"
Well, that certainly wasn't what you were expecting. "You're inviting me to come to that school you attend? Did I understand that correctly?"
"Yeah, you got it," Tatsuya says. "I mean, if you want to, 'course. If you're comfortable here, then you don't have to."
You narrow your eyes a little suspiciously. This Night Raven College establishment would be home to many humans, no? You have your reservations about potentially exposing yourself to so many people. You've lived long enough to know that, among the various species that roam the lands, humans tend to be the quickest to hunt down what they fear and don't understand. You've witnessed it firsthand, your people have suffered it firsthand. Not all would be as calm and inviting as Tatsuya and his little friends from earlier. And even so, those other young men most definitely had doubts about you, especially that redheaded one, Ace.
"What's the motive here?" You ask.
Tatsuya vaguely raises his hands in a surrendering gesture. "None. Well, none other than having a pretty damn cool friend chilling around. That, and you kinda look lonely. No offense."
You huff out a soft laugh. "A friend...? I've not heard that word used to refer to me in so long, you know?" You say.
You pause, a slight frown tugging at your lips as your eyes dart around your cave. The silence is deafening, something that you've never quite noticed until today. Today has made you realize how much joy this moment with Tatsuya has brought you.
"I am lonely," you say matter-of-factly. It's the first time you've admitted this out loud, and it feels like a weight has been lifted from your shoulders as you let it out. "The ghosts are good company, and I cherish them very much. But, I'm a naga. I need... more. I thrive off having a community to love, protect and nurture. I do not have that. Not anymore. I miss it. Terribly so. As much as I want to say it isn't so, I can't seem to fight my instincts."
Tatsuya nods, a solemn smile on his features. "Yeah. I can get that," he sympathizes. He might not know naga culture, but he can see the way the solitude is eating away at you, and he can see the way you mourn the loss of something you once had that made you feel whole.
He might not be able to bring back what you've lost, but he can damn well try his hardest to help you build up something new. And maybe, just maybe, you'll be able to quell that craving you seem to have deep down inside of you.
"I appreciate your offer, Tatsuya, but are you quite sure that this is an appropriate idea?" You ask, raising a brow as you gesture to yourself. "What I mean is, well, look at me. Would a monster be welcomed at Night Raven College? Would that not upset the balance?"
"Well, they let Grim in, didn't they?" Tatsuya shrugs. "But, I guess between a pint-sized cat and a big snake lady, there's a bit of a difference."
You chuckle. "Yes, quite. That was my point, dear."
Tatsuya clicks his tongue, thinking this through for a moment. It's true that a naga is probably not expected to set foot at NRC, but there's a first for everything. This semester seems to mark a lot of firsts for the college, what with Grim being the first monster admitted as an official student. And Tatsuya himself? Well, he's a magicless dude from another world who was admitted. Against his wishes, but that's besides the point.
No, Tatsuya can't promise that your presence won't ruffle a few feathers, but it's worth a try, and if you truly don't like the environment, then he wouldn't hold you hostage.
"You being there might get people talking, and I'm sure the headmaster will have a few choice words to throw my way, but at the end of the day, I say fuck it. Let them talk, let them be shocked. We're just a couple of people trying to fit in," Tatsuya says.
You sigh, shaking your head with a small smile. "You truly want me at Night Raven College with you, don't you?" You say.
Tatsuya scratches the back of his head with a cheeky grin. "Heh. Do I have to get on my knees and beg to prove a point?" He says. "For real, yeah, I think it'd be awesome having you around, and it might do you some good too."
You hum, thinking it over. You could definitely use the company. You could do with a change of scenery, and what you wouldn't give for new experiences.
Okay. You'll try.
You nod. "Okay. You've convinced me. I'll follow along," you say. However, for a moment, your eyes turn serious. "But, I warn you, should any humans attack me or threaten me, then I won't hesitate to defend myself. I'm of a typically gentle species, but I will not tolerate being a victim to the ignorant and vile. Am I clear?"
Tatsuya lets out a low whistle. "Damn. Yes ma'am. No objections. Hell, if anyone's stupid enough to do that, I'll be the first to cheer you on."
The gentleness returns to your reptile-like eyes, tongue flicking happily. "Good. Now, shall we?"
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Ace blinks. "So let me get this straight. You invited a naga over to NRC... because she's lonely?" He says carefully. "You, of your own free will, went back to the mine, tracked down a naga, and became chummy enough with her to bring her back here?"
Tatsuya shrugs. "That about sums it up, yeah."
"Does the headmage even know about this?" Ace asks.
"Crowley? Well, that's a work in progress," Tatsuya hums.
"So, no, then?" Ace says, baffled. "Dude, I don't know if you're brave, or just plain stupid."
"I'm just a free spirit," Tatsuya says. "Anyways, you wanna talk about stupidity and bravery? What about you? How'd you get that collar? Isn't that the magic that short, red-headed dude with the heart-shaped bangs does?" Tatsuya says, making a heart gesture with his fingers around his own bangs for emphasis.
"Yeah!" Grim pipes up, pointing a paw at Ace's neck. "That psycho stuck that thing on me at orientation! What did ya do to get shackled with that?"
Ace tilts his head back a bit, lips pressed into a thin line as he prepares himself for the big reveal. He then sighs as he looks at Tatsuya.
"I ate a tart," he says.
Tatsuya blinks. He then looks at Grim, and the latter looks right back at the human with a confused expression that mirrors the one Tatsuya has. Tatsuya looks back at Ace, tilting his head as he makes a vague shrugging gesture with his hands, expecting more. But when Ace doesn't say more, Tatsuya's brows furrow.
"And...?"
"And that's it. I ate a tart," Ace says.
"Come again? You ate a tart?" Tatsuya repeats, not sure if Ace is being truthful or is just taking the piss out of him.
Ace nods vehemently. "Yeah! That's all I did! I ate a tart!" He then elaborates: "You see, I was hungry, so I got out of bed and headed to the kitchen. There were three whole tarts in the fridge, and they weren't small ones, either! I took a small piece, and Riddle collared me for it!"
"And you're here because...?" Tatsuya pushes.
Ace scoffs. "You're insane if you think I'm staying under the same roof as a guy who put me under magic lockdown for something this stupid! So, I'm joining your dorm. Permanently."
"Joy," Tatsuya says.
"Hey, man! Can it!"
Grim crosses his arms. "But... the point is that you're both terrible?"
Ace guffaws at the cat's audacity. He's never wanted to kick an animal more. "Uh, 'scuse me?! You don't think it's insane to have my magic locked away for eating ONE slice? There's nothing worse for a mage than not being able to use magic! It's not like I ate everything; there was still plenty to go for everyone!"
Ace turns to Tatsuya, practically begging him to agree with him. "C'mon! You know this ain't right!"
"Well..." Tatsuya mutters, though he doesn't get to finish his thought.
"Pardon my intrusion," you say as you poke your head through a window, making both Ace and Grim gasp loudly at your unexpected appearance. "I don't know how humans operate very much, but food is a precious resource. Taking such a resource from someone without asking, well, it's rude and opens room for conflict. Perhaps you should consider apologizing to the one you've taken from?"
Tatsuya nods along. "Yeah. Agreed. What she said. Yeah, what Riddle did was kind of extreme, but did you even think that maybe, I dunno, it might have been for a party, or something? But even if it wasn't, it wasn't yours to take..."
Grim nods. "Mhm... taking food from others is not cool at all!"
Ace looks between Tatsuya, Grim and you. "Man, where's your sympathy? I'm a victim to the housewarden's tyranny here!"
"Dude. Just apologize tomorrow, and I'm sure it'll be fine!" Tatsuya says. "Can your ego handle that?"
Ace huffs at the comment, but he lets it go. "Ugh... fine, I get it! I'll apologize. But you're coming with me, Tatsuya! This was your idea, and I gotta blame it on someone if it goes sour."
"Ah yes. 'Oh, I fucked up something as simple as apologizing, but it's this other guy's fault'. Be for real," Tatsuya mutters with a deadpan. "But sure, I'll come along. It'll be my daily entertainment."
"Whatever..." Ace grumbles. "Anyways, I still need a place to crash. "So, where do I sleep?"
"Eh? You were serious about that?" Grim says. "Besides our bedroom, this entire place is all dust!"
Ace groans. "Ugh... great! I'm not cleaning. Hey, Tatsuya, how about you let me have your bed for the night? I'm the guest, aren't I?"
"Hah! You invited yourself over, you're not my guest. I've got a perfectly good sofa in the lounge. You can grab that," Tatsuya says, gesturing to the lounge sofa that... has seen better days, for sure.
Ace winces at that. Well, he tried, and if that's the best he can get for tonight...
"Ugh... that's not gonna be comfortable," Ace mutters.
"Speaking of comfort..." Tatsuya says to no one in particular as he heads your way, where you're still leaning against the windowsill from outside.
"You know, (Y/N), if you want, you can come in. You don't have to stay outside like a stray. You can come in," Tatsuya says, nonchalantly rubbing one of your horns. "Uh... wait, can you even fit through the door...?"
You chuckle. "Despite what my size would have you believe, I'm quite capable of squeezing through tight crevices. I've got quite the flexible and supple body."
He blinks, heading for the door. "Huh. Well, I guess you are a snake..."
You back away from the broken window and slither over to the door. When Tatsuya opens the door for you, you slither your way in. Thankfully, the door is rather large, giving you a good amount of space to work with, but it's still a tight squeeze that has you wiggling your body around to fit the bulkiest part of you in.
You could have shifted into your humanoid form, but quite frankly, you'd rather avoid having to transform for such trivial matters. The transformation process is quite uncomfortable for you, having to shrink yourself down so much definitely takes a toll on your muscles and bones.
At the sight of you, Ace squawks. "And she's naked again, of course she is! P-Put some clothes on!"
No matter where his eyes land, Ace feels like he's violating some kind of your rights. But damn it's hard not to glance at your chest occasionally, and as his eyes go lower, he immediately turns a shade of red as he catches sight of your slit. Is that your... yup, that's absolutely what that is.
"No. I don't like clothes," you say as you slither in, trying not to knock anything over in Tatsuya's living space with your large, snake body.
It's not like Ace hasn't seen a naked woman before, but seeing you so nonchalantly and confidently prancing around nude is a whole other ballpark. It's obvious that you're not accustomed to how humans work, and he guesses he can't blame you for it, but still! Tatsuya's really gonna have to convince you to compromise, because there's no way this could end well — you being the only woman, always naked amongst a school that's entirely filled with guys.
Ace watches as you tenderly pick Grim up, cradling the cat as if he were your child. You rock him a bit and run your clawed fingers through his fur. Grim is eating up the attention, purring and nearly falling asleep in your arms. Ace can understand Grim's lack of a flustered reaction. He's also a monster who probably doesn't get it, but Tatsuya? He can't comprehend why Tatsuya is acting like this is your typical Tuesday night.
"Chill out, Ace," Tatsuya says. "It's just us around. She's not used to this scene, give her a break. One day at a time, alright?"
Ace shakes his head. "Man, I dunno how you can act like there's not a naked girl right there."
Tatsuya shrugs as he looks over at you, then back at Ace. "Hm... don't get me wrong. She's fucking beautiful, and her body's art. But I can be next to a woman au naturel without sexualizing her. Try it," he says.
Tatsuya goes over to you and holds his arms out. You lean down and hand him the sleeping cat. "Heh... he knocked right out. Either he was super tired, or you've just got that motherly touch, (Y/N)."
Your tongue flicks in delight as you smile. "I do like to think that I'm capable of handling little ones. Are you heading off to your nest? Good night, then."
Tatsuya chuckles, nodding. "Yeah, I'm going to bed. 'Night. You too, Ace," he says before heading off upstairs, leaving you and Ace alone.
Left in the quiet, Ace sighs and shakes his head. "Guess it's the couch for me..." he mutters, heading over the dusty, creaky piece of furniture.
As he flops on the couch, Ace grumbles. Couldn't Tatsuya at least provide a pillow and blanket? Then again, judging by the state of this place, maybe he didn't have any clean extras. Whatever, he thinks, clenching his eyes shut and trying to find peace and comfort to fall asleep. But damn does the couch make it hard to do that. It's hard, and he can feel the springs digging into his back, making him feel like he'll develop the back issues of a 70-year-old.
He tosses a bit, turning to his side, but nope, that's still not all that comfortable. Not to mention, the broken windows around the lounge don't keep the wind's chill at bay. Yeah, this kind of sucks. Maybe he should knock on Tatsuya's door and ask if he can squeeze into bed with him. Dignity be damned, at this point.
As he hears rustling around the room, his eyes slightly flutter open to peek at what's happening. Ace sees you, slithering around the room and investigating various items that can be found around the lounge. He watches as you pick up the most mundane of objects and inspect them intently. You're very tactile, getting a feel for everything with an innocent fascination that's kind of endearing, actually.
You perk up here and there, tongue flicking around the air and also near objects as you curiously sniff everything in a reptile-like fashion. Ace supposes that everything man-made would be interesting to a monster who's been living in hiding in the wilderness.
You slither over to an old box television, your clawed fingers tapping on the screen. You blink, looking at your fingers and then back at the screen as the texture takes you by surprise. And speaking of surprise, Ace catches himself smiling a bit. Watching you navigate the novelty around you is... cute? Is that the appropriate word to use for a big monster girl?
Maybe you're more charming than he initially thought.
He quickly clenches his eyes shut again and turns away from you as you look his way. Ace feels your eyes on him, staring intently. He shivers, goosebumps littering his skin, and he's not quite sure if it's the chill or your gaze that has him reacting.
You tilt your head, slithering closer to him. "Ace, dear? You're still awake?"
He doesn't answer, pretending to be asleep.
"I can tell you are," you mutter softly, sensitive ears twitching. "Your breathing and heartbeat are not at the rate of someone asleep."
Damn. You're good.
"Heh. You got me," Ace mumbles, turning over onto his back with his forearm covering his face. When he removes it, he sees you peering over him, eyes blinking down at him. "Uh.. hey."
You tilt your head. "Tell me, do I frighten you?"
Ace blinks, and he finds himself having to think the question through. Do you scare him? He thinks back to the incident in the mines, and yeah, it was kind of scary, being face to face with a monster that could absolutely end him in more ways than one. But there's no denying that you seem rather gentle, all things considered. Maybe he's more overwhelmed by you than anything else, but scared? He doesn't think so. After all, he doesn't have a feeling of dread that, in the dead of night while he sleeps, you'll sneak up on him and eat him, or something.
"... nah," he ends up saying. "I'm not scared of you. You seem nice enough."
"Oh, that's lovely to hear," you say, tongue flicking. "I try my best to be 'nice'. Human etiquette is quite lost on me, however. But, know that I only pose a threat if provoked."
Ace hums. "Yeah, I guess I noticed. The way you finished off that ink monster... that was wicked. You didn't even hesitate; you just went straight for the throat."
"Well, that thing was threatening the lives of those smaller and weaker than it," you say, a slight hiss in your tone.
"Oi..." Ace grumbles, narrowing his eyes a bit.
"That is utterly unacceptable. Inconceivable," you continue, not picking up on Ace's mild offense. "Nagas who are blessed with power, size and authority — it is our duty to protect."
"Huh. Didn't know you guys were so... noble," Ace mumbles.
He doesn't know much about nagas. Hell, nobody nowadays knows much about them. Nagas have been so rarely observed in the modern day that their natural behaviour and lifestyle have been lost in time. What people tend to remember from this species is that they are large, and dangerous. A reclusive, cave-dwelling species that carries powerful magic, physical strength and potent venom.
Your presence is definitely offering a new perspective, and maybe Ace's initial reactions to you were misplaced.
A gust of wind blows through, making Ace's body go stiff before he shivers. Steeling himself and swallowing his pride, he looks you in the eye. "Uh, hey. Is your offer still good? About keeping me warm? I'm freezin' over here."
Your tail rattles happily as you perk up, delighted that Ace is opening up to you and seeking your help. "Of course, dear."
Ace squeaks a bit as you pick him up off the couch, a protest at the tip of his tongue, but he quickly shuts his mouth when he sees you coil atop the couch, seemingly unbothered by the discomfort of it. Then again, your scales probably shield you from the hard surface and springs. You don't even seem bothered that you can't fit your entire self on the couch.
You make a nook with your body, like a makeshift nest, and set Ace down, making it so that he can use your chest to rest his head. The human turns a peculiar shade of red, and although you're not quite sure what it means, you ignore it and focus on the task at hand: ensure Ace's comfort.
You channel some mild fire magic within you, which heats your body. Ace's eyebrows shoot up in surprise at that, suddenly feeling like he's on a heat pad.
"Yo...?" He mutters, looking up at you.
You flick your tongue and smile down at him. "Comfortable?"
Ace blinks. "Uh... yeah. Yeah, I am, actually. Thanks, (Y/N)."
He closes his eyes, feeling oddly at peace. He's warm, comfortable, and there's a sense of protection that settles over him.
Yeah, maybe you aren't so bad.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
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She’s a Monster [Twst X Fem!Reader]
Chapter 2
A Gentle Giant
Back to Masterlist | Previous | Next
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When the duo of ghosts re-appear by your side, a downcast look etched onto their features, you immediately know that things didn't go according to plan.
"Did you not drive them out?" You ask calmly.
They shake their heads, just as you had suspected. "No. They fought back. We were gonna get toasted if we didn't retreat, love," Bernard says, Arthur nodding along.
Your lips press into a thin line, jaw clenching. You're torn between going along your way and turning back to take care of the problem yourself.
"... what's the probability that it'll attack?" You ask.
Arthur shakes his head, shoulders sagging. "High. It's not exactly keen on intruders, you know?"
You look back in the mine's direction. Surely these mages can handle themselves, right? You don't have to step up. They said so themselves, and you're not one to overstep boundaries. You've warned them, and they've made their decision. It's not your problem.
But there's that nagging feeling, something heavy settling in the pit of your stomach, that's telling you to quit making excuses and step up to protect.
You shake your head. You don't have to adhere to your naga instincts.
"I'm going back to my cave," you announce to the ghosts, and this time, they neither question nor stop you.
But then the ground shakes. The tremors aren't all that strong, but for a creature who's used to slithering along the ground, it's enough to knock you off balance. Your ghostly friends are quick to stabilize you before you hit the ground.
"Are you okay, (Y/N)?" Bernard asks. "We've got you."
"Yes, I am okay. Thank you," you say. "That was–"
A loud, booming roar cuts you off. It's inhuman and distorted, making your sensitive ears ring. The malice and anger that fills its voice resonate through your soul.
"Begone! Begone! Begooone!!" It says, another quake shaking the ground. "GRRRAAAWRRR!"
You grit your teeth as you peek over your shoulder. They can handle themselves. They'll be fine. It's not your problem, you tell yourself. They're not under your protection and care; you don't have to step in.
"Shit! Watch out!"
"Myaaaah! Stay away from me!"
"GAH!! Nothing's hurting it!"
Another 'boom' resonates as something heavy hits the ground, followed by panicked gasps, helpless yelps, and screams. You can hear the boys scrambling to defend themselves, vague noises of launched magic spells hitting your ears.
The ghosts look at you, worry etched into their usually mischievous and carefree expressions. They don't know what to make of your feelings – don't know the inner storm that is brewing inside you.
"Miss (Y/N)...?"
"It's... not my problem," you respond with a hiss.
But then another scream pierces through the air – loud, distressed, and most of all: in danger.
You blink, and your surroundings change into a familiar scene: a devastated forest, the smell of burning flesh and scales, and destroyed habitats. Blood — you smell blood.
"(Y/N)!? (Y/N), help!!"
"Angel? Sabbeth? Where are you?!"
You blink again, and you're back, back to the present and current situation at hand. You turn around quickly, your instincts having won over to protect the weak and vulnerable in need.
You do have a say in this, and you won't let these boys suffer a similar fate. You're making it your problem.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Minutes earlier...
Grim, Deuce, and Ace seem rather confident as they move forward. Tatsuya sighs, shaking his head as he follows closely behind. Warding off the ghosts seems to have really given these pretentious guys an ego boost. Good for them, but Tatsuya is still on his guard, actively paying attention. His eyes are darting, and his ears are attuned to every sound. Not for a magestone — no, he doesn't care about that at all — but for danger.
While those idiots might think that the woman was warning them about ghosts, Tatsuya is convinced that there's more to this. Again, he's not about to die in some world unknown to him for a rock.
Deuce stops in his tracks. "Hah...? Do you guys see that over there?" He says, pointing at something deeper into the cave.
"What are you on about...?" Ace mutters, squinting. "Hey, wait... no, there is something down there."
"Looks like a... red light?" Tatsuya adds.
Getting his hopes up, Grim perks up. "Is that a magestone? Huzzah!" He cheers, running ahead of the group on all fours.
"H-Hey! Keep it down. We don't know what's up ahead!" Deuce says, clumsily grabbing Grim before he can get too far into the mine. "We should be careful!"
"Mraaah?! Put me down, human!" Grim says.
"Would you stop ordering everyone around already? It gets old real fast, Deuce," Ace grumbles. "Remember that you and your stupid stunt got us in this mess in the first place?"
"Oh?" Deuce says through gritted teeth. "I'm pretty sure this all started because—"
"You all need to shut the hell up!" Tatsuya says, but before the boys can retaliate, a vague noise sounding like a low growl reaches Tatsuya's ears. "Wait... shut up for real. I think I hear something."
"...iiivvv... ...oooouuu..."
"Huh?" The three mages say, beads of sweat trickling down their foreheads as a sense of dread begins to fill them.
"W-Where's that coming from?" Ace says, taking a step back.
The red light seems to be getting closer as the voice resonates again. "...neeevvvaaa... ...iiivvv... ...ooouuu..."
"Sounds like... it's getting closer..." Deuce gulps.
And from the depths of the mine emerges a large monster, furiously growling at the group. Its sentences are strung together with broken words that it seems to struggle to get out coherently. It has no legs. Instead, it has a long, bulbous body that seems to glide along a puddle of ink. It's wearing a long-sleeved, ragged, and worn red worktop. The thing has no facial features, and its head is made of glass with thick black ink swishing inside. In one hand, it holds a glowing red lantern; in the other, it has a concerningly large pickaxe.
"Stooonesss... Stooonesss aaare miiiiine!" It screeches.
"What is that?!" Deuce cries out.
"Shit... that thing's super creepy, but it said something about stones, didn't it?" Ace adds, stepping back again to distance himself from the monster.
The mention of stones seems to trigger something feral deep within the monster. "Stooonesss... ...nevvva give stooonesss...!" It hollers, raising its pickaxe in the air.
Tatsuya's eyes widen at that. "Watch out!" He calls out.
"Bwah!!" Ace and Deuce shriek as they all but throw themselves off to the side, narrowly avoiding what would have been a fatal hit. Tatsuya also manages to avoid the blow, grabbing Grim to get him out of harm's way.
The ground crackles where the pickaxe hits, making the ground shake as dust and debris come down from the force. A rock comes down, hitting Tatsuya on the head.
"Mother— shit!" Tatsuya exclaims, wincing as he drops Grim down to the ground to hold his pounding head. "We've gotta get outta here! If that thing hits the walls, the mine could cave in!"
Clenching his fist and with gritted teeth, Deuce stands up. "But we need a magestone, otherwise we'll get expelled, and if there might still be some... I'm going in!" He says, brandishing his pen.
"Oi! You're outta your mind!" Ace shouts in disbelief.
"I-I don't think I can take that thing down, even as a master sorcerer," Grim says shakily, climbing onto Tatsuya's shoulder for safety.
"I can't get expelled! I refuse!"
Just as the monster manages to rip its pickaxe out of the ground, causing even more debris to scatter, Tatsuya uses every ounce of his force to grab the blue-haired mage by the arm and rip him back.
"DEUCE! Listen to yourself! Better expelled than fucking dead!" Tatsuya says, urgency filling his voice. "Out! Now, everyone!"
The guys run as fast as they've ever run in their lives, the monster giving chase with a booming groan. Its pickaxe is swinging and dragging wildly along the mine walls and ground.
"Maybe we can fight it better out in the open!" Deuce says between huffs.
"You're still on that...? Hah... you're insufferable!" Ace adds.
As the group makes it to the entrance of the mines, now no longer within the tight confines of an old cave on the verge of crumbling to the ground, Tatsuya manages to grab a rock and hauls it at the monster's head. The damage isn't significant, but it's enough to cause the glass of its bottle-like head to crack.
"Begone! Begone! Begooone!!" It screams, somewhat thrown off by the blow. "GRRRAAAWRRR!"
"Great! You just made it more mad, genius!" Ace says.
"Well, I don't see you trying anything better!" Tatsuya says.
"A-Ah... t-take this! I summon thee... something heavy! A cauldron! A-And another one!" Deuce says, waving his pen and desperately summoning cauldron upon cauldron in an attempt to pin the monster down.
With a loud huff, the monster does get disoriented as the heavy iron cauldrons land hard on it with a loud thud. It hits the ground, flattened on its stomach, though it's obvious that Deuce's efforts won't see much success; the monster still has the strength and room to writhe beneath the weight, and it still holds its pickaxe with a vice grip.
"Shit... we don't have much time before it gets loose!" Tatsuya says.
Grim jumps down from Tatsuya's shoulder, spitting out a huff of his signature blue fire magic. "Myaaah! Get a dose of the Great Grim's blazin' hot fire!"
"And one extra large gust of wind joining in on that!" Ace says, combining his wind magic with Grim's.
A smart move for once. Ace's gusts are fanning Grim's flames, making them larger and more potent — a sort of fire tornado — just like the campus incident with the Queen of Hearts' statue. They might actually have a shot at making it out of this in one piece!
"Gwaaah?!" The monster growls, the confusion palpable in its voice.
For a moment, all goes quiet. Is it out? Have they done it?
Tatsuya squints, trying to get a good look at the monster's silhouette within the inferno, and as the flames die down, he can catch a peek of it. What he sees makes his blood run cold as the silhouette seems to be rising.
"Shit! Watch out!" Tatsuya shouts.
"GRRRAAAWRRR!" The monster shrieks, breaking free from the cauldrons' weight and knocking the remainder of the flames back, causing the group to shield themselves from the oncoming embers.
"N-No way..." Deuce mutters in disbelief, lowering his arms to look at the monster with wide eyes.
"GAH!! Nothing's hurting it!" Ace adds, equally shocked.
Shaking like a leaf, Grim scampers to hide behind Tatsuya's leg. ""Myaaaah! Stay away from me!"
Aggravated, the monster raises its pickaxe, ready to deliver a fatal swing to the boys. "Dooon't tooouch stoooneees!"
Deuce and Ace raise their pens; it's a last-ditch effort for self-defence. They wait for the blow, but it never comes. Instead, the weapon clangs against something, a loud thud resonating throughout the forest area.
Looking up, they gape when they see what seems to be a force field. A (colour) barrier that has a sort of scale pattern to it. It's stopping the monster's attack cleanly, the barrier not even cracking underneath the pressure. The boys look dumbly at their pens, then at each other, as they wonder what just happened, but both realize that neither is responsible for the forcefield. Then, who...?
The group hears footsteps behind them, and when they turn around...
"Wha...? It's you..." Deuce mutters.
Your hand is raised, your palm glowing, as do the tips of your horns. Your brows are furrowed with concentration; your eyes are narrowed into a glare that's solely focused on the monster. You push forward, standing protectively in front of the young men. You peek over your shoulder briefly, shooting the guys a look that makes them feel like they're being scolded by their mother.
You focus back on the monster, and with a hiss, you snap your fingers and flick your wrist. "That's enough!"
Your barrier dissipates, parrying the monster's pickaxe. Only the scales that had been covering it remain; they hone onto the monster, concentrating into a blast that knocks it back a few feet, sending it to the ground.
You stand tall – or as tall as you can be in this form – and keep yourself fixated on the monster, not paying any mind to the various baffled and awestruck expressions from the guys.
"If you have even an ounce of humanity left within you, then you will stand down," you say, your tone authoritative and leaving no room for argument. "Do not test my patience."
"No way?! She just knocked that thing back like it was nothing!" Ace says. "Who is this girl?"
While the monster is down, you turn to the boys. "You should leave. Now."
"B-But we need—"
"A magestone. I'm aware," you cut the blue-haired guy off. "It's not worth your safety."
Ever so protective of its stones, the monster gets back up with a booming roar, making the guys flinch and gasp. How is it still going after everything that's been thrown at it?
"Thiiieeef... begoooneee!" It shouts, ready to attack once more.
Your eyes narrow. Looking back at the guys, you know you might scare them with your true form, but the urgency of the situation calls for it. You just hope that you'll be able to maintain a semblance of peace after this.
"Then, you leave me no choice..." you say, your tone low — a warning, a threat and a promise all in between the lines of a single sentence.
A puff of smoke engulfs you, causing the group to cough as it hits their nose. They wave their arms around to dissipate the smoke from around them, only for their jaws to hit the floor as they notice what's happening.
You're growing in size. If they thought you were tall in your human form, nothing would have prepared them for the towering, twenty-foot-long creature that you truly are. Your body is completely covered in (colour) scales, lower half being replaced by a long, bulky serpentine body. The tip of your tail is made of a series of keratin rings interlocked with one another, reminding them of a rattlesnake.
The irritation you feel in your core is reflected through your body language — the spines along your body and tail are raised, the fringes along your hips are flared, and the tip of your tail rattles with warning as you hiss at the monster.
Tatsuya voices everybody's thoughts: "What the fuck...?"
"That's a..." Deuce stammers.
"There's no way..." Ace says, for once rendered speechless.
You're threateningly and slowly slithering toward the monster, hissing and growling as you use your large, clawed hands to crawl along the ground. You keep the pressure on, forcing the monster to back away to keep a safe distance from you. It's a stare-down between two large creatures, both waiting for the other to strike.
It's the ink monster that decides to make the first move, raising its weapon and swinging it down hard. You weave out of the way, your flexible body curling out of harm's way effortlessly. Wrapping your hands around the lodged pickaxe, you secrete an acidic venom through your pores, causing the weapon to corrode away.
"Guh?!" The monster shrieks at the loss of its pickaxe. It quickly removes its hands from the handle as if gaining the sudden realization that it, too, could be severely burned.
Snapping out of his stupor, Deuce shakes his head. "Hey! While it's distracted, we could go get that magestone!"
"You really won't let up with that?" Tatsuya sighs through gritted teeth. "Fine. But we make it quick."
The boys rush back into the mine while you're fighting off the threat, the latter turning its attention to the group as they run into its territory to collect its precious stones.
"Waaait! Nooooooo! Dooon't tooouch thaaaaat!" It roars, about to chase after the group.
"Stubborn, idiotic little..." you mutter as you watch the guys rush into the mine. You shake your head, focusing back on the task at hand before hissing. "I believe that I am your opponent. Focus on me."
You slither closer to the monster before it has the chance to make its way into the mine. You coil your serpentine body around it, and you tighten every muscle in your body. Hard. You constrict with a crushing force. The monster trashes, though unable to wriggle free from your grasp.
You huff; it's been a while since you've had to use so much force. "You... are not going anywhere."
Meanwhile, the guys are scrambling, looking all around for a magestone. Surely, the monster's reactions confirmed that there was still some left. Poor Tatsuya has no idea what the hell he's looking for, but he's trying nonetheless. The sooner they find that godforsaken stone, the sooner they'll be out of there.
He can barely believe it himself, but god he is excited to return to the ramshackle dorm. After this, he'll welcome every dust particle, patch of mould and crumbling ceiling with open arms.
Ace catches a glimpse of something sparkling not too far off from where the monster initially emerged. "Hey! Over there. Something is sparkling in the mineshaft," he points out.
The group heads over to investigate the sparkle, and they come across a beautiful blue stone with hints of red and green reflecting within it.
Deuce grins, nearly doubling over in relief. "That's it! That's a magestone!"
After collecting the stone, Grim pumps his little paws in the air in victory. "We got it! Now, let's get outta here!"
"Roger that!" Ace says.
The group exits the mine just in time to see you deliver the finishing blow to the monster. Wrapping your rather muscular arms around its head, you squeeze as hard as you can, causing your opponent to shriek in pain. Crackling can be heard as its head slowly begins to break under the pressure. Cracks are forming, manifesting all around the glass head until it shatters. Ink splatters drip onto you, and shards of glass are launched into the air. Some of the debris scrapes against you, but the armour your scales naturally bring you lessens the damage.
The monster collapses to the ground, unmoving as it lies there with your body still atop it. Soon enough, the monster fades, melting into a puddle of ink that gets absorbed into the ground, leaving only a strange black stone behind.
You breathe a sigh of relief, shoulders sagging as the tension leaves your body now that the threat is no longer of this world.
You turn to the guys, tilting your head as you lean down to their level, getting right up in their faces, which makes them step back. You may have just saved their hides, but you're still rather intimidating. They don't know you, and seeing you finish off that thing with a squeeze? It's no wonder their danger bells are still ringing.
"Geez... personal space, lady..." Ace grumbles, though his tone betrays the intimidation he feels from your presence.
"Hm..." you hum, ignoring the redhead's comment. "You're injured," you state, analyzing the slight burn marks on the redhead's hands and the blue-haired one's cheeks. The boy with the two-toned, grey and black hair seems to have a wound atop his head that's bleeding slightly.
"A-Ah... don't worry about it. We... uh... we'll be okay," Deuce stammers, frozen on the spot.
Tatsuya, on the other hand, isn't as concerned about your presence. Instead, he gives you a polite bow. "We're sorry for not listening to your warnings earlier. You were right. Thank you for stepping in to save our asses."
Ace, Deuce and Grim all guffaw at Tatsuya's behaviour. Man went from blunt asshole to a well-mannered gentleman, but then again, maybe being polite to the giant snake lady that just crushed a big monster like an egg is the smart decision.
"Yeah, yeah... what he said," Ace says. "Now, we have to– hey, what are you doing?!" Ace hollers as he's lifted off the ground.
"Wait a minute!" Deuce adds, also being picked up.
Grim and Tatsuya aren't spared; they're also being picked up. You're now carrying three young men and a little cat as though they were dolls. You begin to slither off in the direction of your cave.
"Mraaaah! We're gonna get eaten!!" Grim shrieks.
"You don't have to shout in my ear!" Tatsuya says.
You're confused by this. "Eat you...? If I wanted to eat you, then I would have. I don't play with my food."
"So then, what are you doing...?" Deuce asks.
"Taking you back to my cave. I can take care of you," you say.
Before you can slither off much further, Arthur and Bernard appear in front of you, causing the boys to gape.
"Whaaaa?! They were with you all along?!"
"Yes?" You say. "After you ignored my warnings, I had them try and chase you out," you nonchalantly admit.
The ghosts float up to you and begin whispering to you. "Ah... miss (Y/N)? You should maybe consider setting the humans back down," Arthur says.
Bernard nods. "Yes... you're scaring them, I'm afraid."
You blink, brows furrowing with confusion. "But I mean no harm and have told them as such."
"We know, love, we know. You're a gentle giant through and through," Arthur says. "But humans don't usually like being rag-dolled around like that. It can come across as a little, well, condescending."
"And scary!" Bernard adds.
"... very well, then," you say, sighing.
You gently set the group down, being careful not to jostle them too much. Once they're back down, you lean down again, though Arthur pats your shoulder and shakes his head, whispering to you about humans and their desire for personal space to be respected, and so you back off a bit, though still leaning down to appear smaller.
It's not very successful, but the sentiment is there.
"Bernard, please go get me a Pyre Hop. Arthur, go fetch a fresh fish from my stash," you say.
"Yes, ma'am!" they say in unison before disappearing to gather your requested items.
In the meantime, you take off the piece of cloth that's barely covering your breasts, making Ace and Deuce squawk as they turn a deep red.
"W-What are you...?!" Deuce says, quickly covering his eyes.
"A bandage," you simply say.
Ace looks away, but his eyes can't help but flick over to your chest here and there. "Lady, you could give a heads up before you air it all out like that. Sheesh."
"(Y/N). You can call me (Y/N)," you say as you wrap the cloth around Tatsuya's head to cover his head wound, applying enough pressure to halt the bleeding.
"Well, nice to meet you. I'm Tatsuya, and this is Ace," he gestures towards the redhead with a heart marking over his eye, "he's Deuce," he gestures towards the very flustered guy with blue hair and a spade symbol. He then gestures towards the little cat monster, "And that's Grim."
The ghosts re-appear, handing you the items before they fade once more. You take the Pyre Hop — a plant with a red flower blooming and leaves that have an orange tint — and pluck the leaves. You approach Ace, and as gently as you can in this form, you take his hands and begin rubbing the leaf on his hands where the burns are, leaving a type of sap in its wake.
"Huh...? I can't feel the burn as much," Ace mutters.
"Pyre Hop leaves are a fantastic natural remedy for minor burns," you say.
You slither on over to Deuce, who's still covering his eyes with his arms. "Deuce, was it? Let me see," you say, gently prying his arms away. The poor guy gasps when he realizes that he's practically at eye level with your chest, and he quickly averts his gaze by staring at your reptile-like eyes. Quite intently, at that.
You begin to rub another leaf over his cheeks, smushing them a bit in the process. His lips are forced into a pucker, making Ace snicker at him at how ridiculous he looks. Deuce sends him a quick glare.
"So... ah... you're a naga? Right?" Deuce asks, words a bit muffled.
You nod. "That's correct."
"Huh. I had gorgon in mind, but I've heard the word naga thrown around back home too," you hear Tatsuya mumble.
You shake your head. "Close. Gorgons are a close cousin of ours."
"I've never seen a naga up close. Hell, at all. I thought you guys were some kind of myth at this point," Ace adds.
"Hm... we're rare, and we keep to ourselves. There are not many of us left," you say.
You step back and nod. "Okay. You boys should try to keep the sap on your skin for an hour or so. Your burns will be good as new," you say. You then grab the fish and hold it out to them, tilting your head. "Lunch...?"
The boys can only blink at that. Here they are, having survived a monster attack after another one came out of the woods to protect them. Now, that same monster girl was treating their wounds and offering them raw fish for a snack with such an innocent look on her face that they could hardly believe she was a 20-foot-long, giant snake that could crush them. Talk about a gentle giant.
"U-Uh... no, thank you," Deuce says, rubbing the back of his neck. "That's real nice of you, but..."
"We can't just eat raw fish straight out of a river. We'll get sick. That ain't how humans work," Ace adds.
"Oh. In that case—"
"Wait! What about me?! Gimme!" Grim interjects, ever so the glutton.
"Ah, I apologize. I nearly forgot you were there, little one. Here," you say, giving Grim the entire catch and gently patting his head.
He looks up at you, all starry-eyed, with his tail wagging excitedly before digging into the raw fish. "Now that's what I'm talking about! That hits the spot!"
Deuce pats his pocket, sighing in relief when he feels the mage stone still there. He clears his throat, giving you a shaky yet genuine smile. "Hey, uh... we really need to get going. We're a bit pressed for time. But thanks for everything. We really owe you one."
Ace sighs, scratching the back of his head as he struggles to admit just how big of a help you were. "Yeah. As much as I hate to say it, we only got that magestone 'cause of you. So, yeah, thanks."
You nod. "Of course. I won't hold you up any further. Safe travels, boys," you say before slithering off, the group watching as your impressive form disappears into the forest.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
You're back to your routine later that night. Today had been somewhat stressful, having to step up to protect those in need, and yet you can't remember the last time you've had some... excitement in your life. The breach in routine was welcomed, oddly enough.
The group went back to this Night Raven College place they kept talking about. Of course they did; they're humans — except for the little one, of course — and humans live a completely different life than nagas. But you can't help but feel a sort of emptiness inside you ever since their departure. Sure, you had the ghosts that dropped in once in a while to talk to you, but aside from that, what kind of interactions do you engage in?
You shake your head, sighing as you coil your body further, leaning your head down onto your arms. It is what it is. You're a naga that hasn't interacted with humans in so, so long. You're out of the loop, and most of all, you're a monster.
So, as of tomorrow, it'll be back to the usual: sleep, maybe take a hike in the forest or swim through the rivers to hunt, eat, sleep again, perhaps chat with the ghosts... sleep again. Repeat.
You scoff; the usual routine that you've been doing for the last decades seems so mundane and under-stimulating now — without purpose.
Arthur was right — you are lonely and bored.
Just as you're about to drift off, you hear footsteps. You don't recognize the sound as any animal. No, this belongs to a human. You perk up straight, eyes narrowed and fangs bared, ready to attack if needed, but at the sight of the person who walks into your cave, you immediately soften up. You tilt your head, confusion written all over your face.
It's one of the boys from earlier. The one with the side braid and dual-coloured hair.
"Hey," he says, nonchalantly raising his hand in a vague wave.
"Hello?" You say. "Ah... Tatsuya, was it? What are you doing here so late? Furthermore, how did you find my cave?"
"The ghosts," he says, jabbing a thumb toward the outdoors. "They pointed me in the right direction."
"I see," you say, a little annoyed that the ghosts gave your location to someone without your permission, though you suppose there are worse people than a magicless young man.
"I can leave if you want," Tatsuya offers.
You hum, thinking about it. Looking around your lonely, empty cave, you figure that there would be no harm in it. You had just been mourning your lack of social interaction. So, you gesture towards a spot in your cave, inviting him to sit down.
"No, no. You may stay. I don't mind — just taken by surprise," you say.
"Groovy. Thanks."
Tatsuya settles himself down on the cold, hard ground, maintaining a respectful distance from you. You tilt your head, instincts taking over as you worry about your guest's comfort.
"Perhaps I can provide you with fresh animal fur to make you a nest? Or a puff of fire to keep you warm?" You offer.
Tatsuya blinks at that before laughing softly, shaking his head. He can't say he's ever been offered a nest, of all things, by a monster woman, but he's slowly learning to accept all that Twisted Wonderland's been throwing at him. Honestly? There's something charming about you — exotic, wild, and so far off from how humans operate and see the world. You're fascinating, and he's all for it.
"Oh? Um... nah. It's all good. Don't worry about it," he ends up saying. "I'm kinda barging in, so you don't have to go out of your way for me, alright? As for the fire thing... I'm not exactly fireproof, so it might be too hot?"
"Well, if you insist," you say.
Tatsuya hums and flips the book he'd brought over, taking a pencil out of his pocket. "Do you mind if I draw you? I won't bother you much, promise," he asks, peering at you from over the pages.
"Draw me? As in, like a painting?" You ask.
Tatsuya pauses but ultimately nods. "Something like that. I'm just gonna do a sketch. I'm a tattoo artist, and I think a design based on you would be super cool."
You tilt your head, curious. "A tattoo artist? I know what an artist is, but I can't say I'm familiar with a 'tattoo,'" you say.
"Hm...? Oh, I guess you wouldn't, huh?" Tatsuya says.
Tatsuya removes his jacket, pulling his shirt down enough to expose his left shoulder and a part of his neck. His skin is painted with a spiderweb; there's a black widow spider sitting on the crook of his neck where the middle of the web seems to be.
"That's a tattoo. It's like... body paint but with ink instead. It's permanent and is done with a needle that goes under your skin," Tatsuya explains as simply as he can.
He doesn't flinch when you crawl closer to him, getting in his bubble as you inspect his tattoo. He finds it endearing — how you tilt your head like a curious puppy as your tongue flicks over his skin, which tickles quite a bit. Tatsuya isn't very knowledgeable about snakes, but if he had to guess, this was probably your way of smelling. You reach for the tattoo, rubbing your scaly fingers along the ink — being mindful of your claws, of course — and your pointed ears flick as it doesn't fade, making you rub again out of curiosity.
"Hm... how interesting. I've never seen something quite like it," you say. "It's very beautiful. Was this painful?"
Tatsuya looks up, recalling the memory. "Oh yeah. It hurt so bad, and I like to think I've got good pain tolerance. I had to take a lot of breaks in between sessions. But it was worth it."
"I see. Well, in that case, I would be happy to serve as your reference for future projects of yours," you say, slithering back into your original spot. "Get my good side."
"I don't think you've got a bad side," Tatsuya says under his breath as he begins sketching.
You chuckle. "You have peculiar tastes for a human, don't you? Some would say that I'm rather monstrous to look at."
"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, isn't it?"
Tatsuya begins his sketch, the scribbling of his pencil echoing throughout the cave. He lifts his eyes on the occasion to get a good look at you before continuing his sketch. The cave is dark, but it's illuminated by various flames that line the cave walls. A type of flower seems to be acting as a torch, flames sprouting from the middle yet never once burning the plants. Tatsuya doesn't question it.
He's silent for the most part, focusing on his drawing without disturbing the peace — he's already honoured that he's been able to get up close to you like this. He speaks here and there about random things; you add curt inputs to his ramblings when needed. However, as he notices how you perk up when he talks to you, Tatsuya begins to understand that you must not get to chat much.
"Ace and Deuce's burns are already all healed up, thanks to those plants you scrubbed on them," Tatsuya says. "Thanks to your help, we got that magestone back to the headmaster and avoided being expelled."
"I'm glad to hear that they're feeling better," you say. "Expelled from that Night Raven College place?"
"Mhm. It's a school of sorts. I'm not familiar with it myself, but it's a magic school for people who show promise in magic," Tatsuya says. "Apparently, it's super prestigious, and only the best get chosen to go there, so it was a super big deal to Ace and Deuce to stay."
You nod in understanding. "I see, that makes sense. I take it you're not a student? Since you have no magical abilities. I haven't sensed a speck of it coming from you."
"Well, a few hours ago, you would have been correct," Tatsuya says, eyes still on his drawing. "When we got back and explained everything that happened, the headmaster made both Grim and me a student. But, like, a two-in-one type of deal. I honestly didn't really want a part of it, but Grim was so hopeful to finally be an NRC student that I couldn't say no."
"So the little monster managed to make it as a student, huh? That's quite the tale. Not many monsters usually go out of their way to meddle with human affairs," you say. "And what of you? Why didn't you want to be a student?"
There are a lot of reasons, to be honest, but the simplest one Tatsuya can think of on the spot is: "Because I don't belong here. I'm not from around here. Where I'm from, magic doesn't exist. Everything is so different and overwhelming; I want to figure out how I'm gonna make it here, and I'm wondering if I'm ever gonna make it home. I don't have the energy to worry about schooling and grades. I've already been there and done that back home."
You might not understand the full magnitude of Tatsuya's struggles, but you're wise enough to understand between the lines; you understand that this isn't just about being from a different land within Twisted Wonderland. Something far deeper is at play here.
"You're stressed. My heart goes out to you," you say softly. "But perhaps you'll come to find a place within our land to call your own. Perhaps somebody like you is exactly what Night Raven College needs. Somebody with a good head on his shoulders, brave and able to face the many challenges life throws at him. But, if going home is what you wish for the most, then I hope you'll find your way."
Tatsuya chuckles. "Heh. Headmaster Crowley said something similar, but you're much classier and... less backhanded about it," he says. "Honestly, I don't have much waiting for me back home; I guess I'm just so overwhelmed about it all. The lack of familiarity is getting to me."
After a moment, Tatsuya adds the finishing touches to his drawing and flips it over for you to see. Very gently, as if your hands weren't all scales and claws capable of tearing things apart, you take hold of the sketchbook. You admire the way Tatsuya didn't shy away from any details. From your more monstrous features to your nude body — all the details are there. It's you on paper, and it's been so long since you've felt so warm on the inside.
"What do you think? Did I get your good side?" Tatsuya asks.
"It's exquisite. You're very talented. Thank you," you say, handing the book back to him.
You stand up and uncoil, making the young man stretch his neck back to look up at you. He tilts his head as you slither closer to the cave wall. You look back at him, and with a flick of your hand, you gesture him over to you.
He complies, joining you. He blinks, eyes widening a bit as he notices how the wall is covered in markings and 'paintings,' giving it a very prehistoric look. The drawings aren't as detailed as what he or other humans can do, but there is something so charming and beautiful about the series of drawings. Tatsuya can tell that they all tell a story, and every single one of them has a deep meaning.
"Woah..."
You smile — one of the first genuine smiles you've had in a while. "Different rocks and natural resources can leave different trails of colours," you say, picking up a rock from a pile and sliding it along the walls, creating a red line. "Nagas, we decorate our homes with paintings that tell our stories. Each new generation from our bloodlines adds to it..."
"That's... really sweet, actually," Tatsuya says.
You nod, the tip of your tail rattling a bit. Only this time, it's not in a show of aggression; it's genuine happiness from sharing a part of your culture with another.
"My old home used to have much more," you say. "But it's no longer habitable. It's been destroyed by the most vile of human society. I've tried to salvage them, re-drawing them to honour my ancestor's memories and my late partners as well."
Tatsuya is silent. What can he say to that? 'Well shit, I'm sorry about that'? No, that's not gonna fly. The last thing you need is pity or hollow words.
"Well, I'm sure they appreciate that, you know?" He says.
You nod. "Hm... I like to think so."
Tatsuya is starting to get the full picture. You haven't spelled it out for him, but it's making sense. A lonely naga who lost everything: her home and her loved ones. A creature that has been living a reclusive life ever since. And the way you light up at any form of small talk directed your way? It's enough to light something in Tatsuya's heart.
He has an idea... albeit one that might seem a bit farfetched but screw it.
"Hey, (Y/N)? I've got kind of a weird idea. Hear me out?"
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
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She’s a Monster [Twst X Fem!Reader]
Chapter 1
What Lies in the Woods
Back to Masterlist | Next
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
The Dwarfs' Mine used to be bountiful, with hardworking and dedicated residents working day in and day out to extract the many magical crystals hidden within. The cottage standing near the entrance had always been bustling with coworkers sharing drinks, meals, and tales before going back to the grind.
However, that was in the past. It's been at least a decade since the mines have been abandoned, the reason never having been brought to light. Not a single trace of the workers can be found, leaving the once-busy mine to wither away. The cottage is covered in webs; insects have made their home within the cracks in the walls as the building slowly rots away with the passage of time. There's not a hint that anyone has ever lived in the area.
But the lack of humans doesn't mean a lack of life; animals and creatures populate the area, loving the solitude and sentiment of safety that comes with the promise of minimal interaction with humans. Small, harmless fairies buzz around the Silent Woods surrounding the mine, and ghostly apparitions wander the inside of the mine, looking over the crystals that were never claimed.
You're among those creatures that's made the Dwarfs' Mines into their home, but you're neither a fairy nor a ghost. No, you're something far more exotic, a rarity among the diverse creatures that habitate Twisted Wonderland's grounds.
From your head, all the way to the tip of your tail, you're covered in gorgeous scales that are worth a pretty penny, so much so that greedy humans once sought out your species' scales to solve their financial woes. Your teeth are sharpened, and your set of retractable fangs hold one of the world's most potent venom. The horns atop your head are reminiscent of a dragon, as do your slit-shaped pupils.
But you're no dragon.
Snuggly coiled inside a cave, hidden away within the Silent Woods, though not too far from the mines, is where you rest. With eyes shut, you do one of the only things you can do to pass the time: sleep. However, sleeping doesn't mean that you're unaware of your surroundings. Your forked tongue flicks, tasting the air around you. Looks like it's going to rain soon — a good thing for you, as this means fish will begin to surface a bit more, making them easier to hunt.
But that's not all you can sense. You feel two additional presences in your cave, levitating all around you. Although you try to ignore them, their continuous hovering and disrespect of your personal space is grating your nerves.
"You are aware that I can sense the two of you, yes?" You say, cracking an eye open. "Even though I currently cannot see you."
At that, two ghostly figures reveal themselves, both of them wearing wearing the same little hoods they'd been wearing at the time of their passing in the mines.
"Haaa... nothing escapes your senses, hm?" A smaller ghost sighs.
The second ghost — the larger of the two — chuckles, absentmindedly running his cold fingers along the scales of your tail. "Pardon our intrusion, pretty snake lady."
You perk up and hiss, the tip of your tail rattling in irritation at the touch, making the ghost recoil and put up his hands in defense. Although you obviously can't kill them, they've learned the hard way that you can still hurt them.
"Arthur..." you say, looking at the small ghost. "And Bernard. Care to explain why you've so rudely barged into my home uninvited?"
"We're ghosts! We go wherever we please, my lady," Arthur says, floating around your head.
"And we figured we could pay a nice visit to our favourite naga," Bernard says.
Your eyes narrow. "I am the only naga you know, and furthermore, I do not—"
"A thing of beauty you are," Bernard says, swooning a bit.
"I do not..." you re-iterate, "... appreciate ghostly guests interrupting my sleep. Now, shoo. Float along. Don't you have more fascinating things with which to preoccupy your time over bothering me?" You mutter.
You rise up further, sighing in relief as you stretch your arms and pop your back. You uncoil from the spot you'd been resting on, stretching out your full 20-foot-long body as you move to another part of the cave in a feeble attempt to comfortably settle yourself down away from the ghosts.
"Oh, come on. Don't be like that, (Y/N)," Arthur says hovering over to you with Bernard following suite. "All you do is sleep and hunt. Don't you get bored? Or lonely? At all? We're here to keep you company!"
You let out a soft breath of fire on the ground to warm it up, proceeding to coil yourself atop the patch as you let out a huff. "No, I do not get bored, nor am I lonely," you say, leaning your head back down and shutting your eyes. "Begone. Your company is both unwanted and unneeded."
"You're lying," Arthur states.
"I am not."
"Nagas naturally seek out people to care for and protect," Bernard says. "Don't you miss that?"
Silence.
You bare your fangs in annoyance.
He's right, and you know it.
"Nagas are not all the same," you end up saying, and yet there's a pit that forms in your stomach — an underlying feeling of emptiness.
"No, but don't you miss having mates? Or, you know, a community?" Arthur says. "I heard you in your sleep. You were calling out to–"
"Sensitive topic, Arthur," Bernard says under his breath, hastily placing his hand on his friend's mouth to silence him.
"Let's not talk about it. Drop it," you say with a venomous hiss in your tone. Though you soften up in the slightest with an added 'please'. They don't mean any harm, you remind yourself. They're only trying to look out for you. In their own way.
"In any case, there aren't many living beings for me to interact with," you add. "Please, leave. Go back to the mines, and leave me be."
The two ghosts go silent, and they look at one another. Cracking an eye open once again, you notice the frowns etched on their pale features. The glimmer in their eyes; it's unsure, and you think that you know where the problem lies.
"Ah. Is that strange, blot monster bothering you again?" You ask.
They both nod, shoulders sagging with exhausted sighs leaving their lips. They genuinely do seem at wits end.
You sigh, uncoiling your tail in a way that makes a little nook. "Fine. You can stay, but be quiet, will you?"
Immediately perking up, the ghosts nod. "Yes m'am / Thank you!" They say as they settle into the nook you've made for them.
You smile softly at the ghosts, settling back down for your nap. They really aren't that bad, at the end of the day.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
This... is a disaster, to say the least. Of all the things that could have happened, this is definitely one for the history books, but above all? This is something that Tatsuya cannot be bothered to deal with.
Standing amidst the debris of a shattered — and very expensive, mind you — chandelier, are two moronic young men from Heartsla-whatever-the-fuck; a knocked out, flaming cat-like weasel; and a magicless man who, quite frankly, does not appreciate having been kidnapped by whatever god decided to have a field trip with his faith.
Brushing the dust from his side braid, Tatsuya sighs shoving his hands in his pockets as he begins walking away, broken debris crunching underneath his combat boots. He doesn't bother picking up the unconscious monster that's supposed to be under his — unwilling — care.
Ace, moron #1, watches as Tatsuya leaves, eyebrows furrowing. "Hey! Where are you going like that?" He calls out.
Tatsuya stops in his tracks, glances over his shoulder and shrugs. "Back to that ramshackle dorm? See you. Or not," he says, turning his head back and throwing up a hand gesture that vaguely resembles a goodbye.
Moron #2, or Deuce, blinks at Tatsuya's nonchalant attitude. "But... what about the Mage Stone...? We only have a few hours."
"I'm not the student about to get expelled here. So, you have fun with that," Tatsuya says. "Besides, I'm the 'useless janitor that can't use magic,' so what help would I be, hm?"
Ace gapes at that, stunned silent for a moment before a scowl breaks out on his features, red eyes narrowing. He marches forwards, reaching out to grab the escapee's sleeve. "Hey, hey, hey!" He says, gripping onto Tatsuya. "Are you kidding?! You don't just get to ditch us like that! This is your fault in the first place!"
At that, Tatsuya whirls around, ripping his limb from Ace's grip and scowls at him. He's just about had it. He woke up, with no idea of where he is, thrown into a world of mages, monsters and pretentious little douches where he's expected to suddenly adhere to a plethora of responsibilities when he's had not even a second of time to himself to think.
And now, he's expected to tag along and babysit these losers? After having gotten an earful from the headmaster at that? Oh, he thinks not. Tatsuya is Stressed. With a capital S.
"Oh, it's my fault, is it?" He says.
"If you would have done this one, simple job of watching your little pet, then we wouldn't be in this mess in the first place!" Ace says.
"Uh... guys, maybe we shouldn't-" Deuce says, trying to ease the tension, but to no avail.
"You wanna point fingers and start accusing? Fine! I'll play your fucking games!" Tatsuya snaps.
He points to Deuce, making him flinch under the sudden intensity. "You wanna accuse? Start by Tweedle-Dumber over here, who decide to launch a full-grown human being into a chandelier! Because for sure! Great idea! What could go wrong?"
Tatsuya then points to the knocked-out Grim. "Or! You could pin the blame on that hairball over there! Oh, but Tatsuya, you're supposed to watch over him and make sure he doesn't get into trouble," Tatsuya says in a mocking, high-pitched voice. "Yeah, fuck you! Grim's a sentient being, capable of decision-making of his free will. You wanna shit on someone for his decisions? Then it'll be on the cat, not me!"
And finally, Tatsuya glares at Ace. "Or hell, if we really go back to the root of the problem, maybe this shit wouldn't have happened if you just showed up for window-cleaning duty. Or, even better, maybe you and Grim wouldn't have singed that statue if you hadn't been a dick and kept your goddamn mouth shut in the first place! Am I missing anything?"
The two young men remain silent. What could they even say after that verbal onslaught? Tatsuya sighs, pinches the bridge of his nose before nodding. He turns around, grabbing Grim by the scruff of his neck, which stirs the feline-like monster awake.
"Myah... wh-? Where am I?" He grunts.
"Trust me, you're gonna wish you stayed down," Tatsuya says. He begins walking away, though upon noticing that Ace and Deuce are still standing put, he glances over his shoulder and makes a head gesture forward. "Well? Are we going to the mines or not? Hurry it up before I change my mind."
Deuce blinks, shaking his head as he snaps out of whatever trance he was in and begins following. "A-Ah... right. Let's go..."
Ace sighs, rubbing the back of his head with exasperation as he, too, follows, stepping over the shattered debris. "Maaan... how'd I end up in this mess. I have the worst luck."
"I believe I just explained to you exactly how you got in this mess," Tatsuya says.
"Yeah, yeah. I heard you," Ace grumbles.
"Well, what's done is done. There's no time to complain... let's get to the Dark Mirror. The sooner we do, the sooner we get that Mage Stone," Deuce says, getting a burst of determination as he begins power walking ahead.
"Hey! Wait up!" Ace says, speeding up.
Tatsuya sighs. "I am too sober for this..."
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Your eyes flutter open, and the first thing you notice is that the ghosts are no longer here. Well, no matter. They must have gone back to the mine and will be back to bother you when they get bored again. In the meantime, you rise and uncoil, stretching your limbs before slithering out of your cave, lowering yourself to use your hands to crawl along the ground, not feeling like making the extra effort to hold yourself upright. Mindlessly humming a lullaby from your distant memories, you make your way over to the nearest river, following the sound of flowing water. The air is damp, and the sky is clouded, a drizzle having passed while you were asleep.
But once again, just as you predicted, you're interrupted. As you flick your tongue, you sense the change in the air around you. Looks like the ghosts are back. Swallowing down a frustrated hiss, you rise and cross your arms underneath your chest.
"Arthur, Bernard. Can't a woman go and hunt her food in peace?" You say.
The two ghosts manifest in front of you, partly looking sheepish, but also not seeming apologetic about bothering you.
"Sorry, my lady," Bernard says. "But we figured we might give you a little heads up about—"
"Later. I'm hungry," you say, slithering past the two ghosts, though they re-appear in front of you once again, and so you slither around them again. "I'm serious, gentlemen."
"Oh, well, I guess you don't want to hear about the three humans that just wandered onto our turf," Arthur says in a teasing, sing-song tone.
You stop in your tracks, your brows shooting up at the information. Humans? Not many humans wander these parts. Hell, you haven't seen one in many, many years. You've not been in contact with civilization for many, many years. Partially on purpose.
You turn to face the ghosts. "Humans...? In these neck of the woods? For what reason?" You say, eyes narrowing with suspicion. "They're not hunters, are they?"
"Heh, that sure got your attention, didn't it?" He grins mischievously before shaking his head. "But no, I don't think they're hunters."
"Two of them look like they might be mages, but they've got that clueless look on their faces that says they're inexperienced," Bernard says.
"And there's this other one who looks like a regular human. I can't sense a spec of magic from him, unlike the other two guys," Arthur adds.
"Oh! And don't forget that little cat thing with the flaming ears and the pitchfork tail!" Bernard says, Arthur nodding along. "They look like college students; they're all wearing some fancy uniform."
You loosen up a bit. They don't sound like a threat. "I see. And what are they doing here?"
They shrug. "They seemed like they were heading towards the mines..."
For some reason, you feel your heart plummet to the ground, a pit forming in your stomach with dread. "The mines...? But those are not safe. Not with that mindless monster roaming around. Those men will have their heads knocked off their shoulders in seconds."
The ghosts share a look at your outburst. For all the hardened and prickly exterior, you remain a caregiver at heart. "Yes, that's very true..."
You click your tongue as you begin slithering in the opposite direction, away from the river and towards the mines, making the ghosts chase after you, floating right alongside you.
"Miss (Y/N)! Where are you going?" Bernard says.
"To the mines. It's only fair that they receive a fair warning about the monster. If they choose to ignore it, well, it will be on them," you say.
"Oh, but...! Maybe you should hold on a minute!" Arthur calls out.
"And why is that...?" You ask, turning to face them.
The two ghosts look at one another; there's a slight awkwardness that hangs above the three of you as your eyes narrow, awaiting an answer.
"Well, no offense, but..." Arthur trails off.
"You're a... giant, twenty-foot long snake lady. With big teeth and strength that could crush anyone. You might scare them," Bernard says. "O-Oh, but not that you're monstrous looking! Not at all! It's just that you might be a little much for someone who's never seen a naga before."
"Ah. Is that what this is about?" You muse. "I guess it can't be helped, then."
With a sigh, you exhale a puff of violet smoke that engulfs you, and you grunt in discomfort as you feel your body changing. You're shrinking, the world becoming bigger around you, and your hardened scales are replaced by smooth, fragile skin that feels so odd yet fascinating to your touch. Your once elongated body trades its tail for a pair of human legs.
And upon the smoke disappearing, you sit on the ground morphed into the appearance of a human. Or at the very least, the closest you can get to one. You still have the tall, curved horns atop your head, your mouth remains lined with sharpened teeth and dangerous fangs, your eyes are still serpent-like, and your ears are long and pointed, similar to an elf's. You could be compared to a fae with this appearance.
"It's been far too long since I've used my magic to disguise my true form," you mutter, twisting your body around to pop your bones and sore muscles. "It must have been at least 50 years ago since I've done this..."
"Wow! We had no idea you could do that! But I guess we shouldn't be surprised, you're incredibly strong and versatile," Bernard says, swooning a bit.
"Why are you still on the ground...?" Arthur asks, cocking his head before getting this shit-eating smirk on his pale features. "Did you forget how to walk?"
"Tsk. Give me a moment, will you?" You hiss before begrudgingly admitting: "I... haven't walked on legs in a very long time."
The two ghosts float on either side of you, each grabbing an arm. "We'll help you out. On the count of three. One, two... three!"
They pull you up as you put the muscles in your newfound legs to work. You're standing up, but feeling a little wobbly. This is ridiculous; you feel like a human toddler.
"Now, just put one foot in front of the other."
"I know that!"
The ghosts keep a hold on you as you take little steps, getting into the rhythm of things. It's clear that you haven't had legs in a long time, and you feel like you're walking on pins and needles as your new limbs start to wake up, discomfort shooting up your legs.
After a few more steps, the ache slowly begins to cease, and you're able to put more confidence into your steps.
"I think I'm getting back into it," you murmur. "You can let me go."
The ghosts let you go but still remain by your side in case you need help, and although you feel a brief moment of instability, you catch yourself fairly quickly.
This isn't so bad. The movements are coming back to you.
You bounce in place, shuffle a bit and shake your feet. It's such a strange sensation to feel blood rush into a body part that you don't normally have.
You nod, feeling more at ease and ready to hit the road. "Okay, let's–"
"Ah! Wait! One last thing!" Arthur says.
"What now...?" You say, raising a brow.
"Ah, well... you're..." Arthur says, vaguely gesturing towards your body.
You look down at yourself, and you're completely naked. Your entire body is out in the open for every eyes to gaze upon. You look back at the ghosts, raising your brow as they quickly try to avert their eyes and not stare at your form.
You blink once.
And then twice.
"And your point is?" You ask, not getting what the issue is. "This is just what I look like on a day to day basis, is it not?"
"Well, it's not exactly customary for humans to walk around naked," Bernard chuckles nervously. "I'm sure you remember how humans are always covered up in cloth, right? Those are clothes. They help humans with the elements, but they also cover up their bodies."
"Ah," you say simply. "I suppose I do remember humans wearing these 'clothes'."
Arthur and Bernard nod, taking their little capes off as they begin to wrap them around your chest and hips to cover up the essentials. The capes are small, so they don't do the best jobs at covering your body up, but they'll have to do for the time being.
"This is ridiculous. Nagas have no need to wear clothes. They serve no purpose," you say. "Humans are strange creatures..."
"Maybe not to you, but trust me, it'll be easier for everyone if you try to go along with human customs," Arthur says, tightening his cape around your breasts and patting your shoulder once he's done.
"Very well, then..."
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
"So this is the Dwarfs' Mines, huh?" Deuce hums as he takes in the darkened, gloomy atmosphere of his new surroundings. "This place used to be flush with magestones, but it would be hard to believe that now. It's so desolate."
"Urrgh... who knows what lurks in there now?" Grim mumbles, shuttering a bit at the thought.
A snarky comment about Grim being a wimp is at the tip of Tatsuya's tongue, but he swallows it down, because Grim's concerns are valid.
"For once, Grim's got a point. Let's be careful. I'm not about to die for a rock," he grumbles.
Ace's eyes roll at the warning, not taking it too seriously, though something on the other side of a stream catches his attention. "Eh? Look, there's a house over there. Let's see what the people here have to say," he says before speed-walking ahead, Deuce following suite.
"Uh, guys? D'you actually think someone lives here?" Tatsuya says, catching up. "It's decrepit."
Ignoring him, Deuce knocks at the rotting, wooden door. "Hellooooo? Is anybody home?"
The blue-haired man knocks again, but he gasps a bit when the door collapses right off its hinges. Talk about old and flimsy.
"Let's hope for your sake that nobody's home," Ace says, running a hand through his hair.
Tatsuya sighs as Deuce begins to stammer, explaining that he didn't knock all that hard and that it was an accident. Ignoring the commotion, Tatsuya pokes his head inside the house, and it takes all but two whole seconds to come to the conclusion that it's empty and abandoned.
He turns back to Deuce. "Calm down. There's no one here. Nobody's lived here for years."
The group make their way into the house, each going in spectate directions to investigate different areas that piqued their interest, although Grim is busy going to war with a spider web he smacked into.
"Look at how tiny these chairs are," Ace says in disbelief as he stares at the decor. "Did children live here?"
Tatsuya hums, not bothering to look at Ace as he picks up a dusty old newspaper article. "Dwarfs' Mines. It's in the name, Ace."
He ignored the red-haired man's indignant huff, focused on the paper in his hands. It's worn, the ink having faded with the years, making it difficult to make out the headline.
The words 'Silent Greenlands slaughter', 'going extinct' and 'conservation plans' can be vaguely read.
"Hey, what's this about Silent Greenlands?" Tatsuya asks.
"Uhhh... Silent Greenlands? It's some peninsula on Sage Island, I think. It's completely surrounded by a border of trees, so it kind of blends with the nearby forest," Deuce explains.
"Yeah... didn't some kind of animal live there? One that's going extinct?" Ace adds.
With a shrug, he placed the article back down. It's got nothing of value that will help gathering up a magestone. "Right. Then, this has nothing to do with the mines..."
Ace sighs. "This isn't getting us anywhere. If we're gonna find anything, it's gonna be in the mines."
"Brilliant deduction," Tatsuya mutters under his breath, already heading for the exit.
The other men follow, crossing a little bridge to get to the other side of the stream, until they're face to face with a dark opening, one so dark you can't make out any shape or how deep it goes.
The group stops and stares, and all have this same thought: 'Is this worth it?'
Grim, in a trembling voice, is the first to speak up. "You wanna go in there? It's pitch black!"
"Hah! Don't tell me you're actually scared of the dark? That's pathetic," Ace comments.
"Myah?! I ain't scared of a stupid cave!" Grim defends, outraged by the implacations.
"But, uh... it is really dark, though. You can't see even a few feet in," Deuce says.
"Don't you idiots have flashlights on your phone or something?" Tatsuya asks, his patience wearing thin. At the lack of an answer from either of the Heartslabyul freshmen, he cclicks his tongue, mildly throwing his hands up. "And they didn't bring their goddamn phones. Of course they didn't. Guess we'll just have to use Grim as one. Take the lead, furball."
"WHA? Me? Myah... fine! The great Grim will fearlessly light the way!" Grim says.
But just as the group is about to head out, they freeze at the sound of footsteps behind them, followed by a feminine voice that commands a certain authority: "I'd advise against venturing into the mines."
Startled, Grim immediately goes into fight mode, firing a panicked fireball your way.
"ACK! GRIM!" The boys shout in panic, though you easily deflect the fire, the magic not even reaching you. You raise a brow at their reactions, confused. The magic was quite weak and never stood a chance in hurting you.
"Is this a customary human greeting?" You ask.
The boys, slightly shaken up by your sudden appearance and nonchalant magical defense, struggle to find words. But Ace eventually does.
"No...?! But what the hell did you expect, sneaking up on us like that?!" Ace says in a raised voice.
"Hey, maybe we shouldn't be yelling at the half-naked, clearly not human woman from who-knows-where in the forest?" Tatsuya says.
You tilt your head again. "You're mages, are you not? Could you not sense my presence?"
Ace huffs at that, not liking the condescending implications your words have. Intentional or not. "Whatever. Who are you, what are you, what are you doing here, a-and why are you practically naked?" It's like his brain just now registered that you're barely covered. Looking over at Deuce, he can see the poor guy practically losing his mind, face flushed and staring at the ground to avoid feeling like a perv.
"Who and what I am matters little to temporary passerbys," you say, arms crossed. "State your business here."
"Geez, bossy. Listen here, you—" Ace starts, getting cut off by Deuce before he can start an argument.
"A magestone! W-We mean no harm, miss! We... we're only here to maybe find a magestone. I-It's very important that we find one before the day ends," Deuce says.
"A magestone...?" You hum. "No matter. Leave."
"HUH?!" The boys exclaim.
"This place is not safe. There's a creature lurking within the mines. It's quite aggressive and fiercely protective of the stones that remain," you say. "If you value your life, you'd do the smart thing and go back from where you came from."
Tatsuya shrugs, not wanting to argue with that logic. "Hey, fair enough. I'll take you up on that— OW! The hell, Ace!"
"You're not going anywhere!" Ace says, gripping Tatsuya before returning his attention to you, eyes narrowed. "Listen, this is important. I don't care what you say, we're not scared of some cave-dwelling creature. We're Night Raven College students, we can handle it."
"I've no idea what a 'Night Raven College' is, but if you can — supposedly — handle yourselves, then I shall not argue further. My warning's been said. My concerns end here," you say, turning on your heel.
"A-Ah... but thank you for the warning, miss!" Deuce adds, not wanting to end things off rudely. "We'll be careful."
You part ways, not bothering to look back as the boys stare at you for a few seconds, pondering what just happened. Despite your warning your sensitive hearing picks up on the group's footsteps as they disappear into the mines.
You stop in your tracks, standing there for a moment as you fight to squash your instincts. You shake your head, muttering to yourself: "Not my problem..."
But before you can distance yourself further, the two ghosts reappear in front of you, Arthur speaking up: "What? That's all?" He says, a little flabbergasted.
You shake your head, walking past the ghosts. "No. As I've said before, if they choose not to heed the warnings, then it's on them and not my concern."
"You don't mean that..." Bernard says.
You stop again, look over your shoulder and sigh. "Arthur. Bernard."
Both ghosts perk up. "Yes?"
"Drive them out."
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
The inside of the cave is barely lit, only the blue flames on Grim's ears faintly light up the way, allowing the boys to see along the walls of the damp, gloomy area. Unfortunately, they can't seem to find a singular trace of any kind of stone, let alone a magestone.
"What was up with that weird lady?" Grim asks. "She really had HORNS sticking outta her head."
"I've been thinking to myself 'surely I've seen it all' but I get thrown for a loop every minute it seems..." Tatsuya mumbles. "But I'm also curious... what the hell was she?"
"I'm not sure, honestly," Deuce says sheepishly. "Maybe some type of fae? She had the pointy ears and all. Fae usually have that."
Ace grumbles. "Whatever. Who cares about some weird broad in the middle of the forest. I—"
Deuce cuts him off. "Wait, guys."
"What now?" Ace says.
"I hear something. Something's there!" Deuce says.
The group falls silent as they listen for whatever may lie ahead, Tatsuya speaking up. "Grim, d'you see anything ahead?"
Grim squints, trying to catch wind of anything lurking around, until two ghosts manifest mere centimeters of his face, scaring him with a loud yelp and knocking him back.
"Myah?! G-Ghosts?" He shrieks.
"Oh...? Visitors?" Bernard chuckles eerily. "Hehe. We haven't had any of those for so, so long."
"Do make yourselves at home... you can stay forever," Arthur adds.
Deuce takes a step back at that, the rest of the group mirroring his actions. "G-Gah! Ghosts are just about the last thing we need right about now."
"M-Maybe they're friendly? Like the ones in Ramshackle?" Grim says.
"Do you really want to stay and find out?" Tatsuya responds.
"Tatsuya's right," Deuce says. "Let's give them the slip and drive them away. Follow my lead!" He adds, getting his magical pen out and running in the opposite direction.
Ace guffaws at that before scowling. "Who died and made you boss?" He barks, even though he's currently following Deuce's lead.
As the group runs away from the ghosts, the former give each other a mischievous look, nodding before giving chase to the young men. As their favorite snake lady ordered, they'll drive them out.
Or so they thought.
"Where are you going like that?" Bernard coos. "We— HMPH...!"
"Hah! Take that!" Ace smirks victoriously as his magic hits the unsuspecting ghost, having caused the entity to disappear for a brief moment before manifesting once more.
"Our magic works on them? Good to know," Deuce says, turning just enough to cast a spell and launch it towards the ghosts, the two of them quickly vanishing as to avoid getting hit.
As he runs, Tatsuya reaches down to grab Grim by the scruff, earning indignant protests from the cat. "Just like in Ramshackle, Grim. On my mark!" Tatsuya aims Grim properly, and he waits for the right moment.
And just when he feels that the ghosts are about to re-appear: "Now, Grim! You guys too!"
And in unison, Ace and Deuce, along with Grim, fire their magic at the spot where Tatsuya is pointing, and just as they appear, the ghosts have no time to react to the oncoming onslaught of magic, and so they take the hit with loud yelps before disappearing out of the mines for good this time.
The boys stay on their guards for a few moments, until they conclude that they are safe.
"Did we drive them away?" Deuce asks.
Tatsuya nods. "I think so. That last blow probably got them good enough."
"Myah! Measly ghosts are no match for the Great Grim's powerful magic!" Grim celebrates.
"Pff," Ace smirks, shaking his head. "Dangerous and aggressive creature my ass! Ghosts? Seriously? What's that forest-dwelling girlie even talking about? She was just trying to scare us off, probably so she can hoard whatever's in the mine to herself. Let's go get ourselves a magestone."
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Fun fact of the day: The reader's age is never going to be specified with a specific number, but she's older than Malleus, but younger than Lilia. Which is a pretty big range, but it gets the picture.
#twisted wonderland#twisted wonderland x reader#fanfiction#female#female reader#x reader#monster reader#she’s a monster
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She's a Monster ♡
[Twisted Wonderland X Fem!Reader]
Masterlist
[Rated R. 18+]
Tucked away in the deepest parts of a forest near a long-abandoned mine, it's been far too long since you've interacted with humans. So, when a trio of young men, accompanied by a little monster, wander into the Dwarfs' Mine and get themselves in trouble, you can't help but be intrigued and step in, longing for some form of connection.
OR:
A big, strong, naga woman ends up in an all-men's school and brings out the monster fucker in the NRC men.
• Table of Contents •
1. General Intro
2. Disclaimers
3. Mirrors
4. Character References.
• 1.0 General Intro •
Friend: Hey, Britt! You know how everybody writes fics where the reader is a monster fucker?
Me: ... yeah?
Friend: Well, hear me out... what if the reader is the one who's a monster, and the guys are the monster fuckers??
Me: ...
Me: *Opens Google Docs.* Say no more.
~~~
So, we can all thank my friend for the existence of this fic. Give her a round of applause if you so kindly would.
Heyo, what's the deal? Against all odds, here I am, rising from the dead with a new book, because my inspiration is back as well as my will to live and partake in hobbies! So, thank you for stopping by to read ‘She’s a Montser’ another reader insert fic of mine, set in the Twisted Wonderland fandom
Before we begin, please make sure that you thoroughly read, understand and acknowledge all the disclaimers below. It'll make all of our lives much easier. It's a lengthy-ish read, but I advise against skipping anything.
• 2.0 Disclaimers •
• Not spoiler-free for the main game, vignettes and events.
• All characters are portrayed to be 21+, except for Ortho, who will not at all be a love interest.
• Reverse harem + polyamorous. Gotta love 'em all. The story focuses on the NRC students as love interests, but will include some event characters like Rollo Flamme, Fellow Honest and Skully J. Graves. Staff and RSA students will only be platonic.
• This book is rated R and contains content that is not suitable for people under the age of 18. That being said, adult topics, explicit sexual content, and potentially triggering topics will be delved into. Each chapter comes with its tags and warnings, so please read accordingly and use your judgment. You are responsible for the content you consume, not me.
• This book contains explicit sex scenes. A lot of them. While this book does follow the plot of Twisted Wonderland, it's going to be fanservice-oriented. Also, the MC is going to be super laid-back when it comes to nudity. If you're going to be squeamish about any of the things listed, then you can kindly pack your bags and shoo. This book is not for you, and that's fine.
•Kinks will be explored. Not all the sex scenes will be vanilla. Proper warnings will be given out for each sex scene The reader will be portrayed as a switch, but with a preference for being dominant. I'm just kind of tired of always writing sub!readers and want to try something different.
• The main character is written as female, being referred to with she/her pronouns. HOWEVER, the reader character has both female and male reproductive organs. Throughout the story, we'll mostly be working with female anatomy, but know that she does have the ability to unsheathe penises. So, there will be some sex scenes where the boys get dicked down. Those scenes will be properly marked with a warning if you'd rather not read them.
• Unless stated otherwise, artwork that is featured in this book belongs to me (commissioned), and I do not give anybody permission to use the images. Whether it's for a cover of your own or a face claim for your characters. I paid with my hard-earned cash for these images to be drawn for me, so don't be an ass.
• While this book does follow the main story, I will be diverging from canon, and certain things may be heavily rewritten. Things may be jumbled to better fit my timeline, and the chapters will also be expanded on with extra arcs added in between. I'm not here to write out the script of Twisted Wonderland and call it a day.
• You've presumably read the summary. Therefore, you know that the reader is a naga. I know the female version is technically nagi or nagini, but most people use naga as a universal term, so that's what I'm using. Please note that my portrayal of nagas is not accurate to our real-world legends. My portrayal of nagas is purely driven by my original universe and narrative.
• 3.0 Mirrors •
The same story can be found on the following platforms:
Wattpad
Quotev
Ao3
• 4.0 Character references •
This section only consists of visual references. I'm not fond of writing out bios and tossing them at the readers like, "Here, this is the character. Now, I don't have to put in the effort of developing them in the story." I just like to provide visual references because I know some of you are very visual, and it helps to actually see the character so that physical descriptions don't seem like a jumble of words strewn together.
For the first visual reference: the reader. Put away your pitchforks before you badger me with angry comments reminding me that this is a reader insert. I know.
I'm using an original character of mine to shape the reader, and although I'm choosing to keep her appearance vague and her name up to your choice (hence the reader insert format), the fact that she has a monster form does make me feel like a visual reference for what I have in mind is warranted.
Keep in mind that me showing you these images is only to give you an idea of the physical traits the reader has in her monster form. Her skin/scale colour, hairstyle and hair colour, body type and shape, eye colour, etc, are all for you to pick. I think the only thing that's alluded is that the reader is tall. Reader's a big gal in her full monster form, so it reflects in her human form's height.



Traits that may be mentioned throughout the story:
• Horns
• Long, pointed, elf-like ears.
• Long, forked tongue. It can extend up to half a foot.
• Slit pupils, no sclera/iris. Eyes are a solid colour.
• Two long fangs that protrude from her mouth. Two rows of sharp teeth.
• Golden chains around the body and tail.
• Fringe on either hip.
• Spines along hips and tail.
• Stripes on tail.
• Has female genitalia but also has two dicks that can sheathe and unsheathe.
• Tail tip is like a rattlesnake's rattle.
• In human form, the reader appears like a normal human, asides for her eyes, horns, teeth and ears. She can pass as a fae.
As already mentioned, the basic appearance of your insert is your choice, but this is a template for you to know what I have in mind when writing in terms of physical traits. The reader's 'colour palette' while in monster form won't be mentioned, so feel free to think of her as the colour of your choice. Doesn't have to be purple and gold, y'feel?
And second and last: Tatsuya. AKA Yuu. Because in this book, the reader does not play Yuu's role, and I'm making Yuu his own character. I'm making him male, also. I know Yuu technically has a set appearance in the manga, but I said nah. So, I've perused through my Toyhouse to pick which of my OCs will be taking on Yuu's role.

This book's Yuu will more or less follow the game's Yuu, but with my own twist. Because let's be real, in-game Yuu is kind of a blank fly on the wall at times. For my sake, I'll be keeping my character's name as Tatsuya instead of Yuu.
• 5.0 Chapter Masterlist •
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6
#twisted wonderland#twisted wonderland x reader#fanfiction#female reader#monster reader#she’s a monster#nsft
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Monsters & Magic [Twisted Wonderland X Fem!Reader]
Prologue: 0.3
Looking Glass
Back to Masterlist | Previous | Heartslabyul Path | Savanaclaw Path | Octavinelle Path | Scarabia Path | Pomefiore Path | Ignihyde Path | Diasomnia Path | Ramshackle Path |
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Among the most important locations within Night Raven College's walls is the Mirror Chamber. It's a large room, painted in a dark obsidian colour with imposing stained glass windows. The infamous Dark Mirror stands within that room atop a pedestal that glows an ominous green. It's the place where various school assemblies are held, and where the ever-so-important entrance ceremonies are held at the beginning of every school year to welcome the new arrivals.
And this morning, there's an important meeting to be held.
Crowley hums as he looks over the table he's set up for the occasion; the various housewardens are all seated and waiting for the meeting to begin. It's early — before classes — and he's well-aware that some of the students may have a few choice words regarding this sudden notice.
Their expressions vary; Kalim is as cheery as ever, never one to be bothered by much. Azul, as always, is unreadable, though he comes across as poised and attentive. Vil as well, never one to have a hair out of place or his makeup smudged, even for an early-morning meeting with his peers. Riddle's features are stern, focused; he takes everything far too seriously. And Idia? Well, A for effort, Crowley supposes. Although he'd rather that the Ignihyde leader physically show up, the tablet will do.
Internally, Crowley sighs as he can't locate Malleus. Again. Where is he? He never shows up at these meetings! He peeks at his watch; he can't really afford to wait on him any longer, and he's sure that the other housewardens would tend to agree.
He clears his throat. "Right then. Let's get this housewarden meeting underway, shall we?"
The dorm leaders all nod in agreement.
"Right. So, on today's agenda, we will be discussing—"
Crowley gets abruptly cut off as a certain black and pink-haired fae seemingly pops out of nowhere, floating upside down near Crowley's head.
"CRIPES!" Crowley squawks loudly, having to grip onto the table's edge when he nearly loses his footing from the sudden fright.
"Sorry I'm late!" Lilia announces, flipping upright and flopping into an empty seat.
Holding his chest and standing upright, Crowley clears his throat. "How did you even slip in here without anyone noticing, Vanrouge? And you mustn't frighten me like that!"
"Yes, sorry about that," Lilia says, though the toothy grin on his face suggests he's less than apologetic. "I was having a bit of trouble locating Malleus for the meeting, and I'm afraid Silver and Sebek were also troubled. So, I will be filling the position as vice housewarden."
"Ah, yes. I was quite wondering where Draconia was," Crowley says.
Lilia tilts his head. "I do hope you've not forgotten about him?"
"No! I quite vividly remember sending out an invitation to him!" Crowley says.
Leona, housewarden of Savanaclaw, groans. "Oi. We ain't his babysitters. We shouldn't have to hold his hand to get him to come to these meetings."
Idia, through his tablet, agrees. "Right...? I'm VERY GRUDGINGLY participating and fighting my urge to disconnect, but Malleus just gets to blows off these meetings and gets away with it? How's that fair?"
Azul nods. "Being snubbed isn't a great feeling. He has no respect for these meetings."
"Quite unbecoming of a housewarden," Vil says. "Lilia, you shouldn't be condoning this behaviour of his."
"I assure you that I'm not!" Lilia defends. "He very much wants to be here with all of you. I'm not quite sure what the miscommunication is myself..."
"Alright, Alright!" Crowley interjects. "Simmer down, the lot of you! As frustrating as this may be, Mr. Draconia is not the topic of this meeting! Vanrouge, if you could make sure that this information makes it to Draconia, please."
"Of course," Lilia agrees.
"Right. Then, let's officially get this meeting started," Crowley says, clasping his hands together. "As you all may know, yesterday's opening ceremony has been... interesting, to say the least."
"Interesting is quite the understatement, headmage. I can't remember the last time there's been so much excitement," Azul comments. "I presume this meeting concerns that little cat monster and the damages it caused?"
"Well, you'd be partially correct, Ashengrotto," Crowley hums. "The main topic would be Miss (Y/N)."
Kalim blinks. "(Y/N)...? Oh! That's the girl that doesn't have magic, right?"
Vil adds: "Right. I'd nearly forgotten about that in the chaos. That's so peculiar of the mirror to summon a magicless woman to an all men's school for the magically gifted."
Leona leans back in his chair, bored. "Like a little gazelle in a lion's den."
"Such a mistake on the mirror is highly concerning and should immediately be looked into. It goes against all that Night Raven College stands for!" Riddle says.
"I wasn't there for the entire debacle, but I do recall finding it strange to see a young woman at the ceremony," Lilia hums.
"Quiet down, everybody!" Crowley says. "Back on track, Miss (Y/N)'s situation is a bit... complicated. From what I've been able to gather, she has not been summoned by the Dark Mirror. She's been sent here by a deity from another world. The reasons are a bit unclear, but that is her claim."
Crowley cringes at the silence. They probably all think that he's gone insane. Well, more so than usual.
"... what in the isekai crap is that? Sounds like some standard plot to a generic anime..." Idia mutters through his tablet.
"You really expect us to believe that?" Leona says, raising a brow. "You believed her?"
"A-Ah, well..."
Lilia interjects. "In a world full of magic, could it truly be so far fetched to believe that she's telling the truth?"
"I suppose Lilia does have a point there. She did seem very, very confused about everything," Vil says.
"R-Right. So, as I was saying," Crowley continues. "(Y/N) appears to be a highly skilled, erm, beast tamer, of the sorts. From her world, of course. I've single-handedly witnessed her command a little monster, that I've never seen in Twisted Wonderland, to fend off a group of ghosts within that ramshackled dorm. And, to top it off, she has managed to begin taming that little cat monster and has taken it upon herself to train him."
"A magicless beast tamer from another world, huh?" Azul hums, pushing his glasses up. "How interesting..."
"So, what's the point you're tryin' to make, Crowley?" Leona says.
"W-Well... Miss (Y/N) has requested to be sorted into one of our seven dorms, along with the cat, Grim, and her monsters," he says. "Because as it stands, she cannot return to her home world right now. AND! As the warm-hearted and gracious man I am, I've told her that I'd discuss the matters with the lot of you!"
There's a moment of silence once again, and the housewardens all exchange glances, their expressions varying.
"If I'm understanding this correctly, you want the Dark Mirror to sort her into one of our dorms, and allow her and a group of monsters to become students?" Vil questions.
"Ah, yes, precisely..." Crowley confirms. "A-Any objections...?"
Riddle abruptly stands up. "Preposterous! This goes against every rule that NRC has set! A woman without magic that was not selected by the Dark Mirror does not belong here!"
"A stickler for the rules as always, Riddle," Azul says. "But I believe I overheard the mirror mention that her soul does belong somewhere, despite not having been picked. That must count for something, no? The mirror has never been off the mark in the last century, and if it's not the one responsible for her being here in the first place., then the mistake isn't on it..."
"I don't really care, but ain't no way she's gonna survive NRC," Leona says.
"Aw, come on! I have no objections. The more the merrier, right?" Kalim says. "Better in a dorm than that abandoned building, no?"
"Kalim does have a point," Vil says, nose scrunching at the thought. "But, I do agree with the previous sentiments. She would struggle far more than any other student."
"She gets brownie points for the kitty cat..." Idia mutters.
Clasping his hands together atop the table, Lilia smiles. "We don't know that," he says, addressing Vil and Leona's claims. "Night Raven is a fierce, prestigious academy, yes, but every student goes through challenges during their academic journey. Perhaps she doesn't have magic, but if what Crowley says about her beast skills are true, then she could still find a way to partake and make her mark. We mustn't be so hasty to rule her out."
Lilia then looks over to Crowley. "I'm not against the idea. If the Dark Mirror believes she could belong, then that's good enough for me."
"Right, thank you for your input, Vanrouge," Crowley says. He then turns to the rest of the housewardens. "Final verdicts?"
"I'd be happy to have her in Scarabia! And even if she doesn't get into my dorm, I don't mind having her at NRC at all! Imagine all the cool stories and monsters she might have from her world," Kalim says with a grin.
"I object. I apologize, but I cannot stand for this breach of NRC's customs and rules," Riddle states firmly.
Azul chimes in. "I, for one, do not mind," he says, only to add under his breath: "She may prove beneficial to me..."
"Tsk. Cephalopunk," Leona grumbles, having heard him with his sensitive hearing. "I don't care, like I said. Just don't expect me to babysit her if she somehow ends up in Savanaclaw."
Crowley nods. "So, we have two enthusiastic agreements, one disagreement, one I don't care, and one sure," he lists off. "Schoenheit, Shroud, anything to add."
Vil sighs. "I'm not particularly sure how I feel about having a beast-taming woman from another dimension running about our prestigious campus, but perhaps this could offer NRC something new. I will not object."
"Urk...! Y-You're really gonna end it off with me like that...?!" Idia stammers through his tablet. "U-Uh... I don't mind, tbh, b-but I dunno how to handle it if she ends up in Ignihyde..."
"Okay," Crowley says. "Then, that settles it. From this moment on, Miss (Y/N), along with her little monsters, will be members Night Raven College's student body. Now then, I will go inform her of this, and we will proceed to the dorm selection. For the moment, I ask that you remain on standby."
"What about classes, headmage?" Riddle asks.
"Ah, yes, worry not, Rosehearts! Your teachers have all been informed of the situation at hand. You will be expected back in class once the selection has been done," Crowley explains. "Now, please sit tight. I will be right back!"
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Night Raven College has this kind of dark, fairytale-like beauty. You didn't really have the time to look around and take it all in yesterday; your mind had been far too pre-occupied. Now that you're following Crowley to the Mirror Chamber — if you remember correctly — to be sorted in a dorm, you're a bit more relaxed, knowing things might be looking up for you.
The architecture is certainly breathtaking, and you're having a hard time believing that this is a school and not some fancy palace for a royal family.
Grim seems to share your sentiment, looking around with wide-eyed wonder from his perch on your shoulders. "Dang! This place is swank!" Grim says. "Can ya believe this? I'm gonna be a student at Night Raven College! This place won't know what hit 'em when the Great Grim makes his mark!"
"Simmer down, up there," you shush. "Remember, you have a long way to go."
"Hmph. Way to be a buzzkill, henchuman," Grim huffs, crossing his arms.
"Not a buzzkill, just realistic. Besides, that's not a bad thing. All students are here to learn and become better," you say.
"And!" Crowley's voice cuts through, peeking over his shoulder. "As students, you will be expected to be on your best behaviour and honour our great academy's standards, understood?"
"Loud and clear," you say.
"Wonderful!" Crowley says with glee. "Oh, if only the other boys could be as easy as you are..." he adds with a dramatic tilt to his voice.
"Hey, hey...! (Y/N)! What dorm d'ya think we're gonna get?" Grim says, pawing at your hair for attention.
"I can't say for sure. I don't really know what the dorms are, or how the sorting works. We'll get what we get," you say.
As Crowley pushes the doors to the Mirror Chamber open, he ushers you in. "Come, come! We mustn't daddle!"
You do as he says and walk in. You're met with varying eyes of familiar faces you've briefly seen during the opening ceremony. Their reactions to you vary from excited, polite, bored, and stern. Oh, and the floating tablet is back.
Speaking of which, Rotom seems to take notice of the tablet, and your phone darts out of your pocket, rushes over to the tablet.
"Rotom!" You call out.
"Eep...!" The voice from the tablet shrieks, floating back in surprise as your mischievous ghost buzzes around it.
"Rotom! Get back here!" You call out again.
"Bzzt?" Rotom buzzes before obediently heading back to your side and into your pocket.
You pat your pocket down, offering Rotom some comfort. "I know you're curious, but we can't play right now. Later, okay?"
"Ah... yes. Ahem," Crowley says, catching everyone's attention. "Housewardens, I would like to introduce you all to (Y/N) (L/N) and Grim. They will be the ones sorted into one of your dorms today."
Crowley gestures towards the dorm leaders. "These men are among some of the best mages of our school and the heads of their respective dorms. Ah, except for Vanrouge, who is the vice of his dorm."
He gestures to a short redhead with bangs in the shape of a heart and greyish blue eyes. "Riddle Rosehearts of Heartslabyul,"
Then, he introduces you to a dark-skinned man with long, dark brown hair with two braids and green eyes. He has a scar atop his right eye. "Leona Kingscholar of Savanaclaw."
Next is a man with messy, light grey hair, wearing glasses and with a rather cute beauty mark below his lips. "Azul Ashengrotto of Octavinelle."
He gestures over to a red-eyed, dark-skinned young man with a bright grin and white hair. His arms are covered in white body paint that resembles Henna. "Kalim Al-Asim of Scarabia."
Next to be introduced is the blonde-haired beauty that wears makeup far better than you do. "Vil Schoenheit of Pomefiore."
Crowley then points to the floating tablet. "He's not... physically present at the moment, but this is Idia Shroud of Ignihyde."
And lastly, he point to the short man with a mischievous, fanged grin and short, black and pink hair. "And this is Lilia Vanrouge of Diasomnia, though Malleus Draconia is the current housewarden of that dorm."
You nod, committing names and faces to memory. It's a lot to take in, admittedly. "Pleased to meet you all. Thank you for having me and my partners."
Crowley clasps his hands together. "Splendid! Now that we have introductions out of the way, let's get down to business. Miss (Y/N), if you will please step up to the mirror, just as you did yesterday. The Dark Mirror will take a look deep into your soul and assign you the dorm that best fits you. Exciting stuff, yes?"
You nod. "Alright..."
For some reason, as you step up to the mirror, it feels more nerve-wrecking than it did yesterday. You're somehow far more aware of the eyes on you, despite there being less people in the room with you. You can definitely feel the scrutinizing gazes of the housewardens behind you. But you tune them out as best as you can, your focus solely on the mirror in front of you that will seal your fate within this world.
As you stand before it, that same, ominous green face manifest. "State thy name."
"(Y/N) (L/N)," you say.
It hums. "Ah, so we meet again. You are the owner of that peculiar soul. You are far from home, and you've found yourself in strange place unfamiliar to you."
You nod firmly, feeling a bit tense. "That's correct."
"Hm... so you've come to find your place within Night Raven College? I must say, your soul is among the most complicated to read. As I've said, there is a place for you, but where exactly?" It says. "Which of the Great Seven does your soul most resonate with?"
"Perhaps it will be Heartslabyul? Founded on the severity of the Queen of Hearts, who ruled over a maze of roses and brought the rule of law to a chaotic kingdom. Under her strict leadership, no rose was off color, nor was any playing card soldier out of step."
The image in the mirror shifts, showing you a large building decked in whites and red with some black accents. The entrance is shaped like a heart; a large fountain is situated in the middle of the walkway. Surrounding the building are — what feels like — hundreds of rose bushes.
"Or will you embody the persistence of the King of Beasts within the walls of Savanaclaw? It is through grit and determination that the King of Beasts overcame his lesser claim of succession to rule over a vast savanna, seeking equality for all creatures, even those once banished from the realm."
Savanaclaw appears vastly different from Heartslabyul. It's located within a desert area where the sun blazes. Bones and skulls are scattered about, and the greenery is far and few. A few rocks are spread for basking, and the main dorm building has this sort of wildness to it. There also appears to be a large stadium near the main building.
"Ah, but maybe you're more of an Octavinelle? Do you embody the Sea Witch's benevolence? To repent
for past misdeeds, she devoted herself to helping troubled souls, guiding even seemingly hopeless romances to a true happy ending."
This dorm is... underwater? You're not sure how that works, but it's beautiful for sure. Magic most likely allows for underwater breathing. The aquatic flora and fauna surrounding the building is hypnotic. There appears to be a café in the building.
"Or perhaps Scarabia is where you belong. Perhaps you're deliberate just as the Sorcerer of the Sands was? Ah yes, he was a wise sorcerer of a desert kingdom who used his keen insight to obtain a magic lamp that granted him great power. He supported his king by regularly offering carefully considered words of advice."
Leaving the underwater scenery, the image shifts into another deserted landscape, but your eyes widen at the elegant, rich architecture of the building. It looks like a palace, made with golden accents. This must have cost a fortune to build.
The mirror hums as it looks at you again. "But what of Pomefiore? Could you uphold the Fairest Queen's unrelenting efforts? The fairest queen of all... she was one who was always diligently striving to better herself. She utilized the powerful magic at her command to tirelessly pursue her ideals."
In Grim's earlier words, Pomefiore is 'swank'. It oozes of elegance, class and high society. Another large palace that's spotless and practically shines. Again, how much did these places cost to build?
"Ah... Ignihyde, representing the diligence of the Lord of the Underworld. The guide to the wandering souls of the dead. He carried out his fearsome duties with diligence and care, motivating even the defiant to offer their aid. Is this the place where your soul belongs?"
There's a total shift in atmosphere as you're presented with Ignihyde. It's dark and gloomy, covered in black with the occasional blue that reminds you of Grim's flames. The stone walls and skull designs are ominously beautiful, and you could see how the underworld would be represented through the architecture.
"And then Diasomnia. Founded upon the elegance of the Thorn Fairy, who reigned over a mystical mountain, wielding magical powers that included mastery over storms and thorns. Proud and refined,
she cherished solitude even as she commanded her countless minions. Are you among the elite that would find their path there?"
If you were impressed before, Diamsonia knocks the wind out of you. Take the grandeur of Scarabia, the elegance of Pomefiore, and the gloom of Ignihyde, and you have Diasomnia's imposing castle with the most beautiful gothic, architecture money could buy.
But then a question mark appears within the mirror, smoky and green. You tilt your head curiously, eyebrows furrowing as you ponder the meaning of it.
"Or perhaps you're destined for something else within our walls? Something new, something different which you are destined."
The mirror's face re-appears. It closes its eyes in pondering, and you're left waiting on bated breath as you await the final decision.
The mirror looks at you, a nod moving its disembodied face. "Yes, I see it now..."
Seven dorms, seven different paths that lead to a different ending to your story. Which one are you fated to walk?
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Hello there, you've made it through the prologue, congrats! Going forward, the real stories will begin. MC's personality, team, relationships and background will become more apparent and are all unique to each dorm. The stories will vary depending on the dorm. Heartslabyul's MC will be different from, say, Scarabia's MC, etc. Enjoy your various adventures, I hope to see you there!
Comments and interactions are always appreciated, it's what motivates me the most. 🖤
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Monsters & Magic [Twisted Wonderland X Fem!Reader]
Prologue: 0.2
Magical Mishaps
Back to Masterlist | Previous | Next
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
You're not sure what you were expecting. Admittedly, your expectations weren't that high. The bar was, in fact, so low that the devil could trip on it. And yet here you stand, looking over your temporary housing, disappointed.
"Isn't it delightful?" Crowley says, voice filled with glee.
"... wow. It sure is... something," you say unenthusiastically.
You've slept in caves that were in better shape than this. The poor building looks like it's being held together by tape. It looks like you could blow on it, and it would crumble into a heap of dust. Even from a distance, you can see the holes in the roof. You almost want to put the thing out of its misery; it's clearly suffering. There's no greenery around the land, and even the damn trees are dead!
"I'm so glad you agree!" Crowley chirps before pushing you right inside. "Now, in you go! This should keep the elements at bay. Now, stay here, stay off campus, and I will retreat to do some research. Ta!"
Crowley hurriedly leaves the dorm, not allowing you to voice any concerns. He slams door in the process, leaving you and your Rotom alone in this shithole.
"Well, it could be worse," you mutter as you look around. "I guess...?"
You mess around with a light switch, and sure enough, there's no power. You go over to the kitchen, getting hit in the face by a cobweb as you walk through the frame. You cough, swatting it away and cussing it out. You mess around with the kitchen sink's faucet, only to discover that there's no running water.
"Of course," you mutter annoyedly.
Rotom pops out of your pocket, looking around the decrepit dorm, and upon seeing your long face, it darts into the old fridge, taking over it and turning into its frost form.
You chuckle softly at your partner's attempts to cheer you up, finding your Pokémon's appearance when it possesses appliances to be funky-looking. "Well, at least we know you can still shift your forms, even with this rusty old stuff."
"Bzzzt!" Rotom buzzes happily, darting out of the fridge and levitating all over the place.
It ends up going into an old box television, and the power of Rotom's electricity actually turns the TV on, despite the lack of power throughout the dorm.
"Huh. Not bad," you say. "Come on out of there, Rotom. As much as I appreciate it, we've got bigger fish to fry than watch TV right now."
"Bzzzt...?" Rotom buzzes, zipping out of the television and looking at you.
You put your hands on your hips, sighing as you try to figure things out. "Maybe there's a generator we can jumpstart somewhere. I'm not sure about the plumbing though. We might have to find a river in the meantime. It's fine, it's all good."
You're getting mildly stressed, reaching up to pinch the bridge of your nose, foot tapping the creaky flooring and eyes tightly shut.
"Yeah. No worries. It's not like I can't sneak a shower in the college, worst case. Surely they'd understand," you mutter.
Suddenly, you hear the scampering of little paws around you. You put your finger to your lips, prompting Rotom to quiet down.
"Shhh... quiet, buddy. I hear something," you whisper.
"Bzzzzt...?"
Your ears following the steps. You can't see much in the dark, but you catch a glimpse of blue fire, and without thinking, you point over to it.
"Over there. Rotom, discharge," you order.
Rotom zips on ahead of you, giggling mischievously as electricity crackles around it. It releases an erratic wave of electricity that swerves all over the place, nearly hitting you and making a mess of some old frames — Rotom was never much of a battler, so it's not all that well trained to control a discharge properly. However, it does manage to zap something, or someone.
"MRAAAAH?!!!" A raspy, high pitched voice cries out.
After Rotom's electricity dissipates, the person tumbles out of the shadows. Turns out, it's not a person at all.
It's that grey-furred cat with the flaming ears and pitchfork-shaped tail. What is he doing here? You thought those housewarden people threw him off campus. Shakily, he stands up; his little limbs twitch here and there from the force of the discharge he got. He smells a little toasty, too.
Shaking his head, he regains his senses and points a paw at you with a frown. "What was THAT all about?! How dare you attack the Great Grim like that!"
"You snuck up on us," you simply say. "Didn't you get thrown out after causing a scene?"
Grim — so his name appears to be — looks at you as if you've stated the stupidest thing he's ever heard and smirks, patting his chest. "As if I wouldn't just sneak back onto campus the second I escaped pryin' eyes. You all got no idea what I'm capable of! I ain't givin' up on goin' here just 'cause I got kicked out one measly ol' time. And if you think otherwise, you don't know Grim! I was BORN to do this, I'm tellin' ya! I'm a prodigy, and–"
You tune out his speech a bit, analyzing him. He looks like he could be a pokemon, if he were in your world. You're trying to make small, pointless connections. It's all you have to calm down your anxiety about being far away from home and find some semblance of ground to stand on and comfort yourself with.
"Hm. If you were a pokemon," you start, making Grim stop talking, blinking in confusion. "I think you'd be a dark and fire-type. Like... a Houndoom. Or an Incineroar. But less cool."
Of all the things to retain, it's the 'less cool' part that Grim latches onto. "Oi! I am way cooler and more powerful than a Houndoom or Incineroar...! Whatever those are. And what the heck's a poe-key-mon...?"
Rotom pops up mere inches away from Grim's face with a wide grin, making Grim squeak and fall back. Rotom giggles, happy with its little coup before levitating back to you.
"Pokémon," you correct. You point over to your friend. "That. That's a Pokémon. One of at least a thousand species that exists," you explain. "They're little monsters with 'magic'. Kind of like you," you try explaining in simple terms. "I train them."
Before Grim can answer, water drips down onto your head, making you look up. You narrow your eyes. "Great, there's holes in the roof. I almost forgot about that. No wonder everything feels so rotten, rain keeps getting in here."
"MRAO...!" Grim panics as water drips onto his head as well. "H-Hey! Human! Scoot over! I'm gettin' rained on over here! Can't let those flamin' ears go out!"
Hah. He really would be a fire-type. Grim seems to seek shelter by scooting closer to you and using you as shield. Would something happen to him if those flames go out? Like a Charmander, maybe? Nevertheless, you don't disallow him, seeing him as a nippy little Pokémon that's all bark and no bite. One that just needs a bit of taming.
"Maybe there are some buckets in a closet somewhere...?" You mutter to yourself.
"Oi! Why don't ya magic the holes away? It could be fixed up in a jiffy," Grim says.
You blink down at him, a little surprised, but you suppose he did get thrown out before the whole mirror ordeal. So, you shake your head. "No can do. I don't have magic."
Grim gapes before barking out a laugh, pointing at you. He's truly in hysterics. "W-Whaaa?! Oh, this is rich! You can't use magic? Like, at all? Pffft, man you're so useless."
"Well then, if you're such a prodigy like you've been boasting, you do it," you challenge.
At that, Grin stops laughing. "Ack! Me? Help YOU? No way! 'Sides, you ain't the boss of me!" He says.
Oh, but you will be very soon. However, you don't say that. Instead, you raise a brow. "Oh? And why not? Is it because you actually can't do much more than spit fire?"
"E-Eh...?" Grim flinches.
"So, if I'm understanding, you think you'd get to be admitted here, but you can't even fix a few holes with magic?" You say; Rotom's giggling only adds more salt to the wound.
You shake your head, turning on your heel to go and explore the rundown building. "Shame."
Grim guffaws, waving his paws all over as he runs after you. "That ain't it at all! T-The Dark Mirror just doesn't know what it's missin' out on! I-I'm a natural at this! I-I swear..." he trails off near the end, ears flopping as he slumps a bit.
Alright, you feel for him. You can tell that this is important to him. Honestly, you can see a bit of yourself on him, though you'd rather not acknowledge it right away.
You feel a sudden drop in temperature, alerting you. "Hey, Rotom. Do you feel that? Something's here."
"W-What are ya talkin' about, human?! I don't see anything," Grim says, looking all over the place.
There's faint laughter that can be heard echoing vaguely throughout the lounge, until something materializes behind Grim.
"Boo!"
Grim yelps, jumping out of his fur as he whirls around in a panic. "AAAAAH! GHOSTS! GHOOOOOOSTS!"
You scratch your head. Those are this world's ghosts? They're kind of cute, in a way; they're a little comical-looking. Not menacing in the slightest, but you don't know their intentions.
"We haven't had visitors in ages. We've just been itching for some new friends. Isn't that right, boys?" The ghost says.
On cue, a smaller ghost appears. "Everybody that used to live here up and ran off. We'd love a new ghost buddy to play with. Hehe."
Grim's ears flop as he shivers, clearly frightened as he takes a couple of steps back, slowly inching towards you. "I-I'm a master sorcerer...! I-I ain't afraid of no dumb ghost!"
As a third, tall and slim ghost appears, Grim panics and starts to spit flames everywhere. He's not aiming properly at all, not calculating his attacks and wasting his energy. It's chaos, and you're worried that the already damaged dorm will go up in flames if this continues. Wait, are his eyes closed?!
"Hehe! Nope, not even close!"
"Hey! Over here! Missed me!"
The ghosts keep toying with Grim, disappearing and re-appearing all over the place, only causing Grim to unleash more and more uncontrolled flames.
"Grim! Calm down! You're going to set the whole building on fire at this rate!" You say. "Breathe, take a second to analyze their pattern, and then you shoot! Think strategic!"
"Shaddup! I don't need any lip from a dumb human like you! What do you know?!" He says.
"Hehe! You can't even hit any of us!" One of the ghosts taunts.
Grim growls, losing patience. "T-They're gangin' up on us! Buncha cowards. Why can't I hit them?!"
"Grim, stand down right now. I'm not playing around with you anymore," you say, your tone leaving no doubt that you're done with this. "I'll handle this."
Grim finally stops his fire attacks to look back at you. "But you just said ya don't got magic. What the heck are you gonna do?"
"I don't need magic," you say. "Rotom, I know you haven't battled much, but right now, I'm counting on you."
Rotom's face hardens, floating to in front of you in a concentrated, battle-ready stance; this is the most serious you've ever seen the little plasma Pokémon.
"Aaah? A new opponent? How fun! Let's what you've got," the pudgier ghost says, disappearing again as the other two follow suite.
"Okay, Rotom," you say, analyzing the situation. "They're not very fast, but their disappearing act is annoying. Stay calm and don't waste your energy until I say so. Let's focus and try to figure out when one's going to show."
"Bzzzt!" Rotom nods, receiving your instructions loud and clear.
After a moment, there's a shift in the air, and it's coming from Rotom's right. You can vaguely see the outline of the tall ghost beginning to materialize.
"To your right, buddy! Thunder wave to incapacitate him," you say.
Rotom quickly turns and aims a wave of electricity towards the ghost, and just as he materializes, he gets hit. His body seizes and jerks as the thunder wave leaves him with a paralysis.
"I... can't move..." the ghost struggles to say.
He finds himself unable to move properly, feeling as though his ghostly limbs weigh a ton. When he does find the strength in him to move, the speed in which he executes anything is so sluggish and slow.
"Alright, Rotom, hex him," you say.
Rotom concentrates a small vortex of darkness around it until it dissipates and manifests as small, shadowy balls of energy that surround the immobile ghost. Unable to move out of harm's way, the balls crash into the ghost, causing him to shriek in pain.
Unfortunately for him, a hex attack is far more painful to those who have a condition inflicted on them — like paralysis.
The two other ghosts appear, seemingly in a panic.
"W-Waaah! Don't shoot! W-We surrender!" The bigger one says.
The little one chimes in. "Y-Yeah! We just wanted to play around a bit, honest! W-We'll get outta your hair!"
The two grabbed their friend, who's had his world rocked, and disappear. True to their words, they don't seem like they'll be showing their faces again for a while.
You sigh. "That settles that problem. Good job, Rotom, you handled that perfectly."
As your Rotom happily zips around you in celebration of its victory, Grim can only watch with his mouth agape, nearly hitting the floor. You, a magicless human, had managed to tame a little monster and got it to obey your commands so perfectly, and on top of that, fended off the ghosts? When he couldn't even come close to hitting one?
"H-Hey!! How did you do that?!" Grim yells out, waving his paws around to get your attention.
"Teamwork. It goes a long way," you say simply.
"B-But, I'm supposed to be a master sorcerer. Why can't I do that...?" Grim says, ears flopping and sounding defeated.
You head over to grim and crouch to his level, patting his head a bit. You ignore his indignant squawk. "You know, not all Pokémon start off strong and coordinated. Sometimes — most of the time, even — it takes a little extra push to help bring out their full strength and potential."
"Hmph..." Grim huffs.
"That's where people like me come in. Trainers. We do that. We bond with our Pokémon, train them to grow and become better. Together. We bring out their true strength," you say. "Maybe you're not a master sorcerer right now, but with a bit of practice and mentoring, who's to say you won't be able to hit those ghosts next time?"
Grim crosses his arms. "So, what are you gettin' at? Are you saying you're gonna train me?"
You raise a brow. "Is that what you want?"
Grim cringes, stomping his foot. "D-Don't get the wrong idea, human! I ain't one to be bossed around! Especially not by some dumb human who can't use magic!" He says, far too prideful, but in a quiet voice, he adds: "But fine. I got nothin' better to do anyway. We'll see if you can keep up with the Great Grim."
You nod, picking up Grim from under his arms, making him squirm a bit. "Then, that settles it. From now on, I'll be your trainer."
So, maybe he's not a Pokémon, but it feels like you've just caught one of the little creatures. It makes a pang of sadness shoot through your heart. The thought at the back of your head that you'll never be able to catch and befriend a new Pokémon gnaws at you. Maybe you really did take your home world for granted.
"My, what an unforeseeable debacle this has been!" A familiar voice draws your attention down the hallway.
Your eyes narrow. This guy again. "Crowley. What are you doing here?"
"Ah, good evening. In another gesture of my immense kindness, I have brought you dinner!" He says with a grin. "However, I must say I've found myself quite entranced by the... demonstration you've provided of your beast-taming abilities. Why, I've never seen someone command creatures with such ease! Oh, and what was it again? Rotom? Yes, so much power in such a little orange ball. Impressive, truly!"
"Wait!" Grim says. "You were there the entire time and didn't even care to help?!"
"A-Ah, well, the situation seemed to be quite under control, from where I stood," Crowley stammers in defense of himself.
You raise a brow. "And you didn't care to mention the little ghost infestation when you dropped me here?"
"I-I suppose that detail has eluded me, yes! But my memory has been jogged, and I do recall a mischievous ghost problem, which is why the dorm was abandoned in the first place," Crowley says. "Ah, but, enough of that! What is that creature doing here? He's been removed for causing problems and should not be on campus grounds."
"Grim here just really, really wants to be a student," you say. "He wasn't chosen, I understand that. And I also understand that he's been a troublemaker. However, I aim to help him. As a... beast tamer, I'll be ensuring that Grim's potential is brought out."
"Whoa... are you...?" Grim mutters, looking at you wide-eyed as you defend him.
"W-Well, I..."
"So," you cut Crowley off. "I expect you to figure out more suitable accommodations. My earlier suggestion still stands. I think I've earned my stay, despite having no magic. I can hold my own."
Crowley sighs, shaking his head as he mutters underneath his breath. "A magicless woman and a monster at Night Raven College. Oh dear..."
He then clears his throat. "I-I... suppose you do have a point, miss (Y/N). A-And since my kindness and generosity know no bounds, I will... immediately see to solution," he says. "However, I'm afraid that for tonight, you will be staying here. But! I will be back first thing in the morning to give you an update, yes, so fear not!"
Before you can say a word, Crowley turns to leave.
"Oh, dear... I suppose a meeting with the Housewardens will be in order to discuss the nature of this affair," he mutters to himself under his breath.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
You managed to find a room that's not in a complete state of decay. Granted, it's not pretty, but it will do for the time being. The mattress is worn and dusty, and the sheets aren't much to sing home about, but it could be worse, you suppose.
Grim, the little creature, is knocked out cold. He's fast asleep and snoring up a storm all curled up next to you. You suppose that he's got far less anxiety about everything than you do, and why would he? This is his word, after all.
Rotom is also sound asleep, having retreated into your phone for the night. The device is in sleep mode, left atop a decrepit nightstand. Thankfully, Rotom's electricity keeps your phone charged, despite being asleep.
You can't find it in yourself to fall asleep. You're left lying on your back, staring up at the ceiling almost unblinking. Your mind is far too awake for you to get some slumber, racing with millions of thoughts. The main one: how are you going to get back home? You don't even know what Arceus wants out of you in this world; it didn't tell you. What do you have to do here, in Twisted Wonderland, for the doors of the Pokémon world to open and welcome you back in?
If Arceus wanted you to see that you've taken your world for granted, then fine, you get it, you were an idiot. Lesson learned. Can you go back now? But of course, you have a feeling — you know — that a single day won't be enough for the deity to consider that your lesson has been learned.
You sit up, rubbing your face as you sigh in defeat. This is your life now. For how long? You don't know. But you do know that you'd better start accepting it. The sooner you come to terms with everything, the better.
Lifting your head, you stare up ahead with a dull look in your eyes. There's a mirror, old, but somehow in pristine shape, especially considering the rest of the building's state. Your reflection stares back at you, but then...
"Huh...?" You blink, squinting as you wonder if your eyes are playing tricks on you in the dark.
The mirror appears to be rippling. You look around, as if trying to get confirmation from your dorm mates that this is real, but Rotom and Grim are still fast asleep. Slowly and cautiously, you swing your legs over the edge of the bed and begin to stand. As you approach the rippling seems to grow stronger, confirming that you're not seeing things.
And then it stops. The reflective surface is replaced by what seems to be a dark void, but there are little stars shimmering in the background. This seems eerily familiar, and just as you're about to make the connection, a figure begins to manifest in the mirror.
"Arceus..." you mutter in shock.
It stares at you, you stare at it back. Neither of you let up. However, its gaze seems to harden as it stands tall and proud. It doesn't say anything, only analyzing.
"You've had quite the day, Little One. But it is just the beginning," Arceus' voice echoes.
Snapping out of your stunned stupor, you shake your head. "Wait, what do I have to do to–"
You don't get to finish your sentence as the mirror ripples again, and Arceus' image begins to fade. You scramble to run up to the mirror, nearly tripping over your feet.
"Hey, hey! Answer me! Don't you dare go, you piece of–"
By the time you stand in front the mirror, hunched over the vanity and palms flat against the glass, Arceus is gone, and all you can see is your own distraught reflection. You grit your teeth, balling your hand in a fist as you pound on the mirror. "Ugh...! Shit!" All you can hear is a lingering "I'll be watching you" being whispered in your ears.
The commotion stirs Grim awake. "M-Mrah...! What's with all the yellin' human! Ha...? Are ya cryin'?"
You blink back your frustrated tears, wiping your eyes to catch any strays. "I'm okay. I'm fine. I had a bad dream. Just go back to bed."
You leave a confused Grim in the room as you make your way downstairs to the lounge. You don't really know what you'll do, but right now, you just want to stretch your legs and clear your mind.
It's not like you can even get a glass of water...
As you pass by a table, you catch something out of the corner of your eye. You turn your head, and your heart skips a couple of beats as you see none other than your bag — the one that you used regularly in the Pokémon world.
You scramble to grab it, and opening it up, you nearly cry in relief as you see Pokéballs. You take them out, lying them on the table and count them one by one.
"One, two, five, nine... they're all there!" You say, huffing out a breath of relief. Granted, not every single Pokémon you've caught is there, but your main twelve and legendary are there. In the bag, you also have a few supplies like potions and food for your Pokémon.
"Thank you, Arceus..." you mutter begrudgingly. At least it had the decency to manifest your team. You suddenly feel far less alone and defenceless.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
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Monsters & Magic [Twisted Wonderland X Fem!Reader]
Prologue: 0.1
A Champion’s Fall
Back To Masterlist | Next
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
You find yourself in a peculiar predicament, floating in a void of nothing. Or maybe you're falling? You don't quite know, but one thing you are sure of is that this is a dream. What else could it be? After all, you vividly remember having sunk into your mattress after a long day.
And then you're rudely dropped onto the ground, the wind being knocked out of you as your back makes contact with the flooring. With colourful curses being muttered beneath your breath, you sit up, rubbing your sore backside from the sudden impact. For a dream, that felt rather real, and you did not appreciate it all that much.
With a sigh, you stand up and look around. For what exactly? You're not sure. It's not as though you can see anything beyond the barely illuminated area you stand in, as if a faint spotlight is shining down on you, but with no immediate source identifiable.
"Hello...?" You call out, your voice echoing ominously throughout the... dream? Whatever this place is.
No response. Figures.
However, there's a buzzing in your pocket. Running your hand over the top, you feel the distinctive outline of your phone, and with your touch, out pops a small creature that's shaped like a sphere with a body made of electricity-filled plasma. It darts around, crackles of electricity sounding with its erratic movement.
There's a small smile on your face, happy to see a loyal and familiar face, even in the dream world. "Rotom... you're here too, huh? Alright, then, d'you think you could illuminate the way? I can't see anything past my own fingertips here."
Rotom makes a vague noise of agreement, and the mischievous ghost takes the lead. Its faintly glowing body serves as a decent enough flashlight, and so you follow along, but the more you walk, the more you feel as though you aren't going anywhere. It's truly a void of nothingness.
You scratch your head in confusion. "Why am I dreaming of... nothing? Am I so tired I can't even conjure up something?"
Then it happens — there's a flicker of light. Then, there's another, and then another one. More and more of these lights burst around you until you're surrounded by deep, yellow sparks. Busy looking around and trying to find the source of all these lights, you don't realize that you're no longer alone. At least, not until Rotom darts back into your pocket, obviously spooked by something.
"Hey, what's up buddy...? What did you-" you lose your words as you look ahead, finally taking notice of the newcomer.
A white, elegant, equine-like Pokémon stands before you. Standing at about 10-feet tall, it looks down on you with glowing green eyes, a similarly-coloured hue emanating from the jewels on the cross-like wheel adorning its midsection. This Pokémon — this deity — is the one who was said to have existed before the universe itself, and the one who shaped the world you know with 1000 arms.
"Arceus...?" You mutter confusedly. After all, it's not every night that you dream of God.
There's a heavy silence that falls on both you and the legendary Pokémon, as if it wasn't suffocating enough to be in this nothing-dream. But it's the way that Arceus looks at you that makes you overcome with the violent urge to be swallowed up by the ground. You're sure that, if the Pokémon had a mouth, its lips would be tugged into a sneer.
Then, with a booming voice that resonates throughout the dream, Arceus speaks to you: "You have lost your purpose."
You blink. "I... beg your pardon?"
"You have lost your purpose," Arceus reiterates without skipping a beat. That was spoken in such a matter-of-fact manner that you're momentarily stunned and at a loss for words.
"There was a time when you were someone, Little One," Arceus says. "Yes, there was once a time when you aspired to do great things, harness your talent for the greater good of people and Pokémon alike. Is this truly the path you wish to remain upon? Consumed by uncertainty and the weight of mistakes upon your shoulders? Are you truly satisfied with the slope you continue to fall down?"
Arceus' eyes seemingly narrow at you. "You've forgotten who you are, choosing to run and hide. You've become nothing and have fallen from grace. All of this potential, and you've wasted it, taken it all for granted. Disappointing, truly."
Alright. Dreaming of God ripping into you is, surprisingly, not the strangest thing that's ever happened to you, but it definitely ranks up there.
"A dream? No, Little One. Think again," Arceus says. "You have been brought to my realm, a world located between time and space."
Ah. You should have known that Arceus would be able to read your mind.
"Right..." you mutter. "So, why am I here if I'm not dreaming? Did you bring me here just to tell me that I messed up?"
Arceus says nothing, continuing to look down at you with those scrutinizing eyes. The deity's words ring in your mind, but you can't find it in yourself to argue, because although it stings, what Arceus said is the hard-to-swallow truth.
"Listen, I... I'm tired. Of this," you say, making a vague hand gesture around you, even though there's absolutely nothing. "All of this. I'm tired. I don't know what I'm doing anymore. I just want... to be. I need a change. I need a break from everything. I don't belong here, I feel."
After excruciating seconds of silence — seconds so silent you could hear the faint beat of your heart — Arceus speaks up. "Hm. A change, you say?"
"... yes?" You say cautiously.
"Very well. In that case..."
Following Arceus' vague and ominous words, the ground begins to shake, and you find yourself yelping with surprise as you begin floating alongside Arceus. Looking down, you feel a bead of cold sweat trail down your forehead as you watch a spinning vortex of dark yellow and black form.
"Arceus, what are you doing?" You ask, looking the Pokémon deep in its eyes.
"Perhaps a change is, indeed, what you need," Arceus says. "Perhaps, in a world new and unknown to you, vastly different from the one you've come to take for granted, you will find yourself once more."
Your eyes widen, a lump forming in your throat that you just can't swallow down. A new world? Unknown to you? What in the world did that even mean? Yet the implication isn't lost on you; you're vaguely aware of the existence of other worlds, going by the extensive research done in Alolan labs.
This better be a dream, but something tells you that it's truly not, and you're about to regret every single decision you've ever made that has brought you to this situation.
"Wait...! That's not what I meant!" You say, looking up at Arceus with panicked eyes. "You really, really don't have to do that! I'll do better, this isn't necessary. I'll do better, I promise— AAAH!"
You don't get to finish your plea as gravity pulls you down, dropping you down into the swirling vortex. Your heart plummets, and you feel unable to breathe as you try to comprehend what's happening. It feels like you're falling to your death, but all the same, it feels like you'll never hit the ground.
This can't be happening. This has to be one of those dreams where you're free-falling, and you'll wake up right as you hit the ground. Right...?
You start to feel lightheaded, the pressure and fear finally getting to you as your eyes grow a mind of their own, fluttering shut despite your best efforts to keep alert. Right as you're on the cusp of unconsciousness, you hear Arceus' booming voice once more.
"You are more than what you've become. We will be in touch, Little One."
And you succumb, the rest of your fall becoming a blur.
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
Your senses are coming back to you, slowly but surely. There's a sliver of hope fluttering in your heart that maybe — just maybe — you're finally awakening from this bizarre dream, and you'll be in the comfort of your room and your bed.
But as consciousness floods you, you quickly notice that you're lying on something hard, like a floor. No big deal, right? You just fell out of bed. Then again, you also feel as though you're wrapped in significantly more clothing than what you had worn to bed, but perhaps you fell off your bed, completely bundled up in your blankets. Surely that would explain it?
You can vaguely hear something. Are those hushed voices that you're hearing? You can't really make out what any of them are saying, still coming to your senses. Everything sounds echoed and distant in your ears.
But it's the moment you feel something hard and blunt poking at your cheek that you're suddenly knocked back down to earth.
"... 'llo? Hello? Can you hear me?" You hear a male voice call out to you. The poking gets more excessive, and it's actually beginning to feel as though your cheek may bruise. "Wake up!! Now's hardly the time to be dozing off!"
Your eyes open, and you instinctively smack away a... cane? You look up to see that the cane belongs to a man whose face is concealed by a mask resembling a raven, and eyes that glow a bright gold. The nice suit he's wearing is paired with a coat that resembles wings at the tail. His top hat is adorned with a feather and a charm that looks like a mirror. It's a peculiar aesthetic, but it's one that gives you the impression that this man is rather important.
"AH! You're awake! Wonderful, absolutely wonderful! Yes, now wouldn't that have been tragic? To lose a student so early in the semester, and all because of a flaming weasel, no less? Why, that would have been absolutely unacceptable! OH! I couldn't bear to imagine such an outcome!" The man says, dramatically placing his hand on his chest as he rambles ad nauseam.
You shake your head a bit, feeling far too disoriented to be hit with a stranger's theatrics so suddenly. Your brain tries to process his words, and your brows only furrow more and more as you try to wrap your mind around everything. A flaming weasel...? Semester...?
"I don't... understand," you say slowly. "What's going on? Who are you, and where am I?"
The man abruptly stops his ramble, looking at you as if you've gone clinically insane. "Ha...? You appear to be confused. Has the timespace teleportation addled your memories? Or perhaps you've gone and hit your head during the ordeal?" He questions, a hand under his chin in contemplation.
You blink, and for the first time since regaining consciousness, you take a moment to look around. You see that you're surrounded by people who are all wearing the same long, hooded robes that are primarily coloured black, but with some purple as well and decorated with golden patterns and charms. You take a moment to glance down at yourself and realize that you're wearing the same robe, which definitely throws you for a loop. Is this a cult of some sort?
Subtly, you pat yourself down, and you feel a sense of relief when you feel the familiar shape of your phone in your pocket, but your heart quickly thumps in your chest when that's all you can feel. Where are all of your Pokéballs? This cannot be happening. There's no way you've been thrown into – in Arceus' words – a new and unknown world without your Pokémon.
The masked man, still rambling, has become noise to you, and so you stand up, dust yourself off and make a hand gesture to catch his attention, trying your best not to show any kind of outward panic.
"If you could just... run me down on what's going on. I am really, really confused over here," you say.
"Ah, well, it can't be helped, I suppose. However, since I am so gracious, allow me to explain: this is Night Raven College, the most prestigious magic academy in all of Twisted Wonderland! Only those who have a rare talent for magic are chosen to attend by the Dark Mirror. Oh! And who am I to forget to introduce myself? I am Dire Crowley, the headmage of this fine establishment!" Crowley says.
You nod slowly, taking in all of the information. Although everything is so surreal to you, at least you're getting somewhere. You're in a world called Twisted Wonderland, where people can use magic, and you're currently in a school. Night Raven College.
"We had a bit of an... incident regarding a pesky little monster, but fear not! Our wonderful dorm leaders of Heartslabyul and Octavinelle have put a stop to it all!" Crowley says.
Looking around, you notice how some parts of the floor have been singed black, a clear indicator of a fire. Some areas still have faint blue embers that linger, so you can only imagine the kind of chaos that must have unfolded prior to your arrival, and it seems like this man... the headmage, Crowley, thinks you might have been caught in the crossfire.
You see two men — a shorter one with red hair, and one wearing glasses — holding what seems to be a... cat with a pitchfork-shaped tail and flaming ear? A Pokémon? No, you doubt that. If you truly are in a different world, you highly doubt that Pokémon are a thing. The cat is being held up by the redhead, flailing around and whining about his fire magic being taken away, and there's a massive, heavy-looking collar around his neck.
Questions for another day, you're already overwhelmed as it is.
"— and of course, the Dark Mirror selects which dorm best suits your soul!" Crowley says. Oh god, he's still talking. You had completely tuned him out. "You have been placed in a dorm, correct? Do you remember which one?"
"Uh... no? I don't think so, but listen, I really don't think I should even be—" you don't get to finish your sentence as you're yanked by the arms and pushed forward.
"Well, what are you waiting for? We haven't got all day, the ceremony must come to a close so that everybody can settle in!" Crowley says. "Hop to it! Stand in front of the Dark Mirror, if you please."
You look ahead and catch the gaze of your reflection in a large, rounded mirror. Sensing that you have little choice in the matter, you walk up the three steps and stand in front of the 'Dark Mirror'. A puff of green smoke swirls within the glass, and a face appears, almost like one of those drama masks.
"State your name," the mirror says.
"It's (Y/N). (Y/N) (L/N)," you say.
"(Y/N), you say?" The mirror says. "The nature of your soul is..."
There's a pause.
And it keeps going.
The silence is deafening, and all eyes are on you; you're very aware of all the staring. Everybody seems to be waiting on bated breath.
"Hm..." it hums, eyes narrowing. "This is quite strange. Yes, strange indeed. The nature of your soul is unclear to me."
Astonished whispers from the many students around you reach your ears.
"Excuse me?" Crowley asks, equally as baffled by the mirror's words. Clearly, this wasn't a common occurrence.
"I sense not a speck of magic from this young lady's soul," the mirror says.
"WHAT?!" Crowley screeches.
"And yet, there's something," the mirror continues. "While deprived of any magical properties, this young lady has something else. Her soul is not without colour, shape or sound, but it is so vastly different from the many I've seen in the last century. But what is it...? Hm... this is so very peculiar. You may not possess magic, but I do believe there is a place for you somewhere. But where to put you? I do not know. Perhaps—"
"Wait just a minute!" Crowley says, interrupting the mirror. "You mean to tell me that the black carriage was sent to retrieve a student — a female no less — that cannot use magic? At all? This is absurd! How could this possibly happen?! There has never, and I mean not ever, been a mistake in the student selection process."
"I did try to say that—" you get cut off. Again.
"This has all been such an unexpected fracas. Well, then, I herby declare that this orientation has concluded. Housewardens, please escort your respective students back to the dorms," Crowley sighs. He then turns to you, pointing. "As for you, remain put. You must be sent back home."
Crowley then looks around, seemingly growing confused. "Ha...? I don't believe I see housewarden Draconia of Diasomnia? Has he not been present throughout the duration of the ceremony?"
"You're surprised because...? Dude's a total recluse, as far as I'm concerned," a tall, tan-skinned man with cat-like ears says in a bored tone. "Whatever... those who are in Savanaclaw, follow me," he yawns, making a vague hand gesture, seemingly more than eager to be done with all of this.
"Oh, wait... did anyone even tell him about the orientation?" A young man with red eyes questions, tilting his head.
"Hmph... well, if you were so concerned, then why not take it upon yourself to invite him?" A blonde man wearing makeup responds.
The red-eyed guy laughs nervously, scratching the back of his head sheepishly. "W-Well, it's not like I know him very well..."
Murmurs begin sounding throughout the crowd, and the name 'Malleus Draconia' reaches your ears multiple times. The students' tones vary between awe, admiration, disbelief and even fear. Whoever this Malleus guy is, he's obviously a big name, and whether that's a good thing or not, you're not quite sure.
"Ah... it seems that, yet again, our dear housewarden was not informed that his presence was required at an official ceremony," a new person says.
You blink in confusion. This... guy appears rather young, quite small in size as well, and yet he has a deep voice that does not at all match his young features. He seems well-spoken and rather mature, which tells you that he's much older than he looks.
Maybe there are people or creatures that age differently in this world?
"Lilia! I assure you that this was in no way meant to be disrespectful towards Malleus. This has been merely an oversight," the guy wearing glasses says.
"But you can't deny that he's not the easiest of men to approach," the short redhead says.
Lilia, you presume, shakes his head and sighs. "No matter, don't fret with none of that. I just hope he won't mope too much about this. Well then, all Diasomnia students, please follow me. As the vice housewarden, I'll take the responsibility to escort you."
Other houswardens begin stepping up to redirect their students.
"All right, listen up, new Heartslabyul students! I am Riddle Rosehearts, the housewarden. Let me be very clear: at Heartslabyul, I am the law. Rule-breaking will not be tolerated. Follow me," the short redhead, who you now know as Riddle, says.
"Right then," the man with glasses clears his throat. "I am Azul, and as housewarden of Octavinelle, I want to congratulate you on your achievement of not only being selected for this dorm, but for being admitted to Night Raven College! I hope you will all have a fulfilling campus experience! Now, follow me to Octavinelle."
A floating tablet comes around. "U-Uh... Ignihyde students follow me, IG," the male voice coming from it says awkwardly, not bothering to introduce himself before floating off with a gaggle of students following.
"Hehe! We're gonna have so much fun in Scarabia! I'm Kalim, your housewarden, but consider me all your friend!" The red-eyed boy says cheerily. "Come, come! We'll have a banquet and a parade to celebrate this!"
And lastly, the pretty, blonde man steps up. "I am Vil Schoenheit, and I am pleased to have you all in Pomefiore. We at Pomefiore hold our appearance to very high standards, and I expect that you all to follow in the footsteps of the Fairest Queen. Now, if you please, follow me. You have much to learn."
After the last of the students makes their exit, you're left alone with Crowley and the Dark Mirror. You turn to look at the headmage and tilt your head. "So, now what?"
Crowley sighs. "What an unexpected turn of events, but alas, (Y/N), I'm afraid that I cannot let a magicless student attend Night Raven College. Surely you understand that this establishment is not for you? But worry not, the Dark Mirror will see you safely back home. If you will please step forward and visualize your home."
You're not sure why, but a wave of dread fills you as you slowly step back up to the mirror. You should be happy that you're being given the opportunity to go home, to end this wacky dream, but there's still the nagging voice at the back of your head that screams at you that it won't be so easy.
Still, you try to visualize your home. The Pokémon world. You see your hometown, your beloved Pokémon, your family; you see the familiar mountains and forests and other various landscapes of your region.
But the mirror stares at you, unblinking.
"Dark Mirror....?" Crowley says, clearing his throat. "Ahem. Have you not heard my request? Send this soul—"
"There is no such place."
"... huh?"
"This soul's home cannot be found within this world. Therefore, I cannot send her back," the mirror calmly states. "But perhaps—"
"I must say that I'm at an absolute loss!" Crowley says, cutting off the mirror for the second time. "Never has this happened. Tell me, (L/N), from which land do you hail...?"
You stand frozen for a moment. So it's true then. Arceus really did send you off to another world as punishment. What are you gonna do now...?
"Are you not listening to me?"
"Huh...? Oh. Actually, Crowley... I know what's going on," you say.
"Well then, I'm all ears."
You wrack your brain, trying to figure out how you were going to explain all of this. "Well, I think that— no, I know that I'm from another universe. I'm from the world of Pokémon."
Crowley blinks, brows furrowing. "A different world, you say? That is... quite the statement. Are you certain that you're not just lying to me? But then again, I am familiar with all lands of Twisted Wonderland, and yet this 'Pokémon' place you speak of is foreign to me."
"I'm being honest here! Listen, I angered a deity from my world, and now I'm here as punishment," you say, though the words sound absolutely ridiculous the minute they leave your mouth.
Crowley's golden eyes narrow at you, a hum reverberating from his chest in skepticism. "Well, maybe the library could give us some answers. Follow me, please."
••●══••●۩۞۩●••══●•
An hour. It's been a full hour of rummaging through old, dusty books and maps of Twisted Wonderland, trying to find a hint of a connection between your world and this one, but it's been all in vain. Nothing has turned up that could give you any hope of immediately returning home. But to be completely transparent, you weren't expecting much. If Arceus decided that your ass was to stay in this world, then you're sure that you'll be back on Arceus' terms — when and if Arceus decides to let you back.
"Crowley, this is pointless," you say.
"You're quite right. Absolutely nothing can be found," Crowley says. "I suppose the only explanation truly is that you are from a different world. Ah... do you have anything on your person that you could show me? You seem quite empty-handed, however..."
You're about to say that you have nothing on you, but then you realize that that's not completely true. You shove your hand into your pocket and pull out your phone. "I have my phone with me."
Crowley is about to reach for your phone to examine it, but you quickly yank your hand away. "I wouldn't do that if I were you. Rotom doesn't really like it when people touch the phone."
"... beg your pardon? What is a 'Rotom'?"
You sigh. Now's the time to explain the world you've grown up in. "Rotom is what we, in my world, call a Pokémon."
On cue, out pops Rotom from your phone, darting around the library with mischievous giggles escaping it. Crowley screeches in surprise, his eyes struggling to keep up with the rapid little ghost.
"Pokémon are creatures that inhabit our world. They come in many shapes, sizes, and each and every one of them has elemental capabilities that can be somewhat compared to your world's magic. Wild pokemon are everywhere, from our cities, forests, plains, deserts, in the sky, in the water... everywhere," you explain.
"Rotom here is an electric and ghost-type Pokémon, and these Pokémon have the ability to possess appliances. In the modern day, Rotom are popular to operate phones and pokedexes, which are encyclopedias about Pokémon," you say. "Rotom, why don't you scan yourself as an example...?"
Rotom agrees and darts back into your phone. It then floats up to Crowley's eye level, opening up your pokedex app to scan itself.
"Rotom, the plasma Pokémon. An electric and ghost-type. Its electricity-like body can enter some kinds of machines and take control in order to make mischief. It could be the power source of a unique motor."
"I see... how very fascinating. And how do people live among these creatures?" Crowley asks.
"Well, some people research Pokémon, some keep them as pets, some are afraid of them. But other people? We train them and compete in battles. It's basically the biggest sport and profession in our world. Being Pokémon trainers. But that doesn't erase the fact that a wild, untrained Pokémon can absolutely be dangerous. Not all of them are small and cute. We have behemoth-sized dragons that can absolutely kill a person," you explain.
"So you are saying that you are a... beast tamer, of some sorts? Why, that is absolutely impressive! Yes, quite marvellous indeed! Why, the existence of such a world is quite fascinating!" Crowley says giddily. "However... that doesn't quite tell us how to send you back, unfortunately."
You sigh. "Yeah, I know that..."
Then, a thought comes up. You recall what the Dark Mirror had said to you during the ceremony. Something about you possibly having a place somewhere at Night Raven College. You weren't exactly looking to be a student here, but if you can't go home right away, why not get cozy in whatever dorm the mirror thought suited you the best?
"Uh, Crowley? Why not just let the mirror sort me somewhere?" You ask.
A pause, and you brace yourself for Crowley's incoming screeching.
...
"WHAT?! You must be out of your mind!! Have you forgotten that you possess no magical capabilities? You cannot attend this school, and no amount of beast taming skills can change my mind on that! Oh dear me, what would they say if I were to let a magicless, female student into Night Raven College? Oh, I don't dare think about it! " Crowley says firmly, making grandiose hand gestures to emphasize his point, though it only makes him come across as obnoxious.
You smack your hand across your face as your other hand clenches in frustration. You have to suppress a growl. "Look, Crowley, I'm not asking to be a student, or whatever, but I have nowhere to go! You can't possibly expect me to go off into a world I'm unfamiliar with? And with nothing to my name at that?"
You cross your arms, eyes narrowing. "And what would they say if you, as a so very gracious man, were to let a poor, little ol' girl go homeless and defenceless in a world unknown to her? What if something happens to me? Now, wouldn't that just be such a hit to the great NRC's reputation?" You say.
Of course, you're mostly exaggerating. While there's some truth to what you just said, you know damn well you could handle yourself. After all, that's what being a trainer is all about, for the most part. Going off into the wilderness, braving and surviving the elements and whatever challenges may come your way.
But hey, if you could potentially milk something out of this, then you sure as hell are gonna give it your best go.
Crowley seems to freeze as he contemplates your words, laughing nervously. "A-Ah, well, you are quite right, for I, as a man with boundless grace and profound kindness, would never consider leaving you to fend for yourself."
You raise a brow, as if he hadn't been contemplating that very thing seconds ago. "Mhm. Sure..."
He clears his throat. "W-Which is why... ahem..." he stammers, trying to find a quick solution out of the hole he's dug himself.
Suddenly, he loudly exclaims: "Ah-ha! Yes, which is why I would be gracious enough to let you temporarily live in a vacant building here on campus! It used to be a dorm, though it is no longer in use for... reasons."
How vague. You narrow your eyes again, your gaze never leaving Crowley, which only serves to make him more nervous.
"BUT! With proper cleaning, it will be as habitable as any other dorm! Yes, yes! While you stay there, we will work on finding a way for you to return to your world. Now, isn't that just the most generous of offers?" Crowley says.
You sigh, waving him off. "Sure, sounds fair."
"Oh, how wonderful!" He beams. "Now, come along! Let's make haste to your new dorm!"
You follow Crowley out of the library, Rotom floating back down into your pocket. You tune out the headmage's ramblings, because you're sure that if you have to listen to him prattle on about how gracious, generous and a model educator he is, you may actually cancel your life subscription.
#twisted wonderland#twisted wonderland x reader#fanfiction#crossover#Pokémon x twisted wonderland#Monsters & Magic#female reader
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Monsters & Magic
[Twisted Wonderland X Fem!Reader]
Masterlist

You should have known that Arceus hadn't been messing around when it cast you to a completely different world as punishment for 'wasting your potential.' Now, you and your Pokémon must navigate a world of magic and arrogant college men with a bit too much mental baggage. You're not sure what you need to do for the gates to the world of Pokémon to re-open for you, but you'll try.
Seven dorms, seven different paths that lead to a different ending to your story. Which one are you fated to walk?
• Table of Contents •
1. General Intro
2. Disclaimers
3. OC Visual References
4. Mirrors
5. Chapter Masterlist
1.0 General Intro
*Insert 'aw shit here we go again' meme here.*
Hey, hey! If you're a recurring reader of mine, welcome back! If you're a new friend, glad to have you here! Thank you for dropping in to read Monsters & Magic, a Pokémon and Twisted Wonderland crossover, written as a reader insert.
If you're familiar with me, back at it with my shit again, huh? And if you're new, well, welcome to the shitshow. I'm your author, Britt.
Monsters & Magic is one of the three Twisted Wonderland books that I'm currently writing up, so if you're looking for a good fix of Twisted Wonderland reader-insert content, feel free to stick around my domain.
Before we begin, please ensure that you have thoroughly read, understood, and acknowledged all the disclaimers below. It'll make all of our lives much easier.
2.0 Disclaimers
• Not spoiler-free for the main game, vignettes and events.
• Characters are written to be 18+. The only exceptions are characters such as Ortho and Gidel, who are not love interests.
• She/Her pronouns are used to refer to MC, and the (Y/N) key is used.
• While this does follow the Twisted Wonderland stories, some things may be rewritten, and scenes may be added for artistic liberty. I'm not here to write out the entire script of Twst and call it a day.
• Updates may be slow! I'm writing three books whenever I have free time. Pestering me with 'update plz' comments won't get me to move it. I have a job, family, housework and other hobbies.
• This is a crossover with the Pokémon universe. Knowledge of the Pokémon fandom and various games will be beneficial. However, I will do my best to write in a way that those with little to no knowledge about Pokémon can comfortably read and understand, rather than assuming everyone has the same level of expertise.
• I've tried to do a healthy mix of fan-favourite Pokémon, as well as some that are less seen and used overall. I apologize if your favourite doesn't show up, but with a little over 1000 creatures to choose from, I cannot please everyone in that regard. Every Pokémon have been chosen for a reason and have a story, and even if they're not your favourite, I hope you can come to respect and appreciate that. Maybe you'll even find some new things to like about a certain Pokémon you've never really glanced at before!
• This book will have a different type of storytelling from my other books. This is basically 7 stories in one – one for each dorm. There's the prologue, and then the book branches into the various dorms. The reader's personality, backstory, Pokémon team, etc, will depend on the dorm story you're reading. This is done to give a bit more of an inside perspective to the dorm dramas, living through them as a student of that dorm, as well as giving more depth to some characters I feel got screwed over by the game writers. I'll try to write a little bit of every dorm at the same time, but I'll most likely end up majorly focusing on one at a time.
• I'm a filthy little liar. ~ There are actually 8 stories in one. The eighth one will be 'Ramshackle'. It'll be a bit more of a freestyle story that will also include some of the more major events. Romantic interests will mostly focus on event characters. (Rollo Flamme, Fellow Honest & Skully J. Graves. Crowley as well, because he's never a love interest in Twst stories.)
3.0 OC Visual References
• There are OCs added to each dorm to add a bit more personalization to the stories and to help fill gaps where certain dorms don't have as many characters. Below, you can see their visual references. I apologize for not having artwork commissioned of them in their respective dorm uniforms. Money's tight lately. They're not usually Twisted Wonderland OCs, so it wouldn't be pertinent for me to have them commissioned in dorm uniforms if I'm not using them in the fandom usually. They're just the ones I thought would fit the best!
I'm not giving out their full bio; these are just their visual references for those of you who are, well, visual! Due to image limitations, links to their Toyhouse images will be provided!
3.1 Heartslabyul — Perseus
Perseus 1
Perseus 2
3.2 Savanaclaw — Chaska
Chaska 1
Chaska 2
3.3 Octavinelle — Scaevan
Scaevan 1
Scaevan 2
3.4 Scarabia — Alfred ‘Alfie’
Alfred 1
Alfred 2
3.5 Pomefiore — Amadeo
Amadeo 1
Amadeo 2
3.6 Ignihyde — Isaiah
Isaiah 1
Isaiah 2
3.7 Diasomnia — Fen
Fen 1
Fen 2
3.8 Ramshackle — Zeph
*Mild, cartoonish gore warning for Zeph! One of his eyes isn't in its socket, and he's partially a skeleton at the abdominal area with some of his guts visible. This is the last visual reference, so if you think you might be uncomfortable, then feel free to skip! Otherwise, he'll still be physically described in the story without visuals. I'm keeping the Halloween character trend going for Ramshackle. ~
Zeph 1
Zeph 2
4.0 Mirrors
You can find the same story in the following platforms:
• Wattpad
• Quotev
• Ao3
5.0 Chapter Masterlist
5.1 Prologue
0.1 | 0.2 | 0.3
5.1 Heartslabyul Path
Coming soon!
5.2 Savanaclaw Path
Coming soon!
5.3 Octavinelle Path
Coming soon!
5.4 Scarabia Path
Coming soon!
5.5 Pomefiore Path
Coming soon!
5.6 Ignihyde Path
Coming soon!
5.7 Diasomnia Path
Coming soon!
5.8 Ramshackle Path
Coming soon!
#twisted wonderland#twisted wonderland x reader#fanfiction#twisted wonderland masterlist#crossover#twisted wonderland x Pokémon#female reader
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Trying to figure out if I should cross post my ongoing Twst X reader books to Tumblr as well. They’re all published on Ao3, Quotev and Wattpad for the time being. Do some of you guys exclusively read things on tumblr? Or do you rather consume fan content on other platforms? 💕
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Leona’s bamboozled little face when you miss during this twistune has me rolling.
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I kinda wonder if that rude message was a bot. I got a message from someone last week warning me of a similar flame comment on their fic that used my account name. We both suspect that it was from a bot using my username. I thanked them and actually read their fic, leaving a nice comment to make up for that as as thanks for warning me about what happened. I kinda wonder if the same happened to you, since it had a username instead of "guest" and was left offline.
Though, if it was an actual person, fuck them. Like you said, you hate a fic, just click the back button.
Honestly it reeks of bot, now that I’ve simmered down a bit. I’ll search up this username on Ao3 and see if it comes up with anything to warn them as well. Thanks for the heads up! 🥹
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Getting comments is always something that motivates me to keep writing, but this is so disheartening. I’ve been so proud of myself for getting back into it. Like, I do this in my free time, for free, as a hobby. I’m not a professional, but I love writing, and I love those that follow along for the journey and find the same escapism as I do when writing them. Also, there’s just two chapters out, let the story flourish, god damn. I can usually take criticism just fine, but I feel like this isn’t constructive at all and doesn’t tell me what should improve?
Bot or no, this is a motivation killer. But I’m hanging on to the others that obviously enjoy what I have to offer and wait for that notification, letting them know I’ve updated. 🫠
#twisted wonderland#twisted wonderland fanfiction#fanfiction#fanfiction writer#I’m probably way more upset than I should be#but the last two weeks have been awful and stressful#and writing is my escape and I love to share it
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