Chapter Text
"Maybe there was some kind of side effect! Should we take him to a sage?" That was Kalim.
"He does seem rather catatonic." Riddle.
"Oh, please, this is Idia were talking about." There was Vil.
He wants to tell them he's fine, but that would be a lie. In fact, he doesn't want to talk to them at all. There's only one person he wants to talk to right now.
But he doesn't even know what he'll say. After all, Azul wasn't expecting Idia to remember anything. Azul was just going to keep his feelings inside to maintain the status quo. On top of that, Azul didn't even remember what happened.
Obviously, Idia remembering would be a big hitch in his plans. Azul might do everything in his power to make sure Idia stays quiet and who knows what that might entail.
The best he can hope for is an NDA, the worst he's expecting is Azul to slip him another memory loss potion.
Idia knows Azul said otherwise, but the thought of him doing everything to make sure they never enter a relationship really pains Idia. It's not fair to him and frankly even he's aware Azul is just hurting himself.
Maybe he could convince Azul to date him if he signed an NDA to not talk about their private moments, but what kind of relationship would that be…
He wants to date a crazy person.
The craziness is sadly one of the things Idia loves about him.
He pulled out of his thoughts when Riddle's face is suddenly right next to his. He tries to move backwards, but he's met with the metal railing behind him.
He looks to the other housewardens for some kind of clue about what was happening. Kalim looks a bit sad and Vil looks annoyed. Meaning Riddle probably ignored both of their arguments and is now just doing what he wanted to do anyways.
"Given the circumstances, I will permit you to respond by nodding you head. Is that clear?"
Idia nods his head.
"Do you remember the events of the past day, involving you leaving a school event, then going to a casino."
Idia nods.
"Was it your choice to leave the event?"
A nod.
"Did Azul come willingly?"
Another nod.
Kalim cuts in, "Is Azul you boyfriend?"
Idia face goes red and he's saved from having to answer by Riddle smacking Kalim's head. He honestly doesn't know the answer to that question right now.
That doesn't mean the interrogation is over, as Riddle asks one more.
"Are you feeling unwell or sick."
Idia shakes his head.
He realizes his mistake a moment too late. He should have said he felt sick, because that was Riddles final question.
"Then it's off with your head!"
At least it happens quickly. But being hit by Riddle's signature spell feels humiliating, it makes him feel like some kind of noob.
Riddle on the other hand is looking very satisfied with himself, like this was all he came here to do.
It might be, actually.
"I'll make sure that the two of them go directly to the headmage when we return to campus."
Idia cringes, not at the threat of punishment, but at the thought of having to spend time with the headmage.
"So then," Vil says, "Care to explain why our resident school shut in, traveled all the way to a casino. We came all the way here, it's the least you could do for us."
It's not like Idia asked them to come! It looks like Vil's about to push the matter but Kalim speaks up first.
"Were you taking Azul on a date?"
"No!"
"Good," Vil says, "This is hardly a suitable location for a date, given Azul's taste. You should really bring him to somewhere higher end if you want to make a better impression. It's not like you can't afford it."
Idia really doesn't know what to say, he wants to correct them, but that would just feel humiliating at this point. Clearly they had been chatting with the very friendly people of this area if they were convinced Idia and Azul were dating. He wonders how much they knew.
He really hopes it's not a lot, for both his and Azul's sakes.
Clearly he's quiet for a bit too long, because Riddle sounds fed up when he speaks.
"This is a waste of time," He turns to Randy, "Give us another cure, so we can discuss this matter with Azul instead."
Randy is clearly scared of Riddle at this point cause he immediately looks horrified.
"That was the only one!"
"Then go get another!"
"No like, he drank the only one I had, they take like a month to make, man!"
Idia stomach drops. He looks to the empty bottle of the cure he had drank, it had fallen it the ground at some point.
This is not happening. Not only is he now carrying the weight of what happened with Azul, but now he's the only one who can recount the events. Meaning everyone is going to ask him.
This cure was a curse.
"If you can't provide another cure, then you've exhausted your use." Riddle sneers at Randy before grabbing him and beginning to drag him off.
"Where are you taking me?" He squeaks.
"To the proper authorities, you can explain to them why you tampered with a medical prescription."
Randy desperately looks to Idia, "Help me out here, man! Tell them this wasn't all my fault, you know my boss was part of this too!"
Idia just gives him a flat look. He didn't have the energy to deal with Randy's stupidity anymore.
Vil speaks up, "Your boss also being guilty, wouldn't absolve you, you fool."
Idia's glad Vil said it.
"But! But! But I…Come on, man!"
"Stop calling me 'man'!" Riddle scolds him as he drags Randy to a police station. At least that's what Idia assumes. He might throw Randy into the lake, he seemed really mad.
Idia wonders if Riddle is mad on his behalf. However, he knows it's more likely that Riddle is mad about having his time wasted.
He hears a throat being cleared as he watches Riddle disappear with Randy. He turns his head to see Kalim and Vil looking at him.
He knows they're waiting for an explanation. He needs to think of how he can sand down what happened.
"Some time today, Idia." Vil says, it sounds like his patience has expired and Idia knows he has to say something soon. Not even Kalim is jumping to his defense anymore.
"Umm, it was to make a trade."
"For what?" Vil sounds annoyed at his short answer.
Idia turns his head and mumbles, "For a… video game…"
"A video game?" Vil's words sound thoroughly unamused.
"Must have been a fun one!" Kalim gives an awkward laugh, trying to lighten he mood from Vil's mounting anger.
"Idia," Vil says flatly, "Explain what happened in clear terms. That way, this exercise in futility will end and we can all move on from this."
Idia doesn't think he'll be able to move on anytime soon, but it would be nice to get this out of the way.
He nods and begins stuttering his way though the events that had happened. He makes a very conscious effort to not mention any of the 'boyfriend' stuff. Only saying Azul had to be in contact with him. It's a sterile explanation of the events, but it saves both his and Azul's dignities.
By the time he finishes, he hears Kalim laugh, "Must be a really good game if you were willing to go through all that trouble for it! Azul is a good boyfriend too, helping you out like that!"
Idia cringes, but Kalim doesn't notice. Despite his omission of the word boyfriend, Kalim now seemed locked into the idea that he was dating Azul. Honestly, right now it kinda hurt to even hear that.
While Kalim may have missed Idia's cringe, Vil did not.
"Kalim, why don't you go check on Riddle."
"Oh? Do you think he needs help." Kalim said tilting his head. They all knew this was something Riddle didn't need help with.
"It's a new environment for him, best to make sure he has someone he knows nearby."
"Yeah! That's thoughtful of you! I'll go find him! Catch up to you guys in a bit!" Kalim says quickly heading in the direction Riddle went.
For a moment Idia wonders if Kalim will be okay, but Kalim wasn't a child, even if he was overly trusting. He could navigate a town. They just can't tell Jamil that they let him run off on his own.
That leaves Idia alone with Vil. Idia knows Vil isn't stupid, he was probably aware that Idia avoided talking about how he was interacting with Azul.
"This will be your only chance." Vil says.
Idia looks to him in confusion, "Chance for what?"
"We have some time, while Riddle deal with your miscreant. If you would like to share what really happened between you and Azul now would be the time."
"Nothing happened!" Idia's face goes red, his hair might go red too.
"Your anxiety has become suffocating after you drank the cure. Clearly, there's something more at play. Despite everything, I'm offering to lend an ear, so I suggest you stop testing my patience."
"You won't tell anyone…" Idia asks, really wanting someone to talk to. Vil has never been someone he considered a friend, but at the same time he did have a maturity to him that Idia trusted.
"Don't flatter yourself. You and Azul aren't that interesting."
Idia nods, "I told Randy that Azul was my boyfriend…"
"Yes, clearly." Vil says flatly.
"With Azul's spell, it was like nothing was getting under my skin, so I just kept telling people he was my boyfriend. And it was great cause they all just believed it. No one thought Azul was out of my league.
But idk, I think something went wrong at some point. Azul said there was a problem on his end that he couldn't fix it with magic cause of the fog, so it started shutting off some of his switches upstairs."
Idia keeps it vague. He remembers what Azul had said about vulnerability the other night. Even if Azul isn't here, he would never tell another soul about his vulnerable moments.
"So I think that was effecting me too," Idia continues," cause I just kept saying he was boyfriend and treating him like my boyfriend, it got to a point where I was just convinced he was."
"It sounds like you finally had the confidence to give yourself what you wanted."
"What do you mean?"
"Based on what you described of this spell, it sounds like all it did was let you push passed your anxieties. When your worries were no longer a problem, you could easily imagine a world where you were with Azul. Further more, when Azul let his guard down, it sounds like he was more than happy to reciprocate."
"Maybe..."
"So what happened after you drank the memory loss potion?"
"Azul said he didn't want me to remember what happened with the spell."
"Your vague wording gives away more than you may realize."
"Uhh…"
"Just tell me." Vil says flatly, no room for debate.
"Azul didn't like what I had seen while I was under the effects of the spell, so he said it would be easiest if I forgot. He was acting… weird…"
Vil shakes his head, "I would have expected that kind of cowardly behavior from you, but Azul denying himself something he wants seems a bit farfetched."
"What do you think he wants?" Idia is sweating a bit, he should have known Vil wold be perceptive. He should have been way more vague.
Vil holds out a hand to silence Idia, "I'm merely stating it's odd that Azul wouldn't pursue something he wants. You in this case."
Idia blushes a bit at Vil's wording.
"Why do you think he would do it then?"
"I have to assume he told you a half truth. After hearing your story, I believe the reality of the situation is you're both cowards. You both clearly like each other, but now the two of you have made it everyone's problem."
"Hey! I never said he liked me!" Azul had said that, but Idia didn't tell Vil.
"You didn't have to," Vil rolls his eyes, "It sounds like Azul willing put himself into a disadvantageous position, with only you to rely on, solely because you wanted a video game. Tell me, do you think Azul would do that for anyone else?"
Idia shakes his head.
"Exactly, I can't say the extent, but clearly he harbors some feelings for you."
Idia can't look at Vil, talking to him was a mistake. He put everything together so easily.
"So here's what you're going to do," Vil continues, "When you see Azul again, you will inform him of what happened. Not the middling explanation you gave me. Then you will ask him out properly. Otherwise, this goose chase you've dragged us all into will have be a complete waste of time. The least you could do for everyone involved is actually date him."
"But you don't understand-"
"No you don't understand, you're in your head about something you could easily have. Azul wants to date you too. Have you ever known him to deny himself something he wants?"
Idia almost says 'food' but stops himself, that's not something Vil needs to know.
"So Azul has put up a wall, just break through it and he'll do the rest of the work."
Idia wants to believe Vil. He really does. But what would he even say to Azul when Azul doesn't even remember what would be an important part of the conversation.
"Oh and by the way," Vil speaks up and Idia looks to him once more, "Be sure to establish clear boundaries. If someone I was dating gave me a memory loss potion, they would wake up in wake up abandoned at sea. Know your worth, squash that behavior immediately."
It's weird talking about this with Vil, he had maintained the same neutral expression this whole time.
It kind of reminds Idia of when you show someone a movie you love and watch for their reaction, only for them to not even care. Except in this case, Idia feels like he just bared his whole soul to Vil and Vil is looking at him like he's a child.
But in a strange way, Idia does feel a bit better. Vil was right. He and Azul both wanted this. He just needed to show Azul he could trust Idia in a relationship.
"Thanks." Idia says, genuinely.
"I do expect to hear back with positive news, for my efforts, by the way."
"I though Azul and I weren't interesting enough for you." Idia grins.
Vil gives him a smug smile, "Perhaps just this once, you two have piqued my interest."
Idia can't say if he finds Vil's words comforting. However, he realizes it's probably the only advice he's going to get in this moment.
Maybe it because this conversation with Vil has relaxed him a bit, he feels brave enough to ask Vil a question that's been lingering in the back of his mind.
"Would you be able to make a cure for Azul's memory loss in under a month?"
"Don't insult me by dragging me down to that grease stain's level, it would take half a day."
"That's…fast."
"Unless," Vil raises an eyebrow, "You don't want me to?"
"Don't make me make choose!"
"Well, in that case, I see no reason not to make it right away. After all, it's always entertaining to watch how Azul scrambles to avoid being in the debt of another."
Vil's expression has shifted slightly. It's almost expectant, like he's waiting for Idia's response.
Idia knows what Vil is hinting at too.
"Just give me a chance talk to him first?"
"You have 20 hours."
The really was no such thing as gentle love with Vil was there?
Idia nods his head, knowing it's the best he's going to get. By Vil's standards, he was being given a lot of mercy. He wonders if Vil is doing this because he considers them friends on some level. He's quick to squash that thought. He could never be friends with someone like Vil.
Idia wants to ask Vil for more advice. Most of the people in his life were either shut ins or family, he really couldn't talk to them about romantic troubles.
However, the return of Riddle and Kamil brings an end to their discussion. Vil turns to face them like he hadn't just been listen to Idia stress over his love life. Completely casual.
Riddle speaks up first, "Randy Frigh has been handed over to the proper authorities. However, the officers at the station didn't have a substantial reaction after learning he had replaced a prescribed transformation potion. Therefore, I will be escalating this matter to the proper authorities. "
"Ugh, good," Idia says absentmindedly, "Tell them to investigate that casino too, Azul said, they were doing illegal things in there."
"What kind of illegal activities?" Riddle's raised voice causes Idia to focus again.
He shutters, not happy that everyone is looking at him again.
"You'd have to ask Azul."
Riddle looks at him like he's not being helpful. He's not, but there's nothing he could do about it. They really would need to ask Azul.
"It won't be a problem," Vil speaks up, "I can have Azul's memory restored within 24 hours."
That seems to satisfy Riddle who appears to relax slightly. But not by much.
"So are we heading home now?" Kalim asks. Although it sounds like he wants to keep exploring the town.
"Ideally, I would like to head home as soon as possible. There is just one concern." Riddle says, sounding annoyed.
"What?" Kalim tilts his head.
"What to do about the octopus in the lake." Vil says.
"Oh, right! It'll be hard for him to go anywhere until that potion is fixed, huh?"
"Well, I have no intention of spending the night here. Idia can inform Azul that he'll be spending the night here alone, we'll depart to a location where the we can teleport back to the school. It should be easy to get another one of Azul's prescriptions once were back at the school."
"Should we really just leave him here alone?"
"I'll stay with him." Idia says without thinking.
"Oh, please, as if we'd leave you and Azul alone again after all you've put us through."
"On the contrary, I find it to be an agreeable idea. Obviously we can't leave a classmate alone in a strange town, so one of us would need to stay. I have no desire for it to be me and I highly doubt you want to take the role either. If anyone should be stuck in this town, it should be Idia." Vil says dismissively.
Idia is a bit shocked. He wonders if Vil has some kind of alterative motive here or if he really did just want to give Idia a chance to talk to Azul in private.
"I don't mind staying either!" Kalim speaks up.
"Will Jamil mind?" Vil give Kalim a flat look.
"Actually maybe I should go, hehe." Kalim looks to the side sheepishly.
If this works out, Idia might never be able to repay Vil.
Riddle looks like he's about to argue more, but at the same time, he looks incredibly tired.
"I will return to collect you first thing in the morning."
Idia nods.
"Er.. since we'll be here all alone, could you remove the?" Idia points to the collar around his neck.
Riddle fixes him with an angry look, "If you have an emergency, you may contact the proper authorities."
It's his fault for trying, really. Never again.
"Well then let's go say good bye to Azul!" Kalim chimes up before taking off.
Riddle looks to Vil, "I've informed the officers of the crowd you may draw and they've cleared the general area for us, until we can depart."
Vil gives him a smile, "My, how kind of you."
Vil takes off after that, not even giving Idia a chance to thank him. Then it's just Idia and Riddle.
Idia is really hoping Riddle will just leave without reprimanding him again. In his opinion, the collar is bad enough. Plus he doesn't even know how he's going to be punished by the school.
But Riddle doesn't leave right away, instead he just gives Idia an analytical look. Idia braces himself for a scolding.
"It was Azul who sent us into that casino, after realizing we had your backpack…" Riddle says, "What I mean to say is I'm glad you have someone who cares about you. While it doesn't excuse your actions from today, I do hope the two of you are happy together. I trust you remember where you deposited him into the lake."
Idia nods.
"Good."
Once Riddle gets his thoughts out, he quickly leaves. Idia is a bit stunned. It feels weird to get a blessing from Riddle Rosehearts on a fake relationship.
Idia sits there for a moment. There's only one thing for him to do now.
He feels like a mess to be honest. There's one part of him that's excited, but there's a stronger part of him that's worried.
It felt wrong to have hope when earlier Azul was ready to treat this like it never happened. It felt wrong because there was a part of him that really was ready to spend his who life alone. Maybe it stemmed from him being a shut in who was told he would spend the rest of his life on the Island of Woe.
But this feels like something worth trying. He really does want to take a chance.
And if this doesn't work out, at the very least he knows Azul will never speak of it.
He wills himself to start moving. He finally reclaims his backpack and gets up. Leaving the safety of the spot behind the building. Riddle was true to his word, the plaza appears to be empty which is a huge relief.
Idia knows he can take his time. After all, he has all night.
With knowledge in mind, he finds himself moving faster than expected. Like he needs to see Azul as soon as possible.
He remembers where he had rather unceremoniously thrown Azul into the lake earlier. He had tried to be gentle, but he had probably looked very stressed trying to get Azul into the water before he transformed.
Azul had been annoyed in moment and Idia could only offer a weak apology before dragging his feet to the casino.
He hopes Azul has calmed down since then. Based on what Riddle had said, Azul was more worried about Idia. He just had to hang onto that thought.
When he reached the railing next to the lake, he wasn’t quite sure what to do. This lake was rather large. Maybe he should just throw rocks in to let Azul know he’s back, they didn’t exactly discuss how Idia would contact him.
Maybe he should have asked Riddle how they got Azul’s attention.
Idia ends up not throwing rocks into the lake, as Azul’s head suddenly breaches the water, as if he had been waiting.
“Hey.” Idia says a bit breathless.
“I take it you met with Riddle and the other?” Azul smirks, looking at the collar around Idia’s neck.
It’s not fair, the water is murky and Azul is barely letting his head above the surface.
“Would you mind floating just a bit higher?”
“I’m quite alright.”
“Why embarrassed about something I can’t see under the water?”
Judging by the look that crosses Azul face, that was the wrong dialog option. Idia cringes at his choice of wording. Azul had never outright said it, but Idia knew he would always become cagey when someone started asking about his merform.
“The collar, I mean.” Idia clarifies.
“Obviously, what else would you be talking about?” Azul says, not making eye contact.
“So it’s just us in the city again.”
“What? They left already?”
“Yeah, I mean it’s late, they wanted to pass out in their actual beds.” Idia says as he sits down by the railing.
“You’re staying?”
“Didn’t want to leave you. Did Kalim not say bye?”
“I did heard him causing a fuss above the surface, but before I could check, he was cut off. I have to assume by either Riddle or Vil.”
“Makes sense.”
“How kind of them to trust us not to run off.” Azul says swimming next the the railing.
“To be fair, where are you gonna go?” Idia smirks, “Besides, they knew I wouldn’t leave you.”
“Right,” Azul rolls his eyes, “It seems like they met with some far too chatty towns people. I assume Randy has been dealt with as well then?”
“Yup, he was terrified of Riddle.” Idia giggles at the memory.
“Hmm, they could have checked if Randy had a cure for the memory loss potion.” Azul shakes his head.
“Err, actually, he did have one…” Idia’s smile fades and Azul catches it.
“What happened to it.” Azul asks with a flat tone.
“I might have drank it all…hehe…” Idia looks to the side.
“Well then,” Azul says in a clipped tone, “Are you at least going to inform me of what happened?”
Idia recognizes Azul’s expression, it’s the same one he makes in club when he feels like he’s on the back foot. He can only imagine Azul is worried about Idia taking advantage of their positions.
Idia remembers what Azul said about vulnerability. Idia doesn't know the details, but clearly Azul had been burned by others at some point.
Right now he holds all the cards. The cards Azul thought he would blackmail him with someday. It may be stupid, but he's going to show Azul that Idia seeing that part of him wasn't a bad thing, because Idia would never hold that over him. He's going to tell Azul everything, he won't hide it.
That's the biggest move he could make. He can only hope it would be enough to break down whatever wall Azul put up. After that, it will be up to Azul to decide what he wants to do with that information.
Idia's not normally bold, but after his talk with Vil, he's willing to try. At least once, that is.
Maybe if Azul rejects him, Vil will come after Azul for wasting his time. It probably won't happen, but it's a funny thought.
Idia does he best to give Azul a clear recap of of the events leading up to the night they spent in the hotel room.
Obviously, Azul wasn’t blindsided by most of the story, they had been hearing vague parts of it all day after all.
However, there are moments where Idia can see Azul’s cheeks darken. Hearing about the kiss in the general store also gets a bigger reaction out of Azul, as he sinks a bit deeper to try and hide his face.
Idia also gets to have the fun of recounting a plan Azul came up with to him and even showing him the inside the fuzzball, which has the key to the locker. Azul does look a bit pained realizing that everything had been so close this whole time.
“So pray tell, how exactly did I end up with missing memories if I had accounted for their plan?” Azul asks.
“Well, that’s the funny thing,” Idia grins, “You did drink your transformation potion last night or at least, you thought you did.”
Idia smiles a bit, watching as the realization crosses his face in the forms or anger and embarrassment.
“Who would be brainless enough to replace a magical medical prescription. The repercussions of that are far worse than simply stealing a video game!”
“Hey, it’s a really rare game.”
“Still!” Azul seems baffled.
“Someone’s mad he was outmatched by a moron.”
“I was not outmatched! We still won in the end, didn’t we?”
Idia’s not sure, he doesn’t have what he wants most yet.
“Actually, there’s a bit more that happened after.”
“Go on.” Azul raises an eyebrow.
“You assumed only you would remember, so you started telling me things.”
“Be specific.” Azul says, he looks far too serious, it almost makes Idia nervous. But he presses on regardless.
“You told me you loved me.”
Suddenly, it feels like all the air has been sucked out of the space around them. Idia doesn’t know if he’s breathing as he waits for Azul’s response and Azul is taking his sweet time to respond.
“And what do you plan on doing with that information.” Azul says humorlessly.
“Ask you out, ig.”
“You’re not funny.” Azul says with a raw anger Idia has never heard from him before.
“It’s not a joke!” Idia puts his hands up, “Do you know why you said it to me?”
Azul doesn’t respond, merely looking at Idia with a calculating glance.
“It was because I told you I loved you. You agreed to date me until I forgot.”
“So unless I got out with you, you’ll go around telling everyone what I acted like yesterday?”
“No!”
Azul could be so impossible sometimes, this was like when a boss is on low health and they start making aggravated attacks.
“Then why would you tell me this, what advantage does it give you?”
“Because I wanted you to know I would never hold it over your head. I loved the time we spend together, the last thing I would do is use it as blackmail.”
“You’re lying!”
Vil had been right, Idia can see it now. Azul is afraid to let anyone close. But Idia knows that feeling, he had felt it for years.
At the same time this sucks, having Azul rebuff his every point out of sheer stubbornness. It just makes Idia feel like he’s getting rejected and he hates that thought.
“What are you going to do then?” Idia asks, starting to feel a bit tired.
“It’s quiet bold of you to assume I don’t know methods to make sure you don’t remember the events of today.”
“Can you just hear me out, please.”
Azul doesn’t respond. The atmosphere feels cold.
“All you’re doing is making it sound like you hate me. Like the idea of me wanting to date you is repulsive.”
“That’s not what I said!” Azul demeanor shifts slightly, to shock.
“You didn’t say it, but your would rather jump through all these hoops to erase our time together, instead of just giving me a chance. It feels like a slap in the face tbh.”
“…It wasn’t my intention to insult your self worth.”
“Well congrats, you did.”
“I can make it up to you.”
“Just tell me, is the idea of being with me really that embarrassing?”
“No!”
“Then..please… I just want one chance.” Idia asks, started to sound a bit dejected.
Azul is quiet again. This silence hurts, suddenly Idia feels like he’s about to get rejected. Maybe everything everyone had told him was wrong and there was no chance here.
Azul won't look at him, suddenly Idia hears him say, "Please excuse me for a moment."
That’s the only warning Idia gets before Azul submerges below the surface again.
Then, he’s alone once more.
Normally he loves being alone, but this time, it really sucks.
He waits for a moment, but when it becomes apparent Azul won’t reappear anytime soon, he slumps his shoulders.
So that was it then. He had just gotten a rejection. And a cowardly one at that. Honestly, he would have never expected that from Azul.
Maybe at this point it would be better if Azul makes good on his threat and wipes this all from Idia's mind, because this feeling is awful. He feels like he just had a part of himself ripped off.
He drags himself up, deciding to go the locker and get their stuff. At least that’s better than sticking around where he just got got his heart broken.
He takes his sweet time too, it’s not like he has anything to come back to. He realizes when he gets to the locker that Azul’s spell is still on it and groans.
Great.
He was going to have to ask Azul to remove it.
So he drags his way back to the lake and looks around with a huff. His phone is still dead, maybe he should just go find somewhere to charge it instead of sitting next to late where he would mentally replay the rejection on loop. Preferably he’s like to go somewhere hidden so he can maybe cry a bit.
But as he’s walking away he hears Azul’s voice call out to him.
“Idia, wait!”
Honestly, he want to roll his eyes, but nevertheless he still cares for Azul despite everything, so he turns around.
When he looks to Azul he immediately registers that the octopus looked like he was in rough shape, it almost looked like he had been crying.
Almost on automatic movement, Idia moves back to the railing. For a moment it was like their conversation never happened, he’s just focused on figuring out what’s wrong with Azul.
He remembered everything from yesterday. He agreed that Azul had been acting vulnerable because of the spell, but at the end of the day that wasn’t really him.
However, this was Azul, not under the effects of any spell. Looking extremely vulnerable.
For a moment the two of them just stare at each other, there’s an uncomfortable tension in the air. But Idia isn’t going to be the one to pull all the weight this time. If Azul wants something, then he can ask for it.
“Thank you for staying with me tonight.” Azul says, trying to keep his voice steady.
Not what Idia was expecting, so he nods, “Be crappy to ditch you, after I was the one who brought you here…”
“Right. Regardless I appreciate it.”
Idia had been upset, so almost misses that what Azul had said sounded very genuine. But he does catch it.
“Yeah, np.”
“What if drinking that memory loss potion had an adverse effect on my system and I’ll never be a human again? Would you have stayed then?” Azul says suddenly.
Idia’s guard immediately raises. Why would Azul ask that if he didn’t think it was happening.
“Should I call the school?” Idia says grabbing his phone, only to remember it was dead.
“It’s just a hypothetical, Idia.”
He feels his shoulders slump, “Start with that next time.”
“Just answer the question.”
“Why? It’s not happening anyways.”
“I just need to know.”
Idia looks at him for a moment. Idia is no stranger to insecurities. He knows why Azul is asking this.
Azul wants to know if Idia would still want him even he was always an octopus.
“Stupid question, obviously.”
Azul looked at Idia like he didn’t believe him, so Idia sighs and sits by the edge. Sticking his legs between the bars.
“Legs or no legs, you’re still my favorite smuglord.”
That gets a smile out of Azul, before it morphs into something a bit sadder.
“Have you been crying?” Azul asks, getting close to the edge.
“No…” It’s true, he hadn’t cried. But it probably looked like he was going to.
“Why are you upset?”
“Cause, you just rejected me, obvs.” Idia says looking away.
“I did no such thing!”
“Uhh, yeah you did? When you dove back under the water.”
“I just needed to think for a moment, Idia, I wasn’t rejecting you.”
Idia’s heart slows, all the ambient noise around them feels like it fades, Idia’s voice is quiet, “Then does that mean…?”
Azul averts his gaze, before focusing on Idia once more with a new determination.
Azul firmly nods his head, “If you’ll accept that sometimes I’m like this.”
“Just never let me drink a memory loss potion again.”
Azul, smiles and swims close to the edge, “I promise.”
"Give it to me in writing."
"How shrewd of you."
The two of them simply stare at each other for a moment. As if each one is processing the new change in their reality.
They were dating now right? That’s what this meant?
His eyes lock onto Azul’s and the two of them begin to gravitate towards each other. Both of them seem a bit hesitant, like they don’t want to be the one to mess this up.
But before Idia can even get close enough to close his eyes, he hears a loud CLINK sound and metal is being jammed into his throat.
Riddle’s collars were preventing them from even getting close to each other through the metal bars.
Normally, this is where Idia would start complaining. Riddle ruined the first real kiss he would have with Azul.
But instead, he finds himself laughing. It reminded him of something out of one of his animes. It’s so comical, it’s absurd.
At first Azul is caught of guard by Idia’s laughter, clearly he had been embarrassed by what just happened. However, Idia’s laughter seems to disarm him and he softly chuckles along.
After a bit Idia’s chuckles die down and he realizes something is holding his hand. He looks down to see a tentacle tentatively wrapped around it.
“Sorry.” Azul mumbles, before the tentacle begin to retract.
“Nah, don’t be sorry.” Idia grips it gently, bringing it up to kiss it.
That gets a good reaction out of Azul, whose face immediately darkens. Idia smiles again. Was this really all it took to fluster Azul? He’ll have to file that away for later. It felt wild that Idia was being the smooth one right now. Maybe he had learned something after regaining his memories.
He wasn’t going to go and talk to people, but he did know how to treat Azul right.
“Did you have the chance to check your phone?” Azul asks, trying to regain his dignity.
“No, still dead.” Idia suddenly remembers that he left Ortho hanging.
“You should go charge your phone, there are some things I want to check on as well.”
“Are you sure?” Idia gets up, he feels a bit bad leaving Azul. However the other housewarden is giving him an encouraging look.
“Yes, I think it would be stupid to be stuck with no communication.”
“KK, Brb.” Idia decided he’ll be fast.
He has an idea of why Azul told him to do this. It was less to check the internet and more so he could regain his composure after he had been so flustered.
He runs to the convenience store in record time, for him at least. He quickly plugs his phone into the wall and begins an agonizing wait.
He uses a special charger he designed himself, so it charges much faster than anything in stores. But even then it’s tell him it will take 30 minutes.
Under this circumstance it’s way too long.
The silver lining is his phone comes back to life after being on the charger for a minute.
When the screen turns on, he cringes. Not from the brightness, but from the sheer number of texts he has from Ortho. He wonders if he should just swipe away the notification and deal with it later.
Idia scratches that idea quickly. Ortho has probably worried for long enough at this point. He hated the Idia of Ortho being upset.
Ortho: Please accept my face time request!
Ortho: I need to confirm you’re not experience a mental breakdown of some kind.
Ortho: Are you embarrassed?
Ortho: Did you set yourself to off line again?
Ortho: Please contact me again when you are back.
Ortho: I’m messaging you again because the school says that you didn’t return from the competition.
Ortho: Please contact me as soon as you see this.
Ortho: I really hope you’re okay.
Idia: m fine sorry 3 worry u, phone died
Idia isn’t expecting a response right away, it is late after. Never the less Ortho’s response is almost instant.
Ortho: I’m happy to hear you’re safe!
Idia: Ye will be back 2morrow
Ortho: Wonderful!
Ortho: Are you really dating Azul Ashengrotto?
Idia smiles.
Idia: Ye, ur big bro has got crazy game
Ortho:!!!!!
Ortho: We should celebrate!
Ortho: I’ll let mom and dad know!
Ortho: Please inform me of the details!
Idia’s smile drops.
Idia: No need, I’m helping Azul out 2night, so I won’t be able 2 talk 2 them anyways
No response…
That means Ortho is calling them or leaving a video message for them. He rubs his face, maybe he should shut off his phone again.
Idia: Gonna hop offline again, ttyl
Idia really hopes that prevents anyone from his family from calling right now. He would be humiliate if any of them called him while he was with Azul.
He closes the chat and sees his home screen. It was the picture of Azul he had taken earlier.
…They were dating now so it's fine if he kept this right? He just won't show anyone to be safe.
Waiting here in silence is far better than having his parents interrogate him about his brand new relationship.
That being said, waiting here was pretty abyssal. He had just entered the first real relationship of his entire life, he didn’t want to be sitting here, he wanted to be talking to his new boyfriend.
Nevertheless, he was going to start this relationship by being a good partner. Azul had very clearly needed space for a bit and Idia wasn’t going to push that. They had all night after all.
He tries to play his games for a bit but finds he can’t fully focus on them. The same goes for his anime. His mind keeps telling him he should show Azul, that he should wait until they’re together again.
He doesn’t end up letting his phone charge all the way. Instead letting it reach 84%.
If it causes problems with the battery, he can just replace it later.
He rushes back to the lakeside, eager to just be around his boyfriend.
Seven, what a thought. He actually has a boyfriend. One that he chose too!
When he arrives at the lake, he doesn't see Azul right away. That's not surprising, he doubts Azul would just want to hang out here with no one else around.
He makes himself comfortable at the railing again. He kicks off his shoes and rolls up his pants, before sitting down and sticking his feet through the railing again.
…Those weren't his shoes.
Idia looks at the boots he had received from the restaurant owner. His memory had been restored, but he has zero clue where his actual shoes are. Great, it figures Randy would have crafted an imperfect potion.
Before he can start to analyze that, Azul pokes his head out of the water again.
His appearance is a far cry from the last time Idia saw him. He looks extremely composed, as if he hadn't looked like a wreck earlier.
He sure bounced back fast.
He quickly swims up to the edge, placing one elbow on the side of Idia's leg and then resting his head in his hand.
Idia tries not to blush, but he can't help it. Azul is really close.
"Is your phone charged?"
"Hehe, yeep." Idia says trying to sound casual.
Judging by the amused look on Azul's face, he failed.
"Any news?"
"Just my brother freaking out."
"I can imagine, we were missing for a day after all."
"Do you think the twins were trying to check up on you?"
"Oh please, if anything I need to worry about checking on them. Who knows what they could have gotten up to in my absence." Azul shakes his head.
"Maybe they tore apart the lounge."
"Don't even joke, there's a non-zero chance that's true."
There's a small pause in their conversation.
"So when we get back to school-"
"When we return to campus, we'll be punished for our actions, Idia."
"Okay, but like that won't last forever, so what do you want to do after."
Azul smiles at him and leans in a bit closer, "I want to ruin Randy Frigh's life and the lives of anyone else working at their joke of a casino."
"You took that words right out of my mouth, hehe hehe!"
Idia was so glad the two of them were on the same page.
"Anything special you have in mind?"
"Randy kept complaining about not getting any dates, we should make a dating profile for him!"
"Is there any chance you would be able to get access to his mug shot?"
"Oh, EZ."
"Then in that case, we must make sure as many people as possible see it."
"What interests should we put on his profile?"
"We should let everyone know how much he loves hair grease."
"Oh yeah, duh, that was like half that dudes personality."
The two of them spend the rest of the night planning what they would do when they had time to enact a proper revenge. This wasn't something they wanted to rush after all, it was important.
They talk until they can barely keep their eyes open. They end up passed out with Idia leaning against the railing and Azul's head resting on one of his legs.
…
That's how Riddle finds them when he arrives early in the morning.
Idia hears a throat being loudly cleared, before he slowly opens his eyes to see an unimpressed Riddle.
"Next time, please respond to my messages promptly," He hands Idia the transformation potion and some loose clothes since he's closer, "The two of you have caused enough trouble."
Instead of responding, Idia just checks his phone again. Annoyed about being woken up.
Riddle Rosehearts: I will return at 6:30 to deliver a prescribed potion. Please be at the train station by this time.
Idia looks at the time. 7:13.
Riddle certainly doesn't look happy about this when Idia spares him a glance.
"Yes, we ought to be more careful, Idia," Azul says, "being in a public place and all."
He feels Azul lift his head as he speaks, he morns the loss of the feeling, be he knows it's not gone forever.
"Right, he might take our heads." Idia smirks to Azul, almost forgetting Riddle was there.
That gets a reaction out of Azul, who lets out a small laugh that he tries to hide.
"Both of you seem to have forgotten the weight of your current situation." Comes Riddle's angry voice.
Idia did understand the weight of the situation, he knew they were going to be in trouble. At the same time he felt happy, it was strange. Maybe he would stress more about it later, he would stress more about it later, but for now everything seemed okay.
"I assure you, Riddle, both of us are treating this matter with the upmost sincerity." Azul gives Riddle a fake smile.
"Just return to your human form, so I can bring you both back to campus, where proper punishment shall be handled." Riddle says before quickly turning away to give Azul privacy.
Idia is about to say he'll give Azul space too, but before he can Azul simply takes the potion from his hand. He gives it a quick examination, looking at the liquid and smelling it, before deciding it was safe.
He downs it quickly and Idia watches as his merform fades and he looks like a human once more. Idia couldn't see what was happening below the surface, but Azul suddenly appears to be more comfortable.
"Shall we?" Azul asks.
"Let's hit it." Idia says standing up.
He realizes his mistake when he feels the pain of falling asleep in that position. He closes his eyes to try and tries to massage the areas that hurt.
He so focused on that, he doesn't feel Azul grab the loose clothes from his hands, nor does he hear the sound of clothes rustling.
He realizes Azul is out of the water and clothed when he feels the other housewarden rubbing his back.
He looks to Azul in surprise.
"Can't believe you didn't want to go somewhere private."
"I thought it might be more prudent to confirm you were alright."
"Yeah, m' good, it's not the first time I've slept in a bad position."
"Regardless, you should try to avoid it in the future," Azul says taking his hand like it's nothing, "Well, let's go retrieve out items and meet Riddle, it's better not to keep him waiting. I'd rather not be stuck in this collar for long."
"Yeah! Sounds good, let's do that." Idia nods quickly, trying to adjust to the feeling of Azul holding his hand.
He's happy to let Azul lead the way after that. He throws the shoes back on and collects the fuzzball, before letting Azul drag him in the right direction. He feels bad Azul doesn't have shoes, but it won't last long.
They go to the lockers where Azul finally removes the magic seal. He quickly puts everything into Idia's backpack except the game. He hands that directly to Idia, as if he knew Idia would want to hold it. He right, Idia did want to hold it.
It's an amazing feeling, rare game in one hand, Azul's hand in the other.
Riddle greets them with a glare. Clearly still annoyed to be involved in this. Regardless, he sees it through and stays with Azul and Idia until they're all back on campus.
When they enter the hall of mirrors, they're immediately met with Crowley and Crewel. Both who seem irritated with Azul and Idia's action.
They also seem annoyed about the time, it seems Riddle picked this hour. However, since Riddle can see that the two of the them are about to be properly reprimanded, he finally removes the collars.
Idia had gotten a bit used to it by that point, so having it off feels incredible. He can tell Azul feels the same way.
What doesn't feel incredible, is Crewel reprimanding them for every rule they broke while the headmage nods along in the background. Idia couldn't get a word in if he tried, not that he would try with Crewel this mad.
That only thing the prevents the experience from sending him into a spiral is Azul rubbing Idia's hand with his thumb.
After being called bad boys for the fiftieth time, Crewel finally stops, it seems he had gotten everything he wanted to say off his chest.
"Well, I'll leave the naughty pup's punishment to the headmage." Crewel says, sounding a bit winded after talking for so long. If Idia had to guess, he probably needs a break before class starts and that's why he's leaving this to Crowley.
"I have to say, I'm most disappointed, I expected more from our housewardens at this school." Crowley says as Crewel makes his exit.
"You have our deepest apologies, headmage," Azul says, finally having the chance to speak up, "Please know we never intended to cause any problem for the students or staff at the school."
"Yet you still caused problems for both!"
"Yes and obviously we will be happy to make amends for our actions."
"Hmm, in this case, I don't think detention would be enough."
"I have a proposal," Azul smiles, "Since our actions may have damaged the reputation of the school after leaving a public event, I think it's only makes sense that we should restore it."
"Yes, I would agree, perhaps community service-"
"Headmage, I know how to create a large amount of positive talk around the school."
That seems to capture Crowley's attention, who suddenly seems less interested in a punishment and more interested in good PR.
"By all means, go on!"
"I have it on good authority that a large number of people have been coerced into debasing work in a town called Brittlesmill . Idia and I would be more than happy to help those in need, then provide the credit to the school. Can you imagine the PR if Night Raven College were to help a small town of people who would be stuck suffering without our intervention?"
Crowley's face lights up, easily swayed by Azul's words. From there it's a just a matter of working out how they will credit the school for helping those people.
Idia really can't believe it. They should have had detention for two months minimum, instead, it's like Crowley can't even remember they were supposed to be in trouble. As he happily makes plans with Azul.
It's a fun thought, instead of detention, they now get to dig up every shading dealing the Highrise was ever involved in and then burn it to the ground.
Idia and Azul walk out of that situation, hand in hand, very happy with themselves.
However, the problem arises when they both start to walk back to their own dorms.
Azul speaks up first, "I really need to make sure the twins didn't destroy anything in my absence."
It was a bummer, they would have classes soon, so going different ways now meant they wouldn't see each other until the end of the day.
"Right, yeah, that track," Idia says, a bit sad that they'll be separating, "Do you wanna meet up in my dorm after class?"
"My, look at you, so bold all of a sudden." Azul gives him a coy smirk.
"Wait, that's not what I meant, I meant to start digging up dirt!"
"Calm down, I know." Azul smiles at him.
After that Azul hesitates for a moment. Idia is about to ask what's wrong, but before he can Azul quickly kisses him, before abruptly moving into his dorm's mirror.
Idia stands there in shock for a moment, then he smiles. This whole thing went way better than he could have ever imagined.
The downside was now he had to go to class.
He trudges through his mirror to get his tablet. It seems it's too early for anyone else to be up, including his brother.
He's grateful for it this time, he doesn't needed to be questioned about his relationship with Azul this early.
Luckily for him, he has the perfect way to pass the time.
He takes Eyes of the Seven Sentinels and runs a malware check on his second disc drive before popping it into his main computer. He picks up where he left off and starts looking at the back of the game.
But unfortunately, school does roll around and he sends his tablet to them. He can't really focus on any of the lectures, he's still thinking about Azul and when he's not thinking about Azul, he's thinking about the game.
He spends the whole day looking at the clock, the sooner the day ended, the sooner he could see his boyfriend.
Luckily, it seems no one is really aware of what happened, so no one asks him about what happened. He really isn't in a rush to broadcast his brand new relationship. He had never really had one before, so the last thing he wanted was to hold a AMA about it.
When the final bell rings, Idia quickly focuses on getting his tablet back to his room, eager at the thought of seeing Azul.
He's delighted when there's a knock on the door sooner than expected, he shoots up to answer, but he doesn't see Azul.
Instead he sees his brother.
"Idia! I've been waiting all day to talk to you!"
"Err, yeah, nice to see you too." It's not that he wasn't excited to see his brother, he just knew his brother would ask questions.
"Please inform me of when you started dating Azul Ashengrotto! I wish to keep track of your relationship."
For a moment, Idia wonders if he should lie. If he told the truth, then Ortho would know it was after he had already texted him and that would lead to more questions.
"It was during the competition." Azul's voice comes from the doorway.
Idia looks to him with a smile, he really did come right here.
Ortho catches the look his brother gives Azul and seems to understand.
"Azul Ashengrotto, hello!"
"It's very nice to see you, Ortho."
"I apologies for intruding, I assume you wish to spend time with my brother," Ortho says as he begins to leave, "Oh please accept this! It's from Vil Schoenheit. I will see you both later so we can make plans for the concert!"
Ortho hands Azul a vial as he exits.
"Concert?" Azul asks as he examines the vial.
"Oh right!" Idia suddenly remembers,"Ortho got us tickets for a surprise Primo concert happening at the end of the month!"
"I never thought I'd see you so happy about going somewhere with a crowd that large."
"Err, yeah, normally, I would be, but it's Primo and you'll be there!" Idia pauses for a moment, "You'll come right?"
Azul simply smiles and nods at him, Idia feels a smile on his face.
"Jade and Floyd might want to join, I'll let them know as well." Idia nods, knowing that those two would now be a necessary evil in his life. But he was dating Azul now. So they wouldn't hurt him. Right?
"For sure, for sure, that reminds me I think my parents might want to meet you, btw"
"Telling your parents about us already? I'll do my best to make a good impression."
"It was Ortho who told them!"
"I assumed so."
Then Azul's attention is back on the vial.
"Do you know why Vil would try and give me an unlabeled potion? He knows I don't accept gift."
"Oh, yeah, he said he would do that, it should restore your memories…"
Azul expression suddenly changes, to something more contemplative. Idia suddenly feels a bit worried. What if Azul getting his memories back changed things? What if Azul was upset about how Idia manhandled him?
He holds his breath as Azul downs the potion. Then he's quickly by his side as Azul goes through the same motions he had earlier. Azul holds his head in his hands and shuts his eyes. Idia brings Azul to sit down in his bed and rubs his back, waiting for him to come around.
It takes a while, but eventually Azul relaxes.
Idia does not, he can't feel relaxed until he knows if Azul is mad or not.
But Azul's head doesn't leave his hands. Upon closer inspection, Idia realizes his face has gone bright red.
Tentatively, Idia puts an arm around his shoulder. He's nervous when Azul stiffens slightly, but isn't not long before Azul leans into Idia's hold.
"I'm never casting that spell again." He hears Azul mumble through his hands.
"Why not? You were so cute." Idia makes a risky play and tries to joke with Azul.
He's met with a glare for his efforts, but at least Azul's head in no longer in his hands.
"Oh, but I'm not anymore?" Azul asks, Idia stresses for a moment before realizing Azul is joking back.
"Nah, you're kinda nasty."
"I just wanted to match the decor of your room."
Idia immediately pushes Azul away, as the other housewarden smirks at him. For a moment he just looks at Azul.
"So you won't try to take my memories of that day will you?"
"Depends, I suppose."
"Uhh, on what?"
"If you can keep me happy."
"Oh yeah, I can do that, EZ." Idia smiles at him.
That seemed to be the right answer, because suddenly Azul is kissing him again. It's an amazing feeling to finally choose the right dialog option.
Things get a bit messy after that, with the two of them trying to get as close as possible. Idia's a bit surprised to learn Azul has an insane grip. But he doesn't mind, it just means Azul still wants to be close to him even after regaining his memories. It means he didn't mess up!
While their plan was to begin their work on exposing the Highrise, Idia and Azul end up spending the rest of the night in Idia's bed.
He can only hope Vil will be proud of him.