#Sebek birthday takeover

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Sebek, Ace: Let's be Honest!

Not me nyooming to write this and Malleus's 4th year anniversary prompt at the same time www

asdhubasyoabfwegua Good on Ace for saying what we were all thinking (that some of these framed illustrations have evil/suspicious as fuck expressions) 💀

WHAT’S WITH THAT CHUUNI FAVE + POSE COMBO IN THE GROOVY 😭 That must be Sebek’s “Kneel before wakasama!!” pose… Slap a duel disk on him and he wouldn’t look too out of place in Yu-Gi-Oh too. It looks extra goofy since Aurora and her forest friends look like they're staring at Sebek www

A Tale as Old as Time.

"Yo, Sebek!" Ace called out to his fellow first year. He thrusted his thumb at a painting. "Check this one out."

"Do not 'yo, Sebek' me," he bellowed angrily. "I do not take kindly to orders from humans, nor being summoned in such a casual manner!!"

"And yet you still stomped on over here when I said your name," Ace teased, pulling an even more intense glare from Sebek. "Anyway, cool your jets and take a look."

Again, he gestured to the platinum frame. It held the image of a maiden with long, golden curls and a wicker basket, leaning wistfully upon a low tree branch. Chin propped up on the back of one hand, she, with various animal companions--a squirrel, an owl, a flock of colorful songbirds--gazed off into the distance, as if caught in a wonderful daydream.

"Kinda reminds ya of a certain sleepyhead, huh?" Ace snickered, his grin turned a shade mocking. "Silver-senpai's totally got the same vibes."

Sebek's nostrils flared. "In what way does this woman resemble Silver?! You will retract that insolent remark at once!!"

"Uh, you don't see it? The checked-out expression, all the forest friends... It's definitely him, man."

"W-While that may be true, I would hardly compare Silver to a layabout like her!!"

"Whoa, that's harsh. What's got you all worked up?"

Sebek crossed his arms, mouth wrenched into a frown. "I have read about this woman in a text. She sleeps for long hours of the day--"

"Reeeeeally not helpin' your case there," Ace interjected.

"--and thinks of nothing but her dreams!! In this painting, she is even speaking to the animals about her most recent ones, where she meets a prince in the woods. He whisks her away upon his noble white steed, and they are happily wed."

"What's wrong with that? Isn't this the kind of stuff girls dream about anyway? True love or whatever."

"The content is not what matters!!" Sebek insisted--he was positively fuming. "What is absolutely infuriating is that she remains idle in her pursuit of that dream!! Rather than chase it or make efforts to make her wish come true, she sits idly by and waits for it to happen to her.

"Silver is, meanwhile, nowhere near that level of indolent! He is a man of action!! We have both diligently trained since childhood to serve as worthy attendants to the young master. To imply that he has not earned his position is tantamount to--"

"Okay, okay! I get it already, you don't have to shout," Ace grumbled, rubbing at his ears. He put on a gruff, loud voice, imitating Sebek. "Sheesh, for all the 'You're BELOW us great and proud fae, human!' talk, you sure are quick to jump to Silver-senpai's defense, huh?"

A smirk.

"Guess that means even hardasses like you have soft spots too."

"Hard work should be properly acknowledged and commended, regardless of who performs it," Sebek replied dismissively, "and there is a high standard set for those who serve the Draconia bloodline. Silver would not be where he is today, were he truly unworthy! Having undergone the same grueling training as he has... I can say with confidence that he has done his utmost to make his 'dream' come true."

This time, it was Sebek's turn to smirk.

"Perhaps the concept is foreign to you, seeing as you're one to skimp on effort. I've heard many a tale of how you cut classes and shirk your responsibilities in Heartslabyul--shameless!"

"Haaah?!" Ace planted his hands on his hips and glared. ""You've got a real talent for pissing people off, you know that?"

"Hmph! If you're going to be mad, then be mad at yourself for a lack of trying. As Lilia-sama says, you must take charge of your own destiny!! Fail to do that, and you've got no hope of attaining your dreams."

"Big talk comin' from someone who barely follows that advice! At least I go and put myself out there."

Sebek drew back, appalled, his expression curdling. "Unlike you, I am extremely punctual and thorough with my tasks, whether academic or professional!!"

"Not THAT, you idiot! I mean that you don't step out of your own comfort zone," Ace retorted. "You wanna be the best knight you can be? Then how's about you quit making excuses for yourself and be honest for once in your damn life?"

"Are you accusing me of dishonesty?! You, who constantly makes trouble for his own dorm members to clean up for him?"

"Look in a mirror, cuz you just described yourself too, buddy! Why don't you clean up your own act before you start pointing and starting shit with me?"

The two boys' voices grew increasingly louder and louder. More and more agitated. Other gallery goers passed looks in their general direction, shuffled away to free themselves of the noisy corner.

"SHHHHH!" a museum curator hissed at the duo from around the corner. "Quiet in the gallery! You're disturbing the other guests."

"I-I sincerely apologize for the disturbance!!" Sebek hurriedly called back, his cheeks warming with embarrassment. He bowed--a perfect 90-degree angle, an attempt to hide his furiously pink face.

Beside him, Ace cracked a smile most wicked. "Heh, there we go. Now that's more like the Sebek I know."

[dollxmania]

ㅤㅤㅤ ❝ 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐒𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐄 𝐈𝐒 𝐒𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐓 ❞

— WRITING LIST.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: nail vibes: snippet undecided.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: .iii summoning reactions: feat. leona, ruggie, jack.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: pucker up!: snippet riddle, leona, azul, kalim, vil, idia, malleus.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: the lost records of the court: oc lore feat. ren

— 3O DAYS OF WONDERLAND.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day three: move night. poly!fic ace, deuce.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day four: dorm takeover. fic ignihyde.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day five: game au. fic leona.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day six: the lead. fic heartslabyul.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day seven: merfolk. fic azul.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day eight: plushies. fic idia.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day nine: rainy day. fic rook.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day ten: soulmates au. fic sebek.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day eleven: massage. fic ruggie.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twelve: father’s day. fic crewel.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day thirteen: telephone game. fic vil.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day fourteen: club. fic silver.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day fifteen: daycare au. fic pomefiore, scarabia.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day sixteen: potion mishap. fic epel.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day seventeen: detention. fic trein.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day eighteen: fright night. fic jade.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day nineteen: fae. fic malleus.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty: mafia au. fic diasomnia.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-one: lost. fic neige.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-two: culinary crucible. fic trey.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-three: sick. fic lilia.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-four: mystery shop. fic sam.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-five: self-aware au. fic riddle.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-six: teacher’s conference. fic crowley,

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-seven: cat’s life. fic grim.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-eight: teacher’s assistant. fic vargas.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day twenty-nine: flying high. fic kalim.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day thirty: freebie. fic cater.

ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ❝ 𝐀𝐒 𝐀 𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄！ ❞

ㅤㅤㅤ ❝ 𝐈’𝐕𝐄 𝐍𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐃 ❞

— WRITTEN WORKS.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ : cr!au series: as the name suggests, contrary roles, the player is the character who takes their place, and the character takes the player’s place. au created by dollxmania / chocodollxren.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: .i summoning reactions: feat. riddle, trey, cater.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: .ii summoning reactions: feat. ace, deuce.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ : misc: works not apart of any specific series, one shots, snippets, headcanons, or others. may range from over a thousand words, to a mere paragraph per character.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: happy birthday, mon cherie / mein liebling: poly!fic vil, rook.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: kiss, please!: snippet trey, ruggie, jade, jamil, rook, lilia.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: happy birthday, your highness: fic leona.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: the delicious taste of you with the sauce☆: fic jamil.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: kabedonning them: snippet riddle, leona, floyd, jamil, vil, idia, sebek.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: merform snippets!: snippet azul, jade, floyd.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: vampire bites!: snippet vil, rook, epel.

— 3O DAYS OF WONDERLAND.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day one: amusement park. fic floyd.

‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ ‎ —: day two: overblot. fic jamil.

ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ㅤ ❝ 𝐒𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐖𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐑！ ❞

do not request.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Sebek, Trey: Sugar Sweet and Bitter Step

Finally 👀 Sebek interacting with the dude that reminds him of his father… This is the juicy content I’ve been waiting for 😌 (It fucking slapped btw, did NOT disappoint 🦷 ✨ I especially loved when Sebek was describing the new candies he has tried and he describes pop rocks as candies that fucking attack you asduqbdoas) ASHDBAIDAIDqwehqbyoe8y IT WAS REALLY CUTE WHEN MALLEUS, LILIA, CATER, AND VIL'S VAS WISHED SEBEK-KUN HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN THE TWST YEAR III ANNI LIVESTREAM...

A Boy in Bloom, and his Flowering Future.

“What do you do on your days off?”

"Hmph, I'm glad you asked, human!" Sebek's laughter was smug and resounding. "I spend days off training!"

"You... train to relax? That sounds like an oxymoron."

The birthday boy scoffed. "As a knight and an attendant, there is no such thing as 'relaxing'! I must remain vigilant so as to best protect and serve the young master!!"

"I get that, but... your muscles would be sore after working out so much, right? You'd need to take some time off to recover, otherwise you'd be pushing your body to the brink and risk injuring yourself," Trey calmly pointed out. "I used to train back when I played soccer. Had to cut that short when I worked myself too hard, so I wouldn't want that to happen to you."

A sound like rumbling thunder collected in Sebek's throat. "O-Of course I know something as basic as that! I know to take breaks!! Don't belittle me, human!!

"When I say 'training', I don't mean it purely in a physical capacity! If I am not able to train my body, then I train my mind! As Lilia-sama says, tactical might has changed the course in many critical battles in the history of--"

"Oooh, I get it. You mean general self-improvement." His interviewer snapped his fingers as the clues all neatly fit together in his head. "So you like to read? What sorts of things do you usually go for?"

"A variety. I frequent the Mystery Shop to browse their selection, but Diasomnia and the school archives also contain a number of older volumes.

"Lilia-sama has advised that I expand my worldview, so I have taken it upon myself to read literature from many genres and eras. 'Even picture books have merit, Sebek! You should open your heart to them!' ... so he said."

"No kidding." Trey raised his brows. It certainly sounds like something Lilia would say... though I'm not sure how serious he was about it. "Hey, I've read some books to my little brother and sister before, so I could recommend a few to you."

"Picture books from the Queendom of Roses... I've yet to read those. I dislike having to make requests of others, but... on Lilia-sama's orders, I have no other option. You will provide a list of acceptable readings to me the day after today, understood?!"

"Sure, leave it to me." Trey offered a patient smile. "I gotta say though, I didn't think you'd be concerned about being so worldly. You seem a little too set in your own ways."

Ace and Deuce described him as hard-headed. Even Riddle said Sebek has a hard time handling horses in Equestrian Club because of his attitude.

Sebek looked as though he'd be struck in the heart. He recoiled, his face crumpling with upset.

"Hnngh!! I-I've heard as much from Lilia-sama that this would be a detriment if I am to serve the young master, who will no doubt face many diplomatic issues with other countries. That is why I'm making efforts to expand my horizons by diversifying my reading materials and experiencing new things."

"Such as...?"

"I have read in some texts that a good way to learn about other cultures is to consume their cuisine. I have taken to snacking on baked goods and sweets from different regions of Twisted Wonderland to this end. Cookies, muffins, and candies that the Mystery Shop stocks.

"There are lollipops in various shapes, candy so sour it makes your mouth bleed and colors it bright blue, and little granular candies that assault the taste buds with explosions when they hit your tongue...! Hard candies flavored with apples from different farms in Harveston, chewy taffies made with salt from the Coral Sea, gummy bugs from the Afterglow Savanna that gets stuck between my teeth, candied flowers from the Queendom of Roses..."

"Has the snacking helped you learn anything new about those places or the people that live there?" Trey asked, cocking his head.

Sebek paused to think. Moments later, he, with his full chest, proudly replied, "An Octavinelle student was monopolizing all the peppermint sticks in the shop, so I saw it fit to liberate them from his grasp!!"

"... In other words, you picked a fight with him." Trey sighed. "It’s… a start. A small one, but still a start if it gets you to interact with those outside of Diasomnia. You'll just have to keep working on that—baby steps now so you can be where you want to be in the future, yeah?"

"Indeed...!!" Sebek slammed the end of his broom into the ground, the motion hard and resolute. "If I wish to stand by Malleus-sama's side, I must do all that I can to be worthy of him. To go wherever the young master is... that is my greatest dream!!"

He grinned with his teeth, displaying prominent canines. poking out from between two rows of pearly whites. It was a smile as radiant as the sun.

"Oh, that reminds me." Trey indicated his own mouth. "I hope you're remembering to properly floss and to brush your teeth well after eating all those candies. It's important to take care of your dental hygiene, especially after eating sugary snacks."

"Grrgh...!! Where do you get off on, giving me orders!?"

"I wouldn't call them orders. They were just suggestions--though I think your teeth would be happier if you followed them," Trey joked, trying to lighten the mood.

Sebek's expression creased all the same.

"That you would see fit to suggest anything of the sort to me is offensive!!" the birthday boy grumbled. "My father makes similar remarks, no matter how often I remind him that I am a grown man!"

"Ahahah... I'm sure that's just his way of showing you that he cares. It's hard for any parent to watch their kid grow up. To them, that kid will always be their baby.

"Hmph! R-Ridiculous," Sebek declared. He haughtily turned away, his cheeks tinged pink. There was hesitation, and then an uncharacteristically quiet voice that slipped out. "You... really are like him in every conceivable way. I cannot fathom humans like you sort."

"Exactly why you're trying so hard now." Trey nodded to the sky above. It was a cornflower blue morning with a healthy sprinkling of clouds. "You've been training hard, so let's see you in action."

"D-Do not presume to understand my skill! I'll show you just how powerful I am!! Faster than light, stronger than lightning... I AM HE WHO HAS SWORN TO PROTECT THE YOUNG MASTER!!"

The vow was made, his ambitions announced.

In response to his decree, the broom fizzled to life. It lifted off the ground in a single strong stroke, Sebek easily swinging on. His robes fanned out behind him, fabric flapping loudly in an errant spring breeze.

Magic crackled in the air around them, hot as sparks, bright as stars. His spells matched his energy: loud and proud.

His grip on the handle was as steady as his resolve.

His fierce gaze, focused on the future.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Ortho, Sebek: The Human Condition

OMG ORTHO COPIES IDIA 😭 dtqtwfh5;#?vekcmsksk These vignettes were super wholesome!! Always love hearing about Ortho’s perspective; he’s quite different from the other NRC students.

I think my favorite part was Sebek being shocked that Idia willingly leaves his room for family outings. Then when Sebek offers to pitch ideas for outdoor family activities, my immediate thought was, “this man is about to suggest doing Lilia-sama’s hellish training as a family friendly activity and Idia is actually going to die” 😂

Just Riddle's birthday left before Jamil begins the cycle anew!

A Boy in Bloom, and his Flowering Future.

“What do you do on your days off?”

How mundane the question was for a pair that was anything but. The birthday boy, a humanoid robot, floating by his feet on gravity-repulsion tech to meet the eyes of his tall interviewer, a young man half fae and half human.

Ortho practically bounced as he produced an eager response. A large grin awaited behind his mouth visor. "I enjoy spending time with the students of Night Raven College! Whether it's streaming movies to watch, working on a play production together, sharing a meal, or just observing them... There's just so much I have yet to learn about the people around me. I'm glad that I'm able to experience these things and make friends while at school. I'll forever treasure these moments!"

Sebek's nose crinkled, his forehead creasing. "I doubt the humans at this school are anything to note of. Night Raven College may boast students worthy of its prestige, but none can compare to the grace and dignity of the young master and Lilia-sama's company!"

"That's not true, Sebek Zigvolt-san." Ortho slowly shook his head. "Life forms differ greatly from one another, but they each have something special to offer. As a technomantic humanoid, I have access to the wealth of knowledge on the internet and in my databases--and still, I do not understand the human condition."

“What could there possible be to 'understand'? Humans are known to be inferior in every capacity. They are born small, helpless, and frail, with only a fraction of them capable of producing a modicum of magic. If one were to compare them to the stars in the night sky, they are but mere specks!"

"But in a way, don't you think that ordinariness is actually what makes them so extraordinary?" Ortho gave an excited twirl.

"I fail to see your point. There is nothing extraordinary about being ordinary!!"

A giggle.

"Humans are capable of the illogical, compelled by profound emotions. An exhilarating happiness which blinds them to their actions, sorrow so immense they're driven to isolation, anger which rages out of control and hurts those around them... And not only that, but backgrounds and values--these all shape the soul and lend perspective in ways I could never imagine for myself."

"You speak of emotions as though they're magic spells." Sebek's gaze was questioning. A knight defending his stance--but lacking his usual sharpness, replaced by quiet conflict. "To be human is not so complicated!!"

“Eeeh?” Ortho tilted his head to one side. “Nii-san can talk for hours about his ‘best girls’ and the intricacies of animaga plotlines though.”

“YOUR BROTHER IS AN EXCEPTION TO THE RULE!!” Sebek boomed as he folded his arms. “His inane rants lie beyond the realm of comprehension! How he happily spends his days locked up in his room being an unproductive lout, I’ll never grasp.”

“Nii-san doesn’t spend all of his days inside! He goes outside too,” Ortho pouted. “We go around town and play this creature-collecting game called Pocket M—”

“WHAT?!” Sebek’s thunderous voice interrupted the child. “You must be deceiving me!! Your brother… WILLINGLY leaves his personal chambers?!”

“Yes…? Is it really that strange?”

“He doesn’t the impression of being an outdoorsman,” Sebek said flatly.

“You’d be surprised. Well, even more than you are right now!”

Ortho’s eyes lidded, his smile turning fond. Memories fizzled up from his memory banks—happy days, spent hand-in-hand. “… Mama and Papa, Nii-san and I, we’d go on outings to lots of places. Parks, rivers, stores, mountains. Maybe they’d have taken us to the ends of Twisted Wonderland if we asked them to. It didn’t matter where we went, as long as we had each other.”

Sebek had gone silent as the birthday boy recalled the past. Hazy thoughts given clarity. Ortho’s tale resonated somewhere buried deeply in Sebek.

Time spent earnestly with family…

His gloved hands clenched into fists, his heart softening. “… Myself as well,” Sebek confessed. “When I was a child, I would have similar outings with my parents and siblings.”

“See?” Ortho beamed proudly. “Something as small and as simple as this can connect us, even though we’re so vastly differently. That’s the magic of it. What makes the ordinary extraordinary.”

There was a break in his voice, and a quick correction before he continued. Sadness had seeped into his words, weighing them down. “Many years ago, we lost something important to us. Nii-san started holing up in his room. The family outings stopped, and everyone drifted apart."

Sebek scoffed. "So he was a coward that ran away at the first major tragedy he encountered. What gall!!"

"That's a natural reaction to trauma. It’s only recently that Nii-san has found the courage again to face the world. He had the strength to face his fears and change the course of his life. That's amazing to me!"

Ortho angled his head upwards. Sunshine spilled onto his face, highlighting the lights in his artificial irises. They were bright as a jolt of lightning in the dark, full of life.

"There are people like Nii-san who can be shy, introverted, or withdrawn. But even they're still human, a social creature. They love, and they want to be loved back by their friends, their families, their special ones. Those bonds connect them to others. It grants them the power to behave in unexpected ways."

Sebek looked startled by the declaration. His pupils were thin slits, mouth wrenched into a confounded "o".

"Love makes humans do crazy things. Nii-san was able to go from zero to hero. Mama and Papa regained what they had lost. I was born from those feelings. And I think... the world itself can be changed with that power. That's what it means to 'live', and to be human. There is no other existence like it."

Doing crazy things…

What it means to be human…

Sebek clamped his jaw shut, a rare instance of inability to conjure a defiant rebuttal. A semblance of a thought attempted to squeeze out, but it quivered as it rose up, still only half formed.

He thought of his mother and grandfather. So gallant, so noble. Then there was his father. Plain, unassuming. So ordinary.

Yet a father that loved him all the same.

An unknown pressure had been building in his chest all this time. He didn’t know what it was, only that it was uncomfortable. A truth creeping up on him, bypassing his shields.

Pat.

Sebek glanced up in shock, finding that Ortho had hovered far above him, planting a pat upon his head. The robotic boy ran his hand through Sebek’s slicked back hair. Back and forth, back and forth, in a reassuring manner.

“You too, Sebek Zigvolt-san! As long as we have people who love and support us, we’ll be just fine.” Ortho’s eyes were electric. Sparking with energy.

“… Heh.” Sebek wiped whatever contemplation had remained on his face away, replacing it with a smirk. “Of course!! I wouldn’t be Malleus-sama’s guard were I to be of poor lineage!”

“That’s the spirit! You gotta shoot for glory among the stars and soar like a comet!”

“Hmph!! I must be slacking off on my training if I’m standing here being lectured to by a child.” Sebek pursed his lips (in what Ortho could only assume interpret as a stiff smile). “… For better or for worse, you are far more human than you realize.”

“Affirmative!” Ortho’s expression turned mischievous. “Shall I register your statement as a compliment?”

“Wh-What NERVE!! I was in NOT WAY complimenting you!! Humans are every bit as flawed as they always were! To call you human-like is not a net positive!!”

Ortho laughed—for this, too, was another precious bond, another thread woven on the spindle called Fate.

Ding!

A sound went off. He shuddered as it came in waves across his metal body. Thumping set into Ortho’s head—a reminder of the time.

“Oh! That must be the alarm I set for the birthday party.”

Eager to change the subject, Sebek loudly cleared his throat. “The time has come, then! Your departure awaits!!”

He presented Ortho with his broom. Like every other birthday boy’s before it, a beautiful bouquet was secures where the bristles would normally be. Blues and whites, like the sky, telling of the truths that he sought.

“Ooh, so pretty!” Ortho cried, accepting the broom by the handle. It was firm against his fingers, the roughness of wood picked up by his tactile sensors. “A special piece of equipment was prepared for me.”

“Will you be able to handle it? You mentioned early in our interview that you typically do not use magic to fly.”

“I can adopt to the situation, just watch! I’ll show you the full extent of my flight capabilities.”

Clink, clonk.

Ortho ungracefully plopped himself down on the broom. The movement was a little difficult—no thanks in part due to all the intricate pieces that made up his “cape” and “robes”. But he was a facsimile of a Night Raven College student all the same.

A birthday boy.

Ortho gripped the broom and leaned forward. The air around him formed a warm bubble, a pleasant hum building in volume. When he counted to 3, all the stored energy was released in a single, powerful burst.

The android took off. His kickback—a ring of shimmering blue light—radiated in his wake and swept across the campus. Heat washed over Sebek and passing students, hugged the trees and shrubs.

It was proof of Ortho’s presence, something warm and kind and full of heart.

His humanity.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Birthday Bash Masterlist

***Please note: there are spoilers for initial artwork and groovy artworks! There may also be spoilers for the related vignettes.***

2020-2021: Birthday Boy Suit interactions

For reference, these are the rules for the interactions here.

The links in this section will take you to the "welcome story" for each boy; to read all of the interactions associated with that character, follow the appropriate tag. For example, Riddle's is #Riddle birthday takeover. Some boys may have as many as 40+ interactions which would take up several masterlists by themselves.

Heartslabyul: Riddle / Trey / Cater / Ace / Deuce

Savanaclaw: Leona / Ruggie / Jack

Octavinelle: Azul / Jade and Floyd

Scarabia: Kalim / Jamil

Pomefiore: Vil / Rook / Epel

Ignihyde: Idia / Ortho

Diasomnia: Malleus / Lilia / Silver / Sebek

Other: Raven / Rollo

2021-2022: Union Birthday Jacket ficlets These pieces focus on the bond between, and the influence of, the birthday boy and his interviewer.

Heartslabyul: Riddle / Trey / Cater / Ace / Deuce

Savanaclaw: Leona / Ruggie / Jack

Octavinelle: Azul / Jade / Floyd

Scarabia: Kalim / Jamil

Pomefiore: Vil / Rook / Epel

Ignihyde: Idia / Ortho

Diasomnia: Malleus / Lilia / Silver / Sebek

Other: Raven

2022-2023: Birthday Broomquet ficlets

These pieces focus on the respective boy's goals for the future.

Heartslabyul: Riddle / Trey / Cater / Ace / Deuce

Savanaclaw: Leona / Ruggie / Jack

Octavinelle: Azul / Jade / Floyd

Scarabia: Kalim / Jamil

Pomefiore: Vil / Rook / Epel

Ignihyde: Idia / Ortho

Diasomnia: Malleus / Lilia / Silver / Sebek

Other: Raven

2023-2024: Platinum Jacket ficlets These pieces focus on the respective boy's thoughts and feelings about the Disney figures they see in their vignettes, and how they relate to those figures.

Heartslabyul: Riddle / Trey / Cater / Ace / Deuce

Savanaclaw: Leona / Ruggie / Jack

Octavinelle: Azul / Jade / Floyd

Scarabia: Kalim / Jamil

Pomefiore: Vil / Rook / Epel

Ignihyde: Idia / Ortho

Diasomnia: Malleus / Lilia / Silver / Sebek

Other: Raven

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Sebek, Jack: The Power of One

Also the name of a Pokémon movie—

Sebek was already my favorite of the first years, but with every dumb or dorky thing he says/does, he keeps rising in the overall ranks 😂

Imagine this...

For a so-called proud warrior and retainer to Briar Valley royalty, Sebek sure resembled a kid in a candy store as he dug through his presents. Each gift looked as though a wild crocodile had torn into them teeth first, leaving wrapping paper and ribbons in shreds.

He was currently tearing open an envelope, grinning from ear to ear as he retrieved the contents. Upon opening his card, Sebek’s face melted into a groan.

“What’s up?” Jack asked.

“It’s a letter from my parents.”

“... Shouldn’t you be happy to hear from them?”

“Tch! You don’t understand. While my mother is a regal and powerful mother, my father... he is the exact opposite! An unremarkable, weak-willed man with barely any backbone!! It’s a wonder why my mother chose him as her spouse. I’m embarrassed to even know I’m related to such a man!!”

“... Didn’t you pick Trey-senpai to join you on a deserted island?”

“Your point being?”

“You said you picked him because he’s like your dad,” Jack pointed out. “Your logic isn’t consistent.”

At this, Sebek’s face flared with annoyance. “REGARDLESS! It is a fact that a junior would feel more comfort in having an older, wiser figure to look up to! There is a difference between my father and an upperclassman!!”

“Uh-huh.” Jack looked extremely doubtful.

“Hmph!” Sebek folded the card shut and replaced it in its envelope. “It is just another reminder than I must continue to train and study hard. Since my weakling of a father cannot possibly defend himself... I will just have to defend him in his place!”

“Thos are good methods of channeling your energy,” Jack agreed with a nod. “You said you want to be a retainer and advisor to Malleus-senpai when you graduate, right?”

“That is correct! There is no greater honor than serving the young master and our great home country, the Briar Valley!” Sebek brought a clenched fist to his chest and puffed up. “My grandfather on my mother’s used to serve in the Royal Guard! I hope to someday match--or even surpass--him!”

“You’re working hard to protect others...” The beastman scratched the back of his head, his eyes falling away. “Not exactly something I get. I’d rather just stick to myself. When others get involved, it gets complicated.”

“Hah! That is a simple-minded way of thinking!” Sebek scoffed. “Does one cultivate strength to use it selfishly? No--such power exists to be used to defend that which you care about the most. The land you hail from, and the people within it... YOU MUST HAVE MORE PRIDE IN THAT!!”

Jack recoiled, his ears flattening in an attempt to adjust to Sebek’s volume. He grimaced, regarding his peer with a wary eye. “You don’t half-ass anything, do you?”

“Of course not! As Lilia-sama has once told me... ‘a single grain of rice can tip the scales’. One person’s contributions can change the course of history. Therefore, I must do my utmost in every task, every goal. Anything less would bring shame and dishonor to the young master, my country... NAY, MY ENTIRE BLOODLINE!!”

This guy... He expresses that he cares about people in a pretty strange way.

Jack sighed. “If you’re going to do everything with all your heart... You know what’s coming next.”

“Oho! The annual birthday pieing!!” Sebek’s face brightened into a smug smile. “Do your worst then! I’ll accept your challenge with APLOMB!!”

“Alright, if you say so. I hope I don’t disappoint.” Jack picked up a projectile and brought his arm back. “The, in honor of your special day... Happy birthday, Sebek!!”

SPLAT!!

The pie flew at the birthday boy like a high speed missile--and, as promised, Sebek gritted his teeth and proudly intercepted it with his body. Whipped cream landed squarely on his chest, sweet fluff painting the front of him and his face.

“Hah! IS THAT ALL YOU CAN MUSTER?!” Sebek bellowed, wicking off a streak of whipped cream with his thumb. “COME AT ME WITH THE FULL FORCE OF YOUR MGHT!!”

War cries flooded the room--and a blood bath of whipped cream broke out.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Welcome, Sebek.

{March 14th to March 17th}

Please read the *Birthday Blog Takeover Submission Rules.*

“3... 2... 1...”

Right on cue, Sebek burst through the door to the attic in all of his birthday regalia, his mouth stretched open in a passionate yell. (Thanks to her ear plugs, his booming voice was somewhat muted. Key word: somewhat.)

They locked eyes, and, with a grin, he barreled toward her. The storyteller flinched as he nearly closed the distance, his sheer volume piercing through her ear plugs.

“BIRD!!” Sebek bellowed, slapping a hand over his heart. “You have my utmost gratitude for hosting me for my birthday festivities!!”

He yielded into a stiff bow before snapping back up, looking quite smug. “BUT!! You should also be thankful, as this dusty, cramped old attic space of yours may very well be graced by the presence of the great Malleus Draconia-sama himself!!”

“... You certainly don’t pull any punches,” she grumbled, casting a glance around the room. It wasn’t really that dusty... was it?

“Both in combat and in life, you must put forth 100% of your efforts, if not 101%!! These are the teachings of Lilia-sama!!”

“You seem to be more excited to shout about your seniors than celebrating your own birthday,” Raven remarked.

Sebek’s smile widened, the severity fading from his face. “It is an absolute honor to have Milord and Lilia-sama recognize the day of my birth! They are both figures that I deeply admire—particularly the young master!!”

“I can see that.” I think all of Night Raven College can hear it, too, she added silently. “I don’t have any qualms about who you choose to invite to the celebration, but may I ask for you to at least speak with an indoor voice?”

“This is my indoor voice. One must always speak with confidence and clarity!” Sebek folded his arms and glared. “How do you expect to get through life with only meek twitters and chirps, BIRD?!”

“I’m not...”

“I CAN’T HEAR YOU!!”

“H-Huh?!” Raven recoiled at his sudden declaration. Her hands flew to her ears—just to make sure that the ear plugs were still there. They were, but his terribly loud voice still wormed its way into her head.

If I don’t do as he says, he might just get even more up-in-arms... I’ve seen how he can whip up angry mobs with a few shouts. Best to humor him for now.

She cleared her throat and tried a second time. “Um... Please use an indoor voice?”

“LOUDER!! ENUNCIATE BETTER! I WANT TO HEAR MORE CONVICTION IN YOUR WORDS!!!”

“PLEASE use your INDOOR voice!”

“AGAIN, WITH MORE FEELING!!”

“PLEASE USE YOUR INDOOR VOICE!”

“ONCE MORE, FOR GOOD MEASURE!!”

“PLEASE USE YOUR INDOOR VOICE!”

“Excellent, excellent! Now you’re getting it!” Sebek’s laughter and pleased clapping resounded throughout the attic. “That kind of liveliness is exactly what I expect of today’s celebration!”

“R-Right...” Raven rasped while gently massaging the base of her sore throat.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

We come to a close.

“Here’s your cake!!” Lilia announced, splaying his arms toward a towering mass of sponge cake and frosting.

A thin layer of dark fondant flecked with violet dust coated each tier, and rings of neon green buttercream were piped all around. Several white candles were stuck into the cake, each bearing an eerie emerald flame. The topmost layer was crowned by a single piece of white chocolate in the shape of a lightning bolt.

“I had it commissioned from the Royal Chef and his kitchen staff.” Malleus nodded with satisfaction at the final design of the cake. “It is befitting a celebration as important as this.”

“Go on, Sebek. Close your eyes, make a wish, and blow our the candles,” Silver coaxed, nudging his friend toward the cake.

“Do not rush me, Silver!! I am thinking!!” Sebek folded his arms and gazed deep into the dancing flames upon his candles. Wax slowly trickled down its sides as he considered his options. “I--”

“You need to keep your wish to yourself, or else it will not come true,” Silver interjected.

“What? That’s silly. Human customs are so strange. Why would you NOT want to make your intentions known to the world??!”

“That is just how it is.”

“HMPH! Very well.” Sebek closed his eyes, inhaled sharply, and--

“No wishing for Malleus’s health and safety again,” Lilia chimed in from his perch on a nearby table. “You already wished for that last year... as well as the year before that, and the year before that...”

“No, I believe Sebek did wish for something slightly different one of those years,” Malleus pointed out. “... He wished to have the power to ensure that I was healthy and safe.”

“My point still stands! You should use your birthday wish for yourself, Sebek,” Lilia advised. “Now, go on! Make your wish~”

“So many conditions! You would think a human custom would not be this difficult to follow...!” Sebek expelled the breath he had been holding and sucked in a new one.

In his mind’s eye, he could picture the flames on his cake gently swaying back and forth, illuminating the faces of his beloved Diasomnia family. Malleus’s regal features, Lilia’s pointed grin, Silver’s gallant gaze. And in that instant, he knew what he desired most.

I wish to make many new friends at Night Raven College, and to improve upon my existing friendships.

Sebek smiled to himself and blew, extinguishing the candles at once.

Lilia erupted into wild applause, accompanied by Malleus’s (comparatively) relaxed clapping.

“Congratulations. You’re one year older.” Silver plucked a candle out from the cake and passed Sebek a glance. “... Did you make a wish you were happy with?”

“I should certainly hope so--but only time will tell!!” Sebek beamed, pointing a finger upward. “But let us not concern ourselves with trivial matters like wants and wishes! A birthday feast awaits us--so let us dine to our heart’s content!!”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

*Gives a bow to Sebek before popping back up again* Happy Birthday, noble Sebek. I hope this day bears well wishes and pleasant celebrations for you. For your gift, this portrait with you and your Young Lord (Styled like the portrait from Mulan with the Emperor and Chi Fu). Additionally, I have purchased a horse to be your noble steed. You will know him by his midnight coat and dyed mint mane. You'll find him already in the stables. I shall leave the granting of his name to your capable hands.

There, upon the canvas he was handed, was an illustration of himself and Malleus, shaking hands. Their faces were turned to face any onlookers—Malleus’s poised and collected, befitting his lofty status as a prince, whereas Sebek wore a wide, excited grin, like that of a child meeting his lifelong idol.

A prince and a child, a master and a servant. Their statuses and positions clearly came through in their careful expressions and poses.

“Such a splendid work of art!!” Sebek boomed, nodding in satisfaction at the portrait. “The young master is every bit as imposing and awe-inspiring upon the canvas as he is in real life!! His grace, his beauty... they are all perfectly portrayed!! And as for myself... As for myself...!!”

He clenched a tight fist to his chest, his face crumpling into a sniffle. “For me to even be depicted in the same painting as the young master... THERE IS NO GREATER ARTISTIC HONOR!!”

Sebek furiously wiped away at his eyes, where small beads of tears had started to form. Straightening again, he offered a sunny smile. “I very much look forward to hanging this in my personal chambers, perhaps beside my preexisting portrait of the young master... Wait.”

He paused, straining his ears. In the distance, there was the distinct sound of thundering hooves fast approaching. “What in Twisted Wonderland is th--GAH!”

Sebek was cut off by the warm, moist sensation of lips pressed to his cheek. He jumped back, instinctively drawing his magical pen from his breast pocket and pointing it at his assailant--

“An... equine?”

Indeed, a steed--one as black as the night itself, his mane bleached and repainted in a mint green--stood alert before him. He regarded Sebek with strong, proud eyes the color of silvery starlight and snorted, as though to say “Well? Praise me.”

Somehow, he had escaped from the stables and bolted its way up into the attic. Eager to please, unwilling to be bound by restraints. More alike Sebek than even you had realized.

“Hmph! You have some nerve, horse!” The birthday boy grumped, holding his ground against the steed. “Breaking out of your stable and racing to greet your new handler... Furthermore, your trot is not discreet whatsoever!! A STORM IS MORE SUBTLE THAN YOU!! Are there no limits to your unruly behavior?!”

In response, the horse let out a gruff huff. “So what if I did? I wanted to see my new master, to determine if he was a coward or not. Only the most gallant of men may have my respect.”

Sebek’s nostrils flared. Though he lacked proficiency in Animal Languages, he could tell from the horse’s aura that he sought a challenge. Sebek and the horse stared each other down--tension thickening, sparks flying, in that cramped space.

You were becoming increasingly worried that Sebek was about to wrestle a horse in the middle of an attic. Just as you were about to intervene, he relaxed his stance and belted out a low laugh.

“I believe we shall get along handsomely then, Stormbringer!” Sebek declared, a hand stroking his new companion’s face. “Of course, you will need to be taught some manners before you are presentable to the young master, but our ideals appear to be quite similar. I shall gladly take you on as my noble steed! Let us work together to preserve the young master’s health and safety!”

“Thought you’d never ask, Wonder Boy.”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Happy Birthday Sebek! Here is a cheese printer for printing whatever picture you like on your cheese so you will have a more delightful meal time. It can print images of any person you like to whatever poem you wrote.

“Hah! Nice try, human, but you cannot deceive this Sebek!!” The birthday boy gave a smug laugh. “There is no such thing as a cheese printer!”

“Hm? You wish to know how I knew of your prank beforehand? It is simple!!”

“Lilia-sama attempted the same prank on the young master last year.” Sebek balled a hand into a trembling fist. “Grgggh! And the poor young master...!! Being as inept as he is with technology, he fully bought Lilia-sama’s story!!”

“The young master called to me and Silver when we returned from our patrol, asking how to operate the so-called cheese printer. He wished to print an image of his beloved Gao-Gao Dragon-kun upon a slice of swiss!!”

Sebek paused, choking back a sob (... Was he really getting emotional over this?). “How crestfallen the young master’s face was when Silver explained the reality of the situation to him!! One day, young master!! ONE DAY, I SHALL PROVIDE YOU WITH A GENUINE CHEESE PRINTER!!”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Happy birthday Sebek!!! I‘ve made you some salmon carpaccio and I got you this, I hand sewed it myself:

Sebek snatched up the Malleus plushie, completely ignoring the platter of salmon carpaccio you held out. His eyes glittered like stars as he cradled the stuffed dorm leader in his palm.

“This handiwork is most impressive, human!! The horns, the ears, the hair--they are all perfectly encapsulated in this miniature young master!!” Sebek gushed, happily clutching the mini-Mal to his heart. “Why, you’ve even captured the little details of the young master’s Diasomnia uniform...!!”

“I am honored to receive such a thoughtful present!! Now, no matter where I go, I shall have the miniature young master watching over me!” He paused, finally taking notice of his other gift. “Oh! And let us not forget your kind offering of food as well! I look forward to partaking in it!”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Happy birthday Sebek!!! This may seem a little bizarre, but I have this big ol' crocodile plushie for you! You remind me of a crocodile in some ways. Mainly because you're green and quite strong, and you probably have a strong jaw given how you speak so loud and with such intensity... but I though it might be nice to give you a little friend to keep you company while reading or sleeping or whatever!

***Mild spoiler for Sebek’s Birthday Suit Up! personal stories!***

“I resemble a crocodile? Hmph!! I can see that you have a good eye, human!!” Sebek grinned, displaying his prominent canines. “I am descended from a tribe known for their superior biting prowess, not unlike that of a crocodile!!”

He swept the large plushie up. It was so large that it almost matched his height—it was more of a body pillow in the shape of a crocodile rather than just a simple stuffed animal.

“This shall make for a fine companion when I am reading or studying late into the night. And when I am not keeping it company, then it can enjoy basking in the presence of the miniature young master and the little Lilia-sama!”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Sebeeeek! Happy Birthday! 🎉🎉 *hands over a bag filled with lollipops & konpeito wrapped with a green ribbon*

***Spoilers for Sebek’s Birthday Suit Up! personal story 1!***

“Thank you for the colorful confections.” Sebek eyed the candies intensely—particularly the konpeito, which came in all colors of the rainbow. “This amount... It should last me for well over a year. I shall save them for treats after particularly strenuous training sessions.”

You raised an eyebrow. The bag you had handed him was rather small. No bigger than his palm, in fact. Sebek caught your inquisitive gaze and, sensing your curiousity, be launched into an explanation.

“I must consume simple sugars in moderation in order to keep in tip-top shape.” He paused before adding, “Furthermore, I suspect that my father will shower me with more sweets when I pay a visit home. I will be up to my neck in sugar stars...”

“That man certainly enjoys doting on his offspring. It is a bit too much, in my opinion. I am no longer a child—I do not wish to be treated like one!”

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Happy Birthday Sebek-san, (presents him a realistic sword in the stone cake), me and Trey-senpai modeled this cake after the legendary sword in the stone. Do hope you enjoy it. Btw, Raven-san, the headmaster has ask both Malleus-senpai and Silver-san to stand guard here as to prevent a certain "someone" from cooking their "food". "Cue Lilia-san trying to sneak in his food but gets caught".

Sebek marveled at the detailing on the dessert.

The base of the cake was a massive mass of sponge and fondant, shaped into a rough, irregular rock, a life-sized edible sword buried into it. Its blade glittered with a metallic sheen from lusterdust, and a collection of candies made up a bejeweled hilt. Every crack and fissure in the rock was rendered in expertly done airbrushing.

He felt as though he could stroll right up and yank the sword out of the stone, like a fabled hero of old.

“I have never witnessed such an intricate cake!!” Sebek boomed, clapping ecstatically at the sight of it. “This truly is the handiwork of Heartslabyul’s vice-dorm leader! Please send him my regards for his contributions to this gift!”

“One day... I hope to be a warrior as great as the man that pulled the sword from the stone. Hahahah!! Maybe eating a piece of the sword will grant me luck toward that dream of mine!”

He continued to laugh and make pleasant conversation with you, completely unaware of the confrontation taking place elsewhere in the attic.

(“Stand down, Silver.”

“Sorry, I can’t do that.”

“Tsk. I thought I taught you better than to speak back to your elders~” Lilia cheekily poked his head around Silver, catching a glimpse of the party beyond the door. “It’s not fair to keep a father away from showering his child with love and affection.”

“Sebek is in the process of receiving his birthday gifts. Malleus-sama will be presenting his gift to Sebek shortly as well,” Silver replied coolly. “I think it would be best if you did not disturb them. And besides... you know Sebek dislikes being treated like a child.”

“I’ll just drop off my dishes, then.”

“There is no space.”

“I will make space.”

“Absolutely not, father.”)

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Malleus approached Sebek with a smile, a rare one to see on the Unseelie’s aloof yet enchanting appearance. Something long and slender was wrapped, tucked beneath the dark fae’s arm, what could this object be? “...Happy birthday, Sebek.” Malleus said warmly, just as he handed the birthday boy his gift. Inside of the paper was an enchanted blade the exact color of fading sunlight. “Use this sword wisely now, and do enjoy your festivities today.”

“Y-Young master...!” Sebek lowered himself into a bow, his voice cracking. “For you to personally bestow such a valuable gift upon a vassal such as I... I-It is an honor!! An absolute privilege!!”

Malleus chuckled, lightly tapping the sheathed sword upon both of Sebek’s shoulders. “Knighting” him.

“Raise your head—and keep it held high, Sebek,” Malleus advised, pressing the gift into the first year’s trembling hands. The softest of smiles graced his lips—highlighted by a trace of moonlight and magic. “Happy birthday, my dear companion.”

“C-C-Companion...?!?!”

“Hm? Oh, yes. I felt that was the appropriate way to casually address you on a holiday. After all, you have been serving me for quite some time now. It is only appropriate that I address you by a title other than knight on this special occasion, correct?”

“I... I see!! I SEE, I SEE!!” Sebek’s laughter was awkward and stilted.

... Tears almost immediately began streaming down his severe face. Wet and warm waterfalls painted his cheeks as his emotions spilled over. Sebek’s shoulders shuddered as a new flood of happiness overtook him.

“Y-Young master...!! YOUNG MASTERRRR!!!” Sebek wailed loudly, hugging his new weapon protectively. “I... I SWEAR UPON MY HONOR AS A KNIGHT TO MAKE GOOD USE OF YOUR GENEROUS GIFT!!! I SHALL NOT HESITATE TO SMITE YOUR FOES AND THOSE THAT DARE THREATEN YOUR SAFETY...!!”

He broke down into another fit of sobs and sniffles. “F-FORGIVE ME FOR SUBJECTING YOU TO WITNESSING THIS SHAMEFUL MOMENT OF WEAKNESS...!!”

“It is quite fine,” Malleus insisted with the wave of his hand. “Today... is yours to seize. Let your tears flow freely, and let your spirit be free to celebrate as it wishes.”

“Y-YOU ARE FAR TOO KIND AND PATIENT WITH ME, YOUNG MASTER...!! I AM LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO SERVE YOUUU!!”

“And I am lucky to have you serving me, Sebek—but please. Just for today, allow me to do the same for you.” Malleus smiled softly and gestured to a towering cake. “Now, then. Would you like for me to bring you a slice?”

“Y-Yes...! Yes, please!! I would love a slice hand carved for me by the young master himself...!!”

Sebek’s eyes stung with tears, but his heart hummed with a great warmth.

[raven-at-the-writing-desk]

Happy birthday Sebek!! You deserve all the love in the world, and I hope that your hard work comes to fruition soon <3 I’m always cheering you on and I hope you know how much I love appreciate you!! Anyway, pls accept this lovingly-made birthday card (〃ω〃) ♡

“A knight’s work is never done. So long as the young master continues to walk upon the earth, I shall follow him... And until my dying breath, I shall continue to work my hardest so as to to not bring dishonor upon his great name. Your support is very much appreciated!”

Sebek bowed his head to you as he accepted his gift.

“Now then! I wonder what kind of birthday wishes you have sent me?” He glanced down, eager to see what you had made for him. “Th-This is...”

... A cucumber.

A cartoonish cucumber with googly eyes, a backwards baseball cap, and massive sunglasses stared back at Sebek. Despite lacking limbs, the vegetable balanced upright on a skateboard. “Hope your birthday is as cool as a cucumber!!” was scrawled out in bright green letters below the illustration.

“What a winsome character you’ve designed!!” Sebek gushed with a large grin. “This cucumber... It is trying its very hardest to stay upon its skateboard while giving a birthday greeting! That is rather commendable of a vegetable!!”