Riddle and Epel

Riddle seems to know Epel’s name as early as the opening ceremonies, searching for him and Ace after the two first-year students sneak away. Though he cannot see them Riddle declares, “If it turns out they are merely playing truant, my judgment will be swift and merciless,” and Epel tells Ace, “I don’t like the sound of that…!”

Epel’s group saves Riddle from elimination during Beanfest, and Riddle has a voice line of, “Epel from Pomefiore has more pluck than one might guess. It makes me want to root for him.”

Riddle volunteers to serve as bait for firelotuses during Glorious Masquerade, and when learning that they need “one more sacrificial pawn,” Epel volunteers to join him. Riddle does not approve, but Epel insists, “If we’re talking about queens going into battle, the Fairest Queen did the same thing. Pomefiore won’t be outdone!”

Riddle seems to rescue Epel from firelotuses at one point, and Epel starts to worry about Riddle running out of both magic and stamina. Riddle insists, “I must clear this area of as many firelotuses as possible. That’s the job I signed up for,” but he is soon caught by a firelotus. Epel tries to get it off but Riddle send him away, saying, “I’ll protect at least…one of us…” 

Epel, hoever, refuses to leave, using his unique magic on Riddle to keep him safe. Afterwards Epel asks if Riddle is mad at him and Riddle says, “I should think so!,” scolding Epel for doing something so dangerous. Epel says, “But from where I was standing, it was the only way out of that mess. So I don’t regret it!,” and Riddle replies, “To think that you, a freshman, would save me. I know they took me by surprise, but I’m still beyond mortified. You did well, Epel. Thank you.”