Archive of Our Own

There’s someone out there for everyone. It was a statement Cater had heard a lot growing up. That everyone had their perfect match somewhere. Some called it soulmates, but universally it didn’t have a name. As a child, he had always loved the sentiment, believing that meant there was someone out there for him too. It got him through many difficult nights after NRC.

Reality, unfortunately, was not quite as magical or whimsical. It was much much harsher.

It started after Riddle’s overblot, but the cracks had been there for some time. Suddenly Trey was much too busy to hang out or study together. Always on the move, always jumping to his feet for whatever Riddle needed or wanted. Cater wished he could feel bitter about it. Wished he felt anything about it besides understanding, but he was long past those feelings. After all, he was rather used to it at this point in his life. After all, Trey still felt guilty about what happened with Riddle and it would truly show what kind of horrible person Cater was if he left it get to him. So Cater would laugh it off and pretend he wasn’t dying every time Trey left him in the dust, like he meant nothing, like two years together meant nothing. After all, who would pick Cater over Riddle? Absolutely no one.

As Cater sat in the library, once again blown off at the last minute by Trey, a shadow fell over him and he glanced up, pausing in his causal scrolling of MagiCam.

“Oh hey, Azul. You need something?” Cater asked simply.

Azul Ashengrotto just smiled.

“Is this seat taken?” He asked, pointing to the seat on the other end of the table.

“Nope. It’s all yours.” Cater replied with a shrug.

He wasn’t quite sure why Azul wanted to sit here. Last Cater checked, the library was pretty empty right now. Maybe there was a section he wanted to be close to? Cater didn’t think too deeply about it as he went back to his phone. Maybe he should have.

—sSs—

Azul settled into his seat and started to pull out his homework for the week, all the while keeping his eye on the real target. He had been lucky to find Cater alone and he was not about to waste this opportunity.

It has been a few days after his overblot and while Azul was still struggling with the effects and consequences of that, he also found himself in a curious position. Without his contracts, he had several enemies and no way to control them. Students who had been under his control were now free and he was sure they would want revenge, so he needed to find a new way to keep them at bay. The twins were great but they also couldn’t be around him 24 hours a day. So he needed a solution and only one came to mind: good ole fashion blackmail and the best way to blackmail someone? To know everything about them and that’s where Cater came into play.

As he started to fill out his homework, he kept his attention mostly on the man across from him. The uncrowned King of Gossip Cater Diamond was a well of knowledge and right now? Azul needed him as a friend and quickly. But how to go about it? Cater wasn’t a student Azul had ever had a clear read on. He was a lazy, go with the flow type, but he was in Heartslabyul, where Riddle had ruled with an iron fist for a whole year. If he was really as lazy as everyone said, he would have been thrown out of that dorm in a heartbeat, no matter his connections and usefulness.

So there had to be more to the third year than most people had seen and Azul wanted to be the first one to really find out who lay behind that mask. He had just finished the first page when Cater spoke.

“I know I am pretty, but you don’t have to stare. My selfies are on MagiCam to look at.” Cater said simply as he continued his scrolling.

“Oh! My apologies! I was simply trying to figure out if you had gotten a new haircut. Your hair seems different today.” Azul said sweetly.

“Nope. Same as it always is.” Cater said, popping the ‘p’.

“Oh really? Then it must be the lighting in here. It makes it stand out even more.” Azul replied.

“Yeah the lighting in here sucks. So try again.” Cater stated.

“Oh.” Azul muttered.

Strike one against him. He had hoped playing into Cater’s vanity would have worked in his favor. This was not going to be as easy as he had hoped. He would have to go about it another way. As his brain began to spin, trying to figure out a new path forward, Cater hummed.

“So what do you want?” Cater asked, eyes sliding to him and Azul felt like he was staring into the eyes of a predator.

“Why is it so wrong that I simply wish to sit with my upperclassman?” Azul asked sweetly.

Cater smiled and tapped his chin with his phone.

“You aren’t the type to approach someone without an ulterior motive and especially without the twins on standby. Considering both of them are in class, you are by yourself. And you aren’t the one to come to me looking for test answers. So what do you want?” Cater asked again.

There it was again. That smart mind behind those green eyes. Azul could feel his blood heating up.

“Ok then, what do you think I want?” Azul asked, closing his textbook.

It wasn’t like he really needed to do the homework right now anyway and it clearly wasn’t luring Cater into relaxing his defenses like he had hoped. So he might as well come at it from the front.

“I think you are trying to play some kind of game and you need info. So you came to me. On this day of my daughter’s wedding.” Cater said, with twinkling eyes and a smile.

Azul blinked in confusion.

“Your daughter’s wedding? You have a daughter?” Azul asked, confused.

Cater snorted and covered his mouth. Helplessly, Azul stared at him as he giggled.

“What’s so funny!” Azul said with a flush, feeling like he was being mocked.

“It’s a movie quote. Don’t worry about it.” Cater waved him off and Azul frowned.

“Well in a way, you are correct. I do want information.” Azul stated.

“Coming clean then? Sounds good. Who or what do you want information on?” Cater asked as he turned back to his phone, scrolling idly.

“You. I would like information on you.” Azul said seriously.

Cater paused and turned back to him, eyebrow raised.

“Oh? And what did Cay-Cay do to get on your bad side?” Cater asked.

“You aren’t on my bad side. I simply want to know more about you. I wish to be friends.” Azul replied.

Now both eyebrows had shot up. Cater had even put his phone down, staring at Azul with something akin to defensive curiosity.

“Friends, huh? The twins not enough for you?” Cater asked.

“While the twins and I are rather close, I can have more friends than just them. And I would like you to be one of them.” Azul replied.

Cater hummed slightly, staring at Azul and seemingly looking for something. Azul kept his face open and honest, which was hard, but it seemed to work because Cater eventually looked away.

“Well I guess you always did like a challenge. Fine.” Cater nodded before he turned back to him and flashed a smile.

Azul raised an eyebrow. Cater thought himself as a challenge? How so?

“But just remember.” Cater stated as he got up and gathered his things.

“Remember what?” Azul asked, startled.

“You might not like what you find underneath.” Cater said as he ripped a page from his notebook and scribbled something on it.

He handed it to Azul before saluting.

“Later gator” Cater said before leaving.

Azul blinked before looking down and seeing Cater’s phone number on the paper. He smirked. Step one completed. Now he just needed to figure out step two.

—sSs—

It took Azul some time to even text the number he was given. After all, how did you start a conversation with someone like Cater? In the end, he settled on a simple “Hi, how are you?” And waited to see where it went from there. Very quickly, he got a reply.

C: Wow, took you long enough. I was starting to wonder if you weren’t up to the test (Smiley face emoji)

A: My apologies. I simply did not know what to say.

C: Ohhh sups formal even in text huh? (Smiley face)

A: I’m afraid I don’t text people enough to pick up texting lingo. I am sure I will learn from you soon enough.

C: Hell yeah!

C: Just call me Professor Diamond! (monocle)

Azul found himself chuckling. At least Cater was entertaining. He had been somewhat worried that their conversations would be dull.

A: I will be sure to do my homework and hand it in on time.

C: (Several crying laughing emojis) Don’t worry. (Wink face) I won’t take points for sloppy work.

A: I will keep that in mind. So, what do you have planned for today?

The three dots appeared and disappeared a few times before it paused for a while. Azul wondered if maybe he had over stepped some kind of boundary before a picture came over. Cater had taken a selfie in front of a rose brush, brush in the other hand and a cat eared filter on.

C: Party tomorrow, so decorating today/ Whoop whoop. There goes my free period (Crying face)

A: Oh my. That is quite a short amount of time. Hopefully you have many helping hands.

Another picture came over of Cater and several Cater clones all standing around and posing differently.

C: I have all the hands I could ever need (Crying laughing face, wink face)

Azul hummed and rubbed his chin. How curious. There were at least five clones in the picture and two more in the background that were still painting. 

A: Seems like it.

A: Just curious, how many can you make at one time?

C: Curious about my magic?? 

Azul paused and frowned. No emojis? Was this a sore subject? Asking about someone’s magic could be considered very personal. Azul had learned very early in his college career that many took that question as a challenge, so he had learned to find out on his own. He hadn’t expected Cater to be one of the more defensive ones with how often he showed it off.

A: Yes, actually. 

A: I have heard about it, but never seen it in person. 

A: I do hope that it isn’t a sore spot.

His phone was silent for a little while and Azul nervously bit his thumb nail before Cater wrote back.

C: I’ll tell you about mine if you tell me about your’s. (Wink face)

A: A tit for tat? Very well.

C: Kay kay! I’ll go first. Each and every one is a perfect clone that matches the original. I checked myself. (Wink face)

Azul flushed. What the hell did he mean! That was way more information than he ever wanted to know.

C: I hope I didn’t blow your mind! (Crying laughing face)

A: Just a little more than I wanted to know. (Blushing face)

C: Sorry! That’s usually the first thing people ask. Your turn!

Azul hummed and leaned back in his seat. His magic was usually kept very close to his chest, like most people did. Cater must know that. This must be a test to see how far Azul was willing to go about this. He did say it was going to be a challenge. Well, Azul wasn’t one to back down.

A: My magic is connected to my contracts, but that doesn’t mean I can’t use it outside them.

C: Ohhhhh fancy. That explains what DT meant (Thoughtful face)

A: DT?

C: Oop, my b! Short for Double Trouble.

A: Ah, Ace and Deuce?

C: (Laughing face) Got it in one!

C: Next ques I always get! Clones can think for themselves! But usually they just do what I say! (A bee next to a crown emoji)

Azul blinked. The clones could think for themselves? That was curious. In that case, each clone was their own person and wow, wasn’t that a lot to consider.

A: Oh, that is interesting.

A: My magic absorbs other’s, doesn’t block them. 

C: (Gasping face) Wow.

Azul flushed, wondering if that was too much information.

C: So if you were to use your magic on Riddle at the same time he used his magic on you, what would happen? (Thoughtful face)

Azul blinked before looking away from his phone. He actually had no idea. He had never considered it, but now that he thought about it, he wasn’t sure.

A: I don’t know actually. I assume it has to do with who is faster

C: Oh, fun thing to think about! (Smiling face)

C: When a clone disappears, I do get whatever information they find out (Wink face)

Azul stared at the sentence, rereading it a few times before scrolling back up and his mouth dropped. Azul leaned back in his seat, mind racing. This explained so much! 

“He could be literally everywhere at once.” Azul muttered.

C: Did I blow your mind? (Wink face and mind blown emoji)

A: A little. I am not going to lie.

A: Is this why you always know what is going on?

C: That and the walls have ears (Ear emoji)

Azul thought back to the fact that he had heard that Cater was often seen talking to paintings around campus and it all clicked. So Cater had both living and nonliving connections.

A: I see.

C: Well? It’s your turn

A: Hm, I am not sure what else there is to say about mine?

C: You sure? (Eyebrow raised face)

Azul’s eyes narrowed. Cater must certainly knew about his overblot from DT and maybe some other students he had affected. But did Cater understand it? The two Heartslabyul students weren’t the brightest, so maybe he was trying to fill in the blanks? Maybe Cater was as curious about him as Azul was about Cater. That was a strange thought.

A: I discovered my signature spell two years before I came to NRC.

Cater was quiet for a long time. So long, Azul wondered if he had been called away for something. He had been setting up for a party. But the timing felt too convenient.

C: I discovered mine when I was 5. 

Azul stared at the sentence. That was very, very young. What would he need a spell like that for so young?

C: Whelp, I have to go! Riddle caught me on my phone and I have a whole rose maze to paint! Ttyl! (Waving)

A: Have a good afternoon then.

Azul placed his phone down and leaned his head back. Two shadows soon fell over him and he glanced at the twins.

“Azulllll.” Floyd whined as he sat across from Azul, flopping onto the chair and taking up the whole space.

“Good afternoon, Azul.” Jade stated as he sat beside Azul.

“Good afternoon to you both. Classes are over for today?” Azul asked.

“Yeah, finally.” Floyd groaned, leaning his head back.

“You seemed preoccupied when we came in. Is everything alright?” Jade asked.

Azul eyed his phone and frowned.

“I have decided to branch out. Make a new friend.” Azul stated.

The twins looked at him, startled.

“Eh? Since when?” Floyd asked.

Azul huffed and crossed his arms.

“I am allowed to have other friends.” Azul stated.

“And who has caught your attention in this case?” Jade asked curiously.

“Cater Diamond.” Azul replied.

“Snapper? Why?” Floyd asked, wiggling his nose.

Jade hummed and rubbed his chin.

“I see. Interesting choice certainly. But why now?” Jade asked.

“Cater is the uncrowned King of Gossip. With my contracts…” Azul was cut off.

“Dusted!” Floyd said with a grin.

Azul scowled at him before turning to Jade.

“Yes. That. We now have an issue with many students who may feel they want revenge. So I am trying a new tactic.” Azul admitted.

“And you think Cater has the information you need?” Jade asked.

Azul tapped his chin.

“Cater’s signature spell is something I never thought about much, but Cater just told me some interesting information about it. One, his clones can think independently. Two, he gains whatever information they have when they disappear and finally, all his clones are identical.” Azul explained.

That was when Azul realized one thing. Grabbing his phone, he scrolled back up and then stopped, startled.

“Azul? Is something wrong?” Jade asked, concerned.

“He never told me how many he could make.” Azul muttered.

Azul sat back and frowned.

“I asked directly how many he could make and he managed to talk around it. He told me everything, but that.” Azul stated.

“He out-talked you?” Floyd said with a snicker.

“He did and quite well in fact. So well I didn’t notice until just now. I’m actually impressed.” Azul stated.

“Oh my.” Jade muttered.

“So what’cha gonna do? Call him out?” Floyd asked.

“No, no. I’m not going to call him out. I am going to see where it goes from here. But…” Azul smiled.

“This game just got a bit more interesting.” he said.

–sSs–

“Cater! Good morning.” Azul said the next day when he saw Cater in the cafeteria before classes. 

Cater glanced up from his breakfast, an omelet covered in hot sauce before he smiled.

“Yo! Azul! Morning! Hope you slept well.” Cater said with a wink.

Azul sat down and Cater raised an eyebrow.

“No twins again today?” Cater asked curiously.

“Jade checks on his mushrooms in the morning and Floyd saw Riddle in the hallway.” Azul said as if that explained everything.

Azul noticed a slight twitch of Cater’s lips and for the first time wondered how he had managed to find Cater twice in a row now on his own. He knew there was a table of first years nearby, including the DT that Cater mentioned, but Cater was at a table closer to the windows, far away from everyone and the main doors.

“A good place to watch everyone and not get noticed right away.” Azul suddenly thought.

Cater eyed him, like he was something interesting and Azul smirked.

“You know, you never did tell me how many clones you can make.” Azul said as he started on his own breakfast.

There is a flash of amusement in those green eyes.

“Ah, didn’t I? My b! Sorry about that.” Cater said, sounding not sorry at all and Azul chuckled.

“But you still aren’t going to tell me?” Azul asked before taking a bite of his own food.

“Where’s the fun in that?” Cater asked, mouth partially hidden behind his phone.

“Another challenge for me then?” Azul asked curiously.

“Hmmm maybe~” Cater paused, eyes alight.

“You know, no one has ever guessed right.” Cater said after a moment.

“Hm?” Azul said around a mouthful.

“How many I can make. People always guess around the same amount. So I’m curious if you’ll figure it out.” Cater explained.

Azul paused, eyebrow raised. Isn’t that interesting.

“And no one knows that number for sure?” Azul asked.

Cater’s smile got wider.

“Nope.” Cater replied.

“Not even Trey?” Azul asked.

Another twitch of his lips.

“Not even Trey.” Cater said.

“Interesting. And this information is important because…?” Azul asked curiously.

“Well, a good friend should know the bare minimum about their friend right? Think of it as you learning the bare minimum.” Cater paused before leaning back.

“Of course, if you don’t want to, that’s fine.” Cater shrugged like it’s not important, but Azul read something between the lines that he wasn't sure about.

If his hunch is correct, then other people hadn’t bothered to try and learn that information on their own. Hadn’t put in the time or effort, making Cater believe he wasn’t worth the time or effort. Meaning Cater was once again trying to figure out how far Azul was willing to go. Azul idly chewed on his food as he rolled that information over in his head while Cater did the same, scrolling through his phone as he did so. Azul was about halfway done when two shadows cover him. Azul didn’t bother turning around as the twins settled on either side of him.

“Good morning Azul, Snapper!” Floyd said cheerfully.

“Good morning.” Jade said as well.

“Yo! Jade! Floyd! Azul told me you two were busy. Didn’t expect to see you.” Cater said with a smile.

“Nah, we always eat breakfast with Azul. He gets all pouty when we don’t!” Floyd said, poking Azul’s cheek when he flushed.

“Floyd, stop it.” Azul grumbled as Jade chuckled.

Cater hummed lightly.

“You three have been friends for a long time huh?” Cater asked as the trio turned his way.

“Since childhood.” Azul stated.

“Yeah, Azul’s been our crybaby since we were kids.” Floyd said, throwing his arm around Azul’s shoulders.

“We were in the same class.” Jade agreed.

“I see. Cute little friendship story you got. It’s basically a Hallmark movie in the making.” Cater said with a wink.

“I assure you it’s not as charming as you think it is.” Azul said with a long suffering sigh.

“If that’s what you want to believe, that’s fine.” Cater said with a shrug.

Jade turned his attention to Cater and smiled.

“I am sure you have a story like this of your own.” Jade stated simply.

Cater paused, eying the three of them thoughtfully before he smiled. It was unnerving.

“Unfortunately, not everyone gets the same story you three did.” Cater replied.

It was then the bell rang and Cater stood up.

“Sorry to eat and jet, but I got Trein first period! Later gators!” Cater said with a wink.

He was gone before anyone could reply and Azul was left slightly more baffled than before.

–sSs–

A: I think I have an answer.

C: (Eyes emoji) Oh? For what?

A: Your clone question.

C: Oh lay it on me then (Excited face)

A: Ten.

C: Oh? (Eyes emoji) How’d you come up with that number?

A: I went back through every post on your MagiCam and counted how many clones I could find. The most I could find at any time was eight, but I figured ten was a good even number. So the answer is ten. (Smirking face)

C: Ohhh! Good thinking! 

C: But no.

C: It’s not ten.

A: (Confused face) You can make more than ten?

C: Eeyup! Good guess though! (Thumbs up)

Azul stared at his phone, blinking. Jade and Floyd, reading over his shoulders, looked at each other.

“He can make more than ten? I thought ten would be stretching it.” Jade said, rubbing his chin.

“Snapper could make his own basketball team!” Floyd gasped in awe.

“Solid clones, each with their own solid form and ability to think for themselves.” Azul muttered.

“That seems…” Jade trailed off.

“Wack.” Floyd agreed.

Azul leaned back in his seat. If they didn’t go to school with Malleus and Leona, he might have said this was the most dangerous spell on campus.

“So he can make more than ten. Twenty? Thirty? That seems almost impossible.” Azul grumbled.

“He could be pulling your leg.” Floyd said, scratching the inside of his ear with his pinkie.

Azul nodded. That was also a possibility. Cater could be just pulling him along for fun.

A: And how do I know you aren’t lying?

The three dots appeared and disappeared a few times, making Azul nervous. After all, he was basically calling Cater out. He had no idea how Cater would react to that. Finally, Azul’s phone buzzed.

C: I could be (Wink face)

C: But in the end

C: If you can’t trust me

C: Then what’s the point?

Azul paused as Jade hummed.

“He has a point.” Jade muttered.

“No friendship is without trust of some kind.” Azul stated with a sigh.

“Even still, trust is a lot to ask for.” Jade admitted.

“Especially so soon.” Azul muttered.

“He has not shown any reason to trust him.” Jade said.

“But I was the one to approach him and I will need his trust to get the information I want.” Azul sighed.

Floyd yawned loudly and smacked his lips as he listened to them go back and forth for a while. Eventually, he rolled his eyes before he reached over and grabbed the phone, much to Azul’s confusion.

“Floyd! What are you doing!” Azul demanded, trying to get the phone back, only for Floyd to hold him back with his super long arms.

He typed out a quick message before sending it and dropping it back into Azul’s hands.

“There!” Floyd said pleased, beaming.

Azul and Jade both stared at him and then looked at the phone. The message was simple.

A: The point is seeing if you want to trust me.

Azul and Jade blinked, startled. The phone was silent for a long time before Cater replied.

C: Wanting to trust someone and knowing how are two different things. 

Azul’s eyebrows hit his hairline. Was Cater admitting he didn’t trust anyone?

A: That’s quite a bold thing to tell someone.

A: Esp someone attempting to befriend you

C: But if I am straight up with it, you can just stop playing and move on.

Azul’s eyes narrowed. Stop playing. Interesting choice of words.

A: You and I seem to think along the same lines.

A: I cannot tell if that is a good or a bad thing.

C: Guess we’ll find out. (Wink face)

–sSs–

If Azul was going to be honest, he wasn’t sure how he was going to gain this trust that Cater seemed to be looking for. Azul had only ever trusted three people his whole life: Jade, Floyd and his own mother. The twins had been somewhat easy to gain the trust of. They were predators and saw nothing to fear from him, plus he was entertaining to them. That worked in his favor. His mother was a long childhood of love and attention. To be put in a position where he had to gain the trust of another after so long was a bit uncomfortable, but one he needed to do. So he started simple.

Cater glanced up when Azul sat before him in the cafeteria and placed a bag of chips before him.

“Hm? What’s this? A bribe?” Cater teased lightly.

“Hm something like that. Just a little token of my friendship. Enjoy.” Azul said sweetly.

Cater hummed and glanced at the chips before pausing.

“Wait wait wait? Are these the new Super Hot Mega Spice Chips! #Noway!” Cater gasped as he grabbed the bag.

“Correct!” Azul said pleasantly.

“These aren’t even on shelves yet!” Cater said in awe.

Azul chuckled as he adjusted his glasses.

“Yes, well I have certain connections in the food industry. So enjoy!” Azul stated.

Cater was quick to rip the bag open and grab a chip. He popped it into his mouth and chewed with delight, his face flushing from the spice and heat.

“Hmmm! They are so spicy!” Cater said, eyes watering as he grabbed another.

Azul wiggled his nose.

“I can smell the spice from here. How can you handle such a thing?” Azul asked.

“It’s because I built up a tolerance! Sevens, these are so good! Quick here!” Cater shoved his phone into Azul’s hands, who almost dropped it before he looked at Cater confused.

“What am I supposed to do with this?” Azul asked.

“Take a picture! My followers will flip when they see this!” Cater said as he grabbed another chip.

Azul blinked and looked down at the phone before holding it up. He was about to take the picture when Cater sighed.

“No, no! Not like that! Angle it this way!” Cater gave him a few more directions before he was satisfied and Azul took the picture.

Azul handed the phone back and Cater eyed it before he nodded.

“Excellent! My followers are tots gonna lose their minds over this!” Cater said as he posted it with a few tags to his account.

“Well, I am pleased to be of service.” Azul said as Cater ate another chip.

Cater eyed Azul before putting the bag down.

“So, while I’m not mad about the chips, what do you want for them?” Cater asked.

“Simple, another tit for tat. If you have the time.” Azul explained.

Cater smiled.

“Well, I don’t have class for the rest of the day. Though I’m sure you knew that. But hey, I always enjoy a game. So who wants to go first?” Cater asked.

“I will. My favorite food is fried chicken.” Azul replied.

“Ohh? Starting with food, huh? Fine. Mine’s Spicy Ramen. Also, I hate sweets of any kind.” Cater said.

“Hm, interesting based on your dorm.” Azul said.

“I know right? Tots ironic.” Cater chuckled.

“Well, I don’t care much about healthy food. Vegetables and the like.” Azul wiggled his nose at the thought.

Cater snickered.

“Ok, ok, one of my hobbies is skateboarding.” Cater replied.

“Coin collecting. It started when I was young. My grandfather collected them first. I got his collection when he passed on.” Azul explained.

“Oh, you know, that makes sense! I play guitar, hence why I joined the Pop Music Club!” Cater stated.

“Oh, you know. I remember walking by your classroom one night and I thought I saw you playing. I started the Board Game Club because I find them fascinating and wanted to see who else would join me.” Azul sighed.

“The only one in that club with you is Idia, right?” Cater said.

Azul huffed and crossed his arms.

“He is, when I can drag him from his dorm. Thankfully I have Ortho that helps me.” Azul sighed.

Cater laughed.

“Yeah, our resident gremlin isn’t great about being in public!” Cater said.

“He often complains that you try to hang out with him.” Azul said with a raised eyebrow.

“Aww, he talks about me! That’s sweet. Yeah, I maybe kind of an asshole about it, but Ortho always talks about him wanting Idia to have more friends so.” Cater shrugged.

“Oh? Ortho talks to you about Idia?” Azul asked curiously.

Cater smiled mysteriously.

“You’d be shocked what people are willing to tell me.” Cater winked.

Azul paused and frowned. Admittedly, he was right. Azul was doing the exact same thing right now! It was then two shadows appeared behind Azul and he mentally sighed. Looked like this game was over.

“Yo! Jade, Floyd, classes done for today?” Cater asked.

“Yeah, finally.” Floyd slumped in his seat.

“Good afternoon, Cater.” Jade said with a nod.

“Oof, rough day, huh Floyd?” Cater asked.

“Ughhh, it’s all so boring!” Floyd whined, laying his head on the table.

“Floyd, remember your manners.” Azul snapped, but Floyd ignored him.

“Yeah, I feel you on that. It sucks when nothing they talk about keeps your interest.” Cater said as he started to scroll on his phone.

“See! Snapper gets it!” Floyd whined, pointing.

Cater laughed.

“Classes can be so fucking boring. Like yeah, I can memorize all these dates or whatevas, but like is it actually going to do anything for me? Nah.” Cater said.

“Right? And like what do I need to know human dates for? Not like they teach anything from under the sea.” Floyd muttered as he crossed his arms and rested his head on them.

“The school’s curriculum is rather biased.” Azul admitted.

“You really only learn about under the sea history if you take that one course.” Jade nodded.

“Oof yeah! And even then that history as we know it is pretty shaky.” Cater stated.

Azul raised an eyebrow.

“You took that course?” Azul asked curiously.

“Oh yeah! I’ve even been to that museum everyone talks about. Maybe for an amazing photo op!” Cater said with his classic salute.

“What was your favorite exhibit?” Jade asked.

“Oh, they were having a huge event about the mermaid who married a human. I really enjoyed that.” Cater said.

“That is a rather popular event. They bring it back every few years or so.” Azul admitted.

“I remember seeing it when we were young. Didn’t really get the big deal about it.” Floyd huffed.

“It didn’t make much sense to me either as a child. After all, the princess had everything she could ever want. Why give that up?” Jade asked.

“I believe the worst part of that story is the fact that the princess changed who she was to appease that prince. I mean, really? What are we teaching the future generations?” Azul said with a huff.

Cater smiled thoughtfully.

“Well, in the long run of things, it’s better to change and have someone than stay the same and have no one.” Cater stated.

The trio blinked at him as he got up.

“Gotta go! See you guys later!” Cater walked off and Azul tilted his head to the side.

“That was…” Azul trailed off.

“Concerning.” Jade said.

“Creepy.” Floyd replied.

–sSs–

A: You know

A: I am starting to wonder if you just like messing with me.

C: (Eyes emoji) Oh?

C: What have I done to bring that on?

Azul scowled.

A: That last MagiCam post. 

A: You made 11 clones just to mock me

A: Didn’t you?

C: (Crying laughing face)

C: Maybe~

Azul was about to throw his phone, but held off.

A: I don’t like being mocked.

C: Really?

C: But you let Floyd and Jade do it (Thoughtful face)

Azul paused and rubbed his forehead.

A: Getting them to stop is like trying to change the tide. (Wave emoji)

A: Impossible

A: Believe me, I’ve tried

C: They can do it, but I can’t? (Crying face)

Azul sighed and leaned his head back in his seat.

A: Fine, fine. 

A: You can too.

C: (Fireworks) Yay~

A: But does that mean I get to tease you in turn? (Thoughtful face)

C: Sure.

C: There’s nothing you can say I haven’t heard already (Ear emoji)

A: So you know how people see you? And you aren’t bothered by it?

The three dots popped up and disappeared a few times before Cater replied.

C: To be bothered by it, I would have to care what they think.

C: If they want to see me as some fake, wannabe influencer, then go ahead.

C: Nothing I do is going to change that in the long run

C: So why bother?

Azul paused and read over the words again, thoughtfully. He had heard Vil use that exact same line in reference to Cater, so at the very least, Cater remembered them. Azul was careful with his next text.

A: What if those words were coming from someone like Trey?

A: Or Riddle?

Again, the three dots appeared and disappeared a few times.

C: You act like they haven’t said those words before. (Crying laughing face)

C: Trey has said it to my face before.

Azul was thrown off. Trey? As in Trey Clover? Cater’s best friend? He had said something so horrible to Cater’s face?

A: And you’re fine with that? (Shocked face)

C: Like I said

C: If that’s all they want to see me as

C: Then why bother?

Azul attempted to text Cater a few more times after that, but the messages went unread.

–sSs–

“I think I figured it out.” Azul said the next day.

Cater raised an eyebrow as Azul approached him in the hallway.

“Oh? Figured what out?” Cater asked curiously.

“The number of clones you can make.” Azul said with a smirk.

Cater chuckled and waved him along. They started to walk, heading towards the courtyard.

“Alright, shoot! Lay it on me!” Cater said, doing finger guns.

“Sixteen.” Azul said proudly.

Cater stopped, face falling in confusion.

“Huh?” Cater asked.

“Sixteen. The number is sixteen.” Azul said with a nod.

Cater tilted his head to the side as he brought his phone up to cover the bottom half of his face.

“Alright, how’d you come to that number?” Cater asked.

“The playing card on your dorm uniform. It’s a four of diamonds. Four diamonds, each with four points, so sixteen. So, did I get it?” Azul asked.

Cater stared at him, eyes thoughtful for the longest time before he chuckled and shook his head.

“I can’t believe you got it.” Cater muttered.

Azul lit up like a christmas tree.

“That’s it? That’s the correct answer?” Azul asked excitedly.

“Eeyup. The total number is sixteen.” Cater said, nodding.

“Wow, I didn’t actually expect that to work.” Azul said, giddy.

“Yeah, me neither.” Cater admitted.

“Have you ever tried to make more?” Azul asked.

“Did once. Ended up waking up several hours later. Tots wiped myself out.” Cater admitted, twirling his hair.

They came upon the courtyard, where Trey and Riddle were standing nearby. For a moment, Cater paused in his steps, staring at the two before he shook his head.

“Well! You know what this means!” Cater said, turning to Azul.

Azul blinked. 

“No?” Azul muttered.

Cater threw an arm around his shoulders and pulled him close.

“We need a commemorative picture to celebrate!” Cater said brightly.

“Eh!” Azul said with a flush as he was pulled close to Cater’s side.

“Come on! Just one! I promise it will be quick.” Cater winked his way and Azul sighed.

“Alright, but just one.” Azul muttered as he reached up to adjust his glasses.

“Just one! Ok, say clones!” Cater grinned brightly and Azul tried to smile, but he was sure it came out shaky.

Cater pulled away as soon as it was over and smiled. Azul, curious, peeked over his shoulder as he posted it to his MagiCam. The tags were pretty basic, but the description read “Made a new friend 2day!” Azul liked it.

“Cater?” the two looked up as Riddle and Trey came over.

“Hey guys!” Cater said with a wave.

“Good afternoon, Trey, Riddle.” Azul replied.

Trey was looking between them with a furled brow. Riddle didn’t seem bothered.

“I hope you both are enjoying this beautiful day.” Riddle said with a small smile.

“We are! Ain’t that right, Azul?” Cater asked, looking at Azul.

“Yes, Cater and I were just going for a walk along the grounds.” Azul agreed.

“You two seem to be getting along. I would not have expected that.” Trey said curiously.

“I decided to branch out a bit. Make new friends with people from other dorms outside my own.” Azul replied.

Trey hummed, as if he didn’t buy it.

“Aw, Trey-kun, why are you making that face?” Cater whined.

“Cater, I just hope you aren’t using Azul for some test answers or something.” Trey said calmly.

Immediately Riddle’s face started to turn red.

“Cater Diamond! You better not be using another housewarden to make up for your poor grades!” Rioddle snapped angrily.

Azul’s eyebrows shot up to his hairline. He eyed Cater out of the corner of his eye, but Cater’s face didn’t change much. His eyes, however…

“I’m shocked you two would make such baseless assumptions about us.” Azul said, arms crossed.

“Eh?” Trey muttered, startled.

“What do you mean, Azul?” Riddle asked, face returning to its normal color.

“I will have you know, I was the one to approach Cater, not the other way around. It has come to my attention that my relationships at NRC have been… lacking. Therefore, I approached Cater because I believe he could help me connect with other students. He has even been teaching me texting lingo.” Azul said as he adjusted his glasses.

Cater seemed just as startled before he smiled and threw an arm around Azul’s shoulders again.

“He’s a sups quick study! I don’t think I have much more to teach you, young grasshopper.” Cater said with a laugh.

Azul flushed a bit, but didn’t pull away. Trey and Riddle seemed startled, like they weren’t sure what to say.

“I see… I apologize then, Cater.” Riddle said with a flush, coughing into his fist.

“I’m sorry too. I didn’t mean to think the worst in you.” Trey said, shoulders slumping.

“Hey, hey, hey! It’s no big deal! Don’t even worry about it.” Cater pulled away and Azul watched as Cater easily played off the insults like it meant nothing.

After a few more words, Riddle and Trey walked off as Cater promised not to miss a house meeting tonight. Yet even as they left, Azul watched as Trey turned his head and frowned, seemingly staring at Cater with longing. That was something that Azul mentally made a note of before turning back to Cater.

“Are you alright?” Azul asked as they started to walk again.

“Hm? Who? Me?” Cater asked, pointing to himself.

“Yes. They were rather rude to you.” Azul stated.

“Mah, don’t worry about it, Azul!” Cater said, waving him off.

Azul hummed, but wasn’t convinced. He let it go, for now at least.

–sSs–

From there on out, Azul took his chance to hang out with Cater when he had a few moments free. Cater seemed to accept this change with no issues, often showing Azul some of his favorite places to go. Including, much to Azul’s confusion and terror, the top of the Astronomy Tower.

“Not a fan of heights huh?” Cater asked as he lounged on the windowsill while Azul sat farther away.

“I grew up in the ocean! There are no heights there!” Azul said with a flush.

Cater just shot him a wink as he scrolled on his phone, one leg hanging outside the window, kicking back and forth.

“If you never face your fears, they will always control you.” Cater said wisely.

“Another movie quote?” Azul said with a sigh.

“Right on the mark! You’re getting better at picking them out.” Cater laughed.

“You quote them often enough.” Azul grumbled.

“I like movies.” Cater shrugged.

Azul hummed and crossed his arms.

“I heard you say that you had seen every one of Vil’s movies once. Is that true?” Azul asked curiously.

“Oh, I have.” Cater replied, going back to his phone.

“Hasn’t he been in like a hundred movies?” Azul asked, confused.

“Ah, not exactly a hundred, but a lot. What can I say? I really like movies.” Cater said.

“Or you just really like Vil.” Azul stated.

Cater stopped scrolling and Azul paused before his eyes got wide.

“Wait… you actually like Vil?” Azul asked.

Cater chuckled.

“Yeah. It’s stupid right?” Cater muttered.

“Y-You like like Vil.” Azul said in awe.

“Like like? What are we, middle schoolers?” Cater said with a giggle.

Azul huffed and moved a bit closer.

“You know what I mean!” Azul said.

“Ok, yeah. I did like like Vil. I was over the moon when I realized we were going to end up at the same school, but we all know how well that went. Whoop whoop.” Cater said, twirling a lock of his hair.

Azul sat back and frowned. He knew how Vil acted towards Cater. When it came to venom, Vil could spit it better than any poisonous snake, but even still, he could understand why Vil had reacted in such a way. Cater could be annoying when he wanted to be.

“There is still a chance. Maybe if you just approach him differently?” Azul asked.

Cater laughed and reached over to mess up his hair. Azul squawked and pulled back, trying to fix his hair and glasses.

“My junior is so cute! Giving your upperclassmen love advice now?” Cater said with a wink.

“I’m being serious!” Azul snapped.

Cater sighed and leaned back.

“As am I. I told you before, didn’t I?” Cater asked seriously and Azul blinked.

If he was thinking back to their text messages, then Azul understood what Cater meant. If that’s all people wanted to see, then Cater wasn’t going to try and change their minds.

“Still…” Azul grumbled.

“Sometimes… people can’t change their minds. That’s ok.” Cater said softly.

Azul looked at him before they turned their attention to the sky beyond the window.

–sSs–

If Azul had assumed his friendship with Cater was going to stay under the radar and no one would care, he couldn’t have been more wrong. One morning, while waiting for Cater at their usual table, Azul blinked as Ace and Deuce slid across from him, arms crossed.

“Ace, Deuce. Can I help you both?” Azul asked sweetly.

The two glared at him.

“I don’t know what you are planning, but cut it out.” Ace demanded.

“Yeah!” Deuce agreed.

Azul stared at them, eyebrow raised.

“And what am I cutting out, exactly?” Azul asked lightly.

“Hang out with Cater-senpai!” Deuce snapped.

“Yeah, we know you are up to something, so leave him alone!” Ace yelled.

Azul rested his head on his fist.

“You believe I am using Cater?” Azul asked.

“Yeah!” the two replied.

“And you believe Cater is foolish enough to fall for it?” Azul asked with a smile.

“Yeah!” Deuce said, but Ace paused.

“Like you two did?” Azul chuckled.

“Yeah!... Wait.” Deuce looked at Ace, who sighed and covered his eyes with his hand.

“I see.” Azul replied amused.

Ace scowled at him.

“Listen, I don’t know what your game is, but leave Cater-senpai alone!” Ace demanded.

A shadow came over the two and Deuce blinked before turning. His eyes got wide.

“Uh Ace?” Deuce called.

“You may have everyone fooled with your new good guy persona, but I don’t buy it!” Ace continued.

“Ace?” Deuce called again.

“Shut it, Deuce, I’m on a roll! So you better leave Cater-senpai alone or you and I can meet in the hallway!” Ace finished.

A hand was placed on Ace’s shoulder, who paused before looking behind him. Cater’s smiling face was all he saw.

“C-Cater-senpai.” Ace mumbled.

“Aww, look at my two freshies, Azul! They are all cute and protective!” Cater said, a sickening sweet smile on his face.

Deuce was sweating like a sinner in church, staring at the table while Ace scowled.

“They are very cute, Cater.” Azul stated.

“Of course, threatening a housewarden is sups against the rules! I hope you two don’t mind that I recorded that and sent it to Riddle!” Cater said, just as the door burst open and Riddle came storming in, face blood red.

“ACE! DEUCE!” Riddle roared.

About twenty minutes later and two shaky apologies from the duo, Cater and Azul were able to sit down and have their meal.

“Well, that was fun~” Cater said with a snicker.

“Quite amusing. I do find it funny that they assumed I had tricked you into something.” Azul stated.

Cater laughed.

“I’m sure they are just upset about the whole contacts thing.” Cater replied.

Azul paused. It was the first time they had even come close to the day he overblotted. Cater had never mentioned it and Azul had kept the whole situation close to his chest. Azul eyed him and sighed.

“Truly not one of my finest moments.” Azul grumbled, playing with his food.

“I’m sure.” Cater replied.

Azul stared at him.

“Are you going to ask me about it?” Azul asked.

Cater frowned.

“Why? I don’t see a reason to.” Cater replied.

“Oh? Why not?” Azul asked.

Cater hummed and leaned back.

“I was there the day Riddle overblotted. Same for Leona. If your’s was anything like their’s, then it’s a huge source of shame and embarrassment.” Cater explained.

Cater eyed him.

“Besides, DT told me enough. I don’t need to know more.” Cater finished.

Azul stared at him, startled before he nodded and smiled.

“Thank you. I appreciate your understanding.” Azul admitted.

Cater threw up his salute and laughed.

“No worries here!”

–sSs–

Azul sighed and crossed his arms. It was a gloomy, rainy Sunday. He had been finishing up some last minute ordering for the Lounge when he got a message from Cater.

C: Feel like meeting in the libs? 

C: Could use some help with some homework.

Azul raised an eyebrow. That was rather random. They usually didn’t meet on the weekends and this was the first time Cater had come out and asked for his help with homework. He wondered if everything was ok.

A: I can meet you there shortly

Azul frowned when all he got was a thumbs up emoji in reply. Standing up from his desk, he gathered his stuff before leaving his office. The twins, in the middle of doing their Sunday check over, looked up.

“Everything ok, Azul?” Jade asked.

“I am fine. Cater asked if we could meet up. I am going to meet him in the library.” Azul replied.

“Oh, can we come with?” Floyd asked.

Azul frowned and eyed his phone. He wasn’t sure how Cater would feel if he invited the twins along, but it seemed like Floyd was coming whether or not he said yes.

“Let me let Cater know first.” Azul said.

A: The twins wish to come is that ok?

A long time passed before Cater replied.

C: Sure!

C: The more the merrier! (Peace sign)

“Cater said it’s fine. Let’s go.” Azul stated.

Stopping briefly to gather their school bags, the trio managed to get to the library without being soaked to the bone. Inside, it was almost eerie. There didn’t seem to be anyone else in there and when they finally found Cater at a table in the back, he didn’t seem to be working. In fact, he didn’t seem to be doing anything at all.

Leaning on a stack of books, Cater’s eyes seemed to be staring off at something only he could see. Even his phone was off to the side, turned with the screen face down. Cater blinked and glanced at them as they got closer.

“Ah, the party has arrived huh? Excellent!” Cater said with a smile that didn’t reach his eyes.

Azul’s eyes trailed over the various books he had spread across the table. Many of them were about the same topic.

“I see you have a paper due for Trein next week, hm?” Azul said as he sat down, the twins on either side of him.

“Yeah. It’s really been kicking my butt, but gotta get it done. Figured I would do a better job if I had someone to keep me on track.” Cater said, rubbing his face.

Azul frowned at him. He seemed tired.

“Are you sure you don’t want someone to goof off with?” Jade teased.

There was a pause where Cater’s eyes flashed to Jade and briefly, a flash of disgust crossed Cater’s face before it evened out.

“I actually was asking for help, but if you are going to mock me for it, then maybe I shouldn’t have bothered.” Cater said coldly.

Jade blinked, startled. Azul frowned and eyed Jade out of the corner of his eye.

“He did ask me for help, Jade. If I knew you were going to be rude, I wouldn’t have brought you along.” Azul replied.

Jade frowned, sensing he had overstepped some kind of boundary.

“My apologies then.” Jade said sincerely.

Cater rolled his eyes and looked away.

“Whatevas. Not like you’re the first one. Won’t be the last either.” Cater replied boredly.

“I am assuming Trey blew you off again?” Azul asked.

“Like always.” Cater admitted.

Azul scowled before turning his attention back to the books before Cater.

“Let’s at least see what you have done and where we can go from here.” Azul said.

Cater handed over his notes and Azul glanced them over before nodding.

“You have a solid understanding from what I see here. Just having trouble putting it into words?” Azul asked.

“Words are hard.” Cater whined, laying his head on the book before him.

“I would have to agree, but I am sure we can figure this out together.” Azul said.

“Thanks. I appreciate the help.” Cater muttered.

About an hour later, Cater’s report was done and the twins had finished what little homework they had brought. As the hour had gone on, Cater’s phone had periodically gone off, but Cater had ignored it, much to Azul’s confusion. It seemed to him that someone was trying to get in contact with Cater, but Cater was ignoring them.

“It’s really coming down out there.” Floyd muttered as they finished putting the books back and got ready to go.

“Man, what a miserable day.” Cater sighed as lightning lit up the sky outside the windows.

As he said that, his phone started to vibrate as if he was getting a call. With a scowl, Cater put to voicemail and shoved the phone into his pocket. Azul frowned.

“Is everything ok?” Azul asked.

“Hm? Oh, yeah. It’s just Trey.” Cater shrugged.

“He’s been trying to contact you for a while. Is everything ok?” Azul asked.

The twins drifted off, probably to give the two some space. Cater rubbed the back of his neck and scowled.

“We got into a fight.” Cater admitted.

“A fight?” Azul asked.

Cater sighed deeply.

“My grades slipped a bit. Riddle wasn’t happy about it. I tried to explain that it was fine, I could bring them back up, but neither of them would listen.” Cater shook his head angrily.

Azul listened as he crossed his arms.

“I’m sure they are just concerned about you, Cater. They are your friends.” Azul said.

Something seemed to snap in Cater and Cater glared at him.

“They are NOT my friends.” Cater snapped angrily.

Azul blinked, startled by the aggression. Cater let out a sigh and looked away.

“I’m gonna head out.” Cater said, but Azul quickly grabbed his wrist.

“Cater wait.” Azul held his wrist and Cater looked back at him.

There was a moment where everything was quiet before Cater chuckled.

“You really are a softy at heart, huh?” Cater asked.

Azul blinked as Cater turned and smiled at him, the frustration and anger was gone. He looked as cool as a cucumber. 

“Cater?” Azul muttered as Cater pulled his hand away.

“Look, Azul, while I appreciate your concern about my relationships, you don’t have to worry about it, ok?” Cater stated.

Azul’s brow furled.

“What do you mean by that?” Azul asked.

Cater shrugged as he pulled his phone out and idly started to play with it.

“Not like any of them are that important.” Cater replied.

Azul froze, mouth dropping open.

“W-What?” Azul muttered.

“Yeah, you know how it is. I mean, they’ll all be over by the end of his year anyway, so why am I getting myself all worked up? It’s #stupid. Am I right?” Cater chuckled humourlessly.

“Over? Why would they be over?” Azul asked.

Cater looked at him funny.

“Well, after I leave school, it’s not like anyone is going to keep in contact with me. I mean, we’ll all go our own separate ways and then poof! It will all go up in smoke.” Cater stated.

“So you think that Trey and Riddle will just never speak to you again?” Azul asked, confused.

“Well, duh. Not like they’ll have a reason to.” Cater said.

“You wouldn’t keep in contact with them? Or try to?” Azul asked.

“Why bother?” Cater shrugged again.

“Seems rather lonely if you ask us.” Floyd said as he and Jade appeared again.

Cater gave a half smile as lightning flashed.

“Well, lonely is what I know.” Cater replied.

“I’m sure Trey would try to keep in contact with you.” Azul said.

“Oh, he might try. I’ll give him that. He’s stubborn, but eventually, he’ll get too busy or forget or just decide it’s not worth it. Like most people do.” Cater said.

“So that’s it? You are just going to let the friendships you have here die? Without even trying?” Azul asked, annoyed.

Cater frowned.

“I moved every two years growing up.” Cater declared.

“Huh?” Floyd replied.

“Every two years, a new town, new house and new school. And every two years, like clockwork, I would have to start over again from scratch. Let me tell you, I got really good at packing and being quick about it. Oh, I tried to hold on to the old friendships, I really did, but promises to keep in touch or visit eventually faded out and I was left with nothing. So I learned not to bother. Changed my phone number every time I moved so no one could contact me. Made it easy on everyone involved.” Cater explained coldly.

Azul and the twins were shocked. They could only imagine how lonely that was. Seeing their faces, Cater smirked.

“I told you, not everyone gets the Hallmark story like you three have.” Cater stated.

“Cater.” Azul muttered.

Azul paused before speaking again.

“And what of our friendship?” Azul asked.

Cater stated at him and there was something so sad about it.

“When you first approached me, I was mostly curious. I mean, I heard about your little accident from the braindead duo, so I figured you needed to reinvent yourself and get information. It was basically the only reason I can see you approaching me out of everyone.” Cater shrugged.

“And you believe because of that, I would abandon you as soon as you left school?” Azul asked.

“Azul, you would probably abandon me next week. I’m not stupid enough to believe differently.” Cater replied.

Azul paused, staring Cater down.

“You know, my mother wants to meet the charming new friend I met at school. She’s been mentioning you stopping by during the spring break.” Azul stated.

Cater stopped, staring at him with wide eyes.

“You… talked to your mom about me?” Cater asked.

“Of course. She wants to meet you. She wants to show you our restaurant and show you what kind of spices we have under the sea.” Azul stated with a nod.

Cater lowered his phone to his side, seeming startled by the information.

“I have never introduced her to anyone else besides the twins, so she is very excited. I do hope you won’t let her down.” Azul explained.

“Yeah, don’t let Mama Celeste down!” Floyd said.

“She would be very upset.” Jade agreed.

“So our friendship cannot end until you meet her and that is final. Do you understand?” Azul demanded.

Cater was quiet for the longest time before he smiled.

“Well, who am I to say no? Sure, I’ll meet her.” Cater replied.

Azul nodded before he walked over and linked arms with cater.

“We should return to our dorms before the storm gets too bad.” Azul said.

Cater smiled and nodded.

“Yeah. Let’s.”

–sSs–

“Hmmm! Mama Celeste, this is amazing!” Cater said between mouthfuls.

Celeste Ashengrotto floated over and smiled.

“Happy to hear it, hun. I am glad one of my son’s friends likes spices. I never get a chance to use them.” she said sweetly.

“Mom!” Azul whined with a flush.

“Well, if you ever need a taste tester, just call ole Cay-Cay!” Cater nodded with eagerness.

“I will be sure to do that. Azul, you be sure to bring your friend by more often.” Celeste ordered.

Azul glanced at Cater and smiled.

“Don’t worry. I will.”