"Ugh... I can't believe we still need to take part in this." Ace put one hand on his hip with the other holding his basket filled with flower petals over his shoulder. A sigh escaped his lips. "I thought we did enough. This is ridiculous."

After the long confession and last minutes arrangement, a new wedding was about to be held. Most of the things prepared for Jonah's wedding distraction were given to Chubby as his wedding gift. While the rest of the students had been freed from the freezing slap and were now part of the audience, Ace's team, the light music club, and Grim were still going to be part of the wedding reception. Ace didn't know how Azul thought they were fit as the flower boys, but here they are.

"We've already dressed for the occasion," Riddle said, making sure that his coat no longer had wrinkles. "Might as well do it right?"

"I'm looking pretty fine!" Grim exclaimed. His bow was fully black and he was wearing a top hat. In his two front paws was a pillow with two rings with crystal that he had gotten from the mine. Once again, Ace didn't know how Azul thought it was a good idea to give Grim the ring carrier role, but here they are.

"Yeah, but still." Ace groaned. "This is why you don't marry at thirteen."

"It's a tragedy," Rook said. "But alas. Even to this day, there are still unfortunate people who must be married to the people they don't love." Riddle hummed in agreement.

"Speaking of that," Epel chimed in, "have you been betrothed to someone?"

"What? Ew! No!" Ace yelled. "What makes you say that?

"What you said to her about the ideal marriage partner," Epel continued, looking at Ace from top to bottom, frowning as he didn't see any sign that he was looking for, "that sounded too romantic coming out of your mouth."

Ace raised an eyebrow at him. "Are you saying I'm a beta male?"

Riddle stopped himself from laughing out loud, but a 'pfft-' sound managed to escape him. Grim meanwhile was laughing out loud, but he was being so careful to not drop the rings. Rook was also laughing, though more composed than Grim. Epel was just blushing. "Th-That's not what I meant!"

Rook chimed in when his laughter is over. "What Monsieur Little Apple is saying is that you seem to have some knowledge about love, which is something no one ever expected from you."

"There's no point in asking Ace about love. There's no way he gets it," Grim said. "A mean and twisted guy like him could never be popular."

"Could you quit judging me?" Ace rolled his eyes. "My only experience with romance is back in middle school with this girl named Gabbie." He smirked. "Unlike you, Grim, you bitchless cat."

"What?!" Grim hissed. "You're so cocky!"

"You never mentioned anything about your relationship," Riddle said, "did it end badly?"

Ace groaned. "Well... She doesn't like thrill rides so all we did was ride the merry-go-round or the ferrish wheel. She was all happy taking Magicam photos and saying it was 'cute' but I don't get how it was fun. She didn't want to watch horror despite I wanted to and pulled me to the romance movie. Eventually, I stopped contacting her."

"I see," Epel sighed. "That's a little unfortunate... I guess."

"And the crazy part was everyone thought it was my fault!" Ace yelled. "Her groups just called me out, saying things like: 'Why don't you ever contact her?' 'I feel sorry for her!' 'She's been crying all this time!' 'You're so ungrateful!' Ugh! That's when I realized if the partner is only one-sided, then I don't want to be with them. It's way more fun hanging out with my buddies."

"Ah, Monsieur Heart. I understand. I wholeheartedly agree with you." Rook stepped up, putting an arm over Ace's shoulder in a one-sided hug. "Being a lover is about balance, a mutual understanding between partners." He patted Ace's chest. "But, a young heart is very easy to crumble. You've seen the Princess' unhealable heart. Maybe next time, don't just leave someone without any preamble."

"Ugh... fine." Ace rolled his eyes. "What about you Senior Rook? You seem to be the most romantic of us all. Do you have a girlfriend or boyfriend?"

Rook chuckled. "Ah, no. I'm fascinated with beauty and all kinds of love, but I'm not willing to give my heart to anyone right now."

"Why is that?" Riddle asked.

Rook hummed. "There's a saying in my family that 'You only love once'. Some say it's a blessing like both of my parents gradually fell in love ever since first sight. Even when my father went away on a dangerous long hunting trip and was nearly lost, my mother said she kept waiting for him until he finally return and asked for her hand in marriage. But it can also be a curse, like my grandfather who was possessive of my grandmother. He locked her in her room, never letting her out for fear that she would betray him. She died in that room and he followed her soon after."

"That's...scary!" Grim squeaked.

"In one way, yes," Rook hummed. "Love can be a dangerous thing, but it can be wonderful. I'm waiting for the day I will find my soulmate and cherish them all my life."

"What if you never find them?" Riddle asked.

Rook shrugged. "Then maybe in the next life, I will."

The door to the wedding hall opened as Azul peaked his head out. "Guys, we're set in a few minutes. Are you guys ready?"

With a quick glance between them, they scrambled to position, with Ace and Epel in the front, followed by Ace and Rook, and lastly Grim.

"Let's get this show on the road," Ace said with a nod.

Azul nodded back. Through his earpiece, he looked from afar toward the music club. "Ortho, is the band ready?"

Ortho looked at the band. After a brief discussion, Jamil gave a thumb-up. "Ready on your signal," Ortho said through their radio.

"Alright." Azul backed and moved out of the way, signaling the two ghost guards. "In five... four... three... two... one..."

The door was opened and everyone looked back. The light dimmed down ever so slightly. The music swayed in a soft acoustic as Jamil sang softly.

Wise men say

"Only fools rush in"

But I can't help

Falling in love with you

The flower boys nodded at each other before stepping in. As they threw the petals, they turned into tiny balls of blue light like fireflies, paving a pathway of lights. Grim followed behind them, with his chest puffed up and back straight proudly, carrying the rings.

Shall I stay?

Would it be a sin

If I can't help

Falling in love with you?

And then, the bride appeared with a bouquet of crystalized flowers in her hands, looking ever so endearing and excited. The new groom's breath was taken out. As the audience stood up, Jonah accompanied her as they walked down the aisle.

Like a river flows

Surely to the sea

Darling, so it goes

Some things are meant to be

When they reached the front, Jonah gave the princess a bow before Eliza walked up beside Chubby. Both the bride and groom look ever so happy for their regret finally can finally be fulfilled and their childhood dream of a fairy tale wedding came true.

Take my hand

Take my whole life, too

For I can't help

Falling in love with you

"Our vows," Chubby started, taking Eliza's hands as they spoke together. "In sickness and in health, through happiness and sadness, for richer, for poorer, until death do us part."

For I can't help

Falling in love with you

Grim carried the ring over and the couple thanked him with pats on his heads. With the rings slipped between their fingers, they finished their vow. "This is a symbol of our love. I vow that I love you."

And sealed with a kiss.

-----

Idia never felt so pressured as much as this in his life: standing in from of nearly all of his acquaintances and some unfamiliar ghosts, about to give a speech about how good the newlywed are. Yup. No pressure at all.

He could see Jonah leaning close to Azul and whispering, "I feel sorry for him."

Azul, the bitch he is, smiled ever so mockingly and whispered back, "Well, the princess said he was your best man. Why change something that's already perfect?"

Idia wanted to strangle him or beat him in Mario Party out of spite once again. He turned to Ortho, pleading to get him out of the situation. But his dearest brothers just cutely gave a thumbs up for him. Alas, once again, stuck in a situation he didn't want. Or perhaps he never escaped in the first place. He should've got that coming tomorrow morning instead. Curse his need to read before being spoiled in Magicam!

He tapped the mic, winching when the mic screeched. He waited for a few seconds, contemplating just running away, but at least he still had his pride to not do that. He cleared his throat and spoke, "I'm going to start this by saying 'fuck you' to Mister Azul Ashengrotto for pushing me into this spot." Laughter erupted through the room. But Idia didn't stop, lifting to the flashcard he had made with his worst writing ever. "Do you know how stressful it was to make a speech in just five minutes without looking up the internet because it won't sound 'sincere'? How dare you. I thought you were my friend, Azul. But thanks for trying anyway." He looked to the rest and added nonchalantly. "It goes to the rest of you as well. A+ for effort."

"Your thanks don't sound sincere at all!" Ace Trappola yelled.

Idia squeaked. "Sh-Shut up! How am I supposed to make a cool speech like you, Mister Ace?!" Deuce Spade who said beside him elbowed him with a teasing smile as Ace buried his face in his palm.

Now that that's settled, Idia flipped his flashcard. It was at that moment he regretted not letting Ortho write it with his more steady hand because even he couldn't read this junk. "Uh..." He looked up to the princess and her new husband. "We don't know each other that well. I'm pretty traumatized by this event, to be honest." He shook his head and hands quickly in panic. "N-N-No hard feelings though!"

Princess Eliza giggled with both of her hands clasped together apologetically. "Not is taken. We're sorry too." Chubby added with his nods.

Knowing he was free from any outburst, he looked down at his cards again. "Uh... From how I look at you two, you are a very young couple. You two still had a long way to go. But you two are already dead so..." He waved his hands and shrugged. "But I have to admit, how your puppy love grow and lasted until now is adorable. Love is real, guys, and it can transcend life and death!"

Ortho flew next to him, bringing up a glass of non-alcoholic juice. He raised it, feeling confident for a second. "May you two love each other until your next reincarnation. Let's toast the ghostly newlyweds! Cheers!"

Everyone raised their glass, "Cheers!"

Great. His job is done. Now he can bury himself. He will remember his cringe self today in the next ten years.

-----

With the chair moved, leaving the floor for a dance. The newlywed couple dance in an almost chaotic way, not like how royalty or adults would, but just two thirteen years olds twirling around and giggling together. The others soon joined in. The obvious couples could be seen; Ace and Deuce spinning like there were in a competition who will lead the dance, compared to Vil and Rook who were down for a more elegant waltz. Floyd was pulling Kalim along in a more complicated dance, but Kalim just followed with a laugh. Leona looked disgusted while Malleus looked amused when they switched from their partners to each other. Jonah could be seen dancing with Eliza during the swap. For a second the princess looks nostalgic, but she recovered and gave a pleasant dance.

"Hey." Azul turned to his side. It was Riddle. He offered a hand toward him. "May I have this dance?"

Azul looked around. There were others beside him who didn't join the dance, like Silver and Sebek who fell asleep, or Grim who preferred to eat the wedding cake. Azul looked at Riddle again. There was a glint of nervousness in his grey eyes. Azul felt that he might feel guilty if he doesn't take the hand.

"Are you sure?" he asked.

Riddle gave him a firm nod. "Yes."

Azul nodded back. "Alright."

The two of them joined the dance in their own awkward waltz. The tension was there and Azul could see Riddle had been thinking a lot about something. His brow was creased and his breath sometimes heaved. It was clear that something was troubling him and Azul wondered if he just made it worst. Then why did he offer a dance when he didn't want to?

"Rid-"

"Azul." Riddle cut him off almost too quickly. He took a deep breath before sighing, his eyes never left Azul with his usual sharp glint. "I would like to say sorry for accusing you of not caring."

"Eh?"

"It was hypocritical of me for thinking that you only want to harm us or making this worst or not wanting to save him." His voice was strong but at the same time expressive, almost noble. "You were just trying to do the right thing and mend your wrongs."

"No." Azul shook his head. "It was understandable that you think like that." He sighed. "I wasn't the best person back then."

"Neither was I, but I didn't see that. You and I went overblot yet I put a higher judgment on you."

"I would've done the same thing. I care about him and so do you."

"It's still not right of me to treat you unfairly." For the first time, Riddle's gaze shifted to their feet. "How can I be released from my execution while you're still under the guillotine?"

"The guillotine that you put." Azul couldn't help but comment. For it was true. Maybe deep down Azul was feeling annoyed and angry about how everyone treated him. Yes, he had his own fault, but it seemed that everyone forgets that the Heartslabyul Prefect was once the feared Crimson Tyrant and yet he was the one constantly being put on trial and getting shovel-talk, even after he tried to mend his action. The unfairness was admirable.

And yet, from the way Riddle suddenly hold his hand tighter, Azul knew this was a personal matter. "I know. I'm sorry."

It took one man's pride to ask for forgiveness. He had been in that situation and the peace he receive after. Azul knew Riddle felt the same as well a long time ago without a doubt. But getting forgiveness from someone who was already good is different from getting it from a fellow sinner. He sighed. "The captain had changed us, huh?"

"Huh?"

Azul pulled Riddle into their dance, taking the lead and making Riddle look up at him. "Remember that time when I offered the contract? I asked you whether the reason why you want to change is because Jonah told you to."

Riddle frowned again, but then gasped. He sighed again "Looking back, I don't think I changed that much. I'm still judgemental, putting others on my standards instead of theirs, and a hypocrite."

Azul shook his head lightly. "Again, Riddle, I don't blame you."

"No. I was in the wrong." His voice sounded absolute. "I want to change. I really do. I hadn't truly forgive you after that incident even though I don't have the right to do that. Jonah trusted you again, so I had to try as well. I still have a lot to learn."

Azul hummed. "Then let me tell you this: I forgive you for not trusting me. But it is understandable for I haven't said my piece. And I'm sorry for trying to take your unique magic and for hurting the captain."

Riddle gasped lightly. "Azul..."

Azul smiled. "We're quite similar, don't you think, Riddle? Two villains aiming for redemption."

Riddle was silent for a second before chuckling. "I guess we are. Everyone deserves a second chance, right?"

"And if you fall, you'll a third chance. If you fall again, you'll get your fourth chance. Over and over again."

"Isn't that a bit silly?"

"It is. But one day, we'll understand. And the happy ending for us might not be as unclear as we thought."

"Happy ending, huh?" He smiled. "I would like that."

Azul nodded. "You deserve it."

"As you too."

It did feel different to receive forgiveness from others, but the peace felt the same nonetheless. Jonah gave him the warmth that he has been longing for, whereas Riddle gave him a solid foundation of a new comradery. Perhaps in the future, they could stand together despite both having the same affection toward the captain.

Someone tapped Riddle's shoulder, making the both of them turn. Jonah smiled, a hand on his chest and the other offered toward him. "May I have this dance?"

Riddle looked at Azul and then back to Jonah. He shook his head lightly, something that Azul didn't expect. "I think I'm going to call the night," he said. Suddenly, he reached for Jonah's offered hand to pull him closer to them, at the same time guiding Azul's hand that he still hold. And then, he put Azul's hand on top of Jonah's open palm, cupping them together. He looked at the two of them and said, "Have fun you two."

Azul couldn't help but let out a grateful sigh. "Thank you."

Riddle nodded and stepped back. In turn, Azul stepped closer to Jonah. "Shall we?"

Jonah nodded with a smile on his face. "Yeah."

The two of them danced or stumbled around for Jonah's case. Without Ruggie's unique magic help, Jonah seems like he had two left legs. But Azul is patient toward him. He didn't mind dancing in tiny steps.

"What did he say to you?" Jonah asked.

"We reached an understanding. There's no need to worry," Azul answered. "But what about you? Are you okay?"

"Why wouldn't I be?" Jonah chuckled. You saved me once again. You went all out with the planning.

"Just another day of work." Azul shrugged playfully. "Managing Mostro Lounge is harder than this."

"Good thing you're the boss, huh?"

"You've seen yourself."

"I had." He went quiet for a sec before speaking in a soft tone that made Azul's heart melt. "Thank you for saving me."

"You're welcome." He smiled lovingly. "We wouldn't want our beloved captain to leave the world far too early. Though it seems you have a habit of going a bit too close."

Jonah chuckled again. "I can't help it."

"I know you can't. It's a good thing you have your crew to back you up."

"Does that crew include you?"

Azul tilted his head. "You're the captain."

"I would say yes. But do you want to be with me?"

Azul frowned. "What are you implying, Mister Argentum?"

Jonah didn't immediately answer but instead shifted his gaze to their feet. It worried Azul. Why would Jonah think that Azul doesn't want to be in his circle again? They had solved their issue. Or was there still a lingerings conflict?

Azul stopped, causing Jonah to nearly stumble back if Azul didn't hold him tight. "Let's find somewhere more private."

Jonah looked up in confusion but ended up nodding. Azul nodded back and pulled Jonah away from the dance floor to the door. However, before he could reach it someone blocked their way. A familiar Octavinelle student whose smile can't ever be deciphered by anyone except those who are close to them. "Jade."

"Leaving the party so soon, you two?" he asked.

Azul nodded. "The two of us need some time alone."

"Ah, I see, I see." Jade stepped forward and leaned close to Jonahm threatening aura emitting from him. "May I borrow you for a second, Mister Jonah?"

"Jade-"

"It's okay, Senior Ashengrotto," Jonah squeezed his hand in reassurance before letting it go. They didn't walk far but enough for Azul not to hear them.

"It seemed you had a decent dance earlier," Jade said.

Jonah nodded. "It was brief, but it was fun."

"I'm glad." The taller student rested his hand on Jonah's shoulder. "He truly cares about you. If not, he wouldn't even offer a cent in your rescue mission."

"And I'm very thankful for that."

"So, just some advice, Mister Jonah." Jade leaned closer to Jonah's ear, the grip on his shoulder tightening. "I suggest you watch your tongue when you're around him, Mister Jonah. It'll be bothersome if he had another breakdown."

Jonah took a deep breath before letting it go. "Of course. Thank you, Senior Leech."

Jade leaned back, looking back to normal. "Jade is fine. It'll be confusing if you call us both that."

"Alright." With a nod, Jonah walked back to Azul and grabbed his hand. "Come on."

"What did he say to you?" Azul asked.

"Just some advice. But we had a mutual understanding." Jonah opened the door. "Where are we going?"

Azul frowned for a sec. He knew Jade wouldn't do anything to harm Jonah, especially knowing Azul's feelings toward him. He trusted the Leech Twins, his closest friends who might be more protective now. So, he would let this slide. "Let's go to the courtyard," he said. "I don't think anyone is around there in these hours."

Jonah nodded and the two of them walked, still holding each other's hand. The trip was silent but pleasant. It didn't take long for them to reach their destination. The courtyard almost looks like it was littered with blue fireflies from the enchanted night gleam. Jonah was first to let go of their hand and he stepped down the stone pathway. When he looked up, he let out a soft gasp.

"Oh. It's the full moon." He reached out as if trying to catch the moon. "So pretty."

Azul let out a sigh. "It is." There was something enthralling yet melancholic in the way Jonah said that. Dressed in a gorgeous suit, he looks like he was gleaming under the bright moonlight. And yet it sounded like there was a burden between those words. He walked to stand next to him. "But are you sure you're okay?

Jonah let out a sigh as he lowered his arm. "I feel funny."

"Why?"

"Eliza said that apparently that I'm the same person that once agreed to marry her. 'Different, yet the same. You and him.'" He clutched his chest. "It just feels weird knowing that you're someone so different from your previous life." He sighed again. "I have so many questions."

Azul hummed. "I'm sure you do. But there are many things in this world even the smartest people don't understand. Including me."

Jonah let out a chuckle. "It must've been a huge deal that even the Great Azul Ashengrotto doesn't get it."

Azul pulled a teasing smirk. "I can be humble, Mister Argentum. How dare you assumed I am a prideful person? I'm wounded."

"Well, if you can tone down your bragging, I might."

"What can I say? It's part of the charm."

This time Jonah did laugh which also made Azul laugh. "You sly takoyaki."

"I can say the same thing to you, silver tongue captain." As his laughter died down, Azul said, "But, in all honesty, Jonah. I'm glad you're a villain too."

Jonah let out a confused 'Huh?'. Azul let out an amused huff, somewhat finding the obliviousness endearing. He turned toward the smaller boy, a gentle smile on his face because looking at the boy beside him, he was never been so grateful. "If you're like those goodie-two-shoes of a hero, I don't think we will be here in the first place."

Jonah tilted his head. The somberness returned. "What makes a hero and what makes a villain though?"

"It's a concept. One can be a hero in one story but can be a villain in the others."

Jonah looked down at his feet. His voice was small. "So, if I ever become a villain in many stories, are you going to be the hero and save me?"

It was an absurd scenario. To imagine someone as kind as Jonah from fall from grace, was something Azul couldn't see. He had been against him once and the longing that came along. It hurt his heart. And if he had to go through that again... He couldn't bear it.

"If that's what you wish. No contract is needed."

Jonah lightly shook his head. "You can't promise that. You're gonna get in trouble."

Selfless captain as always. Azul reach for Jonah's chin, lifting it so they could be face to face. Jonah's lips parted slightly as if he was surprised. "If it's for you," Azul said, his voice steady and filled with determination, "it'll be worth it."

A gasp escaped Jonah's lips. His eyes gazed down, frowning ever so slightly. Azul could see the gear in his head started to turn and then he looked up again. "Then, this is your captain's order," his blotchy yellow eye was gleaming so captivating that Azul couldn't look away. "If I'm ever on the brink of death or when I put the world against me, you'll be there to save me."

The order was clear, embedded in Azul's subconscious. He reached down to take Jonah's right hand. For a second, Jonah looked confused, but Azul reassured him with a gentle smile. "I promise."

With the clock tower chimed signing a brand new day and the ghosts finally able to move on to the afterlife, Azul sealed his vow with a kiss on Jonah's fingers. When he looked up again, Jonah's eyes were wide, tears welled up in the corner. Azul reached with his other, wiping the tears. He leaned closer, pressing his forehead against Jonah's. "Let me stay beside you," he whispered, "I promise I'll save you."

Jonah let out a shaky breath and a teary chuckle. "Okay," he whispered back. His hand shifted so he could hold Azul's properly and reached for his other, leaning against his gloved palm. Azul couldn't express his happiness better than giving a kiss on Jonah's forehead, just like what he did once upon a dream ago.