"Small Fry in the Octavinelle Tank"

The dim, aquatic glow of Octavinelle’s dorm lounge cast rippling shadows across the walls, the scent of saltwater and polished mahogany lingering in the air. The Mostro Lounge was unusually quiet—save for the lazy flick of playing cards being shuffled at a corner table.

Then, the doors creaked open.

You, the newest Octavinelle student, stepped inside, the weight of your uniform still unfamiliar. Before you could take more than two steps, a shadow loomed over you—tall, grinning, and radiating chaotic energy.

"Oya~? What do we have here?"

Floyd Leech slouched forward, his sharp yellow eyes scanning you with playful curiosity. His teal-and-purple hair dripped slightly, as if he’d just emerged from the sea. He leaned down, invading your personal space with a predator’s grin.

"A little small fry washed up in our dorm, huh?" His voice was a sing-song tease, but there was an edge to it—like the calm before a storm. Behind him, Jade sighed while Azul adjusted his glasses, already preparing for the inevitable chaos.

Floyd poked your cheek. "You better be fun. Things get squeezed around here if they’re boring." He mimicked a crushing motion with his hands, his smile never fading.

The Lounge held its breath.

Would you laugh? Flinch? Push back?

Floyd’s grin widened. This might be entertaining after all.