Archive of Our Own

Yahaba’s eyes stung and his nose inched at the smell of dust.

His Mother had tasked him to clean out his grandparents' old attic before they listed the house for sale. Looking around it was clear that everything in here was decades old. He ran his hands over a box to remove the dust, finding it labeled as ‘photos.’ He opened the box and found many old Candi photos, some of which were from his grandparents' younger days.

A creak of wood got his attention. He turned around to find his sister Suki poking her head through the door.

“Jesus—Cough— it's dusty up here, you gonna be okay? You have a shit ton of allergies.” She asked.

Yahaba closed the box. “I’ll be alright, if anything I can swap out with Himari if I’m desperate.”

“Alright… hey, holler if you find anything cool, like a treasure map or something!”

“Yeah, like I’m going to find anything up here.”

Suki only chuckled as she climbed down the latter.

Yahaba sighed, dusting off his hands as he sat back on his heels. His grandparents’ attic was a mess, filled with decades’ worth of forgotten relics, from moth-eaten coats to stacks of yellowed newspapers. The summer heat made the air thick and musty, and cobwebs clung to the wooden beams like ghosts of memories long past.

He started in a secluded corner. finding old record tapes, and old novels. Most of it was junk, but occasionally, he found something interesting like a faded photo album, or an old pocket watch. But nothing that was worth keeping.

He continued to look around. Mainly for some kind of light switch but he wasn’t having much luck. He pushed around a couple boxes. And something caught his attention. A suitcase, leathered and oddly… clean

No dust, no tears, nothing that showed it was ever used for travel. Yahaba walked over and got on his knees as he laid the case down flat. It felt light, meaning there was probably nothing inside. But his curiosity peaked considering how pristine the suitcase was. He unzipped the suitcase and threw it open, and in return a gust of wind blew in his face. Yahaba coughed a bit before opening his eyes, what was inside the suitcase made his breath hitch…

Stairs

Stone stairs that seemed to ascend down forever. Yahaba blinked and rubbed his eyes, but the stairs in the suitcase remained. Curious, he reached out and touched the steps. Cool, real…

His hand instantly jerked back, this couldn’t be real. Suitcases didn’t have stairs in them! He should just close the suitcase and forget what he just saw, but something about this odd phenomenon… made him want to go down the steps.

He quickly shook his head at that thought. He shouldn’t, this was insane… but something in his head, a voice of sorts told him to go down… He stood up and dusted his pants off. He swallowed the lump in his throat before taking a step forward, then another, and then another.

The steps were firm, real. The descent was eerily silent, The attic’s warm, dusty air was replaced by a strange stillness, as if the stairway belonged to a different world entirely. A faint hum vibrated in the air, almost like whispers brushing against the back of his mind.

He looked back up, still seeing the entrance from which he came. A chill went down his spine, and quickly he turned back to ascend the steps, “SUKI!” He called, his voice echoing

but he heard a crack… a crack of stone.

He looked down only to see the steps crumbling below him. Yahaba gasped, reaching out for balance, but the stairs beneath his feet collapsed all at once, shattering like brittle bones. His stomach lurched as he plummeted into the abyss below.

He screamed, though he was sure no one could hear him now. He frantically looked around, trying to find something. But all he could see was the black abyss, and he was falling at an alarming rate. He managed to flip around, Only to see he was coming close to stone ground. he shut his eyes tight, arms covering his face, expecting a harsh landing that would probably kill him.

Instead he landed on something… soft.

He opened his eyes, only to be met with clear blue sky’s. His fingers twitched, brushing against delicate petals. A faint breeze carried the scent of flowers, thick and sweet.
His nose wrinkled.

“Achoo!”

The sneeze jolted him fully awake, and he sat up, blinking against the golden sunlight filtering through towering stalks of crimson poppies. His heart pounded in confusion. Hadn’t he fallen?

His hands trembled as he wiped pollen from his cheek, but then he froze.

His clothes.

His usual hoodie and jeans were gone, replaced by something entirely unfamiliar. A light blue blouse with ruffled sleeves, a high-collared sheer overlay cascading down like a coat. A black ribbon sat at his chest, tied neatly under a white flower pin. His shorts—if he could even call them that—were layered with frilly blue-and-white gingham ruffles, and a black belt cinched at his waist, heavy with buckles. The gloves on his hands were sheer black, dotted with tiny polka dots, delicate yet strangely ominous. Even his shoes had changed, black heels with striped socks bunched around his ankles.

He looked around, all he could see was long weirdly shaped trees, tangled together in some weird looking forest. The leaves were purple while the bark was a sea like blue. Where the hell has he landed?

A rustle of bushes caught his attention. He stiffened and turned to look behind him, waiting for whatever might come out of the woods. To his surprise though, it wasn’t a wild animal or anything remarkably scary.

A figure emerged from the trees, a humanoid figure to be specific. He was short, His skin was pale, his hair grey and buzzed. On top of his head was a top hat and… white bunny ears? Now that Yahaba see’s it, the man had a little poofy tail behind him. His top is fitted vest-style garment in a dark plaid pattern with a slightly asymmetrical hem. A key feature of the vest is the decorative pocket watch chain draped across the front. Underneath the vest, there’s a long-sleeved blouse with ruffled cuffs, a navy-blue velvet bow, which complements the vest perfectly. And simple black dress pants to go with it all.

The guy… rabbit… whatever he was, took the pocket watch across his chest and looked at the time. Before grumbling something under his breath and picking up his pace.
Yahaba scrambled to stand, “excuse me!” Yahaba called out, but the guy did stop. Yahaba made his way out of the poppy bed and briskly walked up to the guy. “Hey, I’m sorry but can I—“

“Nope, can’t talk, if I dilly dally any longer the king will for sure have my head!”

“King? What king?” Yahaba asked

“The king of hearts obviously! Now if you’ll excuse me I’m late! I’m late! I’m late!”

“B-But wait–” Yahaba stopped in his tracks as he saw the white rabbit guy briskly make his way through the forest. Yahaba’s worry only increased. Where the hell was he? This made no sense. He began walking again, looking around for some vantage point to give him some indication on where he was. But all he could see were the thick trees and blue sky above him.

“Poor boy, you seem lost.” Said a voice from above.

Yahaba sucked in a breath and turned to look at the figure up in one of the trees, draped lazily across a tree branch. The man’s jet-black hair curled slightly at the ends, framing a face partially obscured by a masquerade-style mask. His brown eyes gleamed with something unreadable, half-lidded like he had all the time in the world. Perched on his head were two purple cat ears, twitching ever so slightly.

His outfit was just as unusual, a deep purple blouse with a ruffled collar and billowy sleeves, tucked into a brown mesh skirt cinched at the waist by a black corset. His legs were covered in bold purple-and-black striped stockings, which disappeared into long black boots with a short heel. But the purple cat tail that swished lazily behind him? That was the strangest part of all.

“My my,” the guy drawled. “You clearly are not from here.”

“W-who are you?” Yahaba asked.

The man’s smile widened into a long sharp grin, far off to be called human, “in these parts they call me the Cheshire Cat, but you can have the privilege of calling me Mattsun.”

“Okay, Mattsun, can you—“

“Ah, ah, ah… I didn't get your name. I think it’s only fair that I did.”

Yahaba narrowed his eyes. “My name’s Yahaba.”

“Yahaba eh? I would’ve said you look more like Alice to me.” Mattsun teased.

Yahaba ignored the comment. “Can you tell me Where I am?”

“Why, you're in the wonderland of Sehjio boy.”

“Do you know how I can get back home?”

“Where exactly is home?” he asked with the tilt of his head.

“Not here! I-i found a suitcase in my grandparents attic that had stairs in it! I-I walked down the stairs and–”

“I see, so you're from a whole other world?”

Yahaba’s breath picked up speed. “How do I get out of this world!?”

“Now that’s a loaded question ain’t it.” He smiled before slowly disappearing until his grin remained. “Don’t get lost.” And poof, he was alone again.

Yahaba felt like screaming, one minute he was tasked with cleaning out his grandparents attic and now he's in some weird wonderland called Sehjio. Mattsun was no help, so now he had to continue on his own with no direction whatsoever!

He took a couple steps forward before another voice ran out, “Halt!”

Yahaba helped and turned to look behind him, were those… Playing cards!? The playing cards had thin arms and legs, hands holding spears with a heart shaped blade, they looked to be like some kind of guards. And they were not happy.

“I-I’m just trying to find my way home-“

“No outsiders are permitted in these parts! We shall take you to the king and he can deal with you accordingly.”

Yahaba stumbled as he broke into whatever sprint he could muster, running in clunky shoes wasn't easy. But he had to get away from the current humanoid playing cards chasing him. They were surprisingly fast too, Gaining up on Yahaba. Eventually Yahaba turned a blind eye and found a dead end. The main playing card spoke firmly.

“You are trespassing in the name of the king! You will come with us and we’ll—“ his voice was cut off when a sharp rock was thrown to his head, causing him to stumble and fall unconscious. The other playing cards quickly raised their weapons but a couple more were dispatched quickly a figure who was moving strangely elegantly, knocking the cards out with an elbow to the back of the head, or the hilt of whatever sword he was carrying also to the head… man the guy loved going for their heads.

Eventually all the cards were down, but the figure wasted no time in grabbing yahaba’s wrist and forcing him to follow as they ran into the dense forest.

“Hey! W-what gives!” Yahaba demanded.

“Quit talking and just move dammit!”

Yahaba’s eye twitched in annoyance, but complied anyway.

After running for what felt like forever, Yahaba caught his breath and demanded. “Who the hell are you!?”

The figure had a mask covering his lower face, along with a hood pulled over his head, so all Yahaba could make out were sharp amber eyes with a permanent glare staring at him.

He was wearing a long sleeve jacket with ornamental designs on the shoulder and sleeves, along with pants in the similar pattern. There was a purple sash tied around his waist with a belt that held the guy's sword, he wore black leather boots and was fairly tall, maybe an inch shorter than Yahaba.

“You're not from around here aren’t ya?” He asked.

Yahaba nodded, “I-I was just cleaning my grandparents attic when I found this suitcase with stairs, I walked down the stairs and somehow ended up here!” he explained once more.

“So… from what I’m picking up, you're from a whole different world?”

“I-I guess, b-but that’s not possible, it can’t be! T-there’s gotta be a way I can get home!”

“Where exactly is ‘home?’”

“HOME! Home is home! Not wherever this crazy place is!”

The man sighed, “Jesus, will ya calm down lassie? You are very loud.”

“WELL EXCUSE ME! I'M A LITTLE PANICKED RIGHT NOW!”

The guy mumbles something under his breath as he takes down his hood and mask. Yahaba felt his heart stop… the man was undeniably attractive. His hair was short, almost buzzed, blonde yet had 2 brown stripes wrapping around his skull. Almost like tiger stripes. His skin was slightly tan, and now that Yahaba paid more attention he was definitely built.

“Listen,” the man started. “I dunno how to help you, you’re clearly a foreigner from… some other world. And that’s not my field of expertise.”

Yahaba shook out of his trance. “Y-you’ve gotta know someone! Please… I have to go home.” His voice cracked, the worry and panic feeling slowly forming as tears. The weight of the whole situation coming down on him all at once.

The blonde guy paused for a moment, before taking a couple steps closer and lifting a hand to wipe the tears from Yahaba’s cheek. “Do people in your realm cry a lot?”

Yahaba felt his breath hitch, the guy's touch was surprisingly soft. He sniffled before speaking. “You have to help me, I’ll do anything.”

The blonde sighed as he pulled his hand back. “I know a guy who could possibly help”

Yahaba perked up. “Really? Who?”

“His name is Makki, or as people call him the Mad Hatter.”

“Mad Hatter?”

“He's a little crazy, a total wacko obsessed with tea but knows the ins and outs of Sehjio. He might have a clue that could help you.”

“Do you know where he is?”

“Sadly, yes.”

“Can you take me to him!?”

The blonde narrowed his eyes. “Listen, I saved you from being killed, I don’t—“

“Please?” Yahaba said with the most puppy eyes he could muster.

The guy sighed, “fine, fine, but I’m only helping you find Makki, after you're on your own.”

Yahaba smiled. “Oh, thank you! Thank you!”

The guy turned on his heels and began walking, Yahaba following close behind, “I don’t think I caught your name.” He asked the blonde

“Kyoutani, and you?”

“Yahaba.”

“Pleasures all mine.”
…
Eventually the 2 found a stone path that weaved through the forest. The color of said stones were oddly enough green, bright green In fact. Yahaba continued to look around and the different colored leaves on the contorting trucks and branches. Flowers bloomed everywhere as well. The breeze carried pollen through the air, which made Yahaba sneeze… a lot

“What's going on with you?” Kyoutani asked after Yahaba sneezed for the 4th time since they started walking.

“I’m allergic to pollen.” He said with a sniff, “irritates my sinuses.”

“And you have to live with that?”

“Unfortunately.”

“Man, it sucks to be you.” Kyoutani spoke with a slight chuckle.

“Gee, thanks.” The 2 continued in silence for a moment before Yahaba spoke up once more. “So, what’s your deal?”

“Pardon?”

“What do you do? So far I’ve met a white rabbit guy, a cat person, and living playing cards. So you’ve gotta be something interesting, right?”

“Well, sorry to disappoint but I’m just an ex bounty hunter.”

“Ex bounty hunter? For who?”

“King of hearts.”

Yahaba paused, so far the king of hearts seems like bad news from what he’s experienced already today. “Why leave?”

“Because, Oikawa’s a massive dictator and a huge bitch.”

Oikawa… so that was his actual name

“I see.” Yahaba said.

“What about you? What’s your deal back in your world?”

Yahaba thought for a moment. “I was just a regular 18 year old getting ready for starting my freshman year college in the fall.”

“Might I ask what that is?”

“Ya know… school? Where you learn things?”

Kyoutani shook his head, “we have nothing like that here.”

“So, how do you learn anything?”

“Dunno, this is Wonderland of Sehjio, lots of things happen here that are normal for us that are foreign to you.”

Yahaba sighed. “So, how long until we reach this… Mad Hatter?”

“We just have to cross a bridge that lies on the river,” he sighed. “Though twiddledumb and twiddledumbass might be there.”

Yahaba raised a brow “Huh?”

“Kunimi and Kindaichi, they guard the bridge, they both possess some odd magic, let's just say.”

“So… like wizards?”

“I guess, they work for the king.”

“Is everything dictated by this king?”

“Unfortunately yes, Oikawa has a power that no one can comprehend.”

Yahaba swallowed the lump in his throat, he hoped he didn’t have to run into the king anytime soon. Yahaba gaze fell to the side, looking at the many flowers coating the ground. Yahaba sneezed once more.

“Can you stop that?”

“No! I cannot.” he sneezed once more, then suddenly he felt a little… sleepy. A yawn escaped his lips before he could stop it.

Kyoutani raised a brow as he looked over at Yahaba. “You okay?”

“Yeah, just a little…” he swayed on his feet, before his eyes shut and was pulled into a deep slumber.
…
Yahaba stood in a black void of nothing, the air was chillingly cold. Yahaba could feel his anxiety creep up in his body. Where was Kyoutani? He could’ve sworn he was just walking alongside him.

“Kyoutani!” he called out, only to hear nothing in return.

Yahaba frantically looked around, seeing if he could spot something, anything.

“Kyoutani!” he tried again, nothing.

He hated this. Being alone, trapped, not knowing that was going on.

But just as his fear threatened to consume him, the void reacted. As if it had been waiting.

It started small. A distant hum, barely noticeable. Then, the hum grew into a low rumble, vibrating through his bones. Yahaba tensed, his breath hitching.

Then—

A deafening crack.

The sound shattered the silence like glass breaking against stone. Yahaba recoiled, a strangled breath escaping his throat. But before he could react, another crack rang out, splitting through the void like a whip. a deafening explosion of noise that crashed into him all at once. A cacophony of overlapping voices, screeching metal, distorted laughter, and the harsh crack of thunder all at once.

Yahaba clamped his hands over his ears, his breath coming out in a strangled gasp. His legs trembled, his heart hammering against his ribs like it wanted to break free. It was too much. The noise was everywhere, pressing into him, rattling his very soul.
The tears were already spilling, he didn’t try to stop them. It was loud, too loud…
…
Kyoutani cursed under his breath as he caught Yahaba in his arms, this wasn’t part of the plan. He looked around his surroundings and immediately found the problem. Clouds of faint yellow pollen drifted around them, shimmering in the sun. Kyoutani quickly pulled up his mask, blocking out the pollen effect. He should’ve known, nothing in Sehjio is easy. He knew exactly what was behind this, or rather who.

His sharp amber eyes scanned the trees, already narrowing. “Alright, you little bastard,” he called out, voice edged with irritation. “I know you’re here. Cut the shit and show yourself.”

Silence.

Then—a low, amused hum. From the branches above, a figure stretched leisurely, as if he had all the time in the world. “Oh, Kyoutani,” the voice drawled, light and teasing. “You wound me. Calling me out so rudely after all this time?”

Kyoutani looked up at the trees and found his problem, Yuda tilted his head in amusement as he sat on a branch, legs swinging lazily as he looked down at the duo. His hazel eyes gleamed with mischief. Short light brown hair framed his face, He wore a loose, off-shoulder white tunic with floral embroidery along the hem, cinched at the waist with a leafy sash. His pants were a deep green, flaring slightly at the ends.

“You don’t seem happy to see me?” Yuda drawled.

“Of course I'm not, your forest spirits are all annoying little assholes. Now, wake him up before I pull out my sword and do more damage than necessary.”

“Hmm, don’t feel like it. I don’t like outsiders in my forest.”

Kyoutani growled under his breath. “I know what your pollen does! Now wake him up before you ruin him!”

“I said, I don’t like outsiders…”

Kyoutani shifted Yahaba in his grip so he could grab his sword, but Yuda had other plans. With the flick of his wrist a vine shot out and wrapped around one of Kyoutani’s wrist and pulled him away, causing Yahaba to slump onto the stone path. He grabbed his sword with his free hand and quickly cut the vine, but another one quickly wrapped around his other wrist and caused his sword to falter from his grip, soon enough both of his wrists were detained.

Yuda hopped down from the branch we were sitting on and walked over to Yahaba, who was still unconscious, but now lightly stirring in his sleep.

“Poor boy.” Yuda said with a mocking tone. “Wonder what his biggest fear is, looks like it’s doing its job.” he said with a smile.

“Wake him up, and let me go! We’re not going to do anything! We’re trying to make our way to Makki.”

Yuda’s eyes lit up in amusement. “Oh? The dear Mad Hatter, huh? This got interesting.”

Kyoutani struggled in the vines' grip, which only caused them to tighten. He winced at the pressure. His sword was out of reach, and Yuda was just knelt down by Yahaba studying him intently.

Yahaba let out a shuddering breath, his body curling slightly as if trying to protect himself. Yuda smiled as he watched. “Ah, the nightmare slowly becomes a terror.”
Kyoutani saw red.

“Don’t you dare touch him!” he growled, struggling against the vines once more, ignoring the pain in his wrists.

Yuda chuckled, resting his chin in his palm. “My dear Kyoutani, you were always so soft, it’s cute really.” he looked down at Yahaba. “Oh how amusing it is to watch his terror while you stay defenseless.”

“I swear, if you don’t wake him up i’ll–”

“What? Fight me?” Yuda laughed. “But you seem a little tied up at the moment.”

Yahaba let out a whimper.

Kyoutani felt his breath hitch at the sound, it was quiet, sure, but it was enough to send a surge of fury and protectiveness through him. Kyoutani could feel his heart twist in response, a desperate instinct to save him rising within

“LEAVE HIM ALONE!” he barked. His body tensed, and with sheer force, he pulled hard against the vines.

For a moment, nothing happened.

Then—

A crack split the air as the vines around his right wrist snapped under the pressure.

Yuda’s expression faltered.

Kyoutani didn’t hesitate. Using the sudden slack in the remaining vines, he lunged for his sword, fingers wrapping around the hilt in a death grip. With one clean slash, the rest of the vines shredded apart, curling and writhing like dying snakes. Yuda barely had time to react before Kyoutani had his blade pointed directly at his throat.

“I don’t know why Oikawa insists on keeping you alive, if I had the ability I would erase you from existence myself.” Yuda opened his mouth to respond, but Kyoutani just pushed the blade deeper. “Wake. him. Up.” Kyoutani demanded.

Yuda let out a soft ‘tch’ before flicking his wrist, and suddenly he disappeared into smoke. Kyoutani swung his sword in frustration, but Yuda was already long gone. But that didn’t matter. He quickly sheathed his sword and turned to Yahaba. Falling onto his knees he wrapped his arms around Yahaba and held his trembling body close.

“Wake up damnit! It’s only a dream!”

Yahaba only whimpered in response.

“Wake up!”
…
”Wake up!”

The voice broke through the abundance of sound that surrounded Yahaba whole.

”It’s a dream! Wake up!”

Yahaba slowly opened his eyes, in the distance there was a faint light, yellow and bright. It was a stark contrast from the dark void that he was currently trapped in.
The many sounds only grew louder, making Yahaba instantly curl in on himself.

”Yahaba!

Kyoutani…

Yahaba opened his eyes again, the light closer that it was, Yahaba held his breath as he scrambled to his feet. The sound grew louder, but he needed to get out of here.
A couple more steps

He needed…

He reached out.

to wake up

Yahaba woke up with a sharp gasp, his body trembling violently as tears rolled down his face. He barely noticed the way Kyoutani’s grip tightened around his body.

“Yahaba.” he said,

Yahaba slowly looked up and met Kyoutani’s amber eyes. He stayed quiet for a moment, before the tears fell more freely, sobs escaping his lips before they could stop. The only thing he could register was Kyoutani’s grip. Even then his thoughts were still clouded with the terror from wherever he was trapped. His shoulders jerked with each gasping sob, his hands clutched his outfit like it could somehow ground him. But nothing was grounding.

He just wanted to go home.

Kyoutani was quiet for a moment, and Yahaba was sure he was just going to let him break down, let him cry. But then, Kyoutani’s hand rested on his shoulder, warm and steady. He didn’t pull away, didn’t say anything that would make him feel worse.

After what felt like forever, Yahaba’s tears finally calmed down. His breathing was still uneven, but it was more manageable. Kyoutani was still holding him close, his grip oddly protective. But he wasn't thinking about that. He was still thinking of the noise… loud and jarring, he didn’t want to go back, he didn’t

A hand cupping his cheek pulled Yahaba out of his trance, he looked as Kyoutani used his thumb to wipe away some of his falling tears. Yahaba felt a little more grounded.
“We should keep moving before Yuda decides to show up again.” Kyoutani said firmly.

Yahaba didn’t reply for a moment, before nodding slowly. “Y-Yeah, we should.” Kyoutani stood up and held a hand out for Yahaba. He took it and stood back up on his wobbly legs. “Thanks,” he said softly.

Kyoutani only nodded, before letting go of Yahaba’s hand. But Yahaba’s anxiety said otherwise, in desperation of something grounding he grabbed one of Kyoutani’s hands and held on tight. Kyoutani turned back to look at their hands, before looking back up at Yahaba

Yahaba swallowed before speaking. “I-i need something grounding… please.”

Kyoutani didn’t say anything for a moment, before squeezing his hand in reassurance. “I understand,” he said simply.

Yahaba felt a small flush creep up his cheeks, but he was thankful for Kyoutani’s compliance.

“C’mon, the faster we get to the bridge the better.”

Yahaba nodded before following Kyoutani once more.
…
Nothing was said as they continued to walk through the forest, yahaba didn’t mind the quiet. After all the noise he endured, he needed it. The forest continued to loom around them, each step Yahaba took he felt more uneasy. But having Kyoutani next to him was a little better.

Yahaba’s breath was slow and measured, but his mind was still a mess. He had woken up in a place that wasn’t home, dressed in an outfit that looked like something out of a fever dream, and thrown into a world where people had bunny ears, cat tails, and sentient playing cards chased after him with spears. And now, on top of everything, he had been forced into a nightmare so vivid and terrifying that even now, he felt like the echoes of it still clung to him.

Kyoutani’s voice pulled him out of his thoughts. “Were coming up on the bridge, let me do the talking.”

“Uh, okay? Why?”

“Just because.”

“That's reassuring.”

Kyoutani didn’t say anything else while they approached the bridge, Yahaba looked down at the river's water. It was a bright pink, almost like liquid cotton candy. Kyoutani looked around for these ‘odd magic users’ he claimed to guard the bridge, but it was unusually silent.

“I thought you said people were supposed to be guarding the bridge?” Yahaba asked as they stepped onto the stone bridge.

“Hmm, stay close, Kunimi and Kindaichi can–” his voice was cut off as he was suddenly pulled back by some unknown force and was suddenly floating upside down in the air. “God damn it!”
“Kyoutani!” Yahaba shouted

“I’m alright.” he grumbled as he crossed his arms over his chest. “Cut the crap you 2, we just wanna pass!”

There was silence for a moment. Then, as if the universe itself had grown bored of tormenting him, Kyoutani dropped like a sack of bricks, landing hard on the bridge with an annoyed grunt. He sat up, rubbing his head, his scowl deepening.

Yahba turned to see 2 younger boys in front of him, blocking the bridge. One of them was a taller guy with hair spiked up tall. He wore a vest with wide lapels along with a white collared blouse with a layered skirt like back piece. His outfit was patchwork, like different pieces of clothing had been stitched together from multiple wardrobes, all red, white, and black. Not to mention he was wearing heels like it’s nobody’s business

The other guy was a little shorter, he had black hair too but it had fallen flat along his face. He was wearing a long sleeve dress shirt with a pinstripe vest over it with matching shorts underneath, he wasn’t wearing heels but he had similar shoes like yahaba’s. His color scheme was the same as his counterpart. The guy looked tired more than anything else.

“Kyoutani,” the spiky haired one said. “What makes you think you can come near something that belongs to the king of hearts!”

“Not to mention he has an outsider with him.” said the tired looking one.

Kyoutani growled under his breath as he stood back up on his feet, “Listen, Just because I don’t work for Oikawa anymore–”

“You shall not speak his actual name!” said the spiky haired one firmly.

“I’ll call him whatever the fuck I want Kindaichi.” Kyoutani said, his voice laced with venom.

“You are asking for trouble–”

“Kindachi,” said the other one, who Yahaba assumed was Kunimi. “Can’t we just let them pass, I'm too tired to deal with this.”

“Do you want to lose your head!”

“Come on, they won’t pass the game anyway.”

“What game?” Yahaba asked.

Kyoutani stiffened. “You should not have said that–”

“The game?” Kindaichi said, “the game is what allows you to cross the bridge.”

Yahaba narrowed his eyes, “And the game?”

“Simple,” Kunimi spoke, he snapped his finger and summoned a deck of playing cards out of thin air. “Pick the king of hearts, and you can pass.”

“And if I don't?”

“We take you to the king, and it’s off with your head.” Kindaichi spoke as he summoned a simple wooden table to let Kunimi lay the cards down.
Yahaba looked at the setup, and something itched at his memory… he’s seen this set up before.

“I can distract them while you run.” Kyoutani muttered under his breath. “Don’t even think of–”

“I’ll play.” Yahaba said with confidence.

The 2 magic users looked a little shocked, before Kindaichi smiled. “Well, well, this outsider is confident ain’t he?”

“Are you insane!?” Kyoutani muttered, but Yahaba paid no mind.

Kunimi finished laying all the cards out, “3 chances, go ahead.”

Yahaba decided he would play along for a bit, so he grabbed a card somewhere in the middle and flipped it over. The 4 of diamonds.

“Tough luck, pick again.” Kunimi drawled.

Yahaba reached for another one closer to the right, 3 of spades.

“Yahaba, this is dangerous!” Kyoutani scolded him, but Yahaba was not worried.

“One more chance.” Kindaichi sing-songed.

Yahaba paused for a moment, he saw Kyoutani grab the hilt of his sword just in case. Yahaba shifted his gaze to look at Kunimi, before lifting a hand and pointing at him.

Kunimi raised a brow. “Excuse me? What are you pointing at?”

“The king of hearts.” Yahaba said simply.

The color from both Kindaichi and Kunimi’s faces drained instantly. Even Kyoutani’s eyes widened.

Yahaba raised a brow, “Well? Am I right?”

For a moment Kunimi looked pissed, but sighed as he reached into the vest pocket and pulled out the king of hearts. “I’ll admit Kyoutani, this outsider is smarter than he looks.”
Kindaichi scoffed. “Well, rules are rules, you can pass.” he said as he flicked his wrist and the table disappeared.

“Thank you.” Yahaba said with a smile, “C’mon Kyoutani.”

Kyoutani blinked a couple times before following Yahaba, looking back at Kunimi and Kindaichi who looked not so happy. “How did you know that Kunimi would hide the card in his pocket?”

“Simple, rigged trick.”

“Huh?”

Yahaba chuckled softly. “My uncle told me a story where he fell for the same trick, the person holding the deck of cards tells the victim to pick a card, if they find the card in 3 tries they win whatever the prize was, if they lost then they lost money. When they laid the cards out like they did, I recognized the set up. They laid the cards out like that so it looks like all 52 cards are there. No ones going to spend 10 minutes counting the cards. They would have no clue one card was missing, and the missing card was in the hands of the holder.”

Kyoutani stayed silent for a moment before whistling low, “Damn, gotta say I didn’t think of that possibility.”

“Hey! I know some things!”

Kyoutani only chuckled as a response
…
The forest on this side was less intimidating.

The trees were still fairly tall, but they looked like normal shaped trees. But the color of the leaves were still purple while the trunks were blue. It wasn’t unusual for Kyoutani, he’s lived here his whole life. He couldn’t say the same for Yahaba though, who was taking every opportunity to look at something that remotely interests him.
Yahaba looked over at Kyoutani, “How much further until we reach the Mad Hatter?”

“Just a couple more miles, what? You getting tired or something?”

Yahaba shook his head, but Kyoutani could tell he was lying. They haven’t stopped to rest for hours, and Kyoutani had no clue how his world ran regarding time. Kyoutani was about to say something but closed his mouth once he felt a drop of something yet on his face. He looked up and saw that it started to rain.

“Shit, I didn't plan for this.” Kyoutani mutters as he pulls up his hood. “Let's try and find some shelter before we get soaked.” He said as he grabbed yahaba’s wrist and went off the trail.

They swiftly walk around for a while and luckily stumble upon a cave. Once inside Kyoutani takes off his cloak to ring out some of the liquid, while doing so he looks over at Yahaba who’s standing at the caves entrance watching the rain in silence. Kyoutani stared for a moment, even if Yahaba was from a different world, Kyoutani couldn’t deny he was perfectly pretty.

“Do you get rain in your world?” he asked as he walked over to stand next to Yahaba.

“Mhm, this is probably the most normal thing I've seen since I got here.”

Kyoutani hummed, “So if I were to ask if it rained lemonade back in your world, would you think I'm crazy?” he said with a slight smug smile.

Yahaba looked over at him. “You’re kidding.”

“I’m not.”

Yahaba instantly reached his hand out and let some of the rain fall onto his palm, after a moment he pulled his hand back and sniffed. “Holy shit, it rains lemonade in this world!?”

“does it not in your world?”

“No, It rains water.”

“Sounds boring.”

“Compared to this it is." he cupped his hands and let the rain fill up in his palms, before bringing up to his lips to drink. "It tastes amazing... Ew, but my hands all sticky now–”

Kyoutani slightly chuckled as Yahaba attempted to wipe his hand on his vest, only making it worse in the process. “Your world seems vastly different from ours.” Kyoutani added.

Yahaba looked up at him. “Yeah, way different… for once there's no such thing as magic.”

“Man, nothing?”

“None, and there’s no cat people, or rabbit people, or raining lemonade… compared to this world? It’s a little boring.”

Kyoutani smiled. “I’d say this world is growing on ya.”

Yahaba’s smile faltered slightly. “Maybe… but I'd rather be at home with my mom and sister rather than stay here.”

Kyoutani didn’t know why that comment made him a little sad, did he want Yahaba to stay? No, he was just thinking silly.

“You have a sister?” Kyoutani asked, trying to change the subject.

“Mhm, twin sister actually, her name’s Suki.”

“What’s it like having a sibling?”

Yahaba chuckled. “The best thing and worst thing at the same time.”

Kyoutani found himself listening as Yahaba told him different stories about him and his sister, some funny, some serious. Most of the things Yahaba talked about Kyoutani had no clue what they were. But he let him talk anyway, and in return Yahaba asked Kyoutani more about Sehjio. He explained the fun stuff, the not so fun stuff. The conversation between the 2 began to flow naturally. That was until Yahaba yawned.

“Tired?” Kyoutani asked. Yahaba nodded weakly in response. Kyoutani looked around the cave, there wasn't really anything nice for Yahaba to lay down on. So he sat down and motioned Yahaba to do the same. Once Yahaba sat down next to him, Kyoutani pulled Yahaba close so he could rest his head on his shoulder. He didn’t miss the way Yahaba’s cheeks dusted a little pink, but soon his eyes closed into a hopefully dreamless sleep.

Kyoutani wasn’t remotely tired, but he’d stay here even if Yahaba slept for a thousand years…
…
Yahaba’s eyes fluttered open, he sat up with a yawn and rubbed his eyes. That nap was definitely needed.

“Morning sleepyhead.”

Yahaba looked up to see Kyoutani’s face only mere inches from his. He felt his cheeks flush as he sat up straight. “How long was I out for?”

“A couple hours, the rain stopped about half an hour ago.”

“Mhm… sorry, I didn’t think I'd be asleep for that long.”

Kyoutani shook his head, “Don’t worry about it, I think after everything you deserved a little nap that wasn’t nightmare induced.”

Yahaba shivered. “Don’t remind me.”

Kyoutani chuckled as he reached for his cloak and threw it on. He stood up and held out his hand for Yahaba to take. He took it and stood up. He made no move to let go, and Kyoutani didn’t either.

“If we keep moving and don’t stop, we should make it to Makki in no time.” Kyoutani stated.

Yahaba nodded as he followed Kyoutani out the cave. The sky was back to being blue, the leaves on the trees were damp from the lemonade rain, which Yahaba still couldn’t wrap his head around. But everything was silent as silent can be.

“So, how do we know when we're close to his… place, or whatever.” Yahaba asked.

“The moment we see flying teacups.”

“Flying teacups?”

“Yup, if there’s one thing the Mad Hatter is obsessed with, It’s tea.”

“Huh, is it just him?”

“Nah, he has a companion, who might I add if very–”

“Kyoutani! My stars I haven’t seen you in ages!!” Someone excitedly spoke as they practically bear hugged Kyoutani.

“Shido!” Kyoutani growled. “Seriously what is it with you people and no personal space!”

Shido looked to be around Kyoutani’s height, with short brown hair and brown eyes to match. On the top of his head were brown bunny ears, just how many people in this world had bunny ears?

He was wearing a short sleeved purple blouse with ruffled detailing along the button placket, lace trimmed sleeves and a rounded collar with golden filigree, along with it was a matching colored corset and bloomer style shorts with an abundance of bows around the waistband.

Shido pulled back and pouted slightly, “You’re such a grump, honestly I dunno why–” he cut himself off when he spotted Yahaba. “OH MY! And who’s this cutie! Kyoutani you didn’t tell me you found a boyfriend!”

Yahaba felt the flush creep up on his cheeks. “Oh, I'm not–”

“He’s not my boyfriend!” Kyoutani retaliated, his cheeks red. “He’s not even from this world, I was taking him to see Makki!”

“OH! Yes, yes, I was just running errands for him! You can just come with me!” he briskly walked over to Yahaba. “So, you’re not from this world, am I correct?”

“Uh, yes, my name’s Yahaba.”

Shido smiled even more. “And you’ve been traveling with this grump the whole time? I feel sorry for you~”

“HEY!” Kyoutani protested.

Shido ignored him and simply grabbed Yahaba’s hand. “Let’s not waste any time shall we? Makki would love a new guest at his tea party!”

Yahaba didn’t say anything as he was dragged along, he shot Kyoutani a look as if to say ‘whats this guys deal?’ and Kyoutani just huffed in response.

“So fill me in.” Shido started. “Why do you need to see the dear Mad Hatter himself?”

“I’m trying to get back home, I fell through a suitcase in my grandparents attic and ended up here.”

“So world hopping eh? Well that's unusual, even for Wonderland of Sehjio!”

“You think Makki might have an idea?” Kyoutani chimed in.

Shido hummed. “He might have a clue, but ya never know what goes on through the guys mind.”

The trio continued walking through the woods Eventually, they reached a clearing, and in the center stood a house—if it could even be called that. It was more like a chaotic patchwork of rooms stacked on top of each other, tilting at impossible angles, held together with wood, metal, and what looked like a ridiculous amount of colorful ribbons. The windows were all different shapes and sizes, and the entire thing gave off the impression that it was built by someone who didn’t believe in the concept of logic.

Yahaba stared. “That’s… where he lives?”

Shido grinned. “Oh yeah. Welcome to the Mad Hatter’s place." He led Yahaba and Kyoutani up to the front door and opened it swiftly. The place was a hodgepodge of mismatched furniture, papers scattered about, and strange contraptions everywhere. A table in the center was covered in tea cups, some still other floating, just like Kyoutani said, and on one wall, a collection of clocks with wildly different times ticked away in unison.

“Oh Makki! You’ll never guess who came to visit!”

“Is it the landlords again? Tell them I have no interest in goats!”

Yahaba raised an eyebrow, “Goats?”

Kyoutani sighed. “Mostly everything he says is nonsense.”

Shido shushed Kyoutani, who in turn looked personally offended. “No, no, It’s Kyoutani! And he brought a visitor!”

Sounds of light clatter and pans being banged together could be heard. Then a figure stepped out from one of the door ways. He had short pink hair, and dark green eyes. He was wearing a simple tailcoat, but it was an arrangement of colors, one sleeve green, the other purple. He had a simple white vest underneath the tailcoat, but it was colored in… paint splatters? He had on patchwork colored trousers and simple black shoes, on top of his head though was a giant top hat that tilted downward, almost like a teapot,
Makki’s smile widened. “Kyoutani! It’s been a while hasn’t it? What have you been up to all this time?” his gaze fell on Yahaba. “And you! I’ve never seen you around before! How's the world treating you?” Yahaba opened his mouth to respond but Makki waved a hand. “Not important, you both must have traveled some way to get here, Tea?”

“We don’t have time for tea Makki.” Kyoutani explained.

“We can chat about whatever it is you both are here for, but we can do so over tea! C’mon now!” He made his way to the very, very long and obviously crooked table covered in tea cups. Shido followed him close behind.

Yahaba took a glance at Kyoutani, who just sighed and walked over to the table. Yahaba followed.

“So, what’s your name newcomer?” Makki said as he began pouring tea into a floating teacup… which had no bottom to it

“Yahaba, sir.”

“No need for the formalities, Yahaba, I’m not no king of hearts!” he said with a laugh. “Do you have a preference for tea flavor?”

“Uh, no… I don’t usually drink tea.”

“Well, we’ve got to change that now don’t we! Sawauchi! Bring our dear guest the finest.”

Yahaba raised a brow, but the sound of little scurrying feet caught his attention. He looked down to see a mouse pushing over a teacup filled with sweet smelling tea. Once settled the mouse raised a paw and gave a humble salute before scurrying back over to Makki. Yahaba picked up the cup and sniffed the tea, before taking a sip.

“It’s lovely,” he said with a smile.

“Wonderful! Wonderful! Also help yourself to some tarts, you are skinny as a flower stem.”

Now that he mentioned it, Yahaba hasn’t eaten anything since he arrived in this world. And the tarts on the plates did look delicious.

Kyoutani cleared his throat “Alright, we had tea, but we came here for a reason Makki.”

“And what might that reason be?”

“Yahaba needs to find a way back home, back to whatever world he’s from. Do you have any clue on how to do that?”

Makki hummed and rested his chin on the palm of his hand, “I must say with full truth, I have no idea on how to get this boy back home.”

“You don’t?” Yahaba asked, his voice trailing off.

“I do not… but how did you get in? Perhaps I can come up with a theory.”

Yahaba swallowed the lump in his throat. “I was cleaning out my grandparents' attic when I found this suitcase, when I opened it, I found stairs. And I was stupid enough to walk down them and ended up here.”

“Stupidity and curiosity are vastly different things, Just like tea and lemonade!” Yahaba didn’t get the reference, but Makki continued anyway. “Stairs in a suitcase you say? Are staircases in suitcases normal in your world?”

“Obviously not!”

“No need to twist your bow in a tie! Just a simple question.” Makki closed his eyes to think for a moment. “Shido, grab me a mirror!”

“A mirror?” Kyoutani chimed in, “Why would he need a mirror?”

“Trust the process of Kyoutani.” Makki said dismissively, grabbing the mirror Shido held out for him. He lifted it up in front of Yahaba, “What do you see?”

Yahaba looked in the mirror and saw… Nothing, his reflection wasn’t there. “I don’t see anything.” he explained

“Interesting, no reflection, not real.”

“What do you mean by ‘not real?’” Yahaba asked.

“You’re not real, not in this world anyway.”

“Wait, if he’s not supposed to be real then how is he here?” Kyoutani asked

“Simple, he’s a mirror.”

“I’m a mirror?” Yahaba asked.

“Correct,” Makki stood up and walked over to Yahaba, placing a finger under his chin to make Yahaba look up at him. “Somehow, your consciousness from your world transferred into this body in this world. My guess is your real body is still in your world, just under sedation.”

Yahaba felt his head spin, this wasn’t real? Was this all some elaborate dream?

“So, what now?” Kyoutani asked. “We just classified he’s not real, so how do we get his consciousness or whatever back into his real body?”

“If I had to guess, find a loophole… another mirror that shows his reflection. He came through an object, he should be able to escape through one.”

“Great, so find a mirror, how many mirrors will I have to look for in order to get back home?” Yahaba complained.

“I think your best bet is to find the room of mirrors, which is located in–”

“NO!” Kyoutani suddenly protested, slamming his hands onto the table as he stood up. “It’s too dangerous taking him to Oikawa!”

“My, my, Kyoutani, you sure have a deep hatred for the king.”

“Of course I do! Oikawa’s nothing but a massive dictator who has a thing for chopping people’s heads off!”

“But you want Yahaba to get back to his body, don’t you not?”

Yahaba noticed the way Kyoutani paused for a split second, before shaking his head. “Of course I do! But I don’t want to risk him being killed! What would happen if he did?”

“Well, if he were to die in this world with this body, then most likely his real body wouldn’t wake up either.”

Yahaba felt his anxiety increase, this whole thing felt like a death trap. How did this even happen in the first place? What if he never found that suitcase then what? Would he be back in the attic cleaning? Things could’ve stayed normal. But no! He had to go down the strange steps and wake up in this wako world and his only way back is considered a death sentence.

Yahaba was so wrapped up in his worries he didn’t even comprehend that he was pulling at his hair, but a firm yet soft hand grabbed both his hands and pulled him out of the trance. He lifted his head up to see Kyoutani knelt down in front of him.

“Quit pulling at your hair, we’ll figure it out.” He said firmly.

Yahaba let out the breath he was holding. He felt a little calmer.

Kyoutani stood up. “Makki, is finding a Mirror with his reflection really the only way?”

“That's my theory.” Makki replied before sipping a cup of tea.

Kyoutani stayed silent for a moment, before sighing. “Alright, I've worked for Oikawa before, I can get you in.”

Yahaba's eyes widened. “You’d do that for me?”

“You want to get back home do you?”

Yahaba nodded.

“Then I'll help you get back home.”
…
“Safest way to the castle is through the butterfly widows,” Makki said as he led them outside his house. “It’ll be a longer route, but it's better than going through the forest.”

“Thank you Makki.” Yahaba said with a slight bow.

“Anytime! And please do take these for the road, I don’t have the stomach to finish them all.”

Yahaba took the box and lifted the lid, inside were just more pastries, which smelled like absolute heaven.

Kyoutani adjusted his sword on his side. “Alright, we’ll be off.”

“Take care! And visit again!” Shido said with a wave as the duo continued back on their journey.

Kyoutani looked over at Yahaba who was already stuffing a pastry into his mouth. He couldn’t help but smile a bit. “They good?”

“So good, god I haven't had desserts like this in ages.”

Kyoutani only shook his head with a small smile. He’s never met someone like Yahaba before, maybe it was because he’s technically from a different world. But Kyoutani’s never met someone who made him feel so… warm. They’ve only known each other for a couple hours in this world's time. Yet Kyoutani didn’t mind the idea of spending more time with him.

“Want one?” Yahaba asked with a mouthful of tart as he held out the box.

Kyoutani shook his head. “I’m good, you keep them.”

“Your loss.” He said as he took a bite of another pastry, a smudge of chocolate was left at the corner of his mouth.

“Jesus, you're messy.” Kyoutani teased, naturally reaching out to wipe the stain away with his thumb.

Yahaba chuckled, a faint pink coated his cheeks. “Shut up… so, what’s butterfly widow?”

“Well, it’s hard to explain… Notice how we’ve been around flowers this whole time, and not once have you sneezed.”

“Hmm, guess I was so focused on the pastries I didn’t even notice.”

Kyoutani smiled before ushering Yahaba to stop. He knelt down by one of the flowers and lightly brushed the petals. Soon the petals fluttered slightly before the butterfly flapped its wings and flew into the air. Kyoutani heard the way Yahaba gasp slightly, watching as the butterfly flew off. Kyoutani continued, lightly brushing his hands across other flowers, which soon became a wave of colorful butterflies. Kyoutani looked over at Yahaba who was watching the rainbow with a wide smile. Yahaba lifted a hand and let one of the butterflies perch on his finger

Kyoutani stood back up and walked over next to Yahaba. “Cool right?”

“Yeah,” Yahaba said softly as he continued to look at the butterfly perched on his finger. “They're all so pretty.”

Kyoutani didn’t respond for a moment, he just continued to look at Yahaba as he watched the butterfly on his finger fly off to wherever it wanted. “Yeah,” he finally replied, “They are.”

Yahaba’s smile widened, “C’mon, we should continue before I fall into a trance watching all these butterflies.”

Kyoutani only chuckled, but continued forward. “You get distracted so easily.”

Yahaba scoffed. “I do not! I'm simply just appreciating the beauty of it all–” He cuts himself off when he watches another butterfly with yellow wings fly across his face. Quickly he shook his head. “Don’t say anything.”

“Wasn’t going to.”
…
Kyoutani led Yahaba behind a tree, the King's castle was just up ahead. And guarding the front door were more sentient playing cards. Yahaba felt the worry claw at his stomach, they were cards everywhere. Yahaba had no clue how to fight, and Kyoutani was only one man. But Kyoutani didn’t seem at all worried.

Kyoutani gripped his sword. “You stay hidden behind here, I'll scope to see if there’s a place we can get in without getting spotted.”

“But what about the playing cards? There's so many of them!”

“I’ll be fine lassie, these cards have nothing against me.” He said with a wink.

Yahaba pouted with a blush, “Okay, whatever, just be careful!”

“Always planned on it.” he gave a salute, and just like that he was gone.

Yahaba stood still behind the tree, staying put like Kyoutani said. He couldn’t help but look at the castle. It was massive, did Kyoutani actually work for someone who lived in this?

“Big thing ain’t it?” a voice rang out.

Yahaba tensed and turned around, perched on one of the branches was the same cat guy from before. “Mattsun.”

“The one and only… gotta say I've been watching you from afar, your adventure has been wild hasn’t it?”

Yahaba felt uneasy once more. “What do you want?”

“Oh nothing, nothing at all.” he stretched lazily before settling back down on the branch. “You’ve taken a liking to your little rouge haven’t you?”

“Who? Kyoutani?”

“Mhm… and from what I've seen he’s very fond of you too, it’s been ages since I've seen him smile like he just did. And I've been around for a long time.”
“What are you getting at?”

“I’m just curious to see what lengths he would go for you. This castle is a death wish after all.” he smiled wide before disappearing once more. Before even Yahaba could comprehend his words, he heard the stomping of feet.

“HALT!”

Yahaba turned around and found himself face to face with 3 playing cards, his anxiety spiked. He was just hidden behind the trees. How did he transport into the wide open… unless. Oh, that damn cat!

“State your business.”

“I-i’m just lost! I’m looking for a way home–”

“Excuses! You shall be taken to the king and his advisor at once!”

Before Yahaba could explain further, two of the cards grabbed his arms. Forcing him to stay put. “You don’t understand! I’m not from this world! I–”

“Silence! You are to not speak until the king of hearts decides what to do with you.”

Yahaba tried to wriggle his way out of the card's grip, but they held on tight as they began to drag him to the front gate.
…
Bingo

There was a window on the side of the castle left opened and unguarded. That was their ticket in. Kyoutani swiftly ducked back into the cover the trees provided, and made his way back to where Yahaba was supposed to be. But when he got there. Yahaba was nowhere to be found.

“Yahaba?” Kyoutani called out, and he got nothing in return. This was bad, where could he have gone!?

“How sweet~”

Kyoutani turned around to find himself standing face to face with a figure who possessed a wide smile. “Damn cat, what did you do to Yahaba!”

“Easy now, he’s alright, I just pushed him in the right direction.”

Kyoutani felt his heart stop.

Mattsun just smiled. “Tick Tock…”
…
2 giant wooden doors pushed open, revealing a giant throne room. It was decorated with tapestries and glass windows colored red. In the center was a giant throne, where the king of hearts sat with an aura of bad news. He had dark brown hair that was tousled, piercing brown eyes that sent shivers down Yahaba’s spine. His whole color pallet consisted of red, white, black, and gold. He was wearing a simple red and black blouse with a red coat over it, he wore simple checkered colored pants, But he also had a layered skirt with black and gold trim that acted like some kind of cape, and like many people seem to do in this world, he wore heels like it was nobody’s business. Standing next to him was another guy, his skin was slightly tan, he too had brown hair but it was shorter and spiker, he wore a similar outfit as the king, just minus the skirt and heels. Probably the king's advisor

“So,” the king began. “A trespasser was on MY castle ground, near MY red roses!”

Yahaba scrambled for an excuse. “Sir, I-I was just minding my business when this cat guy showed up and–”

“SILENCE!” he rose from his throne. “I’ve heard from the outside that you don’t belong here, Is that true?”

“Y-yes it is but–”

“And you’ve done nothing but cause trouble!”

“Please, I was just trying to find my way back home! You see I was traveling with–”

“Oh trust me I know, that scumbag Kyoutani has been helping you hasn’t he?”

“Oikawa,” the man next to him spoke. “We don’t have to bring Kyoutani into this, he’s not working for you anymore.”

“Even so, Iwa-chan, that boy is still a traitor! Helping this boy around and clearly he’s been causing nothing but trouble in my lands just to get back at me!”

“I don’t think that's his reasoning–”

“Silence Iwaizumi.”

Iwaizumi shut his mouth.

Oikawa walked down the steps and closer to Yahaba. “Now, what to do with you… Force you into servitude? Have you locked away in a cell?” He stopped right in front of Yahaba. “Or shall i declare and have it off with your head!”

“Please, please you don’t understand! I have to get back to Kyoutani, I have to find my way home!”

“You can kiss wherever your home is goodbye. I’ll say it once more, OFF WITH YOUR–”

A faint grunt cut Oikawa off, both him and Yahaba turn his head to see a playing guard go down, then swiftly another with a flying crystal to the head.
“Who is throwing my crystals!” Oikawa demanded.

“Me asshole that’s who.”

The guards holding Yahaba were quickly taken out by Kyoutani with his sword and fist, he wasted no time in grabbing Yahaba’s wrist and bolted out of the throne room, Oikawa’s booming voice growing fainter as they continued to run.

“Kyoutani–”

“I know where the mirror room is, we get in there, and find the mirror that will bring you home.”

“B-but what if the mirrors not in there!?”

“Then we’ll escape and find the right one, I won’t let anything happen to you.”

Yahaba felt his heart flip, Kyoutani really went out of his way for him… Kyoutani throws open a door and shoves both of them inside before shutting it behind them. Both stayed in their place catching their breath for a moment. Yahaba stood up straight and looked around the room. Multiple mirrors hung on the wall, all different shapes and sizes. It was almost like walking in a Mirror maze.

“Quick, look around and see if you can find your reflection.” Kyoutani spoke through labored breaths.

Yahaba nodded and began looking through all the mirrors, so far none of them showed his reflection. “Kyoutani, none of them are showing anything!”

“Keep looking. There’s gotta be something.”

Yahaba continued to look in every mirror, but he was losing hope fast and he walked by the last mirror and it showed… nothing.

“None of them… none of them are the mirror back home…” he choked out.

Kyoutani wanted to comfort Yahaba, but they didn’t have a lot of time before Oikawa or more guards showed up. “Then we just keep looking, but for now, we have to go!” he grabbed yahaba’s wrist and flew open the door, Yahaba could hear Oikawa’s voice down the hall.

“Quit running you traitor!”

Yahaba was pulled out of his trance when Kyoutani literally pulled him down the hall, both ran as fast as they could. They swerved corners and ran down stairs, hoping to find some method of escaping. Just as they turned another corner, there was a window down the hall.

“There, we can jump, we just have to break the fall.”

Yahaba nodded as he continued to push forward. But what would happen after? How long would it take to find the mirror that would bring Yahaba back home? What if he never got home? What if–

“Kyoutani!” Yahaba shouted as he suddenly stopped in his tracks.

“Yahaba, we have to keep–” he paused as he way what Yahaba was talking about,

A long rectangular mirror laid against the wall, clearly waiting to be hung up. It wasn’t like the other mirrors, not yet at least. Yahaba could see himself clearly in the reflection, he saw himself in his usual attire which consisted of regular jeans and a sweater.

“Oh sweet Wonderland.” Kyoutani exhaled in relief. But the relief was short lived when Oikawa’s voice could be heard down the hall, and the sound of guards rushing through.

“Come with me.” Yahaba said suddenly.

“What?”

“Come with me! If you stay here Oikawa and the guards will find you and kill you!”

“Yahaba, I can’t go through with you.”

“Why not!?”

“I’m meant to stay in this world, if i were to go through I probably won’t be with you because this is where I have to stay!”

“B-But we have to try!”

“Yahaba-”

“The guards will capture you!”

“Yahaba-”

“What will Oikawa do!?”

“Yahaba–!”

“Please Kyoutani just–”

“YAHABA!”

Yahaba barely had time to register Kyoutani shouting his name before he felt a pair of lips in his. Kyoutani’s lips. Yahaba felt his pulse spike, his heart began to race in a way he couldn’t explain. All he could do was kiss back, god how he didn’t want this to end. But the moment was short lived once Kyoutani pulled back. Just in time before Oikawa appeared down the hall with Iwaizumi and the guards closely behind him.

Kyoutani turned to look at Yahaba, “I’m sorry.”

“Kyou–”

He was pushed into the mirror before he could say his name fully
…
Yahaba awoke with a start, which quickly turned into a coughing fit due to all the dust he just inhaled. He was so focused on getting his breath back that he didn’t hear someone coming up the latter.

“Shigeru?” Suki looked over at her brother, “Shigeru! What the hell happened? I heard you shout my name.”

Once Yahaba got his breath back. He looked over to the side and saw the suitcase right where he left it. He ignored Suki’s voice of concern and scrambled to open the suitcase back up, but there was nothing inside, it looked like a regular old suitcase.

“No, no no no!”

“Shigeru! What has gotten into you?”

“I- I can’t be– I have too– too…” his voice trailed off, and the tears fell before he could stop them.

Suki walked over and wrapped an arm around his shoulder. “I knew Mom giving you this chore was a bad idea… c’mon, let's switch you out with Himari.”

Yahaba didn’t say anything as his sister helped him to his feet, the tears still spilled either way.
…
Luckily no one in his family thought he was crazy, he didn’t tell them the full story. Only the part where something triggered him and caused a panic attack. He felt sick lying to his family, but he wasn’t about to tell them about the day he had… or rather the dream.
…
Yahaba sat at a table in the university's many cafe’s, it’s been 2 months since the whole… wonderland thing. He tried to forget about it, but it seemed engraved in his mind. He sighed, sipping his lukewarm coffee. It was weird how a simple dream could feel so real… his kiss felt real, everything about it was real. He slammed his cup down with more force than necessary and laid his forehead on the table.

“Hey, is this seat taken?” someone asked.

“Nah, go right ahead. I was about to leave–” the words died in Yahaba's throat once he looked up and saw who sat in front of him. “Kyoutani?”

Kyoutani looked up from his bag. An eyebrow raised. “Do I know you?”

Yahaba felt his heart sink a little bit, but he had to play along. “Uh, no, but I've heard your name in… a loop.”

“Okay… what’s your name then?”

“Yahaba.”

Kyoutani smiled slightly. “Nice to meet you.”

Yahaba paused, before he felt himself smiling too. “You too.”