Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Techno was four years old when his mom died.

It wasn't a surprise to him; it shouldn't have been a surprise to him. Her kind are terribly known to live such short lives, to die young. On one hand, it is terribly... depressing to say the least.

To never really know the feeling of growing old with those you love. To never feel the ache of old bones, just decaying ones. To have a family, knowing you will leave them too soon. And that the cost to live longer is too much for anyone to pay, for any young, innocent soul. That to constantly hold life, you constantly have to take it.

Such is the life of the Withering.

The Lives of the Wither race.

And yet...

That never stopped them from being happy. No matter how short their life was, they made sure it was a good one.

Ironic, isn't it?

For a people who are constantly dying, they seemed to understand life better than anyone else.

A shame the Overworld dwellers had to take that.

"You know I love you, right?"

Technoblade was sitting beside his mom's deathbed, holding her hand- gently, too hard, how can he make sure?

"Techie? Can you look at me?"

He keeps his head down. If he can't see how sick she is, then it's not real. Things won't have to change. Mom is going to live, the blotches of black withering skin will disappear- and maybe, she can walk again, and she will dance with Techno while dad plays their favorite song. Then mom and dad will put him to bed with stories of Dragons and mighty warriors, of creatures that swim in oceans. Like- WATER oceans, not just lava ones...

She grabs his chin and lifts his head up.

She's turning to ash.

"There you are! My Golden Star," Techno feels his eyes water- but the heat evaporates them almost instantly.

"Oh love, I'm so sorry I have to go-" She coughs, a painful shudder that leaves her chest aching with pain.

When she recovers- still breathing wrong wrong wrong- she turns back to him and brings a charred hand to her neck.

"I have a present for you, My Star..." Techno buries his face into the scratchy blankets, but a soft clink brings his gaze up again.

It's beautiful. 

The necklace was simple, the gold pendant was tear shaped. With two stones on the rounded end of it that made it look like it had eyes. The color reminiscent to the void.... well at least what the void would look like to Techno. However, what made it so eye catching was the purple shine it gave off, making it seem mystical and ancient.

And besides, it was Gold!

Techno couldn't resist his piglin instinct to take the precious metal.

Mom chuckles lightly, "I knew you would like it, My Golden Star. I put in a little surprise for you in it..." Techno looks up at her, catching that familiar emotion in her white ringlets. 

"But to find it you have to do that little trick I taught you," His stomach drops as he involuntarily flinches.

"I know you don't like to, but the more you practice, the more control you have over it." She looks at Techno's hand.

At the black nails and the grey tips on his fingers, at the constant potential of pain in every touch.

Except the person who caused that pain was four years old, and they were too afraid to use such a power.

Part Wither,

Part Piglin,

Oh all the destruction we could bring.

"It's okay to be afraid, My Star..."

Techno looks at the sad eyes of his mother, who will die any minute now.

"I know it's scary, but everything is going to be okay in the end, yeah? You'll have your dad to take care of you," she gestures at the necklace, " and you will always have something to remember me by!"

Mom's crying now.

"How about this, can you do the trick on the pendant for me? Please, My Golden Star?" Now, Techno might despise his power, but he could use it here, just once, for his mom, besides she can't get hurt by it.

So, he focused, and that constant humming in his ears slowly got louder, until what was once mumbling now became a crowd of whispers in his head. Not painful, just there, in the background of his own thoughts and concentration. He's never tried listening to them or what they are saying, because in those short moments they didn't seem that important.

~I'll wait for you in the dark~

Techno's focus breaks and he is brought back to the present, to the pendant, to the purple particles combining and making an image in front of him. His mom, sitting in her favorite chair, a wolf made out of shadows by her side, she looks healthier, the image shows her moving her mouth as sound comes out of it, clear and unwavering.

She's singing.

~Let's wait for the daylight to go away~

Dad is beside her, sitting on the floor. He's playing the old beat-up guitar that Techno found for him when he was playing a little close to a fortress, even with his stubby hooves for nails he was playing remarkedly well. He was playing with the song that mom was singing, as if her voice is all that was ever needed for it to be special, the guitar making it mortal enough for humans to barely handle the pure beauty of it all.

He was relaxed.

~My love, by the trees, we will meet up~

In mom's arms, there lies a younger Techno, he's two years old in the picture, comfortably asleep in his mother's arms, oblivious to the anything beside the sole fact that he is warm and safe, with his dad's guitar drowning out the noises outside the house, and his mother singing to him, even while he dreams.

~'Til the sunrise calls me to leave~

"You know..." Techno looks back at his mom.

"That song was gifted to our race a long time ago, by one of the Ancient Ones. She had the task of watching over the stories of everyone who passed, to remember them, to keep their legacy. And every one-hundred years, she had the chance to meet the one she loved, Her Angel. And every time they met, they would talk about what has happened in the living world, to judge them, of their wrongdoings, of their accomplishments. If Justice is needed in Overworld, or if they deserve to live."

"The Withering were known to be the most skilled for the task of carrying out the order The Angel and his Mistress of Death would give them to complete," Mom looks at Technoblade with understanding eyes, "However, that doesn't mean that our power makes us bad, it just means we have to be more careful with it, okay love?"

Techno hesitates, and nods, he understands, he won't use his power if he can help it. He can help people with it, protect them. He was good at protecting mom when she had her bad days. He was good at protecting dad when the nightmares came, always calming him down before making him sleep more.

Mom start to cough again, harder than last time.

"I love you mom." Techno says, he feels like the ground is reshaping itself underneath them.

He didn't notice when he put on the pendant, or when the song ended.

"I love you too My Golden Star, no matter what... Can you go get dad? I need to talk to him, love."

And with that, Techno left. Before he could notice how his mom collapsed on the bed in exhaustion.

She died shortly afterward

They scattered her ashes by her old hometown that was long destroyed, before Techno was born.

They started moving around more, Techno asked why they never seemed to stay in one place anymore. It would be better to stay and not always have to risk things like other people, and random holes that lead to death.

Dad said that he doesn't have to worry about it.

Dad told him to hide if bad people came.

Dad said that if they tried to grab him, then he can fight them.

By any means necessary.

Techno hopes that it doesn't come to that.

But fortune was never on his side.

Chapter Text

Two months

It has been two months since she died

It's weird, you know? To have someone who is such a constant in your life, to just be gone. And Technoblade has nothing but his dad, his necklace, and his memories, to show that she ever existed in the first place. Memories of her thick, long black hair and tanned skin from walking too close to lava. Of her white irises in the sea of shadows that were her eyes. The way she never just walked, she glided. Never ran, but seemed to fly instead, like the air wasn't suffocating them in warmth that made everything seem so heavy. Yet, it couldn't weigh her down, no matter how hard it tried.

Or how every time she sang to them, the world would go silent.

For her.

For them.

For Techno.

He reaches for his pendant. Touching the cool metal compared to their fiery environment. He's been trying to keep his promise on practicing with it every night, always getting the sound of his mother's voice as a reward in the end.

It's not the same. It never will be the same.

Dad pauses over a hole that leaves to a pit of lava, him and Techno carefully go around it and make sure that no one else is around to try anything dangerous.

Go Back Home-                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Techno, Techno, Techn-

                                                                                                       -i don't thin-                                                             -turn aroun-

                                           -isten! c'mon T-                                                                   -sus happenin'

                 Mr. Blade I mus-                                                                                                                                                                                            LISTEN TO US PL-

Weird. Techno thought

The Voices have been very loud today, and slightly more annoying than usual. They keep on trying to get his attention when they normally just leave him alone to think. Quite frankly, it's been giving him a bit of a headache.

He feels a tap on his shoulder and looks up, his dad has stopped now. He seems to be looking at him with... concern? They stand there for a second, and his hands come up to sign.

Okay? He signs with a question in his crimson eyes. Techno hesitates, should he really tell him? He doesn't want to slow them down to... wherever they're going. He thinks about it for a second, and decides he will tell him. Besides, he has more experience with The Voices than Techno. His dad had them since before he could tell anyone about them, and he's soooooo old! A lot older than Techno, he knows that much.

The Voices snicker at thinking about how old dad is.

Techno brings his right hand up and makes a V, then brushes his hand up against his throat twice. Voice.

Dad raises an eyebrow and responds. Explain.

Techno thinks about it for a second. Noisy.

He gives a rumble in response, it's the closest thing to a hum for his dad. It was meant to say I understand what you mean, he brings his right hand up and taps his fingers against his other open palm twice.

Repeat.

He starts to exaggerate his breathing, making in-and-out motions and holding his breath in between for two seconds, while also rubbing slow circles around his heart with his knuckles. Grounded. Steady.

Techno copies him. His breaths, and his motions. Immediately, The Voices seemed to calm down. Slowly, but still effective, they're not trying to yell like they were before, but he could still feel them trying to get his attention. Trying to....

What were they trying to do?

He doesn't think too much about it.

He tells his dad that he feels better and they move on. He starts to run around-close enough that his dad can see him and grab him, if need be-and even starts to play with the surrounding fires for a bit-much to his dad's warnings not to-until they reach a small shop near a village.

The lady that works there is nice, Techno thought. She had dark skin and purple curly hair braided in a loose bun, with tiny streaks of white and light blue that become more apparent the closer the hair grows toward her face is. Soft greyish eyes that almost look violet with the blue fire illuminating the shop, and a kind smile. She said her name was Peace.

Behind her, was a beautiful netherite axe, shining a shimmering purple that just screamed Power. The Voices also seemed to quite like it a lot, suggesting he even try and wield such a huge weapon, at least compared to him it was huge. None the less, it was one of the most beautiful things that Techno ever saw in his short life.

He thinks about the pendant.

Well, almost.

His dad seems to notice his new found interest in the weapon, and snorts. He nudges Technoblade a little, to encourage him to talk to the nice lady about it. To let Techno know that he can explore, as long as he stays close and on sight.

Techno walks quietly-albeit a bit shyly-towards the nice lady, Peace. She looks up from whatever book she is reading as she hears Techno approaching, slightly startled since piglin Hybrids have been quite scarce these past few years. And seeing a four-year-old with pink hair, small tusks and crimson eyes would probably confuse anyone, but she smiles at him. Hybrid or not, he does look quite cute with those large eyes of his.

"Why hello young mister! Do you need any help? What can I get ya?" Techno reaches out and points towards the axe. She turns behind her, and gives a small laugh. "Oh? You want a closer look?"

Techno didn't really know what he wanted, it just felt like this specific thing was meant for him, but he nodded anyway.

She brought him over the counter, and picked him up to show him. He ran his hand over the grip, and the blade, it seeming to vibrate under his touch. Like it was responding to him.

"My Grandpa used to tell me stories about this axe. It was crafted by his great-grandad, he told me that it was made for a great and mighty warrior, who would one day set us all free from the NetherRealm. Who would help the Ender Prince set free his own people, along with the End Dragon. In the end, he would help free the Overworld too." She smiled again, but a bit sadder this time.

Techno didn't want her to be sad. "Did you name it?"

She turns to him, confused on his sudden ability to speak, "What do ya mean?"

"Something this awesome must have name! Thats how it works!"

She laughs again, and then nods, "Your right, hmm. I don't have any good names..." she turns to him again, "Do you have any ideas?"

Techno looks at the axe, then looks at her, then looks at the axe again. He thinks for a moment, then grins at her.

"The Axe of Peace." It sounds right, to name it after her.

                      It-

                                                                                                                                                                                         -will-

                                                       -soon-

                                                                                                                                                           -be-

                                                                                                         -Ours.

"The Axe of Peace." she repeats, and looks at him with a strange expression. "That is an amazing name." Techno beams at the approval.

Chuff-Chuff-Chuff

Techno looks behind him to see his dad waiting by the counter, a bag of supplies in one hand, and a pouch of coins in the other. He wiggles out of the hold Peace had on him to join his dad on the other side. Soon the transaction was finished and they left, waving goodbye to Peace and her yelling out "Hope to see you again!" by the door.

Soon though, Technoblade started to get tired. He didn't even struggle when his dad picked him up and carried him. He just snuggled closer to him, letting out rumbles, chuffs and snorts as he wrapped his arms around his neck. His dad responded by pulling him in closer and bumping their foreheads together, letting out a soft deep purr of his own, and signing his nickname to him. He taps his index finger in front of his ear, forwards it and extends his pinky and thumb while putting down his index.

Gold

He falls asleep, content in the warmth of his father.

"Give us the kid"

Techno wakes up-regretfully-and is in one of the most horrific situations that will haunt him until he dies.

There are seven people surrounding them, probably some of the Banished of Overworld from the way they dress and the lack of NetherRealm Hybrids in them all together. They all have weapons, which was....

Techno's hold tightens on his dad.

Dad growls at the strange people.

"Listen, we don't want to fight," a girl on the left rolled her eyes, "But we will not hesitate to kill you." Techno let out a panicked squeal at that.

"We could work out a system, you could visit him. But you need to hand him over." A man at their two o'clock said.

Dad pulls out his gold sword.

           -AHAHAHAH-                                                                                                                     Let them wither away-

                                                -un run run run ru-

                                                                                                                       Blood-

                          Make their foundations decay-

                                                                                                        -ON'T JUST STAND THER-

"Well, don't say we didn't warn you." and they charge.

Chapter Text

In the middle of taking their step, dad immediately dropped Techno into a ravine.

He fell-

Oh my fire I'm going to die and those mean people are going to hurt dad while I'm dead and that's not even fair I promised mom I would protect dad and now I have to break it she would be so sad and I don't want her to be sad because then dad would be sad and I'm sorryimsorryimsorryimsorryimsorry-

-and promptly landed on some leaves.

well,  that was anticlimactic.

Yeah, no kidding.

ROAR

ok, time to skedaddle.

And now he's going forward, to where he doesn't know. Techno doesn't even realize he's running, souls he wanted help his dad, but he knows he would be more of a distraction than backup right now. He's too small and he doesn't even know how to fight beyond kicking and giving an 'okay' punch.

He runs for what feels like miles, but it could've only been a few minutes at best. So, he keeps on going-

....

What happened to The Voices?

He came to a stumbling halt as he tried to listen to the constant whispers in his mind. He can't hear them anymore, but it's different this time. Before, they always seemed to mumble, Techno only ever able to sound out a few at best. But now, there's just silence.

Peaceful Silence.

Then they screamed.

Now Techno was screaming with them. They're so loud. And they won't quiet down, he knows there's more now, he doesn't know how he knows. He just does. And they're all talking at the same time, he can't even think properly, and everything just seems to hurt. It hurts so much.

And he knows, in his small little heart, that dad is gone.

Dad is gone. They confirm, whether to make him suffer, or just stating a fact. He can't tell. He just stays there in the burning floor from when everything went loud, he looks off into nothing, crying silent tears that no one wipes away. Because there is no one left, no one left but him.

He hears multiple footsteps coming towards him, The Voices bristle in anticipation, some seeming to seethe with hatred in his mind, while others sob with him. They tell him to run, to kill, to scream, to hide. Yet, he can't bring himself to do any of those things, it's as if someone has put weights on him after running for miles.

"EY! Over here I found him!" One of them steps into his field of vision from the floor, and another man slowly, purposefully takes a step with the person and joins him. He has horns that curl over and under his ears, brown eyes with pupils that are shaped like a goat's, along with the ears that resemble the same animal that have been pierced with so many shiny metals. And when he smiled his teeth felt too sharp to be natural. He looked older by the few white streaks in his coal-colored hair, but Techno couldn't tell, by the way he walked, with power. Technoblade would have been entranced.

But then he saw the bloodied iron sword by his side.

He went limp. Techno couldn't even get himself to struggle when the man bounded his hands and feet. He even muzzles him after inspecting his tusks and sharp canines. Like some sort of animal.

A Monster. They correct him.

"Look at those eyes!" one of the hunters exclaim, "I've never seen that kinda red from a piglin."

"A bit small ain't it?"

"It can learn in The Pit."

"If it even survives its first fight."

"Lighter will show it the basics at least."

"Who's that again?"

"Firebreathman, remember?"

The man with horns holds up his hand, and the others immediately stop their banter. Power. "Bag it up, and careful not to touch it idiots. I don't want to have to deal with your corpse if it has some sort of flesh manipulation power or whatever, got it? Good." Then he walks away, without looking back, to some cave that Techno hadn't noticed before. Leaving him with the now warry hunters.

How did I run all the way here?

The man wouldn't have just walked away, not unless they were close to wherever they were taking him.

one of them-                                                                                                                         -wanted to lead you hear-

                        -MANIPULATED YO-                                                                                                               -hange will of people-

                                                                                     -was in their plan.                                         -warn you but-

               -topping you from fighti-                                                             -an't move bec-

                                                            -horns guy maki-                                   -ey made you run-

Okay, I think I understand......thank you.

He doesn't think he will get used to thanking Voices in his head anytime soon, but they seem to be happy with his gratitude. Wait, how did they know about their power?

ALL PART OF THE MASTER PLAN-                                                                      -you ask too many questions-

                                 -don't worry about i-                                                                -uuuuhhhhhh-

           -well-                                                 -sir that's classif-

                         -HAHAHA moving on-                                             -you'll understand when your olde-

He smiles to himself, even though a guy gives him a suspicious look and quickly shoves him in a bag. The Voices are comforting in some way, they're distracting him from grief for a later time. And at least he knows he'll have someone to talk to-even though it really isn't talking-when the weird people drop him off to where they're going.

The Hunters drop him while he's still in the bag and tied up, he hit his head when he landed, making him whimper. "Oh, toughen up kid. It's not that much of a fall anyway."

"Should we check it if it has any damage from that throw off the cliff?"

"Eh, let it be. The other ones would probably check it anyways."

"Ya, for food probably!"

"Tch, geez don't set the bar so high!"

"Please, these lava eaters would probably rob a dying man."

"Ya know? I think I saw one do that."

"Told Ya."

They open up the bag and toss him out.

"Have fun Pig!" one cackles out.

How original.

Techno stays there for a few seconds curling in on himself, and tries to keep himself from crying. The Voices, for once, were trying to comfort him, and stay as quiet as possible.

He doesn't think they'll ever be quiet again.

There are other kids in the same cave as him, some in cages, some with cuffs that cover their entire hands, others with huge metal mask that Techno can tell won't even allow them to let them talk. The only thing they all had in common was a tattooed band around their upper right arm. Not one of them looked the same, yes, they could be from the same species but even those look far and in between. Many of them look as young as Techno, or almost an adult. Few of them are even pacing and swiping at anyone who come in range of their attack.

Techno decides to get up before they notice him.

"Hello."

Techno looks up at an older boy, he looks to be twelve at least. And, like the rest of the children, he has a tattooed band across his right bicep (he can't really tell the color from here), he's wearing boots and armor around his knees and ankles, on top of his t-shirt is a worn vest with a target painted on it where his heart should be, and fingerless gloves. He has this sharp look on him, both literately and figuratively, his ears and fingers are pointed along with his sharp features, even his teeth look sharp when they can't be nothing other than human. His left arm is patterned with scars from his wrist to his shoulder, as if something sharp wrapped around it and tried to rip it off. However, his most noticeable scar was on his face, stretching from one ear to the other. His eyes a dull grey that stare at nothing.

He's blind.

Then how did he know I was here?

"I saw that you weren't moving there buddy." Did he just say a pun?

Silence.

"Ahem, well I wanted to check if you were okay. That didn't feel like a good fall." Techno blinked at the boy.

"NESTOR!" another voice called.

He heard footsteps as he turned around and his eyes met with silver pupils. This kid looked about the same age as the other one, with dark brown skin that made the lighter colored band on his arm stand out more, and he had curly hair, he wore a sleeveless black shirt with a belt to go along with his worn puffed out pants, he had black studded bracelets and a necklace with a single piece of beat-up iron tied at the end tightly. Other than his silver-colored pupil, the only other significant marks he had was two small scars on his right cheek underneath his eye, a still healing wound on his higher left arm-it was still wrapped in bandages-and a scar on his lower right arm shaped like an x, and his hands and feet were a shiny silver color. Techno was pretty sure they were made out of iron, which is probably why he isn't wearing any shoes at the moment.

"Nestor! I was looking for you everywhere man! where have you-" He sees Technoblade, and he freezes. And an array of emotions Techno can't quite identify cross his face.

"Oh, no." He looks at-presumably-Nestor, "They can't have been serious, he's too young!"

"They just brought him in. When Schlatt said that his grandfather was hunting for a 'rare item'... I didn't think he meant this."

"THIS IS THE RARE ITEM!?" He looks at Techno again, "But-but-hu- WHAAAAT!?"

Techno picks himself up, and brushes off the dirt on his knees and hooved feet, mom always wanted him to look nice when they were meeting strangers. Nestor-somehow-followed his movements and grabbed at Techno's hand. Techno is still only four years old, his protectors and guardians are gone, to his instincts the simple fact that they weren't attacking him and they seemed to be keeping him grounded was enough for his piglin brain to try and get used to the fact that they are his new protectors. Now they just needed to accept him back.

"What's your name buddy?" Nestor leaned down towards him.

Friend?

"Technoblade."

He smiles. "Well nice to meet you Technoblade. I'm Nestor," He points at the iron kid, "And that's my friend Calvin."

Techno looks at Calvin. "Why are hands all shiny?" it wasn't gold, but the shine it gave off made Techno want to grab and inspect the hybrid's hands.

"I'm an Iron Golem Hybrid, that's why I have strange hands..." he says while looking like he was off on another world with his thoughts.

"What's an Iron Goal-Am?" that sounds like a strange creature.

"It's a creature made out of iron, there really strong." Calvin says while Nestor responds at the same time with, "Goal-EM."

"Are you really strong?"

"Very strong."

"Then how did those mean people get you?"

Both Calvin and Nestor winced at that. "We can tell you another time." If he survived the fights. 

He has too, they thought. He's too young to go too.

He will survive.                                                                                                         Never dies-

                           -destiny-                                                                   -a survivo-

             -fate and all its glory.                                 -n the palm of our han-

"How about we go to a nicer place? We have to go see a few friends, and then we can chat a little more. Okay buddy?"

He didn't want to stay, he wanted to go back. He wanted his dad. He wanted his mom. But something, deep in his soul was telling him to follow them. That in the time that is to come, they will teach him something that he cannot ever put into words. That, in the future, he will forever be in their dept and they will forever be in his. So, he took Calvin's hand while still holding Nestor's, and they led him farther into the cave. Techno, being careful to not accidently hurt them with his touch, Calvin snarling at the other contesters if they got too close to the little one-His instincts were on high alert with the small creature, always telling him to protect and eliminate the dangers-and Nestor, giving the guards death glares when they went past the doorway to another room-again, somehow- reminding them once more I might be blind but I can see more than you ever will in your lifetime.

This seems like the start of a beautiful friendship.

Techno doesn't know where they are going, the voices are warry, but most have just accepted the fact that they are more friend than foe. At least for now. Techno, while walking, decided that he was suddenly tired of just calling them The Voices, it sounds a little too ominous for his liking that the one constant in his life is named like some sort of evil villain-hero cliche plot that casually live in his mind. That won't do.

I have decided to call you Chat.

              AWWW-                                                                                          okay?-

  -at's nice o-                                                             -we're growing on you-

                              -I like that na-                                                 -Technosoft-

                -soft.                                       -stop, I will cry-         

 He smiles. Because you guys never shut up.

    OI!-                                                              -ell I never!-

                            bruuuu-                                                            -I'm being bullied-

  -EXCUSE ME?!-                                     -I hate you with a passion-

                                    -toxic bro-                               -I felt like I got 'no smile'd on-

Technoblade giggles, the older boys are just a little concerned now that the young boy seems to be acting all calm in this grim situation. But they don't question it any further, he's safe and that's what matters. They stop behind another entrance, this one looks slightly bigger than the others. The guards are giving them disgusted looks but they don't make a move towards them.

"Our friends live in this part of the cave. They don't exactly do the same things that they make us do, but they can help you know this place better than just the both of us." And the three enter

The entrance led to five other rooms, maybe bedrooms, each having different decorations on the doorframe. Although, two of the occupants were outside of the rooms. They seemed to be fighting, with the way the swing, kick, punch and weave around each other, each one trying to get the upper hand. One, to Techno's dismay, looked like the bad man with the horns. They had the same weird pupils, ears and horns like him, although the horns were a bit smaller and his eyes were a bright yellow rather than brown, and he looked to be maybe a year or two older than Calvin and Nestor, his hair was slightly curly and where his feet should be, Techno could see goat hooves instead. The other man was much older than the boys in the room, but by no means was he actually old. He had dark hair that would stick out in some places, but most of it was held back from his face by a red bandana.

They were both fighting valiantly, Goat Boy would charge at him with precise speed and tilt his horns towards him, aiming at his gut or his chest, and while he was winded, he would try to sweep his legs from under him, and if that failed, he would immediately go for precise punches aiming at anything exposed are truthfully anything that would be a pain to have to keep fighting with. Red Bandana would counter this by always trying to stay on the side of his vision and out of the way from his horns, shooting fireballs at his back and legs not letting the other rest to catch his breath to try again, and distracting him with other fires that he could just walk into and not get burned, feeding his own energy from it while the other had to back away and prepare himself from the burning storm that was too come.

"Are you guys done or is this a bad time?" Nestor said with a tease in his voice.

They immediately stopped their fight and turned to them with a smile, both sharp, teasing, fond and kind all at once. Friends?

Then they noticed small Techno. Whose crimson eyes matched the color of blood, with tusks that were barely growing in, and long floppy ears, his pink hair long and unkept since the fall from the cliff and shoes long lost to expose his hooved piglin feet. Goat Boy seemed to be angry, but Techno could feel it wasn't directed at him. Red Bandana just seemed sad.

"Guys, this is Technoblade. He's going to be the newest fighter in a few weeks." Calvin says.

Goat Boy turned to Calvin. "He can't be serious! He's barely a kid!"

"I don't think Grand is joking about this."

Goat Boy just sputters for a few seconds.

             Should we say hi?                                                                        having trouble there bud-

     -FRIENDSHIP-                                                                             -ooks like someone's having a mental breakdown-

                                      -ave him the trouble-                                                      -and then they were roommates-

                      -poor guy-                                                -et's break this moment of embarrassment-

"What's your name?" Techno asks.

Goat boy just stares at him in utter amazement, how is he so calm about this. "Schlatt, m-my name's Schlatt."  

Techno looks at Red Bandana. The man smiles.

"The name that has been given to me is Firebreathman, but most just call me Lighter."

And now everything is in place, these people he's never met before somehow feel so familiar. This is the start of a new chapter in his life once again, he knows. Only time will tell if fate will be in his favor. Or not.

The Start of Something Close to Freedom.

Chapter Text

Ten years

Techno stayed in The Pit for Ten Years

The first few days were...confusing, to say the least.

The first week, Techno got into a fight. Many of the prisoners think that since Nestor is blind, he is weak. And each time he proves them wrong, except one day, the guards startled him, causing him to drop his rations and making the hybrids scramble for the chance for a bigger meal, even though they are under a strict rule to not be given any more food than what they already have. They blamed him and started try and hurt him, Calvin and Schlatt tried to intervene, but they got pushed back.

Techno was small enough to go through a gap and into the circle. Right as a guard was about to land a punch on Nestor.

It was his last action.

Chat screamed with pleasure as they heard his last cries of pure agony. As they watched a full-grown man who dared to think he was untouchable try and hurt Techno's pack. And together, gave him his well-deserved punishment. Together, they watched him turn to ash at Techno's touch, the only thing remaining from him was a single black skull. Techno was both satisfied and terrified of what he'd done.

But you'd do it again.

I'd do it again.

He was punished, they slashed him across his back. It will heal, but not without a few scars. And a close friend of the man he killed came into his cell that they left him in, and gave him a few beatings and cuts from a knife he had on hand. Now, he's kneeling in front of the man who killed his father, with a barely healing scar across his nose, his hands bounded by metal so that he can't hurt anyone again. The man sits in his high throne, guards surround the room, and his horns are draped in gold.

One day your life, and your gold, will be ours.

Patience.

Techno's first kill awakened something in him that he always tried to keep buried deep. Ravaging and hungry for something no four-year-old should want.

Blood.

"Do you know what you did wrong pig?"

Quiet.

"Do you know how hard it is to find good work these days?" You mean people to do your bidding?

"You wasted a perfectly good soldier!" Good is a little over the top. How about pathetic?

"So, I'm not going to ask you again..." He stood up and walked over to Technoblade. He leaned down and raised his head up to face him.

"Do you know what you did wrong?" 

Tell him.

Crimson eyes lock with muddy brown. He smiles. "I got caught."

They stay there for a few seconds, the guards twitch and squirm in the silence. Until the man laughs and shakes his head. "What's your name pig?"

"Technoblade...sir" Show respect, make him think he's the greater one.

"Well, Technoblade, I think I found myself a new champion." he turns to a servant. "Find me the band." the servant scurries off into another room, and comes back with a thick collar made of gold. In the middle of it, is a carved boar skull, with rubies where the eye holes should be. Techno holds back a rumble, but he can't keep his eyes away from the precious metal.

The man chuckles, "I forgot your kind liked gold." He takes the collar and moves to put it on Techno. He pauses as his eyes catch on the pendant the child is wearing.

Don't take it away.

He looks at Techno again, amusement in his eyes. "I'll allow it." And he clicks the collar around Techno.

"This is a warning to my staff. If they try anything, then this should stop them in their tracks." He smiles at Techno. "The Blade should carry out judgement if it comes to it."

And with that he was sent back to the others. Who were waiting for their youngest to explain what exactly happened.

It didn't take long for them to realize two things with Techno.

One, was that Schlatt and The Grand were actually related, he was his grandfather. But that didn't change Techno's view on his friend, just because they were related didn't mean they were the same person. Techno then realized that The Grand was originally from the Overworld, how he was stuck here, nobody knew for sure.

Schlatt said when The Grand died, he would take over as the new heir to their small criminal kingdom. When that happened, he was going to free everyone from The Pit, and they could all live a new life together, the five of them. Techno gave hope to that promise every day.

Second, after the incident, his pack found out that Techno wasn't just a piglin hybrid. He was also a Wither Hybrid. This led to Techno telling them what would happen to him in the years to come, how since he had the blood of the Withering in him, he too would start to turn into ash. In a panic, they asked if there was a way to stop it, he told them there was no stopping, just delaying the inevitable. The first few months were then paired with at least one of them continually watching him, as if he could disappear any second.

Although his victims did help him in that aspect of his life.

Each time he would use his Wither effect on someone, their life force is then transferred to Techno, giving him strength, and longer life. But they in return die and share the same fate as the Withering. Although, recently Techno realized something else about his ability. Something of much value to The Grand.

He didn't just take their life.

He took their powers.

He figured this out in his first fight. Lighter had been training him for the past few weeks while he recovered, even if the fighter was twice Techno's size, he couldn't even land his punches correctly. He had this special ability to change the force of gravity on himself, so he kept on using it to his advantage to go up the high walls. He tried to escape by climbing over them, but one of the guards electrocuted him back into the ring and right into Techno's grasp. After the fight and him being escorted back to his cave, he felt.... different. When he got back to his own cave, Chat started to give him weird suggestions, he didn't really understand.

                   Does this mean we can go UPSIDEDOWN-                                            -an we do it with objects?

    -hat about other peopl-                                -DERMAN, CAN DO ANYTHING A SPIDER CAN-

                                           -he's not a spider idiot-                                                                -POWER-

-this is pog-                                                                            -alk on the wall-

He decided to go with the last suggestion.

And was surprised with the results.

When Calvin came to check on him, he found Techno sitting on the ceiling, reading a book they gave him.

Once The Grand fount out, he decided he is to not use any newly gained powers in the ring, outside of it though he can use them as much as he wants as long as it doesn't disturb the 'peace'. And he is also tasked with the job of, ahem, sending traitors 'on their marry way' as he put it. In reward to comply, he would sometimes give random trinkets to him. He did this only twice. The first time, he gave him two emeralds, each attached to a golden chain. The Grand said it could be used as a pair of earrings or, if done correctly, could make a necklace. The second, was a beautiful ring made of quarts, it had a small blue sapphire with gold markings etched into the ring around the precious jewel.

Techno always kept them in his pocket.

Him, Nestor, and Calvin were an unbeatable team, that was soon realized by the contesters, the audience and The Grand. When they were paired together, that meant they were going to have an enjoyable battle, when they fought, they fought as one. Calvin would make quick work of the fighters, almost always going in first- he says he likes the challenge -Nestor close behind him immediately letting arrows fly from his bow and always hitting their target- He explained to Techno that he had a power that let him sense vibrations all around him, so even though physically he was blind he could still easily tell what is in a room when he steps into it -and lastly, Technoblade, with his brutal way of fighting head-on and each opponent falling before him, he would only actually use his Wither effect on the last one standing. Something the crowds always loved, to finally clench out their bloodlust for the day.

It also calmed down Chat afterwards.

Through time, he gained a name for himself. Everyone had one, Calvin's was Silver Fist, Nestor's was Target. He was The Blade.

The Blood God

He improved his techniques over the years, constantly changing and critiquing his fighting style until each and every one was perfect. The same went with his new powers, always perfecting them, always practicing them with his pack. Mostly Schlatt if he was honest, he always liked to surprise the older one with every new move, Schlatt could recover from any situation quickly, it made him seem unbreakable. Techno thinks he likes the change in pace anyways.

Schlatt said it was good practice for when he took over as the new heir.

Ten years of fighting take a toll out of someone.

Sure, Techno and his pack would always be out there for one another, but that didn't mean that meant the same for everyone else. Lighter seemed to favor them over the other contestants with how well he trained them than all the others, his kind and teasing voice would dissipate when someone else came into the room. He gave them more tips than the other contestants. And he seemed to hit harder when it came to him training the other side of the fight.

Schlatt's usual charisma and charm would suddenly feel threatening to anyone else who wasn't part of the group. He also had this habit of staring and giving his best ' I'm going to murder you in your sleep ' smile to the other fighters if they were to be in the ring with one of the boys that day. And sometimes, some of the usual prisoners that would pick at them would suddenly try and not make eye-contact the next few days.

Calvin would just do outright threats, and he was more than happy to land the first punch if the situation ever escalated. His favorite people to target were the guards- surprise, surprise - with him throwing them in the air and across the room with all the strength he could muster, and then proudly walk away when they had ' learned their lesson '.

Nestor would absolutely give no warning when he strikes. He had this habit of collecting small, sharp, throwable objects and keeping them in his pocket. And if anybody even took the wrong step towards them, he would throw one of them. It would catch their sleeves or other pieces of clothing to the wall, sometimes it would even nick their ears or cut pieces of their hair off. Maybe that was his way of warning them to stay where they were, or next time, he might aim at something vital.

People would try to avoid Techno as much as possible, even the guards would stay away from him. But the occasional idiot would come around, and Techno would put them in their place. Sometimes, Chat would warn him if someone non-friendly was coming towards his pack, and he would give them his meanest growl when they made eye-contact, they always ran to the opposite side of the room after that. The others just thought it was adorable.

Even though death was their livelihood, even though it should have left them to descend into madness. They kept going for each other.

They trusted only each other.

They will not have them die if they could help it.

They don't care who they have to hurt. Or kill. When it came to family.

Family.

They would do anything for Family.

When Techno was ten, he found out what they had taught him in this wretched place.

Loyalty.

Things changed again when he was fourteen

It was supposed to be another day, another fight. Things started out normal, the five of them joking around as usual. They were taking a break from training, them sitting on the hot hard floor. Everything was fine.

Chat was loud today.

Get ready-                                             -ESTRUCTION-

                               -ows our chance!-                                                    -Free! Fre-

                -RUN-                                                      -HAOS-

       -In the midst of chaos, there is also an opportunity-                          -eize the day!-

Last time they were this loud, Dad died.

Techno immediately got up in a hurry and went towards the door to see if someone was coming towards them. What he found surprised him though.

"Techno?"

He looked back at his pack.

Schlatt took one look at his face and decided it would be better if they were quiet. Techno taught them sign language for when they wanted to talk to each other in private. Or when he was too tired to speak.

What's Wrong? He signed

Techno signed back at all of them.

Many. Guard. Run. Outside.

Lighter signed back while Calvin whispered what they were saying to Nestor.

How Many?

Techno looked back outside for half a second before he responded.

All.

"THE GRAND IS DEAD!"

They all sat up when the messenger came running. "THE GRAND IS DEAD?!" he repeated, like a broken record. A bit more in disbelief.

"Heh?"

"Really?"

"What?"

"How?"

"FINALY!"

Everyone turns to Schlatt. He seems to be having the time of his life. He laughs a bit maniacally, which brings the other boys to laugh with him by his unhinged demeanor towards the news. The messenger just seems extremely confused by their reactions.

BOOM

They stop their celebration midway and run to where they heard the explosion, only to see everyone who has ever been in the pit running away. Running towards the outside, even the guards were scattering, trying to be the first to wherever they were going. Where are they going?

Chat answered without being asked.

Techno couldn't believe it.

Before he could say anything, a guard came towards Schlatt, probably trying to show him that he was loyal enough to be spared if the New Grand was to punish the deserters. And he only confirmed what Chat had told Techno.

"Sir!" he gasped for air.

"Well? What is it? Why is everyone running?" Schlatt pushed.

The guard looked like he was in disbelief. "It's the Border! There's been an opening! It's coming from the Overworld!"

Without another word, they ran. Could this be it? Could they finally be truly free? Free from the constant smell of death, of smoke and ash. They had a chance, the chance to be the only generation in nearly 5,000 years to finally even set foot on the Overworld. The last time the people of the Nether where even given the glimmer of hope was some 70 years ago, when the Banished were forced to suffer along with the Nether people.

Almost there.

Techno could see it, the gap was small, only letting about four people go in at a time. The group made a run for it, running and pushing others out of the way. We can make it!

Out of the corner of Techno's vision, he sees about the most confusing thing to ever pop out of the Nether. There, right next to him, a sort of energy just appears, then a man and a young boy come out of it wearing strange clothes, very colorful, even the goggles that they were wearing were lined with bright colors.

The man goes for Techno's pack in the confusion, pushing them away from Techno, from The Border, they try to outmaneuver him, but he expertly predicts their movements and keeps on pushing. The boy on the other hand goes straight to Techno. He wasn't ready. Technoblade in his confusion, was pushed to the other side of The Border with the force of shear panic from the boy.

The last thing he saw, was his pack's panicked expressions before everything went dark.

Chapter Text

Phil in all honesty, was not expecting for the plan to go this bad.

But for all of it to make sense, we have to go back in time.

Phil, by no means, is innocent. He wasn't an innocent being thousands of years ago, and even less so now as a widely known villain. The Immortals were not known for their peaceful ways. They were known for their power, how they used it in the past, and how they could use it now. And like everything else, there is a balance. As powerful as they may be, there were very few of them.

Phil was one of the only ones left.

Well, one of them.

There were others, and he was proud to say that the ones he met were good friends of his.

Grian was both extremely creative, and maybe a bit mad. A bit fitting, Phil thinks since he is a Parrot Hybrid, it being shown by Grian's colorful wings of red, yellow, green, and blue. Whenever he came to visit, he would always see him running around, always doing something and never really having the will to just sit there and do nothing. Most of the time, he would either catch him in the middle of a new plan or making small yet beautiful little creations. Sometimes, Phil would join him, and they always had an enjoyable time. Other times, more people would join as well. 

Scar was the... businessman of the group. Always trying to make deals with small criminals with shaky promises. His natural charm just rolling off of him to get under the skins of Villains, Vigilantes, and even a few Heroes. Although all things considering, he seems to be the more... well, calmer one of the group isn't exactly the right way to say it. More... Chaotic Neutral of the group Phil thinks. A bit ironic if you take in his true appearance in his Lion form.

Then there was Mumbo, like his companions, very creative. Although, without a doubt he was the more Tech Savy out of all of them combined, usually getting his owl wings covered in redstone dust or accidentally snagging little wires with them. He wasn't really proclaimed a villain like the rest of them, the lower districts viewed him more as a vigilante. However, he was known to work with them in the past, so he was usually shown the same treatment as the villains. Especially, in the higher districts.

Even though Phil had known them for a long time, there were things that they didn't talk about much. Like the circumstances in which they met before they knew about Phil. How Scar had burn marks that go along his back, right arm and eye. How Mumbo would constantly be checking on the group if he sensed something amiss. Or how Grian would be startled with loud noises and talks about how he hates the desert. But that's fine, Phil doesn't tell them much about his beginnings, or what he was involved with in the past, so it wouldn't be fair.

Of course, there were others who are more... hidden than Phil and the other three, but he tries to not dwell on that as much as possible. Both good and bad memories that hurt to think about. But he is very fond of them, and they all seemed to have a mutual liking to one another almost immediately.

Phil, Grian, Scar and Mumbo.

But the world mostly new them as Zephyrus, Whirlwind, Quake and Circuit.

Phil met Wilbur in the middle of a fight.

He was in the middle of a business deal, when the Warden, a vigilante, had decided it was his job to make it his business. Well, I guess he did sort of hire himself, but it is still extremely annoying. The battle escalated enough for a building to collapse. Phil was about to walk away; Warden would have been too preoccupied by the civilians to pay much attention to him. Looking back on it, he was glad he turned around for one last look.

Because that's when he saw Wilbur, underneath the shadow of a falling building.

He didn't think, he just reacted. He might've been a villain, but he can't just let a child suffer for his actions. He swooped down and snagged him off the ground and immediately took flight. The rubble crashing at the spot that could have killed this young one. He remembers how tightly he clutched Phil the higher they went, and how he kept his eyes shut in fear. When they were a safe distance away, he told him he could open his eyes.

The child looked up at him in awe. Phil remembered that vividly, he didn't show a spec of fear on his face. And Phil knew, without a doubt, that this child was his. He would hold on to him for the rest of eternity. So, he kept him, he said his name was Wilbur and Phil repeated it with all the love he could muster inside of him. Wilbur clung to him even when they landed on solid ground, refusing to let go of him. Not that Phil complained.

Wilbur lived with him afterward, he said he had no one to go back to that cared. Phil said he cared. And with that, the decision was final. They were family, Mumbo made documents for Wilbur to show that he was 'officially' his son. Grian went with Phil and Wilbur to the store to buy new clothes and such. And Scar helped Phil make arrangements for Wil's health and education. Wil always stood by Phil's side; he didn't care that he was a villain. He just would throw himself at him when he came back through the door to their home, shaking a little bit from the fear that maybe, just maybe, Phil might not come home that night.

Over time, they learned to get used to each other. At first Wil was very clingy but calmed down over time. And Phil with his ever immortal worrying over a very accident-prone child got dialed down a bit when he figured out that Wil could easily get away from dangerous people with a simple command. 

Phil can't handle loss, humans were not meant to live through it. However, its different when it comes to immortals, every single time they make a connection with someone, they always have to come to the realization that they will die one way or another. And the only one who will be left standing, will be them. Immortal, yet never truly living.

But, Phil thought, maybe Wilbur will bring life to his old heart.

In short, he did. And Phil will always remember the feeling.

It started when he called him 'Dad'.

It started with a meeting.

"So, why'd you call this meeting Mumbo?" Scar broke the silence.

Mumbo sighed, "I got a call from a client... He started a project on his own. But the only thing he needs from me is a very powerful energy source." He looked like he hadn't slept in a while.

"Ok and? What's wrong with that?" Phil was a little worried what this entailed if the energy source that Mumbo needed had to be brought with their help.

Mumbo looked at each and every one of their eyes, seeming to pierce them to their soul.

"The only thing that has that much power is... the Veil."

Everyone went deathly still.

The Veil was a sort of barrier between the Overworld and the NetherRealm. Phil remembers why it was created, in those times, the heroes didn't really know how to handle the criminals and villains they captured. They couldn't just wait for judgement or just send them to prison, they were too dangerous. So, they thought it was completely fine to just go ahead and send them to a dimension with no living beings. And in time, they would die a slow painful death, either by fire, hunger, or dehydration. It was one of the reasons Phil decided to make himself known to the world. There was much more than one reason but-

Let's not dwell on that now.

Phil and the group new better though, another reason they all hated that decision was because the heroes were so clearly lying to the public. The Nether wasn't lifeless, although the criminals might not die from the biome itself, they would, without a doubt in their mind, die by combat. Could be from each other, or by the other beings living in the Nether. And if the Veil were to come down, those entities would be roaming the Overworld freely, and Phil absolutely new this world wouldn't be able to handle that, they would most likely try to kill off everything left in that place for fear of the unknown. 

"What do they have to offer? If we get them what they want?" Grian looked a little interested. That's the ' I'm about to do something stupid ' face.

"They offered; A Star, potions, along with some netherite and rations that they have spared." 

That's... good. That's actually really good. Stars above, that was an amazing deal!

"I'm in." Scar said immediately, "That there is a mighty fine deal."

"Can I push the button? Please Mumbo I need to!"

"Fine yes! You can push the button!"

"As long as it's not connected to anything explosive." Everyone turned to Phil with a pout on their face. He laughed.

How badly could this end?

Bad

This could end very badly.

He realized that WAY too late now.

"Zephyrus!" He turns around, he needs to stall so that Grian and Scar can extract the power from the Veil. Mumbo is, at the moment, their guy in the chair. "A little while longer"

There, standing in all their heroic glory, is Perception, the empath with their royal-like suit and black and white mask. Beside them, comes Record, with her long curly white hair and horns that curl over her head and a suit that Phil always thought looked a bit like a pirate costume. Behind them both, were Oni and Troll, were one looked like they were nothing but void with a dark grey hoodie and a red sword, the other took stark contrast in how they shined with their diamond skin and silly mask- a orange axe in his hand. There was another hero behind them that Phil never bothered to learn the name of, the jerk didn't deserve the honor of Phil's care over him.

The Committe really don't want me here, do they?

The thought seemed to almost make Phil laugh.

"Hmmmm, looks like someone doesn't like me coming over here." Phil draws out, treading in dangerous waters.

"Listen, we don't know what idiotic plan you have involving the Veil. But maybe if you turn back now, we can forget this ever happened." Troll responded.

"Now, now, we all know that's a lie." a crow above caws in agreement.

"Do you really want to do this the hard way Zephyrus?"

"C'mon Record, I know all of your tricks, you know if we were to fight right now no one will leave unscathed... well, almost everyone." He smiles manically at them.

"Don't count your crows before they hatch." Out of the shadows, more people come out. Warden, with his green hair, heavy armor with different gadgets in all of his pockets and gasmask. Calypso, her small flask of water tied to her hip and pink hair framing her large masquerade mask that hide her eyes, her blue and green suit with patterns of waves with white and gold making her look like a mermaid, if it weren't for the pieces of armor in the suit. And finally, Prometheus with his fire-resistant armor and half-red-half-blue goggles, and bandana that covers the rest of their face.

Well sh-

"Working with some vigilantes now, are we?" Phil was panicking a bit on the inside, he admits. But then again, their faces when all this is over will have been worth it.

"Your one to talk." Prometheus retorts, "Like, c'mon Zeph. The Veil? What are you seriously going to do with it?" His body language betrays his calm voice.

"I'm afraid I can't tell you." He says with a fake pout.

"What are you planning Zephyrus? You know what, forget I said that. Whatever you have planned can't be anything good."

"Calypso!" He puts a hand over his heart. "You wound me young one!"

"Enough Zephyrus!" The unnamed 'hero' cuts in, "This is what is going to happen. You are going to come to us peacefully and the Committe will decide your fate, or we can end this here and now. Your choice." Behind them, Phil can see the rest get into fighting stance. They already chose how this was going to go.

Wilbur's face flashes in front of him for half a second, and he already has come to the same conclusion. If they take Phil, they'll take away Wil. He will never be able to see his son again. When Phil became a villain, he was fighting for his own selfish gain, of the oppressive rules of the cities and their leaders. He wanted to see them burn, and to see how much humanity has hurt him, how much they hurt their own. But now he has a family, and he'll be damned if they think they can take that away from him as well.

"How about I make a third option?"

BOOM

A few blocks away, the Veil seems to be rippling and tearing away. Thought it was supposed to be unnoticeable, guess Circuit has some work to do.

"WHAT DID YOU DO?!" Warden wields his trident at him.

Phil laughs. "Did you really think I would do this on my own?" Taking in their panic like it feeds him.

And with that, he unfolds his wings and just flies away. You'd think they've thought of that beforehand. He hears shouts from behind and a faint "Follow him!" eh, probably not important. He lands next to Grian and Scar. Who are... standing still? The crows that saw him follow close behind as he approaches them.

"Whirlwind? Quake? Something the matter-" He stops at what exactly had taken their undivided attention.

Mumbo seems to break them through their silent thoughts.

"The Veil... parted."

And then people were coming out of the Veil. They were all of different kinds, creatures that Phil hasn't seen in centuries.

They all looked so young, some even looked younger than Wilbur. Others had armor and weapons, all of them looked starved and their bodies were marked head-to-toe with bruises, scratches, and scars. Some had what seemed like tattoos on their right bicep, some had chains or muzzles. And Phil doesn't understand, these people look like children, and they came from a world where everything was supposed to die. The criminals couldn't have survived. Could they? The full-blooded mobs would have killed them all. 

Right?

"YOU OPENED THE VEIL!?" Phil turned sharply and saw the heroes and vigilantes. They seemed to be in the same state of shock as the other three.

"Uhhhhhhhhhhhhh-"

"Weeeeeeeeeellllllll-"

"Eeeeeeerrrrrmmm-"

The conversation seemed to have cached the attention of the survivors, some gasped, growled, or just started to chatter or scatter.

Before they could run, before the villains could say how this was not part of the deal, before the heroes could put in another word, The Unnamed Hero unlatched something from his belt, pressed a button and threw it far.

Towards the Survivors.

Chapter Text

        Free-                                                  FINALLY-

                       -HAHAHA-                                                 -orld's end-

              -et it all out!-                                     -danger-

                                           -LOOD BLOOD BLOOD-                                     -are you ready?-

Loud.

Everything is so loud.

They won't calm down no matter how hard he tries. He needs to go back, he has to help the rest come through.

Not Yet.

"-AT HAVE YOU DONE!" who's that? They sound really angry. 

"They needed to be taken care of! What? Was this your plan Zephyrus? To have control of an entire legion of villains?"

"VILLAINS? Those were kids!"

"Then explain to me Whirlwind, what were they doing in the Nether?"

"Wh-What do you MEAN what were they doing in there!"

"V-Void, you can't be s-serious?"

"Shut up Troll, what would we have done with them anyway?"

"HOW ABOUT LOOK AFTER THEM!?"

"Really Record. Look after those things? Hilarious."

"You absolute monster!"

"Listen here you-"

"Wait, some else is coming out!"

The red fog that surrounds Techno seems to lift. Just barely, and he can make out a few shapes, some moving, some staying still. He smells the familiar but less refined scent of smoke, ash, and fire. Beyond consciousness, he can see colors that are so bright, but not familiar at all. He's aware that if he goes back now, a door he doesn't know about will close forever. As if on their own accord, his legs guide him forward.

Toward His Freedom.

Away From His Pack.

I'll come back for them.  A promise, a vow.

He stumbles out of the fog.

Oh.

The Fighters are dead.

That, unfortunately, was Techno's first thought. And the first thing he noticed. Well, you know other than the very high ceiling that... what's that color? And are those puffy white things moving?

         Clouds-                                                -it looks like a mushroom-

                             -cumulus clouds-                                                             -AHHH THE LIGHT-

                 -suck it up 75,094!                                                        -it's so fluffy-

                                           -OU CAN'T TELL ME WHA-                                           -an you please stop fighti-

Cloud? It... doesn't look deadly. He makes a mental note to spy on it further.

"ACHOO!"

He snaps his head towards the noise and-

Heh?

Those... are a lot of adults looking at him.

Wait, what's happening?

Overworld-

Oh, yeah. That happened.

Techno looks over the strange adults, and Chat immediately give him their input. Techno always found it unsettling when this happened, it was one of the few times they would speak at once, and not try to overlap one another.

The one with fancy clothes can read emotions, and sometimes thoughts. Stay calm and don't panic.

Lady with white hair can look into the history of every object when she touches them.

Shadow man can turn into shadows and knows many spells. Stay in bright areas.

Diamond dude can cause distractions but can't control how he'll do it. Watch out for him.

Green hair can make weird devices. Too much metal to hit properly, but we can manage.

Pink hair girl can make water move, maybe can control more. Caution.

Red-blue goggles can make fire. Throw something heavy at him.

Metal legs can make ground move. Be ready to take cover.

Techno looks at the last three. Two of them have wings, but one has many colors.

Control air, make us stop breathing.

And-

The black birds help him, Poison scratch.

Death's Angel.

The thought came through so suddenly and abruptly that he couldn't bring himself to look away from the man. And when he made eye contact with him... Techno couldn't explain the feeling. It was as if he was a lost puppy who found his owner. The piece of the puzzle that was given back to him. Even though he never knew he lost it in the first place. Familiar, and yet completely new to him.

MOVE-

Suddenly the other man that was a few yards away him was right there and-

"NO!"

Something flashed by, faster than anything that Techno's ever seen- and the man was suddenly away again and on the ground.

"I can't believe you!" Really fast. This strange person was dressed in different shades of the same color as the weird ceiling, shoes that looked thin and light, and mask that stretched from his forehead to his nose. "Were you seriously trying to hurt him?!"

The man squinted at his attacker, "Well Streak, I wasn't going to let it kill us first." He picks himself up, Fancy Clothes blocks them both from him. "That's enough Void! It's obvious that this is a child, and there will be extreme punishment for when we get back to HQ. Let. It. Go."

Void.

Noted.

"When you get back?" They turn to the man with colorful wings. The one who locked eyes with Techno finished his sentence. "After what you've just done, do you think that's an option anymore?" The three in the group pulled out their weapons, and the other adults did the same. Some of the weapons Techno has never seen before. Chat is going ecstatic with the tension clear in the air, already chanting their familiar tune. He takes a step back, then another. He can't fight, there's too many of them, he's severely outnumbered. Then he sees it, there's an opening, it's between to a few structures and the weird adults are still a little too close for comfort, but not impossible. He needs to run and find out what in the Fire just happened to him.

For a second his eyes flicker to the man with black wings, he looks back for one second. His eyes widen, as if they know what he's trying to do.

Techno turns.

And runs.

Hanna is losing her absolute-magical-mind.

Okay, okay, hear her out. She was just trying to go and finish some errands. You know, buy some cheap food- even when they were close to expiring -Buy a lot of water, but not enough to be questioned by it. Hide some seeds in her pockets. Pick up her special shampoo and lotions for her kind. All the while going through the same steps to hide the fact that she was different. Not completely human.

Don't look anyone in the eyes. Stay near the suspicious shadows. Steps light and quiet. Hold back the urge to let the Un-bloomed flowers show in her hair. And always carry an ID in case security or police officers decided to give her trouble.

And never let the seeds show.

When she returned to her apartment, she let out a breath. No matter how many times she did this task, it was always nerve-racking. Always forcing herself to relax and hope that other people couldn't smell the scent of flowers and life on her. Her laughing it off and saying the smell is from the lotions she always buys.

Speaking of flowers...

She gave into the urge and the buds in her hair bloomed into beautiful wide red roses, vines curling around her head and arm, small thorns directed away from her body but still attached to her. Their sweet scent ingulfing the small apartment, Altari and Anastasia Liliums responding to her, opening their petals and looking godsent next to the sunlight to gain the attention of the Fae Hybrid. Water. With a role of her eyes, she sprinkles them lightly. When content with the care of her secret garden, she pulled out her newly acquired package and showed them off to her silent companions.

"I managed to get some more seeds from some delivery truck." Others might call her crazy, for talking to plants. She says it's the equivalent to having a pet, the only difference is that one of those things may or may not have a more complicated diet. They both talk! It's just that she might be the only one to understand both, well, at least one of them.

"Once I'm done growing these, I'm going to have to head out again." She looks at the package of mixed vegetable seeds and walks towards her small grow bed in another room. She hums a small tune while working and plans where to go next.

Hanna has been careful to not get involved in the world of Villain-Heroes-Vigilantes, always standing on the sidelines. That doesn't mean that she by all means hasn't done anything illegal, well according to the law. But a few rules aren't going to stop her from giving a few people some food that they can't afford themselves. Just because people aren't allowed to use their powers unless given permission from the government, doesn't mean she's going to stop giving her bouquet of flowers to those who need it in their lives.

In all honesty, she resents the heroes who don't try harder to fix things. She understands that retaliation in the past has resulted in some losing their job, but let's put it this way. If every hero agrees to change things, what is the Committee or the President for that matter going to do about it? Fire them? That would leave the country defenseless against the villains, they'll have no other choice but to listen!

It's a full proof plan in her books!

She sighs as the vegetables start to grow quickly, grabbing a basket beside the garden and gathering the fresh vegetables. Once she has enough to fill her multiple bags, including the basket, she gets ready to go out.

It's a simple disguise, a brown sleeved shirt under a small red cloak that goes to her waist and covers her hair, a small gold rose pinned in the middle, black jeans and red sneakers that have gold leaves carved on the side, a white scarf and pink tinted glasses. She lets the flowers in her hair and vines on her arm adjust to the new weight on them, grabs her bags full of food, and sneaks out the window from her apartment complex, going down the metal ladders and onto the ground to walk out of the dark alleyway.

She started giving away her produce a few years ago, it started small, but over time she grew in her acts. At one point, a police officer had seen her give a few apples and pears to an elderly woman and had (reluctantly) tried to arrest her. She ran of course, but after that encounter, she started having a few more of the same situations. It wasn't until a little girl smiled at her with berry juice going down her chin had called her 'Sam' that she figured something else bigger was going on.

She had asked the girl what she meant by 'Sam'

And the girl said it stood for 'The Good Samaritan'

She had earned a reputation for herself. And others new about it, soon she noticed a few heroes and vigilantes would leave her alone if they ever spotted her in their patrols. Even villains would pretend they didn't notice her, which for The Zephyrus to just smile and walk away from you was freaking terrifying the first time it happened. She just about collapsed that day at her apartment. She wasn't a vigilante per say, she sure wasn't a hero with all the stealing of seeds she's done in the past. But anything to help those who can't do anything is alright with her. 

She was in her usual rout when the strangest thing happened. She saw Quake and Whirlwind pointing something that definitely looked illegal at The-Freaking-Veil! So, she did what any sane person would do.

And that is to hide behind a building and watch them like a stalker.

Completely normal!

Now she would tell you what happened, she would! But.... she got knocked out when the explosion happened.

Sometimes, she wishes she looked away when she saw someone throw an explosion, right at the group of people. They looked so happy, she saw a boy with mushrooms growing out of his head and shoulders, looking at the sky as if it were made of gold. She could feel the tiny red vines on him when they were blasted into a fiery death. She had to cover her mouth to keep herself from screaming, even as thorny vines sprouted momentarily a few feet away on instinct.

All those people were just... dead, no, killed, murdered! She didn't know what to do, she couldn't bring herself to look away from The Veil where so many lie dead. She couldn't even bring herself to listen to what the stupid so-called Hero was saying to the rest of the shocked group.

At one point, she backed away and was now sitting on the floor trying horribly to hold back her tears. When they fell, sweet peas (Lathyrus Odoratus) grew in their place, blue and drooping slightly at their creator's grief. When she looked back, she saw another child to her distress. She screamed her fear at the world when the Hero tried to hurt him too. Only for him to be pushed back hard by Streak of all people!

So here she was again. Having a panic attack. What can she do! The only thing she's possibly good for is making plants grow! She's useless in this situation! She (again) starts to walk away.

She got to three steps

"Stop him!"

She turns back and he's running?!

Crap, he's coming closer to her hiding spot.

Wait, is that hero pulling out a gun?!

...

son of a-

Gun.

That's a gun.

Grian moved, but he was too slow.

CRACK! CRACK!

The kid falls, they all move. Phil runs for the child, Scar right behind him making the ground tremble to keep the others off balance. Grian goes for the hero that has already caused so much death today, while Phil would usually have the honor of what is to come, Grian knows he would rather go for the kid first. So, Grian is in charge of his fate.

His death would not feel fast. He knows.

But he wishes he could make it slower.

He raises his arm as the last of his breath is forcefully taken away. He tries to gasp for air, and he can't even bring himself to make that miserable breathy sound as if he was underwater for a while. Well, Grian doesn't even think it would be possible. He removed all of the oxygen from the hero's area. With the air that he gathered, he shoved Perception with it to get him away so that he could not save his partner.

With his pale face, he fell. He didn't even twitch when Grian- No, Whirlwind, kicked him hard in the chest that he heard a small crack. He would have responded if I cracked his rib. 

This all happened in a matter of three seconds, as he turned to follow his teammates another figure came out of the shadows next to the child. He recognized her as "Sam". She must have seen it all if she was there the whole time.

Without hesitation, she picks up the kid in her arms, still bleeding from his shoulder and stomach. And pulls him close to her as vines with thorns as thick as a person start sprouting out if the ground, they lash out at every one even remotely close to them.

"Wait!" Scar yells.

But she isn't listening, she runs back into the allay, and disappears. Trees grow behind her blocking everyone's view of where they could possibly have gone. Record tries to go through, only to almost be stabbed by a branch that just sprouted. The Warden tries to cut them down to no avail, Calypso and Prometheus having to hold him back to make him stop. And Phil...

He stares, his veil covers his face, but they know he's either holding back tears or holding back a scream. Grian touches his shoulder, "We should go back," he doesn't move. "We can look for them later," nothing. "Zephyrus, I think you should go back home and see him." He knows he means Wilbur. He knows that the kid only reminded him of his son. How they both were in the crossfire.

The only difference is that this one got away from him, injured.

Maybe worse.

Slowly, Phil nods. and quickly the three run away from the others. Revenge can wait. First, they need to find Sam and the child. Before it's too late.

Quake informs Circuit of the new mission.

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Chapter Text

Pain.

Pain was a constant since the day he was forced to fight.

Pain is what he is feeling now.

The world is slowly fading, in, out. Everything feels glossed over, the new world that he discovered just a few minutes ago is dimming. The Voices, no matter how loud they scream, are going quiet. It's peaceful in a way, maybe that's why he's relaxing now. 

No, it's because that strange person hurt him. Very badly, the odd weapon he used was very loud, and fast. Hopefully the others won't learn that the hard way like he did.

He's bleeding a lot, he knows. Someone grabbed him when he fell. They have this sweet smell stuck to them, like plants. He opened his eyes for a second, and he saw a gold pin on their cloak. It was very pretty. He wanted to ask if he could see it, but a weird croak was all he could manage. Speaking... feels like a lot of work at the moment.

He can feel them running, him in their arms being jostled around painfully. They're saying things softly to him, comfort, pleas, promises he'll live another day. They fall on deaf ears.

He's really tired.

He's walking home with a bruise on his cheek.

Will dad get mad? The mean people were too fast for Techno to outrun, maybe he can just say he tripped and fell while running back home. That would also explain how he lost the gold too; he could have just dropped it while running!

(Something clicks and he's hastily laid in something soft. Footsteps echo through the place, but he can't open his eyes to see where its source is. Pain is consistent.)

He opens the front door and tries to sneak towards his little cot.

BARK!

He jumps at the noise, turning around to the large wolf like shadow. It stares at him, pinning him in place. He's brought back by a loud growl and rough stubby hands gently pulling him to a warm chest. Dad looks so upset, and Techno can barely look him in the eyes as he turns his head towards him. He practically whimpers as he softly prods the bruise, as if to see if it was real.

What happened?

He was about to respond when mom walks into the room. She takes one look at Techno and immediately rushes over.

"Star? What happened? Why are you hurt?"

(Footsteps come closer to him and lift his shirt to uncover his wound. "Okay, lavender, jasmine, marigold, echinacea, and chamomile. Oh, I don't have time to grow more powerful plants!" He hears a barely contained sob. "I just have to work with what I have on hand. Maybe, a small boost with a spell? That could work!" A small warmth spread from his wounds to around them, lessening the pain slightly.)

It's so much harder to lie when both of them are here.

They'll be so disappointed.

"Some strangers wanted the gold that dad gave me." His voice shakes when he continues, "I'm so sorry, I tried to make them go away! But they kept being really mean and they took it away when I got close." He sniffs.

"I'm sorry, I know how im-important gold is."

They give him a pained look.

("These plants should help with the healing, th-the bullets went right through so at least we don't have to worry about that." Gentle hands start the familiar rhythm of cleaning and bandaging a wound, he feels the person place other chemicals on him, but they don't harm him. He can feel them shake sometimes, but the warmth starts to sooth the pain away as time continues. When finished, he hears them run off again, and a sort of rushing sound from another room.)

"Oh, my Star..."

Arms surround him in safety and comfort, even though Techno feels like he doesn't deserve it. Mom places a kiss on his forehead as dad swipes away a stray tear.

"You are so much more precious than gold."

(He hears them come back, and someone grabs his hand and holds it tightly. The warmth is making him drift in and out of consciousness, "I am sorry, I should have done something, anything really!" The place smells like life was created here. "You're going to get better; I-I can try to keep you safe for as long as I can. But I don't know what to do afterward... oh, get yourself together Hannah!" They sigh softly, albeit a bit shakily. "We can get through this...")

(He never felt more at peace.)

Wilbur might just murder someone.

Preferably, a few heroes.

Phil had barely come back from an important job, Wilbur knew how important and risky it was; he was delt in last minute. He was expecting either to cheer in victory, or mutter a few curses in frustration for being set back by the heroes and/or vigilantes.

He was not expecting for his dad to just sit on the couch, put his head on his hands and just sit there, his wings drooping to touch the ground. Hat along with its veil off, looking like to Wilbur a broken man. He doesn't even try to get up to change out of his full costume.

"Dad?"

Phil looked up at him, his son had walked right in front of him without him even noticing.

"Wilbur?" He reaches for him, tugging him close until he's sitting in his lap. Phil brings his wings over them, a sort of shield from the world incasing them in darkness. He's done this before when Will was younger, when he would wake up in the middle of the night because of a nightmare and snuggle up to Phil. It was comforting for both sides of the party, it was a reminder that Wilbur was safe with Phil, and he would never let anyone touch him. And it helped the small part of Phil's bird brain to calm down with the repeating chant of chick close, and safe in the nest. "What are you still doing awake? It's really late." He croons and begins to run his black talons through the younger's hair, untangling small knots that had gathered throughout the day, and scratching his chick's scalp softly.

"I wanted to make sure you came back alright." Wilbur leans into the touch, humming slightly.

"It's alright Will... I'm alright." He sounds hesitant, he absently tugs on a strand of hair and holds his son tighter. As if he would disappear. Wilbur fixes his father with a look that screams 'I know your bs don't lie' and Phil in return, just grimaced slightly.

And explained.

Everything.

So now Wilbur is here in his father's embrace, absolutely irate. Wilbur couldn't believe it! He knows the system is bad but...

This... changes things.

"So, what are we going to do now?" Wilbur presses closer to his father, and he brings his wings over them completely, leaning back slightly to be in a more comfortable position.

"I don't know Will... we're hoping we can at least get in contact with Good Sam without scaring them away. But they might try to lie low with all that went down." He frowns slightly and gives a few clicks in worry.

"Do you think-"

"I hope."

They stay silent for a moment, going through the most likely possibility. That the kid died, and this chase would end up with nothing but heartache. 

On the other hand... "By all of the spirits..." Phil gives him a curious look.

"I'm going to be a brother!"

They stay silent for a moment, before bursting out in laughter. Wherever that kid is, they will find him. And... well, the world will have to try very damn hard to try and rip them away.

Chapter Text

Hannah slept next to the strange boy for the next few days. She spent her free time watching TV next to the slumbering child, doing stretches around the same room, or just preparing her herbs for the kid. She couldn't bring herself to leave his side for too long, it felt wrong, as if leaving him to a pack of nonexistent wolves.

She was so worried for him, the young one had many scars all over his body. From the one slashed across his nose and arms, to ones scattered across his back and gut. Some looked new, but many had already aged. What sort of situations could he have been in to have gained so much pain? How is he still alive?

She glanced at the two tattoos inked innocently into his arms from the floor she was sitting on. They circled around his bicep and had no pattern whatsoever; one was a pink color- a bit darker shade than his hair -and the other one was a flat black. Hannah was so confused; his very existence goes against everything the Committee said about the villains and criminals of old.

She remembers what they said, what they taught to her in school. How the Heroes couldn't contain the criminals, so they had no choice but to lock them away in a desolate dimension, somewhere free of life and thriving on death. The end of their destructive bloodlines and left to turn on each other on the other side of The Veil. No one should still be alive. Even if they adapted to their environment, then the few locals that do live there would surely take care of them.

But that can't be true, because even though this kid is clearly a hybrid, he still has human qualities in his face and limbs. That means that at some point his bloodline had mingled with a human, wasn't that a sign that the criminals and villains somehow survived everything? And if they did, they even had families? If that's the truth... then why did the Commitee lie?

Hannah looks at him again. At the rise and fall of his chest that stutters every so often, the spell she tried earlier is successful in healing the wound faster, even if slightly. It has been about three weeks since she brought him to her home and he hasn't woken up yet, its putting her on edge. What if he doesn't wake up? What will she do then? Is it better to just-

No. 

She won't give up on the little bud that easily.

Sighing, she lays down on the small cot by the window she made one night, wincing slightly at the phantom pains across her back but relaxing as it passes. The Achillea millefolium's should be ready tomorrow for some tea.

Sleep is little comfort.

I'll wait for you-                                   -cold

              -ug of the snow-                                        -candlelit meal,

       -y love, by my si-                                       -e will dance away

                               Oh, what an affair would this be.

Aw, you guys singing me to sleep now?

I regret this-                                                 -ou heard nothi-

                    -shut up-                                                -iked you better when you were sleepi-

         -bruh what you mean?-                             -do you want to go back to the norm?

                                    -ONE TIM-                                        this is why we spam E.

He opens his eyes, and immediately has to close them again. The light is so much brighter than he remembers, he tries to twist out of the way only to wince from the pain that zaps from his shoulder and gut. 

He looks down at his bandaged body.

Huh, that's weird. I don't remember going in the pit earli-

The memories come in steady waves.

He crossed The Barrier.

The weird person hurt him.

He's in the Overworld.

His pack is stuck on the other side.

Crud.

He scrambles up, falling to the floor with a loud THUD! yet not able to make out his surroundings because he's here and they're still stuck there nonono-

"Woah! Easy there buddy!"

He whips his head toward the stranger, slightly disoriented but he prepares to tackle them nonetheless, only for them to firmly push him back down the strangely soft seat with little force and a well-placed foot for him to sprawl back down.

Okay, maybe I'm in worse shape than I thought.

He gives his loudest growl at the strange person making the room practically shake, they quickly back away, he looks at them properly in the bright light. They seem a bit disheveled with their wavy brown hair in a messy ponytail and weird... plants? They have bags under their green eyes, even though they still twinkle slightly, and more weirdly colored plants on their right arm. At least the flowers seem to have a normal color.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you. You're still healing so you should absolutely NOT be standing up right now, my spell doesn't do anything with the blood loss." Spell?

He squints at her, but she doesn't explain further.

"Ok, I have some tea for you to drink. So... I'll go get that." She slowly walks away to another room, never turning her back towards him and keeping eye contact with him, to his amusement.

Chat?

She can make plants grow faster, knows many spells... could fly in time.

Fly?

She didn't have any wings that Techno could see. Or was it an extra power? Before he could ponder further with this new information, the lady came back with a cup of some sort of liquid. Upon seeing his hesitance, she tries to smile to comfort him, it looks slightly strained though.

"Here's the tea! I put some honey in with the Yarrow to make it a bit sweeter." She extends the cup toward him, he glances at the liquid and at the lady a few times before, very slowly, grabbing the cup. the cup has a bit yellow coloring in it; a slight sparkle as well, along with a small bag in it that seems to contain something dry. The cup itself feels too delicate for Techno to hold with his calloused hands. He holds it with both hands as he brings it towards his mouth.

In all honesty, it doesn't taste bad, and it helps with the slight burning in his throat. The warm liquid calms him slightly from this strange situation and helps him gather his thoughts. Once he's finished the weird lady takes the cup back, she stands there for a few seconds, she looks like she wants to say something else, but seems to think better of it and walks back to another room.

Maybe she isn't... too bad.

I wonder if she'll let me look at the gold from earlier...

He opens his mouth to ask, but his throat still hurts, and he doesn't really feel like interacting with someone at the moment.

Techno should really get out of shell more.

Nikki has been crying a lot for the past few days.

Quite frankly, Ranboo doesn't know what to do with this information, Jack said that he doesn't have to worry about it until he's older. But Ranboo thinks it would be better if he knew now, maybe he can help his sister feel better! Once he knows what's wrong, then he can make all the sadness go away with a big hug, depending on how bad it is. He gives the best hugs, Nikki said so!

But as days pass, he thinks that maybe something really bad happened. She wakes up screaming, scaring Ranboo in the process. Ranboo knows the bad thing happened when she went and fought the bad guys, she was really twitchy when she talked to a few strange people that came to visit. Ranboo can't remember them that well, he thinks he might have written it down somewhere in big letters with the new journal that Sam gave him; he liked it so much... like a lot! But he remembers Nikki saying to stay in the room and to not go outside at all. He really really wanted to! But he didn't want his big sister to worry. That would not be great.

He sighed for the eleventh time that morning, already brushed his teeth and has started to comb his hair with the help of the small bathroom mirror. His black and white wavy hair can be a bit of a pain when trying to tidy it up, but his horns have started to grow recently! They're very tiny, but Nikki says they'll get bigger as he gets bigger. Right now, they're about the size of the top half of his pinky finger, what if they get as big as Oni's? That would be so cool! People won't think he's so small anymore, but what if he scares people? Oh, that wouldn't be cool, people already have trouble with him around. One time, this really mean lady started shouting at him, and telling him he should go back to.... he can't remember, but he does remember being really scared, Nikki and Jack had to go home with him early because the lady wouldn't leave them alone.

He felt really bad, and he didn't want to go outside anymore. But Nikki said that nothing was wrong with him, and that lady could; as Nikki said, 'suck it up and move on with life like a fucking adult', he giggled at that, Jack howled with laughter, and Sam pulled him to the side and made him promise to not say the F-word for him at least until he was twenty-two, which in Ranboo's opinion was ancient.

Nikki wasn't that old, and she was almost a grown up! She's fourteen, and that's.... four, five, six- that's seven years older than him! When he turns fourteen, he's going to be the greatest vigilante; besides Nikki of course, to have helped the fifth district. Kicking bad guy butt and even making friends with the superheroes. 

But for now, he can settle for being Nikki's little brother, and Calypso's biggest fan.

"Boo! Breakfast is ready!" Nikki yells from the other room, her voice is still a bit scratchy from crying last night, but that's okay.

"Coming!" He immediately takes the chance to teleport to his usual chair by the table, nearly giving his big sister a heart attack as she almost drops his plate.

"Ranboo! You know better than to just do that here. Where you near a window?" He wrinkles his nose as he responds "No, there wasn't anyone watching."

She sighs, placing a strand of light pink hair that escaped her loose bun behind her finlike ear, "Just... be a little more careful Boo. You know how some people are." He nods, Ranboo knows that he isn't allowed to use his powers in public, nobody is. But he doesn't really know why, he tried to talk to his teachers from school about it, but they either ignore him or just give a silly response. Another reason he doesn't really like school, you know, other than the mean kids that like to make him trip, the strict teachers that always try to make eye contact with him, and whenever they try to make him go to recess in the rain. They learned their mistake the first time when they had to call Nikki and tried to explain to her why Ranboo had burn marks on his arms and legs, it was a bad day to wear a T-shirt and shorts.

Thankfully those incidents stopped after that, somehow Ranboo thinks it might be partly from Nikki threatening to burst all their pipes, promising to flood the school and making it unusable to the public. She's so cool.

But if someone asks Ranboo about that, he'll just say that Nikki threatened to sue the school instead.

Good thing it's a Saturday.

He looks at the strange child in front of him, looking into his worried eyes and taking in his colorful clothing.

He was just out in the backyard, watering the new plants that his siblings got from the store. When this weird portal thing opened up and out came a kid about the same age as him, wearing a colorful sweater with a swirl in the middle.

"What's the time?" He asks.

"Uh...."

"Oh, never mind!" He takes out several watches and starts to mumble to himself. Okay, he might be bat-crap crazy after all.

"This is the right time!" the strange boy smiles, but quickly drops it when he looks at him again. He steps toward him and takes him by the shoulders.

"Remember me, and Trust me. Strings Spun into the Web. Voices chanting for Red to Spill. Risks that cut through Metal. Violets of Galaxies Gravity shall Hold. The End's Star shines bright for its Prince. Life awaits the Storm of Trials. Death prepares the Souls for their True End. Void's Dragon calls on its subjects to Tred. Oceans ready for their Queen's Call. Peace, Ridiculed by many, will take its place in the Books of History. Justice has been Overlooked for too Long, and it's Unfortunate Subjects Tire of Pain. Whatever they seek, They Shall Gain. May Fate be in your Favor. May Destiny save you from Destruction."

The boy backs away, he blinks.

And he's gone.

The only thing left in his place is a singular silver stopwatch, counting down instead of up.

Dream doesn't know what this entails.

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01011001 01101111 01110101 00100000 01101100 01101111 01101111 01101011 00100000 01100001 01110100 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 01101001 01110010 00100000 01110011 01100011 01110010 01100101 01100101 01101110 00101110 00100000 01010100 01101000 01100101 01101110 00100000 01100001 01110100 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 01101101 00101110 00100000 01001101 01100001 01101011 01101001 01101110 01100111 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 01101101 00100000 01110011 01110001 01110101 01101001 01110010 01101101 00100000 01100001 00100000 01100010 01101001 01110100 00101110

00100010 01000111 01101111 01101111 01100100 00101110 00100010

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01011001 01101111 01110101 00100000 01101100 01100101 01110100 00100000 01110100 01101000 01100101 00100000 01101110 01100101 01110111 01110011 00100000 01110011 01101001 01101110 01101011 00100000 01101001 01101110 01110100 01101111 00100000 01111001 01101111 01110101 01110010 00100000 01101101 01101001 01101110 01100100 00101110 00100000 01001100 01100101 01110100 00100000 01101001 01110100 00100000 01110010 01100101 01100111 01101001 01110011 01110100 01100101 01110010 00101110

01011001 01101111 01110101 00100000 01101000 01100001 01110110 01100101 00100000 01110100 01101000 01101001 01110011 00100000 01110101 01110010 01100111 01100101 00100000 01110100 01101111 00100000 01101100 01100001 01110101 01100111 01101000 00101110

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Chapter Text

The boy is a bit of an odd one she'll admit, but Hannah guesses she shouldn't be one to judge. The little bud did come out of a lifeless lava-filled landscape to her knowledge, so what could he possibly expect? Heck, she doesn't even know if he can speak English!

He is so hesitant towards everything around him and always moves towards the most inconspicuous sounds, ones even Hannah can't hear until she pays close attention. He watches her water the plants around the apartment, watching the leaves sway with the wind from outside the partly opened window.

Much to Hannah's surprise he doesn't show anything besides a small grimace to indicate he's in any pain at all. He walks around the apartment sometimes, but he doesn't go into any other rooms besides the kitchen and the bathroom.

It was a bit scary for Hannah to show him the kitchen, taking in all the sharp objects in the room which the little bud looked at for a few seconds too many for comfort. The small stove, to which she took a mental note to never leave on (just in case). And some left over cleaning chemicals under the sink that she didn't have space to put in the bathroom. She firmly told him to not touch them and even if she didn't know if he knew what Hannah was saying, she thinks he understood the just of it.

The bathroom was sort of a funny experience to be truthful. When he looked at the contents of the room, his face immediately morphed into what could only be described as 'what are these objects of sorcery?'. Hannah had to stifle a laugh that was bubbling up in her. She demonstrated how the toilet worked by flushing it, to which he responded by immediately running behind her for some sort of cover and peeking over her at the toilet. She chuckled nervously at him.

"You don't have to be afraid, it's just some water. Like the shower and the faucet!" Hannah smiled down at the little bud as he scanned all of the contents in the small space. She was patient with him as he reached out and tentatively flushed the toilet himself. He did this three times and recoiled at the noise, and then flushed the toilet about eight more times without moving his hand away before Hannah had to pull him away from the small contraption (it was an adorable sight to see in her opinion.)

After he also tested the shower and faucet with the same curiosity; Hannah explaining the purpose of each one slowly to the child, she went ahead to find some spare clothes for him so that he could clean himself and feel a little refreshed. Once she handed the spare clothes to him, she said she would be in the next room if he needed help with anything and left him in there for a bit.

Some minutes later (and a lot of loud thumps from the other side of the wall) she was about to go ahead and ask if he had everything under control when he came into the kitchen wearing the clothes she gave him, the socks were inside out and slightly out of proportions since they were not meant for pig-like feet, and a drenched mop of bubble gum pink hair on top of a very disgruntled looking child. Still wearing his gold pendant and gold choker. She chuckled lightly at him and gave him some food to eat, deciding to not comment on his amusing state.

So far, she put two and two together and just about came to the conclusion that wherever he came from lacked basic utilities. That's... not great, but it's not the worst thing that could happen.

Hannah looks at the slumbering bud, she already changed the bandages and gave him some chamomile tea to help him sleep. So far, he's been calm and didn't immediately recoil from her when she tucked him in with the softest, warmest blanket she had. The thought that maybe the small one at least trusts her enough to let her come close when he seems vulnerable made her smile when she turned towards her small ring where she sleeps by the window, in view of the bud.

Maybe things aren't as bad as she thought...

Someone is singing.

Their voice, soft, barely a whisper, seems to carry itself throughout the apartment. Hannah was struck with panic for half a second before a sensation of peace enveloped her and made her slump further in her mattress.

She could feel new vines reaching towards her absentmindedly on reflex, trying to curl around her fingers, for her to feel the comfort of life on her palm. The room starts to smell like greenery.

Subconsciously, she knows the kid is awake, holding something in his small palms, shining with enchantments. And...

Is this a dream? 

She doesn't look further into her surroundings, as she is pulled into peaceful slumber.

Hannah has been having a bit of a predicament.

It's been about two weeks since the little bud woke up, he doesn't do much besides watching her or the television when it's on.

While the news did show much attention to the fight in front of the Veil, it said absolutely nothing about all of those who died to the explosion, only giving their respects to the so-called hero that lost their life. The same one who threw the bomb with no compassion nor remorse.

Somehow Hannah couldn't bring herself to feel grief for him.

Or he'll do stretches that Hannah is pretty sure would pull a muscle if she dared try it. But it doesn't exactly help completely with her predicament.

She hasn't been out on patrol since she snatched the child from that nasty situation. With the help of her spell, tea, and modern medical care the bullet wounds have already healed (thank Prime) all that's left is a small scar in each former opening. And if that isn't proof enough, she saw him do pushups, then pull ups, and jumping jacks in one hour each day since she took of the bandages. At this point, she is honestly a bit afraid to question it, so she just hands him a cup of water each time he finishes his workout. (He still looks at it with an odd expression)

He isn't exactly helpless anymore, but she still doesn't want to leave him alone while she goes out again. She can't just pay someone to look after him. What if she left a device so that he could call if anything happened? No, he looks afraid to touch the microwave, he probably doesn't know how to use a phone. Plus, she doesn't have a spare phone so it wouldn't have worked anyway.

Could she just take him with her? It would be good for him; he hasn't left her apartment the entire time of his stay. Surely, he must be a bit tired of staying inside. Besides, she could use the extra help; since she hasn't gone out, she will have to cover more ground and hand out more supplies than before. He can help carry some of the smaller bags of food, let him meet some of Hannah's regulars and let him explore his surroundings (as long as he is close by and on sight.)

To be honest it might the only option. Ever since the fight by The Veil the Heroes have put a bounty on her head, Vigilantes haven't changed their schedule, but Hannah knows better than to hope they are just going to ignore what happened that night. Word travels fast in the Underground and criminals, mafia leaders and law breakers most likely know more than what the news channels and media tell them.

What's scarier is that there hasn't been any activity from the Villains at all. Not a whisper, neither a rumor.

Was it a mistake to show my power after all this time? Would it have been better if I kept it a secret? Even for just a little while longer?

She sighs.

And heads to her small indoor garden, already growing a small apple tree in the garden and a few potatoes in the grow bed. Small special seed packets in a hidden compartment she keeps stacked up in case of emergencies, if she would get more attention than warranted.

Let's get the produce ready for the day.

To say that they were mad was an understatement. They were absolutely fuming.

Not only have we lost a major battle by The Veil, but among the casualties was one of XD's most efficient heroes. Although they might have been brutal in their work, it always paid off in the end. He was a perfect worker in their eyes; they weren't afraid to get their hands dirty, henceforth they got the work done! A lot of less paperwork for the prisons in XD's opinion.

On the other hand, they were a bit of a pain. A lot of cover ups and blurring certain news stations. Paying off any bystanders that were there at the wrong place, at the wrong time. Plus, he has been trying to defy their authority ever since he was accepted as a Hero. 

Ugh.

Never mind, he was a pain. No denying if he survived... Void, was it? XD might have killed them themselves, entitled bastard.

Even in the grave he plans on making everyone's life as difficult as possible. The Public wants their Memorial to be held at the center of the city, where the L'manburg Festival is held every year, right in front of the White House. The preparations, seating's, decorations, security... the speech about them being 'missed' and 'their great service to the Essempii'. Thank the Immortals that XD's speech is the very last. First the Presidents of L'manburg, Pogtopia, Snowchester, Badlands, Kinoko Kingdom, Bear Union, and Life Legion. Then their Vice Presidents or Right Hand, and then the burial.

Another thing to deal with was their possessions and property, to XD's knowledge Void has no successors so he has to find a way to get rid of everything.

They have the sudden urge to bring Void back to life just to kill him again out of pure annoyance.

They resist, barely. It would be a waste of power for it to be used on such a lesser being. Besides, they kept their identity a secrete for this long, it would be a shame for them to 'relieve' someone of their mortal duties if they looked too much into their past.

They sigh again and bring a floating claw to rub against the floating white sphere that is their assumed head and turn towards the security footage shown on his desk, showing the entire confrontation from Void's point of view.

'Good Samaritan' has been on the local's radars for a bit of a while now, a thorn in their side to try to keep produce on a tight grip. It shouldn't be possible to attain any seeds besides for decoration purposes. To grow vegetables and fruits is against the law, the seeds for those are only granted to farmers, restaurant owners, and anyone who can pay for a personal garden; as long as the government can keep a close watch on them.

Until that day, nobody has been able to confirm if Sam had a power that intertwined with her supposed limitless supply of food. And no one can confirm if she had a supplier of kind.

At least the mystery in that has been cleared up.

The boy that escaped the fight that day intrigued him, he recognizes the hybrid blood in him almost immediately. Human features, but many piglin shown in his feet and facial features. At first, XD thought that was the end of that, until he looked closer when Void came on the offensive. It's barely noticeable, but you can't ignore it once you see it.

It's in his hands, the tips of them have a black faded coloring and the nails are completely black, could be mistaken for nail polish if you didn't know better. 

XD knew better.

Wither Hybrid.

They tilt their head, curiosity thrumming around the room.

"Hmm."

The results of this outcome could change many things.

Hannah was a nervous mess the entire time she was getting ready to go out.

She did the obvious smart thing to do and that was to first find a way to hide the features that stood out the most in the little bud. She went into the deepest darkest depth of her closet and came out victorious with a small pair of boots that she for some reason refused to throw away. They were meant for small feet, but they will do since the kid has hooves instead. She also got him a white button up shirt, black pants, and a small blue scarf with gloves that match. For the finishing touch, she lends him her red cloak with the gold rose pin; to which he immediately started fiddling with. His pupils were blown wide, it reminded Hannah of a curious cat at night.

She relatively kept her same outfit, other than an extra dark blue cloak she kept with a silver butterfly pin to replace the one she gave to the little bud. And a new addition to her belt and boot holsters; sharp needles as long as her hand.

Before, she never bothered to have a weapon of any kind; she wasn't looking for a fight. Most people would leave her alone, and if someone tried anything she would just run. However, now she has to keep someone else in mind, and while she's pretty sure he can take care of himself she doesn't want to risk tiring him out so soon. The needles were thin and a nice silver color, on one end is the point while the other had small flower themed handle she could grasp with one finger. She also added small pouches in her pants, each filled with 'special' seeds. Hopefully, it won't come to that.

She held her own satchel filled with fruits and vegetables, while the little bud has a small backpack she filled with bouquets and small berries to have for a snack break.

Speaking of...

She hands him a juicy plum which he inspects and takes a hesitant bite. Once he deems it good enough, he continuous to munch on it the entire way down the ladder and for some of the walk around the city.

They visit many of Hannah's regular visitors, handing them bags of extra food. She gives some small talk to the adults while some of their own children smile and wave towards the bud, he shuffles awkwardly before raising his own hand to stiffly wave back.

Before they knew it, they were nearly done going around the neighborhood. Hannah just had one more stop before they can have a snack and head back to the apartment.

They were a new regular of Hannah's, three orphan children that she stumbled across one day when they were digging in a garbage can. They were so scared of her at first, but now she thinks they each have gained some sort of respect for her. Especially since she made a habit of leaving them some baskets of food at least three times a week. She was so worried for them when she had to stay at the apartment the last few weeks.

She didn't know much about their past, she only knew their names and that they always stayed together.

The first one she met officially was a small girl who said her name was Beautie, she had dark hair and green lively eyes. And in Hannah's opinion, could give the best deadpan stare out of the three of them. She was an excitable little Lotus that seemed to reach out to anyone if given the chance.

Next was a young boy who was referred to as Erin, he had on red eye and one light grey; although it didn't seem like he had trouble seeing from either eye. Dark hair, and a more mysterious air to him that Hannah can't quite place exactly.

And the last one she knew about was Tommy, a young golden hair child with eyes so blue they seem to glow. He was boisterous and had a wonderful charm that could cut tension with a simple smile.

She didn't see them by their usual alleyway, but it was to be expected. She simply gathered the last of her produce and left it by the alleyway. She reached out to the small bud beside her, he seemed to understand what she was asking for and grabbed her hand. She led them to an open space, hidden from the streets and different buildings but in a nicely lit area tucked in a nice little corner of the neighborhood. Once she found her usual sitting place, she led him towards it and opened his backpack that contained snacks for their hard work.

"I hope you like strawberry bread. Although, I have a few chocolate chip granola bars if you would like instead."

He tilts his head in confusion at her.

"Hmm." She hands him a small piece of each. "How about you give both a try and see which one you like best kay?"

He takes the pieces of food from her; he first tries the granola bars which he finishes quickly. But he absolutely devours the bread in mere seconds. When he finishes, he looks up at her with a pleading look, which brings her to a giggle fit.

The crow watches quietly, undetected. Before flying away to quickly report the precious find.

The exhaustion of the last battle was still in the back of his mind. Not physically, more like mentally.

Scar wasn't really one to cause harm without reason, he was a businessman! He doesn't take away your life, he simply convinces you to give it to him! Even though he could technically open up the earth making it swallow up entire buildings it wasn't really necessary... most of the time. Besides, that took up so much energy, maybe he'll just stick to throwing boulders at people. That was always fun.

No matter how much he enjoyed his work, he couldn't really do it much. Always only coming for backup, or when in need of a deal with a picky customer. He looks towards the familiar metal in the corner.

Scar has done many things that were anything but honorable, and one way or another it always comes back to bite him. That came in the way of him almost losing his legs entirely. In his civilian form he has to use a wheelchair to get around; most of his Lion Hybrid features shown in his legs and tail. But thanks to Mumbo, he invented a sort of metal support that incircles his legs to help him stand up, but is very maneuverable for him to run, jump, flip, and pounce. It also goes around his tail to help him balance himself better against the strange contraption. Scar watched the news station's clips of him in battle; Nobody even suspects that he is physically disabled in any way. Mumbo is absolutely brilliant!

Even though it is amazing, he only uses it in his villain form. It would be too suspicious if he had the same contraption as Quake, so he just sticks to his wheelchair. Being physically incapable of doing something other people can do without thought can bring down anyone's mood if thought about too much, but Scar has never been one to wallow in his own pity. He just doesn't really see a point in making something you can't control seem like a bigger problem than it has to be. His cheerful demeanor always preventing anyone trying to feel pity for him, encouraging them- even when sometimes it should go the other way.

Even if he can't use his legs without the contraption, Scar is anything but weak. His powers focus more on him physically moving and bending in order to control it properly, and hundreds of years to spend building your muscles everyday will take effect on one's body. With or without the help of Mumbo's machine, he is a force to be reckoned with, even if he's more of a talker.

But the battle by The Veil... he doesn't know what to make of it. He's infuriated of course! But mostly worried, and curios.

He is grieving for all the pointless lives lost in such a gruesome way, death by explosive is not a very painless way to go.

He moves his right arm absentmindedly, like a bad habit. Scar would know firsthand how painful it is to take on such firepower, at least he survived. The recovery was what seemed the hardest.

But the opening of the Veil also brought many revelations. There had to be more people! And what were they doing trapped in the NetherRealm? Surely by now all of the villains of the past must have passed away by now. It's been about seventy years now, if people are still in there shouldn't someone try to free them? Or has exile from their own dimension made the criminals bitter- teaching their offspring to hate those of us who live in the Essempii and to strike when the chance should present itself?

Scar doesn't know.

What he does know is that there is a survivor from it all running around in the city with someone they know very little about. For all they know Sam could have turned in the kid to the heroes and they wouldn't know until it's too late. And doing nothing is making the lion in Scar pace around, impatience lining their every movement, tight muscles wanting to hunt for the small cub around the city. Anyone trying to go in its path will end up breathing their last breath as they shatter every rib in its successful hunt.

The lion purrs at the thought.

Scar sighs again, reaching for his TV remote; his favorite show was scheduled in five minutes. Before a loud ringtone cut out in the middle of his movement. Quickly, he picks it up. not wanting to waste any more time than he has too.

"Scar here!"

"Scar, we found them." He smiles sharply at the good news, already looking towards his precious gift.

"Where do we plan to see them?" A ping rings out from the phone, he quickly glances at the address. It's not far.

"I'll be there in five." he hangs up before they could answer.

This is going to be a great night.

Chapter Text

Purpled is absolutely bored out of his mind.

He already finished all the puzzles to the point of memorization by the many times he took them apart and put them back together again. He doesn't want to watch any TV, besides his favorite show doesn't come again until tomorrow. And it's too late to have anything to eat right now.

So, he's bored.

And now it's everyone else's problem too.

Or at least it would be if the only other person who lived with him wasn't away.

Now, most people would think that leaving a seven-year-old alone in an apartment is beyond irresponsible. And they would be right! Normally.

Well... he guesses that bringing said seven-year-old on a job assigned to a well-known mercenary would be much more irresponsible than the other option.

Purpled blows raspberry in exasperation. He knows that whatever Punz does is dangerous, but that doesn't exactly help him much right now. 

"IIII'm booooooooored." He whines, no one can hear him. Except the neighbors, but he doesn't really care much for them.

They were always loud in the weekends; he's just returning the favor! Grown-ups can be so un-be-lieve-ably stupid sometimes.

Once when Punz and Purpled where out in the store, this really loud lady started yelling at this kid with black and white hair. The boy's friends (or maybe they were family?) had to lead him away from the lady. But she kept trying to get in their way. She did give up eventually, but OH BOY!

The look Punz sent her afterward... if looks could kill he would have committed serious crime, hidden the body and both boys would have pretended nothing happened afterward.

Instead, he just roughly pushed her with his shoulder and said, "Didn't see you there." With a smile.

She was so mad nobody could properly decipher what she was saying, and when she started to rant about how 'You kids have no respect for your older ones' and that she 'Was going to sue for him trying to hurt her'.

At this point, Purpled did what any seven-year-old would do at that point.

And that was to aim for the kneecaps.

Hey, if she was going to 'sue' them, they might as well get sued for some real reason.

Wait, what does it mean to sue someone?

Off topic.

The unholy shriek she gave was hilarious in his opinion. Punz quickly picked him up and ran to their apartment afterward. When they got inside, they looked at each other in silence before bursting out in laughter.

So, the day wasn't too bad if he was able to do that and not get in trouble.

CAW!

He turns his head toward the sound. Boredom painted across his face still as he takes into account the small crow ruffling its feathers. It pauses in its movements as it stares its beady yellow eyes at him. His antenna twitches slightly at the pair of eyes on him. He gets up from his place on the floor and walks over to the window, he doesn't open it; he just stares back at the bird.

Movement from the apartment in front of him catches his eye and as he looks up, the strangest thing happens.

Zephyrus and Whirlwind fly silently side by side against the night sky. Inky shadow beside a rainbow against the moonlight. Slightly behind them is Circuit carrying Quake, his brown and white wings beat nearly silently compared to his comrades.

A flock of Crows follow close behind.

A Murder of Crows.

The one by his window flies away with the rest, a soft click is all it says to the young boy.

...

Punz is going to be so disappointed he missed the sight.

...

The night didn't feel so boring anymore.

The Crow wasn't the only one watching him.

"Purpled" is a perfectly healthy young boy.

Once the first candidates are tested on and released. They will be brought in, and the real show will begin. After all, boss doesn't want his precious pets to die so soon, not when they hold so much potential.

The Agent shudders internally at what that implies. it will take time, but the plan was practically fool proof.

Heroes.

Vigilantes.

Villains.

They will have them in the palm of their hand. Complete control. Power at their disposal.

The Agent secretly hopes they will survive the whole ordeal.

THE PLOT THICKENS-                                                                                           -little birdies and a cat went into an alley-

                        -o you think they'll have some spare gold?                                          -out flower lady? will she-

        -an they help us get the others? They-                                       yoink that child.

                                          -ey better not drop us.                                                                      E

What are you yelling about now Chat?

They pause for a fourth of a second.

~Blissful Silence~

And then-

              E    E    E                                                                                         EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

  e                                                                 EeEeEEe

                                     eeeeEEE                                                                             E

                       e. E. eeee. EEEE. e? E!                                    i hate it here.

He sighs in exasperation.

You done yet?

Pause.

-. . ...- . .-. / --. --- -. -. .- / --. .. ...- . / -.-- --- ..- / ..- .--.                               

                                                                                                                       -. . ...- . .-. / --. --- -. -. .- / .-.. . - / -.-- --- ..- / -.. --- .-- -.

              -. . ...- . .-. / --. --- -. -. .- / .-. ..- -. / .- .-. --- ..- -. -.. / .- -. -.. / -.. . ... . .-. - / -.-- --- ..-

                                                                          -. . ...- . .-. / --. --- -. -. .- -....-

OKAY OKAY! I get it, you can stop all of that nonsense thank you!

They laughed, teasing border lining maniacal, and settled down to their usual nonsense and murmurs. A burst of noise here and there but nothing really discernable. He scrunches his nose.

"Are you done?" The lady, Hannah, turned to him. He nodded and brushed off the crumbs on his lap, if he wasn't too sure about trusting her yet, then her giving him the nice red clothing with gold was enough to buy his approval. He constantly kept running his fingers over the precious metal, it's his first treasure from the Overworld. He can't wait to show the rest of his pack his new addition to his hoard!

"Thats good! It's getting pretty late, so we should head back to my apartment." She stands up and extends her hand towards him.

CAW!

They turn towards the loud sound, and immediately Techno has to stop himself from running behind the lady.

There is a very strange creature perched on top of a metal railing attached onto the tall building, it tilts his head at the two and ruffles its... wings? But those aren't scales. Do they have... what was the word again? Oh, feathers! Those are feathers aren't they!

Another one joins them, then three more, then seven. Before he can even blink the two are surrounded, clicks and caws envelop their ears in a chaotic symphony. Hannah grabs him and pushes him close to her side, widening her stance and reaches for a small pocket by her belt.

"Good Samaritan?"

Techno looks to his side and turns his head up. Up. Up.

There, perched on top of a building leading towards the only escape could go through, were a few people who looked very familiar ever since he stepped through the Border.

The only one he couldn't recognize was a man with big fluffy brown wings. He had a red metal mask covering his entire face with blue light glowing from the glass panels where his eyes should be, what looks like a microphone is in the shape of a mustache below the goggles. Techno would know, the spokesperson used to hold one when announcing the fights in the Pit. He had a red tie around his neck and was wearing a black sleeveless suit, metal gloves and dress shoes with pieces of metal that show a bright hot light underneath them. Like when Lighter is warming up his hands to create flames. His white sleeves have a weird, metaled pattern that connect to the rest of his attire.

Hannah pushes them farther from the group and takes out four thin needles from her belt pocket, her other hand goes to her bag.

"Wait!" The Mustached man exclaims, "We just want to have a chat."

"Oh, really Circuit!?" Someone's panicking. "I couldn't tell, maybe that explains the literal hundreds of crows surrounding us!" Techno looks over from her and takes note of the other people there on the roof.

A man with paws is the only one in the group without wings, instead metal legs, metal covered wrists and an encased tail replace talons. He has a purple sleeveless shirt on with fur framing the neck, his skin looks greyed out and pale. Scars cover his entire right side as if he was thrown into an explosion. He wears a mask that cover the bottom half of his face, whiskers and sharp teeth etched into the metal, the only facial feature Techno could see were his red eyes and slitted golden pupils, and big fluffy cat ears covered by his hair. The front of his hair held back by a sandy colored bandana, a triangle with three red spots embroidered in the side of it. It almost looked silly compared the rest of his outfit.

"Oh, so you noticed our friends! We were hoping to prepare you a bit so that you guys wouldn't freak out as much." He exclaimed, seeming to smile as his tail swished side to side.

"Gee, thanks." Hannah grips her needles tighter. "I'm glad you considered our states of mind while hunting us down Quake, really appreciate it." Her hand doesn't move from her bag.

Three feet away, a poppy sprouts beside a crow.

"Okay, in hindsight that wasn't a very good idea, was it?" A colorful winged hybrid cuts in. His outfit seemed rather simple, just a red sweater, a white choker with a purple eye pendant, jeans, and white military boots. His belt and sashes are filled to the brim with some very questionable items (a voice in Chat said they were all different variations of explosives). His white gloves, boots and center of his sweater each held a symbol with an odd shape, held up by two wings, and a single eye in the center. His white mask covered the top half of his face, a flexible fabric with three purple eyes: one on each side then one on the forehead. Where his ears should be, two wings take their place, flapping from the tension in the area.

"YOU THINK?!"   Sh-should we do something???

Technoblade reaches out and grips her arm, the one over the bag. She doesn't look at him, just takes deep breaths, Techno doesn't really know how to comfort someone. Feelings were never really... acknowledged back at the Pit. She shouldn't have to worry about him, he can take care of himself just fine. He hopes he's helping her, even if slightly.

"What do you want?"

She doesn't move from her position, but at least she seems more focused.

The last man with black wings and a veiled striped hat takes a step closer, Hannah takes out something small out of her bag. He gets the message and doesn't try to get closer; green robs shift as he holds his hands up in a supposed peace offering, his taloned feet scratch against the cement of the roof.

"Relax, we just wanted to check on the kid. We were worried about him." He looks at Techno. "Although, I guess we had nothing to worry about."

Death's Angel.

He goes beside Hannah, in full view of the strange people. He tilts his head at them curiously, they in turn examine him as well, search for any signs of physical pain or discomfort. The Lion man waves at him, like they were children across a play area. He squints his eyes but repeats the motion slowly.

That seemed to signal the rest of the group that they could come closer.

One second, they were several yards apart from each other. Then the next they were right in front of him, checking where he was previously wounded, asking him if he felt ill, or still hungry.

"We were worried sick kiddo!"

"How much rest did you get for the past few days? Are you still tired?"

"Wow, your pretty buff for a chick."

"You scared me by sound, also how are you alive?!"

"Not now Circuit."

"We're all thinking about it!"

"This is why you should pay more attention to your civilian life."

"Oh, shut it Whirlwind, I'm not the one who wakes up at three in the morning because they can sense when Quake is about to eat the last scoop of ice-cream!"

"Can a man not get attacked at the only time of the night that I won't immediately try and take a nap."

"Not our fault you were born a Lion Hybrid."

"Not my fault I convinced your crows to wake all of you guys up right before your alarm goes off either."

"Excuse me?"

"What."

"Wait." The one with black wings turns to his so-called crows.

"Is that true?"

The crows all fall silent, neither denying nor confirming that statement.

"How could you?!"

"Seriously?!"

"You evil, evil man." 

'Quake' laughs before turning his attention to Techno again. "So, what's your name kiddo?"

Techno shifts his feet, it's not that he doesn't want to tell them.

It's just. 

Too much.

You can't just tell someone things like this. He can't give them any sort of leverage, it's too risky. Back in the Pit, showing emotion was viewed as weakness, the less people know about you the better the chances of your survival. He hasn't even exchanged many words with his pack when he first met them, they seemed to understand him just fine and even picked up on learning sign language for him and slowly he would start responding in one or two words. Which turned into small sentences, and then into full on conversations.

He still doesn't talk as much as he did before his mother though, that he remembers.

After a few seconds of agonizing silence, they turn to Hannah.

"Can he speak?" Three eyes asks, Whirlwind fine, Whirlwind.

She hesitates towards the group, but ultimately decides to join them. She comes over and places a hand on his shoulder, to reassure him or her, he doesn't know. "He hasn't said anything while staying with me, just growls, huffs, and rumbles." Quake turns to him first. "But he understands what we say just fine."

He hums, and he kneels until they're eye to eye before bringing his hands up.

Hello. My. Villain. Name. Q-U-A-K-E. You. Understand?

Techno blinks in surprise, before signing yes back at the man. The Voices were ecstatic over the new revelation. Quake in turn basically vibrated in excitement, and signs at him again.

Your. Name. What?

Okay, this is happening.

My. Name. T-E-C-H-N-O-B-L-A-D-E.

He pauses.

Nice to meet you.

Karl releases a breath after a moment.

These moments in the timeline have been more common than what he'd like to admit, most of the time they never end well. Although, in the end no matter if the two escaped or not, the result will be the same.

He sees them talk longer, introduce themselves to the young Piglin, and then have another conversation with the Fae. He knows how it will end; she will join the immortals to make sure the kid will be comfortable with the new place. They'll convince her that they will not harm the child, she'll get better acquainted with them. Maybe they'll surprise each other, maybe the young boy will be able to meet the one he could consider in the future a 'brother'.

There will be a short time of peace, only small struggles here and there. Some more serious than others. He'll meet the other Chosen, and all will be well.

Until the time of Great Tragedy should arise.

When Karl is alone he calls the Chosen a different name, one that seems more appropriate for them; The Unfortunates.

He feels so guilty, because on some level he sent the wheel rolling. At least he left behind a sort of warning with one of the children, but he knows it might only bring more guilt and pain than actually help the situation. But it was the only clue he could leave behind that his Teacher would approve of.

Now all they could really do was wait; they only interfere with the timeline as a desperate last decision. The Overseers of the In-Between and The Other Side are already getting the memories ready, Kristen has been informed of the situation and promised to not warn her Angel of the Universe's plan; no matter how much Karl knew how it physically pained Mr. Beast to see his friend so grief stricken. Sally prepares by fortifying her kingdom and readying her subjects, expanding her walls to welcome new visitors soon. The Ender Dragon Queen sends her spies and volunteers to help the other dimensions in small ways so that nothing minor can slow them down, along with spells and supplies for them to use however they choose. Callahan watches closely both the Overworld and the NetherRealm since they do not have a Greater Being that knows of the Events, The Watchers and The Listeners have already been warned to not interfere (multiple times); so instead they help Callahan by bringing him news, whispers, and gossip from both plains. His Teacher had asked The Watchers if they plan to warn an immortal named Grian, for he was once one of their own.

They scowled, laughed and growled. One of them hmphed and spoke up.

"Him." they paused.

"He was never meant to be there; he was only ever meant to Watch."

Okay, jeez buddy I'm sensing a bit of hostility here.

He looks to the side and plucks one of the strings by his left arm, calling to his power.

A new scene unfolds.

The Nether was always a bit much for Karl, or the lack of safety to be completely honest. But he has duties to attend to and oversee, so he'll just have to suck it up.

The ceremony for welcoming the new Grand was scheduled for that day, the old fighters have already been freed, although some stay as a show of gratitude to their new leader. He sits on the throne with soft, dark clothes even through the scorching heat. A young sharp face with horns that barely curls over his floppy ears, decorated with small pieces of gold the same color as his eyes that overlook the attendance and their gifts. His right-hand man, Lighter if Karl remembers the name, sits beside him. On his left are his other two companions, watching (or listening) to the crowd with barely concealed boredom.

If you looked closely, sorrow also lined all of their expressions.

I caused that pain...

It will turn out alright in the end.

Everything is going smoothly, some offer new alliances and suggestions, the braver ones are passive aggressive at best, 'suggesting' good advice and future possible alliances; Lighter writes those people down on a piece of paper. Most however offer little trinkets, heirlooms, gold, food, clothing, weapons, armor. Some inconsiderate idiots even try giving slaves, hybrids deemed useless and only good for housework and such. Schlatt excepts the hybrids but sends guards after their previous owners once they leave the public place and give the hybrids the choice to stay with him willingly or to go start a new life for themselves.

All of them pledge their loyalty to him.

They're gift was their entire soul.

But Karl isn't here to see that. He's here for the soon to be newly appointed Enchanting Master. And he sees her coming towards the leaders. Long, curly, purple with streaks of white and blue hair pulled up in a ponytail and braided down her back. Something long and bulky is tied to her back, covered by a dark cloth and tied by a violet ribbon with gold patterning on its ends. She wears a simple dark grey shirt, dark crimson pants, boots and a satchel both made out of Hoglin leather. She casts her grey eyes downwards as she bows at him.

"Long live The Grand, may your rule be great, may your name be forever carved into the stone tablet of the Glorious." She recited the chant, wishing him a long and prosperous rule.

He nods his head in acknowledgement, "You may show your gift."

She comes forward to a table, placed in front and below the throne. She reaches up and grabs her gift from behind her, putting it down on the table. And she slowly starts to unwrap the cloth hiding the gift. Once it is uncovered, the radius practically glows a shimmering purple, her grey eyes turning a beautiful violet. The Axe sits innocently on the table.

Everyone in the room straightens as they feel the presence of true power surround the room, the weapon seeming to vibrate on the hard wood. Netherite is extremely rare in itself, how they possess a whole weapon made of it is beyond them! And it was enchanted! Every other gift and piece of advice seemed to be thrown to the wind as they continued to stare at the precious weapon. She smiles at their reactions, more in understanding than anything else.

"This is a family heirloom that has been passed on for six generations, each new enchantment is added to it as we make more discoveries present time." She raises her chin at the Grand, respectfully avoiding eye contact. "My family and I believed it was made for the Great Warrior that shall set us free."

"Is it now?" Schlatt and his herd come towards the table. The prophesy of the Great Warrior was well known, he remembers the stories when the Overworlders had at first tried to rebuke it. They got taught a good lesson.

He takes note of every detail, from the blade to the grip. "Does it have a name?"

She smiles at her fond memory, no matter how long it had been, she could never forget about the young boy. "A visitor named it after me, 'The Axe of Peace', it sort of stuck since then." She laughed, "A little ironic if thought about to hard I suppose." Schlatt chuckles at the comment, he examines her for a moment before deciding something. He snaps his fingers and guards came and took the weapon, where they will put it in a secure vault.

"Tell me, Peace, right?" she nods, and he smiles, his previous sorrow put away for another time.

"Exactly how many enchantments do you know?"

Chapter Text

"Please don't go."

Technoblade holds onto Schlatt's hand in a death grip, the only thing stopping him from clinging to his legs are the bars that separate them. Ancient and unbreakable. But the cave walls amplify the cheers and screams from the Dome. Guards dragging the body of the fighter that lost leaving trails of orange blood on the already stained floor, a piece of charred ash falls off their dead skin, but no one moves to remove the remaining blaze hybrid's remains. The winner's laugh reach Technoblade's ears, making him shiver. Schlatt doesn't look away from him.

"Hey, it's alright Techno!" He squeezes his hand. It gives little comfort.

"B-but what if..." What if you don't come back alive? What if I can't hear your jokes anymore? What if this is a goodbye?

"Techno? Look at me." He does just that.

No                                                                                             -don't go-

                    -please-                                                        STAY-

      -not saf-                                                            protect-

                                      -danger-                                                      -destroy bars-

"I've done this many times before." Schlatt smiles sadly, "And this fight won't end any differently than any of the others."

"And next up!"

Techno doesn't reply, too afraid to jinx anything. Schlatt was right, Techno has only been here for a week, but he knows that his friend has much experience in these fights. But it doesn't help his instincts the slightest, telling him to hide with his companions. To stay together in their cave until all danger passes. This is the exact opposant of what he wants to do, splitting up, running into the exact thing he wants to avoid. Chat doesn't like it either, riling up a strong headache.

"I know your scared, but you don't have to be." He chuckles softly. "Crap, I still get scared from time to time."

"The one and only!"

"Hurry it up princeling."

Schlatt glares at the guard before turning to him again, squeezing his hands one last time and letting them go as he backs away. Techno whines and reaches out to try and grab them again, but he is already too far away. They flinch as if the sound of distress physically hurts them, but he stays by the entrance leading to the Dome. Lighter grabs ahold of Techno, basically having to pry him off metal bars, but doesn't make him turn away from his friend. Schlatt gives him a confident smirk, "This isn't a goodbye, because that would mean I'm going away." He turns towards the entrance. Smirk turning sharp and lethal.

"Plus, it's much more interesting here."

"The Mad Ram!"

And with that, he ran in. Head tilted downwards as his horns barrel into his victim's chest. Cackling at the sound of breaking bones

Hannah doesn't really know what to do now.

The villains have shown nothing but kindness towards the young bud and her. Technoblade, an odd name, but what could exactly be defined as normal anymore? Here she is in a dark alleyway reeling from the fact that she isn't dead yet, surrounded by crows and in the company of Essempii's most dangerous supervillains talking to a child from the supposed NetherRealm. Yep. This is completely normal!

"Hey."

She looks over at Circuit and Zephyrus as they approached her, leaving Quake and Whirlwind with the seedling. I can call him by his real name, this is so weird! They nod their head to a spot a few feet away, still in view of Technoblade. And they walk over, crows' part for them and make a small circle around them once they pause.

"Uh, so..." What in Prime could I say?

Zephyrus chuckles, "Relax mate, like we said, we just wanted to talk."

"Ok, about what?" Well, at least I'm not going to die? Her fingers tighten around the seeds in her palm, reassuring her, comforting. It does not go unnoticed.

Circuit, she learns, cannot handle his own curiosity. "Before you say anything else, please, you have to tell me. What in the skies do you have in your hand?"

Crap! Dung beetles and faerie wings! Oh freaking ssshhhiiii-

She opens her palm and reveals seeds, they were small and a black chocolate color. Size ranging from three to five millimeters each. And there were only a few. Her secret weapon. Well... it was a secret.

"Are those seeds?!" Hannah yelps as Whirlwind startles her from his very silent observation over her shoulder. "Those are practically impossible to get! How did you obtain them?" Whirlwind and Circuit reach out simultaneously without meaning too. Before they touch the seeds, she closes her palm again to make sure none of them fall out of her hand as she pulls them close to her chest.

"DON'T TOUCH THEM!"

They pause, Quake comes closer to them with Technoblade close by him. "You don't have to worry about us stealing them if that's what got you to panic?"

She turns to him, "What? Oh, no! I didn't- That's-" she stammers a bit more before sighing. Reluctantly, she opens her palm again and urges the seeds to flourish and grow, the stalk intertwining around her palm with small green branches popping out close to her. Thin leaves sprout from the plant, before they are overshadowed by a cylindrical helmet shaped, blueish-purple flower. The whole time, she keeps the plant away from the group.

"You have plant growth abilities..." it wasn't a question, but she nodded anyways.

"Aconitum napellus, or more commonly known as Aconite, Monkshood, and Wolfsbane along with many other titles." She inspects one of the flowers before gently putting it down again. "It is known to be one of the most poisonous plants on Earth, merely touching it will give you symptoms of tingling and numbness. If it gets into your system, then you will most likely die a very painful death by the end of the day." She looks up at the group that has fallen silent.

"I thought that if we ran into any, umm, hostile individuals, since I'm sorta on the run from every superpowered person that knows what happened at the Veil. I could at least inconvenience them at best, or cause them to have fatal symptoms at worst, based on the problem presented at me." She brings out her needles and holds them with her other palm. "I was planning to dip these in the poison from my not-so-friendly plants I have on hand and scratch or stab anyone who tried anything funny before getting away." She puts both the needles and plant away in her pocket and satchel. "I altered my plants so that the poison would take less time to effect. They were the only thing I had on hand, but it could work out."

For a moment they don't say anything, seeming to realize her painful way of saying 'This rose has more than a few thorns you foolish bastards.'

They laugh, most likely in shock before Zephyrus talks again, "Well damn! That's fair in all honesty!" his voice filled with mirth, even through the voice changer. He seems to look at her in a new light, like cutting open a coconut to find its sweet water. "At the very least, I am satisfied to know you wouldn't hold back anything if someone tried to hurt the kid." Some crows turn to caw at her, almost sounding affectionate.

"Speaking of the fledgling!" Whirlwind tilts his head towards Zephyrus, to which he nods his head in return.

"Right." He looks at her (supposedly) in the eye.

But before he could say another word, Circuit speaks again. "We want to take the kid."

Quake punches him in the arm.

"Ouch."

"You absolutely have no filter."

"It's getting late! We might as well stop beating around the metaphorical bush!"

Hannah has gone completely still, reeling from one backlash to another. They want to take him? Why? What would be the point? Why would they even ask? What could they possibly want with him?

What terrified her was the question she was unsure to feel about.

Would I let them take him? 

Technoblade comes up behind her and grabs her sleeve, giving her a questioning glance as if he truly didn't understand what was happening. It was enough to snap her out of whatever half daze she was in.

"What?"

Whirlwind answers her, "We were hoping to take the kid with us," he elaborates, "and no we aren't planning anything with him, we just want to make sure he is truly safe." he looks at her with something akin to pity, "It's for the best."

Faeries were powerful creatures, before the full bloods were wiped out of this realm, they had a strong reputation with not only their knowledge of spells and potions. But also, how they had a great gut instinct when it came to the souls of other beings, every creature had one, the feeling of being able to read the good and bad intentions of someone else. It's just that Fae's had more, clarity, when it came to it, it was more trained was the best way to explain it.

It was one of the reasons why Hannah never tried to apply to be a hero, or any authority figure to the law. Ever since she was a little seedling, she could never shake off the chill from passing police officers, the cold air when a few certain Heroes passed by, even the uncomfortable feeling when it came to specific political figures.

She never got that feeling when it came to these people.

It was... different than a normal civilian, but it wasn't exactly bad really. It was both warm and cool; never painful. Like cutting open a lava cake, even when you think how the inside is the same as the outside, you would be surprised with no context to the character. Sure, Hannah was terrified of these people for what they had done in the past; for what they were known for, for how the media portrayed them. But she guesses deep, deep down, she knew they wouldn't hurt someone because they stubbed their toe or some bullcrap like that. They had seen her before, they hadn't tried anything then.

Can I really trust them?

"I-" She tries to find the right words for what she means to comprehend. "I want to come with you."

Zephyrus tilts his head, a silent approval to let her keep speaking her mind. Maybe a sort of respect for speaking up.

"I just want to see." a breath, "If you can really show me that he'll be safe, comfortable and happy with you. It will really help me feel better if I know that he can have a better life with you."

She knows, deep down that she can't stop them from taking him. But she also knows that they don't mean to harm the little bud. It feels right, this casual comradery, all of them together for a similar goal; keeping the seedling safe. They have a truce here, its small and maybe a little shaky, but there nonetheless.

They seem to understand her need to know, "I can carry you while Zeph carries the kid over to the living quarters, Whirl can take care of Quake." Circuit suggest, his feathers ruffling slightly. "Unless you have a phobia against heights?"

She smiles, "I don't mind."

With that it was settled, the crows readied themselves, some even perching against the higher railings as a sort of assurance. Technoblade was warry, but complied and was now being carried by the most feared villain in all of L'manburg. Zephyrus carried him with infinite gentleness, cooing when certain movement startled the seedling which in turn seemed relax ever so slightly with the caring sounds.

Circuit held Hannah with surprising ease, telling her what not to do when in flight so that they don't come crashing down, then seemed to pause in thought and murmured something about a new upgrade on his suit to help their mobility in case something like this happened with Quake, before shaking his head and continuing on his explanation of the dangers of moving herself to quickly in midair.

Whirlwind was struggling slightly since they were a bit smaller than Quake, to which the man teased him about and had earned him a blast of wind to the face. At one point Quake accidently stepped on Whirlwinds foot, making the man flap his colorful wings on instinct and smacking the other with said wing, before both promptly fell to the ground in a mess of feathers. Hannah was pretty sure she heard at least one crow cackle, but she could just be imagining it.

When they were ready, the crows took off first, filling up the already dark sky and blocking the moonlight for a moment; before they gathered into a flock and took off in a certain direction. The villains took off soon after Hannah and Techno at a loss of breath. One who never touch the sky, while the other had forgotten what it had been like. Techno holds on a little tighter to Zephyrus, the other's firm grip remaining steady, a small chirp that only the little piglin could hear resonating in the air between them a small comfort. One that he hopes he can give everyday and so much more to this little fledgling. His fledgling. Fledglings! What a blessed man he is to have two! And now they were going back to the nest, where it is safe and warm. Flock will adore him, brothers the two of them will be.

But for now, they must pass this invisible test of approval from Hannah. And they will show her how protected he will be, and cared for.

By the end of this night, they might acquire a new ally. Maybe even a friend.

"Again! Again!"

Laughter and giggles erupt from the small five-year-old, making grabby hands at his older friend. Calvin laughs as he picks up Technoblade by the armpits and throws him high in the air, so high that the child brushes his fingers against the gold embedded in the ceiling, stalling in the air for a moment, before coming down again. Shrieks of joy coming out of his mouth the entire journey, red eyes sparkling like rubies from the giant smile on his young face, pink hair flying wildly; some loose strands coming out of his braid.

Calvin caught him with a grunt before holding Techno bridal style. Both of them laughing as they crashed into the huge mattress littered with pillows and blankets; only the best for the champions. Pieces of iron littered around the bed, along with some gifts from the others.

"Blazes, your getting really big Techno!" Calvin breathed out, "One day your going to be to heavy for me to throw!" He snuggled the runt closer, earning a purr from his protected. This also prevented Techno from seeing the look of mischief on his sounder's eyes, "But you'll never be too old for me too tickle!" and before he could escape from his captor, Calvin attacked with tickling his exposed side. Laughter growing louder as he tried to kick away, before being gathered up in caring arms.

Calvin was supposed to be watching over Technoblade while the others where tasked with their usual errands around the Pit for that day. Although by the end of the day they already had released some energy with all of the games they played, the roughhousing between the boys as they play fought like young pups. Somehow all ended up with them being snuggled in blankets and pillows.

"Do you think it's really cold up there?"

"Some places might be cold."

"They must have so much food for all those people!"

"When we get out, I'll let you try whatever you want."

...

"Do you think they're nicer to hybrids?"

Calvin pauses at this, for how could he answer? He turns a bit towards Technoblade as he thinks. He can't say yes or no, because he truly doesn't know for sure. He doesn't want to lie to his protected like that. To give them false hope, to have it crushed if reality proved to be disappointing; by fire, they could even treat them worse than here for all they know. If that is the case, Calvin knows a few people who can help their dimension change their mind. They absolutely will not allow for their supposed haven be anything less than perfect for their pack, protected, herd and anything else they are supposedly called. They will not just spend their entire lives living in this hell to just go and die in another one!

So he said the best thing he could.

He told him the truth.

"I don't know."

They stay silent after that, not knowing what to say and both not really how to truly handle their feelings; like everyone else in the group in fact.

By the end of the day Nestor found them cuddled together in blankets and precious metals, he joined them along with Schlatt and finally Lighter. Who chose to keep watch beside them, dozing off every once and awhile. The sounds of blood thirsty crowds, raging fire and bubbling lava barely noticed by the snores of brothers and memories of childlike laughter.

Contrary to popular belief, Phantoms are naturally social creatures.

People usually believe that their playful games and dramatics are actually them haunting their homes and loved ones, blaming the poor creatures for their misfortune and bad luck. Many accidental deaths counted as murders instead even when it had nothing to do with Phantoms. Their 'haunting' was actually them playing around with people they had claimed as theirs. Many humans had just ran away when the Phantoms tried introducing themselves, and the few that did get to know them weren't believed by society when they insisted that their friends weren't evil. They were just misunderstood.

Their playful nature were past on to even Hybrids, who liked to play in groups; laughing and screaming in other's attempts to scare one another. All in good fun by the end the day.

Of course, that didn't stop others from looking down on them.

But that never stopped them from living their lives, from coming together and enjoying their company.

The point is.

The point is Wilbur does like to socialize with others. He does! Even though sometimes he will have his moments where he would like some alone time, it is greatly overshadowed by the many, and he means many, times he has tackled Phil giving him half a heart attack and demanding cuddles with the man.

Each time he never really said 'no' to the young phantom. The only thing that came close to that being said was when he returned from a fight, covered in blood that was not his own and exhausted down to his hollow bones; yet he was fretting over Wilbur getting blood all over your pajamas, at least let me change! Much to the older's dismay, Wilbur wouldn't even let him get clean and instead fell asleep on his lap. Small smears of the red liquid on his cheek that Phil had been making small patterns with the night prier, in for a penny in for a pound he supposed.

Wilbur pauses in his pacing to giggle at the memory, Dad had to wash those pajamas so much that their pink now. Their a bit small on him, but they're the only other pair Phil was sure would fit the other boy and they couldn't really buy any new clothes since we hadn't got a certificate for buying new clothes for a new adopted child, and they couldn't buy anything under the belief that Wilbur hadn't already used his last pass to buy a new pair of clothes. Curse your 'only aloud to go clothes shopping twice a year' bullshit. All the other rich and full blooded humans can go buy clothes whenever they want.

He's getting distracted, what was he worried about?

Oh, yeah, that.

He sighs as sits on the couch and pouts to himself. He's excited to meet the kid, even more thrilled when the others agreed that he would stay with Phil and Wilbur, and absolutely ecstatic at the thought of someone new to care for. To love. They were going to keep him, without a doubt. That was decided the moment Phil laid eyes on him, the moment Wilbur heard what happened by just stepping into whatever hellscape he just walked into. And they would cherish him.

But.

But Wilbur was afraid. What if they didn't like each other? Or worse, what if he didn't like Wilbur? What if he rejected his offer to let him in? What if he shut him out and treated him like something of little worth? What would Wilbur do if he cared so much for this kid, and he thought him as something that was insignificant? Replaceable? Or... something not worth replacing?

He shakes his head, don't think like that! Your going to be good brother- No, a great one! And we'll care for each other, like a family, closer even. He smiles softly, but the dark blue of his flickering phantom wings only show how the strongly stressed he is, only showing under extreme emotion. It doesn't help that that is when the universe decided he needed to suffer as a knock rings around the house. It causes him to phase through the couch and he accidentally unphases himself right underneath it in his panic, pinning him in-between it and the floor

He let's out a wheezy "Coming!" and quickly phases again through the floor, becoming solid at the front door.

This is it. He reaches towards the handle.

I could share the rest of my life with this kid. His fist closes around the knob.

I wonder what he'll be like. He turns the handle and opens the door.

He's greeted with three smiling villains who he closely thinks of as uncles. A woman that smells of flowers and life, looking around the neighborhood curiously, her green eyes barely visible against the tinted glasses in front of them. And his father, holding onto a young teen around his height, pink hair slightly unkept from riding the winds no doubt.

And as blood red eyes meet dark chocolate brown, one word goes through Wilbur's mind.

Brother?

"You did good Tech!"

Techno looks up from fiddling over his bandages to look up at Nestor. He walks into the room quietly and lays down beside him, eyes that see nothing stare up at the ceiling of Techno's room.

"But stop messing with your bandages, we don't want them getting dirty."

He snorts, silently beating himself up for not seeing the move beforehand. He had been reckless, too hasty, impatient. His face scrunches up at the memory of missing his target, the fight having to be dragged on longer. His injury caused Nestor to have to fall back slightly while recovered from his blow to the shoulder. They made it out alright, Nestor threw two daggers off a stray pipe and they ricochet off in two different directions, killing two of the competitors. Techno used his withering on the last one that tried to get away, healing part of his injury; but it was still bad.

At least now he has another black skull to decorate his entrance.

At least it will scar nicely. He hopes it won't hurt to stretch the new skin; this injury postponed but didn't cancel his fight next week.

Nestor reaches upwards until his hand lands on the bridge of Techno's nose. Right above his scar there, the one people take most note of. The one that garnered the attention of The Grand. He smooths the scar and hums in thought, as if reminding himself of something important. They stay quiet for a bit.

"I want you stop doing that."

Techno turns to Nestor, slightly confused. "Doin' what?"

He gives Technoblade a serious expression, "Stop sacrificing yourself."

Techno tries to butt in, but Nestor kept talking; "You do it constantly when you fight with any one of us, blazes Techno you did it today!" 

He scowls "I don-"

"Don't act like you didn't take that hit for me- I felt it." 

They both turn away. Not knowing how to go from here, both at an impasse.

"Listen little one." Nestor sighs, "I'm grateful that you helped me." He points at his nose, even blind. "But that needs to stop."

Technoblade wants to argue, wants to say that every time that they get hurt feels the same to any wound he's ever had. If he didn't protect them, than what purpose does he have? To survive and kill? They are all he has left, do they not understand?

But he won't. It won't change Nestor's mind on this, the worst that could happen is him making Techno fall back each time someone approaches. No matter whoever that person is. Deep down, he knows he won't be able to keep the promise for long. But.

At least he could try to be less risky.

That he can promise.

"I won't do that again."

Nestor doesn't relax from his position, he had turned his face towards the ceiling again. He closes his eyes. "Good."

He grabs his hand and drops a golden bracelet in it, skulls and weird flowers with thorny vines engraved into it. All facing and flowing in the same direction, as if reaching towards something unseen. A pleased purr resounds from Techno as he quickly closes his fist around it and brings it up to his face. "How?"

"Someone in the crowd threw it in from our performance." He gives him a sharp smile, "I grabbed it in midair as it came towards me and pocketed it."

Techno smiles wide, his barely growing tusks jutting out slightly, he leans into Nestor so he could feel the pleased rumble from his chest. Nestor throws an arm around him when the boy starts to clean and shine the metal, wiping away any dirt and cleaning out any gunk in the engravings with his nails. The steady breathing from the boys and mumblings of Chat fills the silence until they are called for their rations of the day.

Oh, a child.

I'm a child.

Yeah, but your weird.

In a good way?

Sure, let's go with that.

My feelings, how will I ever recover from this blow to my ego?

You won't. We will remind you of your stupidity every day for the rest of your life.

Isn't that just called reminiscing on bad memories?

Yeah, except us voices will judge you for it.                                                        Shut up the child is looking at us

              Is that Casper the-                                                                          -s seems like the start of a-

                                              its so cooooooooooold-                                              little ghost boy!-

         any more of that sweet food around her-                               -make the bird man take us flyin-

"Hello." The boy waves at Technoblade, although he seems shy, his eyes contain a barely hidden joy to them. It burns Techno by how genuine it feels. Wave back you idiot! He does just that, ducking his head self consciously. He hasn't ever really had to interact with many kids his age unless he is to fight them in the Pit, its feels odd... not in a bad way though. A good change, he thinks.

The man that held him- Zephyrus? - releases him when they come inside the inside of the weird structure. He looks around the room and notices the clean yet comfortable living space. Plush mismatched furniture are placed around and an opening that leads to a place that Techno thinks sorta resembles the 'Kitchen' in Hannah's den. At least, something is steaming on the 'Stove' that smells nice. And Techno recognizes the... what was-? That's a microwave. Yeah that! 

Do you think they will let us press all the buttons                                      Idiot, the right thing to do is put something metal in it.

I swear that none of you have a sane idea. And no, we tried that with Hannah's microwave, and she shrieked in pure terror.

Good memories!

He takes a few steps aside from the grown ups to look around, but stops himself from moving away too far. The brown haired kid then gets in front of him, his form flickering from whole to transparent each second. His wide eyes turning from dark brown to glowing green along with his body and blue bony wings flicker in and out of existence behind him.

"Do you wanna see your room?" The boy floats slightly in the air, his face a little too close for comfort. He looks back at the strange man.

The place is covered in his scent, it feels disrespectful to intrude into someone's den. Or nest in this case. I think that's the term for it.

He smiles at him. "Go ahead mate. Wilbur can show you around" Just to be sure, he stares at Hannah for conformation; and after a second, she too nods.

The boy, Wilbur, grabs his hand "C'mon it's upstairs, I can show you mine afterward!" and they bolt, the smiling faces of the adults and one confused lady standing by the entrance is the last he sees of them as the go up a few steps. His hand feels strangely cold, but not enough to make him uncomfortable. It feels right to be by the boy's side. Another broken shard found for his glass puzzle.

It's meant to be BI-

LANGUAGE!

They stop at a plain door, Wilbur reaches out with his free hand and opens it. Revealing a plain room with one opening overlooking the dark twinkling ceiling, a bed shoved in the corner of the room with the softest looking blankets Techno has ever seen on top of it. A mismatch of the colors red, grey and blue, with two white pillows. A small special table that Techno had only seen a few times when he had to visit the Grand in a special room, except this was much smaller and less extravagant. A desk if he remembers correctly. Beside it is a slide door that leads to a small space, clothing hanged and two bins. One empty and another one filled with...

Books and puzzles?

Techno doesn't need all of that. And he hasn't done anything to grant these adults their favor, The Grand only gave him new books when he put on a good show for special visitors. He used to tie them with red cloth and a gold ribbon, sometimes golden jewelry would be intertwined with the knot. But that was earned sparingly.

"Only the best for my Champion"

Does he deserve these gifts?

"I know it isn't much." Technoblade turns to the boy, a sheepish expression on his face. "But we don't really know your preferences yet, we will go shopping soon to get the right size of clothes for you. But for now those will have to do."

These are too much. I already have enough clothing to last me awhile with the ones you already offered?

Wilbur smiles- He's been doing that a lot. -and tugs on his hand again, "Do you wanna see my room now?" Against Techno's better judgment, his curiosity wins him over and he nods.

"Okay, it's right in front of yours so you can always visit. But I would like it if you knocked first. Don't want to accidently cause a fire again." He sighs like the experience was a good one. "It smelled like smoke for nearly a month."

Chat giggles along with Wilbur, already getting fond of him.

"Tada!" He shoves open the door, revealing a messy room with clothes shoved in multiple corners and sticking out of his closet. A squishy looking plush chair in front of a window beside a bookshelf and lamp. An unmade bed filled to the brim with pillows and blankets, a blue fluffy stuffed animal sits in the middle with a black wolf making the bed look like a nest of sorts for the two. Above the bed hangs pieces of silver metals that twinkle from the little light outside, the bigger piece shaped like a crescent while the smaller ones are more carved like diamonds. A desk sits beside the door with a strange box like device, strings connect it to the wall. Although the light isn't on Techno can see just fine, dark caves helped him in this aspect; Wilbur's eyes glow green again so maybe his hybrid trait allows him to see in the dark, they could even be nocturnal. A jar of sand sits innocently beside the window.

That wasn't the oddest thing in the room though.

What was odd was all the tiny parts scattered around the floor, puzzles shoved aside to free up space for screws and buttons. A sickly green liquid filled bottle sits beside a few sphere-looking objects, a small opening to a few. A small lighter a bit too close to a small piece of string that Techno suspects is a fuse. And the nail in the coffin is the familiar smell of gun powder coming from a small compact.

Awesome .

"Sorry, I should have cleaned up earlier. But I was shaking too much to get anything done." He gestures to the most likely explosives, "Better not to risk our lives before we even met." Wilbur laughs, "Sorry I forgot to introduce myself!" He extends a hand. "I'm Wilbur Soot Watson, Wilbur or Wil for short."

                 We are now best friends-                                                             -Soot? a bit ironic-

    -BUTTONS-                                                                               can we keep these?

                           -e shiny silve-                                                                         Shake his hand idiot-

                      -be nic-                                                                           -good kid-

He shakes his hand. "Technoblade."

His smile gets impossibly wider, "Well then Techno, how do you feel about explosives?" His eyes give away nothing but innocence.

This time it was Techno's turn to smile

I think we'll get along very well.

"Huh..."

Lighter looks at a bruise around his ribs, poking it as if it were foreign to him. "You got me!" Despite the guard's horrified look by the doorway Lighter's expression resembles that of a man being told he's free from ever fighting here again.

"I only hit you once..." Techno is breathless from his spot on the floor, an empty dirty bottle that had a filthy water before lays beside him. "Then you jabbed me in the throat and swept me off my feet." He wheezed out the last word, whether in pain or surprise how those movements only took less than half a second to lead to now.

Lighter winces, "Sorry, that was on instinct." He sits down beside the boy. "You just caught me off guard, that's not your usual style." His trainer looks down at him, "You've improved so much since you started." A chuckle, "You might knock me down someday."

Techno groans, "That'll be forever!" he looks up at the glittering gold ceiling, the closest thing that resembles stars here. "Your too strong and fast for me. No matter how hard I hit or fast I move." He puts his arm over his eyes, and sighs deeply. "I'll never be able to catch up to you guys."

They stay silent for a while, breathing deeply and massaging sore muscles.

"Well, that isn't true little blade." He looks up at his mentor, "In fact, I think you try too hard. You seem to forget to fight smarter, not harder." Lighter starts to pull on his small braid until it lands on his lap, he undoes it and starts to untangle and clean it. "Besides we've had more time to practice than you have," He scratches his scalp lightly, not caring that Techno is still slightly sweaty.

"You've been progressing faster than any of us has imagined, you're a natural." Lighter quickly starts to part his hair again and starts the braid anew. "So don't give up, there will always be ways for you turn the table," He ties the end neatly, calloused hands gentle and experienced pet his head caringly. "The only thing you have to truly worry about is which battles you chose to fight."

He taps his cheek playfully, "Now get up, we still have to try out the new Bo Staffs they brought in." Techno groans but gets up nonetheless.

"Don't complain! I promise you can use it later to ambush Schlatt." Techno bolts towards the long stick by the wall rack, "Come on then old man what are you waiting for?!"

"Oi! I'm not that old!"

"You complained about us 'young ins' the other day."

"People still use that word!"

"Old people do!"

"I'm not old!"

"You're LITERALLY three hundred and nineteen years old!"

As it turns out, Techno is exceptionally good at fighting with the staff. Much to Schlatt's suffering.

Good Sam takes a sip of the tea Phil offered her; he doesn't look at her as she does it because it might shatter the fragile trust she has with him. But he busies himself with other things, like preparing dinner for the boys and his friends. He sets down bowls for them to grab as they pass by, and serves Sam a bowl once she finished drinking the tea. They all sit down and get ready to eat.

"I'm starving!"

"Can you pass the salt?"

"Finally I can breath." Mumbo say as he takes off his mask, setting it down on the table to bring the spoon to his mouth.

Sam yelps and scrambles for a second like she doesn't know how to handle this move before bringing her hands in front of her tinted glasses. "What in the faery wings do you think you're doing!?"

They all chuckle before doing the same, setting down their masks and beginning to eat the soup that was prepared before hand. "We're eating mate." Phil says, his voice changer turning off at the last word, "Did you expect something else?"

She sighs, "At least warn me beforehand. Don't scare me like that you bastard!" She keeps her hands in front of her face, not daring to twitch. Phil raises an eyebrow, "You can put down your hands mate, we don't mind. Although I do appreciate your respect for our identities."

Slowly and carefully, as if afraid to provoke a bear, she sets down her arms and glances at them all. Eating and conversing quietly about their day, when her eyes land on Phil he smiles reassuringly but doesn't urge her to reveal her identity as well. This is a card of trust that he has shown to her, letting her know that they won't harm her or the fledgling. As they continue to eat Phil can see her reach up and pull down her scarf and glasses. Nobody noticeably glances at her, only really looking at her when they try to get her in conversation. The rest of the dinner slowly gets more and more relaxed, Good Sam watches with amusement as Grian and Scar argue over him wanting a hamster and naming it Bubbles but being reminded by Grian that he already has his pet cat Jelly.

"So Good Sam," Phil starts as the argument dissipates. "What made you chose to be a vigilante?" They all cease to listen to her carefully.

She laughs, "Oh spells, I'm not really a vigilante." She sets her empty bowl aside, a slight clink resounds from it. "I just do what I can with my powers, I try to stay far from all of that nonsense."

Mumbo furrows his brow, "But you helped Technoblade? Which I might add, that was an amazing escape you made." He looks up in thought, "You caught all of us so off guard, we didn't think to fly up and follow you until you already were too far away."

She grimaces at that, "That was a bit different."

"Why don't you try working in a field that involves your power?" Scar continues, "You would be a great farmer! Or own your own plant-based business?"

She sighs, "I used to..." A sad look covers her eyes. "But I quit after an accident, besides... After that I realized the government weren't even giving my produce to those who really needed it." A snarl. "In fact, I learned most of it was rotting somewhere in the rich's dumpsters; half eaten most of the time."

"After that I wanted to do something that could really make a difference you know? Where there weren't other people to limit how much I could give to others or what I could give." Her face softened. "I didn't even know people really recognize me besides my regulars, it sorta just happened."

It was as if a veil had been lifted from their eyes. Truthfully, they didn't really know what to think of her yet. They respected her for what she was known for, and were glad that she took care of Technoblade to the best of her ability. But you never can be too sure of someone's true motives.

This just put into conclusion with their decision, she has a good heart.

"What about a Hero?" Grian was genuinely curious, "You would have been a good one, especially with your poisons." He gestures towards the bag by her side.

This time she physically recoils and her face twist up as if she smelled rot. "Ew, becomes those pretentious bastards? No thank you!" She shivers more to the villains' shock, "Besides they give bad vibes, adn after what that last one did to Techno? They can go to the Nether and dive headfirst into lava for all I care." The villains let out a startled laugh.

"Damn, never thought you felt that way." Phil says mirthfully, Sam blushes "Sorry, still haven't really calmed down after that day..."

They fall silent, a small unspoken respect and grief for the dead children of the explosion. The crumbling of ruble and smell of smoke are all that Phil notices before she speaks to them again.

"What made you guys choose to be villains?"

Now that was an interesting question, "The rules." Scar starts, tapping the metal of his legs in thought. "They are absolutely ridiculous!" He growls, the scar on his face stretched as he pulled back his lips revealing sharp teeth. "Even for children and those who are physically and mentally impaired, they are too much to keep up with!" He starts to count each one with his hand held up. "How much we buy food, how much we buy clothes, how much we can spend on entertainment, the curfews, the strict social classes and etcetera!"

"The Hybrid racism."  Grian continues, "The stories of how many people in power just refuse to do anything about it is unrealistic." He ruffles his wings in agitation. "The laws have too many loopholes to be a coincidence, jobs are nearly impossible to have; and when we do get them, they pay too little. And most try to scam us into paying more than the original price for anything! Even apartments and homes, Heroes don't try anything to stop them and most politicians that do try to change things are quickly removed or are assassinated before they can do anything." 

Mumbo sighs, "The obvious favoritism for the rich..." He stretches before ranting, "I might not necessarily be named a villain, but I might as well be with how much my inventions have been found in other criminal's hands. Most of the time they're just thieves trying to make quick cash by stealing from the rich, or the bigger banks in those places." He shrugs. "Serves those people right, most of that money is attained illegally anyways, so it's stolen either way."

Phil breaths in deeply, before giving his reason as well.

"I'm just done with all the lying." He places his hands together on the table, to keep them from shaking off his pure rage. "Too many deaths and accidents covered up, the Heroes cockiness and abuse of power is laughable. The neglect of the poor covered up with propaganda is everywhere you look." His voice turns cold and unforgiving. "Even the Veil was covered up with the lies of the Heroes, saying that they had no other choice."

Laughter comes from upstairs; they all look up to the sound of a light and airy giggle, He softens his features and gains his voice again.

"I want a better future." He looks back at Good Samaritan, "A better world for them to grow up in."

"We want you to join us." Mumbo speaks again, but this time nobody scolds him for being so blunt. Because there really wasn't any better way to say it. "You don't have to decide today, but you are well known in the lower districts and have a good reputation." He shifts as he analyzes her even further. "Your strong as well, if you train with us, you can hold well in fights if it comes to that. Or you can just join in negotiations with Quake."

She stays silent, eyes wide open and staring at nothing in particular.

After a moment of silence she turns her green eyes towards Phil.

"I want to visit Techno once week just to check up on him. I don't know what I can offer, but things like torture and weapons are not really what I'm comfortable with."

Phil smiles and extends a hand to her over the table.

"My name is Phil, these are my close friends Grian, Mumbo, and Scar."

A moment.

She reaches over and shakes their hands firmly.

"You can call me Hannah." She smiles sweetly at their agreement and aligned views. "I look forward to working with you."

"Mommy?"

Technoblade was playing with the weird shadow dog when he heard a weird crash from the other room, the shadow immediately disappeared and didn't come out again. Dad went to go grab some wood logs from the trees growing close by and Mom was cleaning the dishes when he left. Maybe she dropped one? She was starting to get really tired the past few days, maybe Techno can help her clean up!

He had ran into the room with a wide smile, his three year old legs tumbling him over to where Mom was on the floor. Shaking, her own shadow dancing around her speraticly, breathing harshly and quickly.

Her black tinted hands had black ashes appearing all around them, clenching and unclenching as if trying to squeeze something in her palm. Her knuckles turning white each time.

"Mommy?"

She stills and the ash disappears, slowly she turns and-

Technoblade is afraid.

Mom's eyes, usually a ring of pure white in the sea of black, always showing love only a mother could give.

Mom's white ring turned into slits, like snakes and the tall teleporting people in the forest. And they stared at Techno unrecognizingly and full of hunger for something that Techno never really understood could be taken away.

She reaches out before Techno could stumble back and grips his bare shoulders. The ashes come back to her hands.

Technoblade screams from the pure pain and ithurtsithurtsithurtsmomstop!

He hears a growl so loud it shakes his lungs in his ribcage, and warm, safe, calloused hands pull him away from his mother into a huge chest with the familiar scent of his father. He grabs a red vine growing from a small pot and throws it at Mom's open outstretched palm. It quickly withers away and turn into ash too, the shadows grab her arms and pin her down to the ground.

It felt like hours until the thrashing stopped and her eyes turned back to normal, although tired and dazed. After a moment she noticed them again, in the farthest corner of the room with Techno whimpering as his Dad rocked them back and forth.

"S...Star?"

He flinches deeper into his father's chest, silently crying and too afraid to go near his own mother.

She knew what she had done the moment she saw the reaction. She gasped and sobbed at letting her instincts overcome her. She had hurt her precious baby, her runt, her gold, her nether star! How could he forgive her? How could she forgive herself!?

She apologizes over over and over; her tears never ending and loud sobbing are not near as gentle as her hold on her child. Her shadows comfort the family, a shield to the outside world.

They slept in the den, the child's shoulders tended to and cared for, a mother's tears wiped away, a father's arms around his loved ones. And an old song on their minds.

Chapter Text

"One more twist and..."

Quackity twist the metal in his hands until it is molded to his approval. "There!"

He places the metal on his pillow and admires his newest creation, his wings flapping quietly with pride.

On his pillow, sits a metal duck, sinking into the soft material making it look like a sort of nest for it. Two dots to represent its eyes, and a smooth slightly disproportionate bill, little indentations he made with the tip of his nail for nostrils. Tiny feathers on the wings as a small detail, since he had extra time.

Metal Manipulation is not common as far as Quackity knows, it is about as rare as his father's technology manipulation. He wonders what god thought it was a good idea to give something new and untested to a feral child. Said child who likes to prank his dad with twisting the metal spoons before breakfast (the bastard). And imagines whacking the local bullies at school with the metal monkey bars. Must they seriously make fun of that Wilbur kid each time?

The door opens to reveal his dad, just standing there menacingly. He raises an eyebrow at his son, and Quackity just smiles mischievously at him in return. Sharp teeth glinting, no doubt quite terrifying if it were directed at anyone else besides the person who raised him of course.

"Now just what do you think you're doing up this late young man?"

He responds, his grin never leaving. "Nothing terribly illegal."

His dad snorts and brings a hand up to run through his green hair, "That doesn't reassure me in the slightest."

"Well, what can you say? Innocent until proven guilty!"

"Or guilty until proven innocent."

He giggles, "You think the worst of me. This is an ultimate betrayal of trust."

"I'm your father, I know your capabilities!" He squints at him, "And I have a sixth sense for when you're about to make bad decisions. School is in the morning, go to sleep!"

He rolls his eyes, but complies. They most likely have a pop quiz for math tomorrow anyway, because his teacher is a dick. His dad walked over and places his newest mold beside his head and on the dresser. He kisses him goodnight before heading out, leaving the door slightly opened where light can spill into the room.

He's such a hypocrite, Quackity thought as he heard the familiar sound of machinery. His dad has to work tomorrow also, but he still stays up late to work on his vigilante job as Warden. He hasn't been  going out, for whatever reason he hadn't told Quackity about. But he's going back to his regular schedule. Oh well, someone has to wake him up at least.

He smiles at the possibility of sleeping in tomorrow even though it won't happen.

It's a nice thought though.

"So if you put too little powder, than the explosion won't be big enough."

Techno nods to say he understands, which in reality he had to have Chat explain everything in more detail so that he wouldn't be a bother to Wilbur. He's been nice so far, and Techno feels really comfortable with him (that in itself is a miracle) but he doesn't know the boundaries yet. Will something unpleasant happen if he questions things? Like when he tried to question The Grand? Or do these people encourage questions like his pack?

Are they okay?

It's been a while since he last saw them. If the Grand is dead, than Schlatt must have his hands full by now. He probably hasn't had the chance to look for Techno with all the responsibilities, and the others need to help him with the workload. Being the new Emperor must have many trying to challenge and kill Schlatt for the 'Throne'. Each one trying to show the other subjects just how strong they could be if they were the one seated in that high place.

They'll all be painfully reminded why some dreams stay unachieved.

I can't believe this child is teaching us about bombs.

Wilbur hums in thought, "If it doesn't bother you, then next time we blow up a government facility you could push the button from afar!" He turns to Techno, a manic look in his eyes. "Wouldn't that be fun?" Yes, Wilbur that is a great idea! :D

Techno just shrugs, "If that's what you want."

Wilbur frowns at this, and tilts his head. "I'm asking if you want too. We don't want to make you uncomfortable or anything like that." He scratches his head, as if a thought had just occurred to him. "If you don't want to be involved with the Hero-Vigilante-Villain world than we won't force anything on you." He grimaces, "Probably should have told you that first, sorry."

Techno furrows his brow in confusion, Chat cackles in the back of his mind.

"The what world?"

They stay silent for a while, Wilbur's face remaining carefully blank the entire time.

"You know! Superheroes! Supervillains and Vigilantes! People who stop or start crime!" He extends his arms around himself as if showing an act behind him. "The powered people who are respected and feared throughout Essempii?"

Technoblade stays silent.

Superhero: A benevolent character with superhuman powers.

A Supervillain or a Super criminal is a variant of the villainous stock character, usually possessing superhuman abilities.

why tf are you guys just giving him the definitions?

Vigilante: A member of a self-appointed group of citizens who undertake law enforcement in their community without legal authority, typically because the legal agencies are thought to be inadequate.

...wha?

As Techno was still going over the new information thrown at him, Wilbur gasped.

"You guys don't have those!" He smacks his forehead, "No wonder your confused! And if you guys don't have any connection to the Overworld then you wouldn't know about Phil!"

Phil?

"Oh, I'm such an idiot!" Wilbur groans dramatically but quickly turns to Technoblade again and gives him his hand to shake (again), "Well, better late than never. Welcome to Syndicate, current members to my knowledge are Zephyrus, Quake, Whirlwind, and Circuit." He takes Techno's hand and shakes it as if the bone inside would rattle with enough force. "Civilian names are Phil, Scar, Grian, and Mumbo. But you can't tell anybody or else we might have to kill them."

He let's go and smiles proudly at him, "Right now your in Phil's house, also my dad. For your protection you'll be staying with us until the near future!"

I liked the flower girl-                                                                      -now we can put something metal in the microwav-

              -ave we been kidnapped?                                                                       -welp guess this is our life now-

       BLOW UP THE CAPITAL-                                                    -rced adoption pog?_

                         -do it no balls-                                                                      BLOO-not the time!

And in a spectacular act of social interaction, Techno responded with the utmost care and precision. 

✂︎☞︎◆︎♍︎🙵✂︎

Good thing it was in piglin speak, and the people who did understand were either dead or stuck in the Nether.

Techno really can't deal with all this new information right now.

L

Schlatt is not having a good time at the moment.

Okay, well mostly not having a good time.

But as of this moment? Not so well.

He is glad that he finally took the throne of that sorry excuse of a grandfather. He's finally fixing everything wrong with the Pit and their fights to the death. He has no plan on continuing that path, not after witnessing those he cared about nearly losing their lives too many times. Not after promising them that they can live without fear of death every day. Not after being treated more animal than man his entire life, heir or not.

He is proud of himself for what he has changed and what he will change.

But.

He will trade all of that in a heartbeat if he could have his brother, the kid, Techno at his side again.

Not having the entirety of his herd near him as he takes up a leadership position is best described as torture. Those in charge are tasked with the responsibility of watching and protecting the entire herd. But having one of them away, somewhere unknown; the youngest no less, is driving his instincts crazy. He keeps succumbing to his instincts in random times of the day, and coming back with thoughts of kidgone-where?-mustfind-lost-notsafe and in a completely different place than before.

The others weren't doing any better than him either, Nestor twitching and shaking on random days. Calvin prowling outside their rooms. And Lighter killed some disrespectful idiot who tried to break into Techno's room and steal his gold that he left lying in his den. Although, Schlatt didn't really get mad that he killed someone, just frustrated that there was no body for him to throw at some random poor ghast.

To say that the old guards that stayed with him are terrified to enter the group's line of sight would be an understatement.

Everyone had to agree that they had to try and find a different solution when Lighter almost dolphin dived into lava to try and search for the kid; at the constant nagging of his instincts (that was a fun day, let Schlatt tell you that.)

So they all took a few days to just... find anything that belonged to Techno; the one they've watched grow up, who barely turned fourteen. They gathered everything up and placed them neatly and carefully in the unoccupied corners of the kid's room. Out of their sight.

They didn't get near the undone bed, they didn't dare breath around the few pieces of gold lying about, they couldn't bring themselves to come near anything they new was even slightly valuable to him.

They can't put away everything that reminded them of him, that's impossible. But for them to focus on their responsibilities; and to focus on getting him back, they have to stop succumbing to their instincts. No matter how much it physically pained them to even think of cleansing the place of his presence, no matter how many times they felt like dying every time they separated themselves from a well-used blanket; his scent still noticeable to the group.

The process lasted literal days for a reason, their instincts fighting them every step of the way. It was inevitable that one of them would break.

That someone became Schlatt.

He was putting away a few spare boots that the kid had lying around the den, and he had bent down to gently place them on the floor of his closet, when he saw it.

It was a small wooden sword; the color was slightly purple from the red forests around the Nether. Without thinking, he had leaned forward and grabbed it to look at it better in the firelight. It was so small, meant for a young child, a toddler even. It had a few scratches here and there, nicks and dents. And a slight burnt part at the side.

At first he was confused, then as he tilted it a certain way he saw a small carving on its handle. With sudden realization, his confusion turned into a wave of sorrow. A sudden sob tore from his throat, tears streaked down his face and he collapsed as he pulled the tiny weapon towards his chest.

He couldn't stop to breath, he's shaking too hard, but he doesn't care because Techno isn't here! Kid is gone-lost-find-comeback-and how can he think of anything else?!

"Schlatt?" he turns and sees the rest of them, confused and worried. Why are they worried for him? They need to find-kid-close?-far?-lost-gonegonegone-

They open their mouths, probably to ask what was wrong, and he forced himself to part from the sword slightly. Just enough for them to see it too, the whole in his ripping wider nonetheless. Their faces morph as well and they rush to his sides. They don't take it away, and they try not to look at it for too long. They just try and comfort Schlatt, their friend, brother, as he spirals in his own mind.

He's kept it all in so well. Is this how he breaks? Is this his demise? How can he be okay after this?! He can't-kidgone-maybe never will be-mustfind-is this how it feels like to lose a part of yourself? Part of your soul?!-lostlost-

Everything is not okay-

Nothing can be okay because-

"Why can't I use the iron swords?" The four-year-old pouts, tiny tusks barely poking out. So young, yet to eager for his sparring with Schlatt.

"Because your too small to carry them, you could hurt yourself." Schlatt smiles at him, they've been learning their swings and punches with Lighter. But now they were on a small break. This seems like the perfect time to show him the gift.

"I got you a little something anyways." He reaches beside him and pulls out a small wooden sword. "To pass the time until you can pick up an iron sword." It was dull, so it was safe for the kid, heavy enough for him. He even carved into the wood a little pig and goat on the handle. Unnoticeable, but the claim was still there, still knowable if you know what to look for.

The kid's eyes go as big as fireballs, taking in every detail. Once Schlatt places it in his hands he traces the small carving. Schlatt's pleased huff moves some of Techno's locks and he busies himself with rearranging them.

"Do you like it?" The teen's anxiety for his approval isn't heard in his voice, it was one of the few times he has ever requested something from his grandfather. He knew that the man would be skeptical but comply to his wish if it kept him in place.

All he had to worry about was if it the best for Techno. "I know it isn't gold, but-"

The kid slams into him, raps his arms around Schlatt and squeezes. A happy rumble vibrates against their chests.

"I love it."

Schlatt curls around the boy, and his arms surround him, joyous that it was perfect for the kid. He nuzzles his nose against his hair, savoring the moment. The memory.

"I'm happy you do."

He kept it all this time.

Schlatt decided to keep the sword in his own room. Somewhere where he will see it every day. The first thing he sees when he wakes, and after his meetings. When he's done giving all the tools they have to Peace, and the last thing he sees before sleep overtakes him.

A reminder.

A promise.

Their hope.

Wilbur had to take a moment to breath.

He had been so absolutely stupid! Nothing less than inconsiderate and an idiot.

The kid, Technoblade, grew up where superheroes were nonexistent! If he even had an idea of his dad's reputation than he probably wouldn't have came here willingly.

Would he?

He paused at the intrusive thought, and pondered it further as he walked down the hallway.

If there weren't any Heroes beyond the veil, than what about vigilantes? Is that the superior force? Or are criminals, mob bosses, and villains just free to do whatever they want? It would make sense, if the former criminals survived long enough to have offspring they probably didn't like the idea of their kids fighting the very thing they live on. So logically, they taught them things like How to pick good victims and How to kill someone with your pinkie finger or however you teach a child to break the law.

(Now he can't get that visual out of his mind god damn it.)

It would explain how Techno has a worrying amount of scars. The clothes he has on hid most of them, but the few on his face and the ones he saw on his arms when they moved every so often were enough for Wilbur to figure out there were probably a lot more.

Plus the two bullets from a few weeks ago.

Wilbur winces silently. He hopes they won't accidentally cause more trauma than what he already clearly has.

How are they going to handle this?

Wilbur runs down the stairs and heads towards the sound of clinking plates and small talk. He doesn't waste any time grabbing the extra two plates left behind and runs out of the kitchen.

Phil squawks at him "Wil-"

"CAN'T-TALK-TECHNO-SAID-HE-WOULD-TEACH-ME-HOW-TO-THROW-A-KNIFE-BYE!" Much to Wilbur's utter pure joy, that fact was true.

He runs out the room with the last words he heard being "Wait, what?" and "Oh good, I don't have to teach them."

He comes back to his room with two bowls of sustenance and vigor for knowledge on how to gauge the eyes out of his school tormenters. He could probably hide a pocket knife in his shoes, that way the random security guards won't find it when they look into his school bag (while also not caring with the other full blooded humans. Pricks.)

Techno had a small knife in hand, engravings in the gold metal. He didn't move when Wilbur barged in, he just raises an eyebrow for half a second before going back to a bored expression. It's quite hard for Wilbur to get a good grasp on his emotions; his facial expressions seem impassive, and his voice is just naturally monotone. A difference between him and Wilbur, but he hasn't voiced any sort of discomfort towards anything, just plain curiosity. So something must be going good.

As the night dragged on, Wilbur wondered about the boy in front of him.

Who taught you how to hold a knife?

Who taught you what a proper stance was?

What need did you have for it?

"Now your holdin' it a bit too tight, loosen up a little."

He looked into his eyes for his approval as the most important question seemed to burn into the forefront of his mind.

Why are you teaching me?

"I can get home by myself, really it isn't that big of a deal."

Phil smiles, feeling extremly guilty for accidentally bringing Hannah so far from her living space. "Please let me clear my conscious, Grian or Mumbo can take you to where we last took off."

Hannah purses her lips and sighs, "Is it that far away?" Phil winces. "Sorry mate, I would take you myself. But I want to make sure Wil and Technoblade are comfortable."

Her shoulders seem to droop a little as she turns to the stairs, she doesn't know how to feel about leaving the kid she took care of for weeks with people she barely knows. But she knows he won't be in any danger from them.

"Tell him that I'll see him later yeah?"

Phil nods, sympathy for the young woman clearly showing from the immortal being. "I'll let him know."

After bidding their farewells, the others deciding to escort Hannah to where they found her for backup, Phil starts cleaning up the mess in the kitchen. He hopes that the boys haven't made too much of a mess upstairs.

His wings flutter behind him happily at the mention of the chicks. Mychicks-minemine-safe-happy his bird brain supplies. Happy?-newchick-comfortable?

He should check on them soon, the Nether is very different from here. The poor boy must be so confused. He absolutely got a bad impression from his first steps into Essempii, the burnt corpses of all of those children. Then of course, getting shot. Twice.

Hurt?!

No. Safe. Techno didn't show any signs of discomfort when he moved around, whatever Hannah treated him with worked like a charm. He should have some crows bring her some presents every once and a while.

Phil doesn't regret asking her to join them. Even if she did it out of fear, there was no going back now. She knew about his family for god sake! It was risky, but Phil new she didn't really have anywhere else to go. Heroes gunning for her, everyone in the underground waiting for the right time to collect their bounty. He would admit, he was pleasantly surprised on how far the extent of her powers could go. Poisonous plants was a nice plus side, but it was the way she utilized it that was in itself a pretty well thought out plan. It would make people who thought she was an easy target be unprepared.

Maybe one day he could bring himself to regret how he went about it. How he manipulated the situation in his favor. But for now he doesn't. He's to old to let every single little mistake take over his life.

As he puts away the last of the plates, he wipes his hands on a towel and goes upstairs to Wilbur's room. He tries to be quiet, in case Wilbur decided to be semi-responsible and went to sleep earlier in the spur of the moment. Wouldn't be the first time.

He walks towards the door and knocks twice, but nobody answers.

Are they both asleep?

Phil opens the door and it barely creeks. His eyes immediately go to the two boys by the bean bag chair, Wilbur splayed across Techno's lap and breathing softly from sleep. While Techno sits up as straight as he can in the bean bag, his arms hovering over Wil as if afraid to touch him, but also not quite sure how deal with the presented situation. It takes all of Phil's willpower not to coo at them, he also sort of wished he had a camera.

The pink haired boy looks up to Phil, a question in his red eyes.

"Sorry mate." Phil smiles warmly at him, "Tomorrow Wil's got to get up early, so he needs his sleep." Phil internally curses the school system. There are so many Hybrids that are nocturnal, this isn't healthy for them. But the government refuses to meet their needs, yet again.

"If you want, I can move him to his bed. And you can go to your room?"

Techno furrows his brow, as in deep concentration, and scans Phil. As if he was trying to figure out if he had some ulterior motive. He also stares at Wilbur for a few seconds, before just nodding his head and looks at Phil expectantly.

He gets the message and goes to pick up Wilbur with relative ease. Placing him gently in his small nest of blankets.

Techno stands expectantly by the door, stiff and alert. It pulls at Phil's heartstrings, but he continues. He opens the door for him and Techno goes over to his bed. He looks at Phil instead of laying down, as if waiting for more instructions.

"Do you need anything else mate?"

The boy frowns at this slightly, but shakes his head. "Ok, I'll be in the room down the hall if you need me." 

He closes the door behind him and heads straight towards his room.

Tomorrow is going to be a very busy day; they all need a good night's rest.

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Chapter Text

An old song plays in the darkness. Soft, like telling a secret through the covers of blankets, whispered as if meant only for their ears.

Techno stands in the middle of nothing. The floor not seen but felt. No walls could be seen in any direction, no breeze in the air, nor the heat of the sun. Only a pure, white Willow tree stands beside him. The drooping white leaves, and thick bark stick out against the cool shadows.

For a moment, Technoblade can't hear anything but the soft lullaby. Not even the voices dare break his peace.

At least, that was what he thought.

A strong wind shakes the leaves, and what would be the noise of a breeze was replaced with whispers of hundreds, thousands. Millions even. And when the leaves settled, they whispers quieted as well. But each movement that a leaf made, a whisper was there.

He tilted his head at the tree.

Odd.

"I haven't heard this song in such a long time."

He whips his head behind him, he tenses as if expecting an attack. However, what he saw made him stop in his tracks.

There, against the pure white leaves of the willow stood a pretty lady. Her dress adorned in beautiful hues of purple, black and blue. Silver starred patterns and golden skulls wrapped in rosy thorns shimmered against her cloths. A gold heart crest over her chest to finish off the glimmering spectacle. Her hat, with black roses and a single black feather was veiled. Yet it did little to hide her bright eyes, an interesting color of brown that nearly looked like dark purple.

Another gust of wind, more whispers as the veil lifted ever so slightly. Brown wavy hair, rosy colored cheeks and black lips that were turned into a soft smile. It felt as if he was meeting true royalty.

She radiated safety.

She radiated peace.

She radiated death.

"I cannot tell you how grateful I am to finally meet you." Her voice was soft, pleasant.

"W-where am I?" Wasn't he just asleep? Unless the bed is cursed, or this is just some weird dream.

She giggles, "I can assure you that this isn't a dream." Did he say that aloud? Oops.

He blinks, and when he opens his eyes, the lady is suddenly in front of him. She brings her hands up and cups his cheeks, their cold and warm at the same time. And Technoblade can't tell if the hands are soft or calloused. The pretty lady traces his features for a moment, before her thumbs settle just below his eyes. She tilts his face upwards, gently, and they lock eyes.

She smiles a little wider.

"Even after everything, they still sparkle."

Techno feels like he is meeting something too powerful for him to comprehend. Otherworldly, a deity. "Who are you?"

Her smile stays on her face, even as she brushes over the scar in his nose bridge. Almost like memorizing it.

Memorizing him.

"My name is Death." She tucks a lock of pink hair behind his ear. "But you can call me Kristin."

...WHAT!?

He steps away from her, gets on his hands and knees and bows deeply.

In the NetherRealm, it was common knowledge to know of the Ancient Ones. Each culture had their preferences, but everyone knew the basics. Kristienah, Goddess of Death. Ceallachan, God of Life. Sinann, Goddess of the Sea. And the Dragon Queen of the End.

As Techno is part of the Withering, it is only natural for him to fall under those who follow Death. His race was known to being devoted to her and her only. Many reaching glory under her guidance.

But why was she with him?

"Oh no," She kneels beside him, and makes him sit up straight, "No need for any of that."

He can't bring himself to argue, besides if she wanted to see him than it must be for something important. Right?

He feels her inspect his pendant. The same one that plays the ancient song, in his mother's voice. She hums along to the old lullaby.

She pokes his gold choker, her nails trail over the carving of the boar skull. "An interesting way to show a claim, but the message is clear." She sighs deeply, a slight furrow to her brow. "Although, your previous owner has died. So, the enchant does little service to you now."

Her fingertips glow a warm white as she brings her hand towards the gold, "I can fix that." And fire floods his veins.

The sensation was hard to describe, because it was less than a physical pain. Yet it wasn't an entire illusion of the mind. It was as if his blood was replaced with hot magma, like his eyes could make the bright ball of light in the Overworld shy away. Like his skin could take the weight of boulders, and that he could tear through netherite. It wasn't painful, the best way he could explain it is as if he were being suffocated.

When it passed, he came back to his senses and noticed he was laid down. His head in the lap of Death, Kristin, as she ran her hands against his long hair, leaning against the white trunk of the willow. Her bright eyes held an unending compassion to them, as if he were worth something to garner her attention. "Can you feel them?"

He didn't have to ask what she meant, because he understood. In the back of his subconscious, he felt something... more. A presence, like strings attached to something he couldn't see. "What?"

"I connected your souls." A pause as she looks at the leaves, "To the three back in the Nether I mean, it isn't much, but it will help."

Help with what?

"You already have a sort of connection to the others, but they will be useful to them in knowledge. Since they are connected to you now."

Another sigh, "Now they just have to get them to believe in you." Believe me?

She scratches his scalp and wow that feels good. He purrs softly, already enjoying her scent and the sound of her laughter. Which is an odd, since you know. She is a God. Still slightly freaked out about that development, but he can unpack that later with Chat and their never-ending stream of ideas and nonsense. "We won't have to worry about that until much later though."

His limbs are too heavy all of a sudden, more sounds break through the breeze. And the voices are coming back.

Oh well, he enjoyed the quiet while it lasted.

The boy fades away from the plain, along with the lullaby, leaving the woman alone by the willow. The presence and weight of the young boy no longer there in her lap. Her smile gone, replaced with silent tears that sparkle like diamonds.

She could end those creatures, stop all of this from happening. Let the boy be happy for the rest of his days, make new friends, have her family by his side. Maybe even those in the Nether will break free, and they would rejoin again.

But she mustn't, because it would ruin everything. That peace would not be final. And they would all be in misery.

She longs to tell her beloved, to warn her angel. He could stop it, protect the children. He would know what to do.

But she can't, she gave her word to the Time Keepers. They told her that this was the only way. And she knew it was true.

The willow cries with her, blood drips down it's bark to show it's sympathy. It suffers with the lady, for it could not even comprehend the pain of knowing.

How can Death bare to know, that she might guide the souls of her family. To the End.

Yet she could never follow.

"Ready?" Drista whispers to him.

Dream nods back, "May Prime grant us mercy from the God of Lightning."

Their mom looks at them curiously as she flips the blueberry pancakes, strawberry milk and plates already set up on the table. "If the lights go out again, you're going to explain to the authorities!"

"Yeah, yeah!" Drista says snarkily, simultaneously pressing the 'launch button' on her hand. Dream quickly puts on the noise cancelers.

It honestly did little against the noise.

Heavy metal plays throughout the house, and a high-pitched scream from a particular older brother flows along with it. Several thumps and crashes come from his room as he tries to turn off his speakers. Dream watches his little sister laugh maniacally, no doubt had done something to them to make this moment longer than it needed to be. A final thunk, and the speaker went silent.

The two turned to their mom, searching for guidance in her wise green eyed gaze. She smiled as she turned her back to them, her horns like a crown against the white curly hair swaying behind her back.

"I suggest you scatter."

They run and try to find a hiding spot, angry stomps come down the stairs.

"Just wait 'till I get my hands on you!"

Drista screams, from fear or excitement he doesn't know. She floats up onto the chandelier in the living room, hiding from above.

Cheater!

Well, if she could use her powers, then Dream doesn't see any reason why he shouldn't as well.

He books it towards his room, and locks his door hastily. His hand may or may not have slipped a few times when he heard a shriek and a crash. But his heart absolutely did skip a beat when he saw light from Foolish's sparks. He quickly makes a web from his neon green strings, no pattern whatsoever over the door frame. It's only purpose to slow down his inevitable demise.

He detaches the string as soon as he's done, and makes a new one by his window. He pointedly ignores the stopwatch that still counted down by his dresser while tying the end of his string off by his bed post, before making the ends slightly wider and wrapping it around his arm and hand. Resembling the aerial silks he's seen online.

His door slams open and he jumps out the window.

His socked feet hit the grass, he lets go of his string and runs towards the fence. He thinks he hears Drista yell a distant "Avenge me!" but he doesn't dare look behind him.

Dream leaps over the fence and into the sidewalk of his neighborhood, takes a random direction and runs for his dear mortal life. The other early birds and morning workers on the street move away from him and give him odd looks. Around a minute of running; and many turns later, he hears feet pattering behind him. 

"Oh Dream!" 

"No!" He half laughs and half screams out, before Foolish promptly tackles him like the professional football player he is. He's never admitted to ever playing in an actual game, but he's seen his brother practice with his classmates. Literally wiping the floor with them. It was his way of training himself before he heads of to the hero programs.

The walk of shame, trauma, pain and internal agony from both parties was an interesting road to take in Dream's opinion.

They came home with Puffy and Drista eating their breakfast as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened. The chandelier looked slightly different, and there were still a few shards on the ground but they could clean that up later. Foolish sighs, no doubt knowing his little siblings will take more years off his life than any villain attack ever could.

"Can't you guys just use an airhorn to wake me up like a normal person."

"That's normal?"

"Foosh, your so uncreative." They respond.

"Maybe you should wake up earlier." Foolish responds to Dream with a small electric shock. "Ouch, mom Foolish is breaking the law!" He doesn't mention that he used his powers trying to escape.

"Don't do crime without my consent." They laugh at the older's expense.

Too bad puffy was going in for the kill, and chose to go full 'responsible adult mother' on all of them today. She smiled sweetly as she locked eyes with Drista. She had the sense to stop laughing.

"Don't you have a group project you have to finish by the end of the week?" His sister's eyes widened in realization, and she gobbled up the rest of her pancakes.

Foolish giggled, "Do you need me to drive you to school?" already grabbing his keys and not waiting for an answer as he also nabbed his school books and back pack by the door.

"Yesh plesh." She responded with a mouthful of food, she flew up the stairs and came back with all her books and green sweater. She kissed Puffy goodbye, and told Dream to make friends while she was gone.

He sat on his seat and started to chow down on his morning meal. Sustenance is an important factor to outrunning his siblings.

Dream started homeschooling after his first year of middle school. The system was so bad, Puffy was able to pull him out after that. She had planned on pulling him out sooner, but she didn't know anything about homeschooling to be confident that he would get a good education. So, she used that time to do as much research as possible. Searching all the best possible options of learning curriculums, asking to get a raise for extra money to pay for the classes, asking for extra time at home from work and so on.

Puffy had to make a compromise with her superior, and although she did get extra time for her family, Dream could tell it wasn't close to the amount she asked for. Coming back home cursing out her boss like a sailor who ran into the kraken.

"Dream? I'm going to go run some errands, and lucky you! Your accompanying me." He groans at the plan for the day, although not exactly saddened at the thought of postponing his own responsibilities. World History can go take on Zephyrus for all he cares, he might even pay the villain to go and threaten the school board. Make them get better meals other than that whole grain rubbish.

Maybe convince them to get better teachers who actually know what their doing.

Possibly change the hours spent there.

Oh yeah, don't forget all that hybrid racism bull crap.

Grownups can be so stupid sometimes.

Sometimes Dream wonders how humanity has lived this long if the responsible people were all this biased. Except Puffy, she's the best mom-Hero-overall person on this insane planet.

And he has yet to meet someone who can equal, let alone pass that bar on his mental scale.

Wilbur has made the decision of taking down the school system once he becomes a villain.

Having to wake up at seven is uncalled for and absolutely unnecessary, it should be a war crime. He hopes even the gods look down at how it was made.

"Wilbur eat your breakfast, you're going to be late." Phil scratches his scalp, which let Wil tell you felt really nice when he was half asleep. He sends a tired click and Phil responds with the mimcing the sound, chuckling.

"Father, have mercy on your humble servant and son." He widens his eyes as he tilts his head towards his dad. "Let's skip school today."

Phil laughs at his plea. Like the villain he is.

"I'm afraid you need your education Wil, plus I need to go get all the adoption paperwork and essentials for Techno today." He rustles his black wings behind him as he hums, "I promise to get you some coffee when you come back."

Wilbur is about to respond when it hits him. He can almost see a lightbulb light up above him.

"Hey Phil?" He lifts his head up from the table, "Me and Techno are around the same age right?"

His dad hums as he thinks about the possibility, "It's quite likely yeah, why do you ask-?"

Wilbur slams his hands on the table as he stands up and leans towards the man. "Can you make the paperwork look like we were both born on the same day?!"

"Uh..." He startles, "I could ask Mumbo about it, but-"

Wilbur celebrates, not letting his dad finish.

He finishes the rest of his breakfast in one swift bite. Energy and vigor suddenly running through his veins, he jumps out of his seat and grabs his school bags.

"Tell Techno good morning for me!" He yells behind him and promptly runs out the door. Not looking behind him as it slams shut.

Before he knew it, he was at the bus stop. Waiting for the dreaded yellow vehicle to come and take him to prison.

As the slow morning continued, his mind wandered about. So, he didn't even notice when another kid came and sat next to him.

He was currently contemplating whether it was possible for him to play a guitar in an orchestra. Because if a guitar is a string instrument and most string instruments are in an orchestra, can I play a guitar in an orchestra? 

It's a valid question!

"You have to check on him they said, it'll only be for a few minutes they said, the universe is at their mercy they said!"

Wilbur turned toward the source of the voice and paused.

There, sat a girl his age he had never seen before, neither by this bus stop nor by his school.

She had bright red and curly hair done up in a high ponytail, small golden streaks thrown into the mix. Pale green eyes and freckles splashed onto rosy cheeks, her earrings had patterns that resembled fish scales and they shimmered colors from red to green to grey. A loose flowy blue t-shirt, and a short white skirt held up by a peach-colored belt. Dark green leggings and sand-colored sandals that went well with the seashell themed necklace, bracelet and hair pin.

To Wilbur, she seemed like the most beautiful girl he had ever seen.

And this said girl was looking at him like he was the last chore to be completed until she could hang out with some friends.

"D-Did I do something to offend you?"

She scrunched her nose as she frowned, "Not yet."

Okaaay?

"Umm..." Wow, this might be one of the few times he was left speechless. Damn. "My name's Wilbur," Nice, going well. "I've never seen you here before, are you new to the school?"

She sighs deeply as if he just explained to her why the earth is flat.

"No, I do my classes online."

"Oh." Dead end. Wait... 

"Wait why are you sitting here then-?"

"Sally."

Wilbur blinks. "Excuse me?"

"My name is Sally." She doesn't turn his way, just continues to stare straight ahead. "You should get on the bus."

Wilbur makes a confused face before the very distinct sound of the bus engine appears. When he turns to look, the bus is parked, its doors opened and waiting for him. He looks beside him to where the girl was.

Nothing but air greets him.

Techno opens his eyes.

And then closes them again.

Nope! Nah! Nada!

He is not going to think about that dream. Huh? What dream? See, he already forgot!

He tries to ignore the feeling of connection in his chest.

It's not real...

    L                                                                                                      -gaslight it away-

                    -nd we drink too many shots-                                                                heh?!

   MUMZA!                                                                       -he others are okay!

             -no, back in beeeed-                                                                           -head pats? pls?-

...

Technoblade groans into the, extremely soft, comforter.

It's not real!

"Techno?" Someone calls from the other side of the door. From the voice, it sounded like the Phil. It's his house, why doesn't he just open the door? It's his house after all, Techno didn't lock the door. That would be disrespectful.

Where's Wilbur?

He paused at the thought, he knows chat has been getting awfully attached to him, but he didn't let that effect his own thinking. They are not him, he ingrained that into his mind since he was toddler. It's what his father taught him the first day.

He has no grudge against the boy, so he doesn't hate him. But he doesn't think he really cares for him either. He taught him how to hold a knife because he had nothing else to do, not because he saw how he limped slightly. Shut up Chat.

He gets up and opens the door. Phil had his hair tide in a loose bun, and casual attire. No weapons on his person, armor gone. His sharp claws were replaced with slightly long nails that were painted black, and normal human feet. There were feathers against his jaw line up until it covered his ears, they ruffled when Techno came into view.

His wings had disappeared, as if they were never there.

Phil smiled at him, "Hey mate, I have some things to do today. And I thought it would be nice if you joined me. It's fine if you don't want to come though."

Why does he give me the choice?

Surely, this had to be some sort of test. The Grand used to do these tests as well, to see if he was loyal to him. After the first month he asked Techno if he wanted to leave the Pit. He said that he did.

It was the wrong answer.

Technoblade points to Phil, showing he wants to go with him.

He will not make the same mistake twice.

"If that's what you want mate." Phil says softly, almost a bit sad. Was that the wrong thing to say?

"Well then, want me to pick you out some clothes?" Technoblade nods again.

Once Techno had changed, they went into this machine called a 'car'; he was very reluctant to get inside it but Phil said it was safe, and rumbled on into some place new. Giving Techno some time to reflect on his own thoughts.

In retrospect, this had to be the most chaotic weeks in all of the Nether, Overworld, and blasted Void. He's pretty sure he almost died, came to the Overworld and learned about superheroes; green leaves exist apparently. He also apparently had the one in eternity chance of meeting one of the most dangerous people in the Overworld. And is now separated (Physically, thank you weird dream) from his pack in the Nether.

Wait.

...

He missed Schlatt's Crowning!

The kid who pushed us here is going to perish the next time we see them.

They made two stops.

The first was to one of the adults he saw yesterday.

"Hey Mumbo! Got my text?"

The winged man pushed back some glasses as he looks at them, sweat forming on his brow. "Hey Phil, hi Techno." He puts down the... flamethrower? And goes to a wired connected box.

It's called a computer.

He clicks some the small buttons, and across the room another box-like machine starts to make some noise until a few thin sheets of paper come out of it's... mouth?

... wait, what is that part called?

"Here are the papers, with the specific date you wanted." He hands them over to Phil, "It should be more than enough to pass the system!"

The blond smirks, "Thanks mate, don't know what I would do without you."

"How about immediately get caught by heroes?"

"Shut."

They immediately went back into the car, and the adults bid their goodbyes. Phil saying something about the economy taking all of his money for clothes again. And Mumbo stating that they get most of their money from the bank anyway.

And now they are here.

At a place called a 'store'.

"Ok, Techno some things before we go." He turns to him, "Don't talk to any strangers, especially if you find them rude or suspicious. And stay close to me unless I want you to wait somewhere."

Techno nods, loyalty, this will be an easy test.

"If something seems off or if your uncomfortable, you can tell me." The look he gives him is soft, understanding. "Anytime."

Why do you care?                                            Isn't he a treasure?

Shut up Chat.

They cackle as he nods again at Phil. He does not want to have any thoughts of bonding with these people, at least not until the rest of his pack comes back.

He lets the feeling of connection sooth him, just for a moment, to remind himself of his goal: Get back to them.

They walk into the giant mammoth of a building.

His mother should have chosen the villain profession.

It would have been fitting.

"We are almost done, I promise!"

"You said that an hour ago!"

Puffy sighed "You can go explore if you want! Just come to the front when you're done." Dream had already started sprinting away halfway through her sentence, he had to find something that piqued his interest unless this store wanted to disappear off the face of the earth.

He'll make sure it happens, the universe better not test this fact.

He didn't want to buy anything, he just planned on looking around. However, if he did want something then nothing would stop him from purchasing it. Depending on the cost although.

Dream had somehow found his way towards the plush and blanket aisle, heavy and fluffy blankets stacked next to rows of plushies varying in size surrounded him. The mere sight of them made his hands itch in anticipation, so much fluff to touch!

But before he could go on his excursion to find the perfect blanket, something caught his eye.

Or, well. Someone.

There was a young boy about his age looking at all of the plushies. His hair was long and pink, and eyes a bright red that reminded Dream of rubies.

His red eyes made contact with Dream's emerald green, and they both paused.

The sensation that went over him was pleasant, like a nice warm ray of sun. Something in him clicked, as if all his life he was looking for something he never knew he could need. It made him relax, and by the way the rosette's shoulders slumped he knew the feeling was mutual. The boy looked away first, seeming uninterested in him, and continued to stare at the plushies.

Dream walks up to his side, not really knowing where he is going with this but doing it anyway. They both stare at the plushies for a bit, ignoring the feeling that urges them to communicate.

Dream reaches out and grabs a horse plushie, feeling its soft material.  "Which one would you like?"

The boy pauses, before reaching out and grabbing a stuffed polar bear. "Ooh~ that looks soft!" He runs his hand over the plush, as if surprised.

The rosette nods, "It is..."

Dream smiles, before looking at his own plush. "I'm going to name mine Spirit." The boy looks at him oddly, "What'll you name yours?"

They both turn towards the empty gaze of the white bear, the boy turning it every so often. "Steve." He concludes, looking a bit nervous. As if expecting to be punished.

Dream tries to lighten the mood. "Really? That's all you've got?" The rosette looks him over once before responding.

"Bruh, I can't believe I'm being bullied by a homeless teletubby who named theirs Spirit."

"At least mine sounds like it has character!"

"Steve has character!"

Dream wheezes out a laugh through the sheer stupidity of this conversation. The boy laughs too, although it might be because of Dream's laugh.

"My name is Dream." He told them once they settled down. "What's your name?"

The rosette hesitates, but complies. "Technoblade."

They talked about random things and made friendly jabs at each other. At least until Dream says he has to go and take his leave, Technoblade saying the same thing. Apparently they see both of their guardians at the front of the store, Dream saw Techno's presumed father looking around franticly until he caught sight of them. And the man's shoulders slumped considerably, Dream had bought the plushies for both of them. He told Techno it was a gift for him, and that hopefully they'll be able to see each other in the future.

Dream did not doubt for a second that their paths would intertwine once again.

Mr. Beast looked at his stopwatch as it clicked to zero.

It stayed that way for a few seconds, until he watched the numbers glitch, spin and whirl around. A new time being set up once again, and then it started it's slow descending of time.

It seems the pig has already met the spider.

Chapter Text

"So..."

Phil looks at Techno, and at the plush in his hands. Something dark and unforgiving curls in his heart, the bird in his brain screeching at him because newsmellonchick-stranger-noonetouch-

"You made a new friend?" He tries to squash down the voice, he's upset at himself for not noticing that Techno had gotten lost earlier. But at least that nice kid was around, his chick seemed so relaxed around them.

However, the bird wasn't happy seeing his fledgling with a complete stranger, no matter how little of a threat the kid seemed. It complained on how his chick had another smell on him that wasn't family! And that he needed to thoroughly wash him to get it off.

Nooneelsecanhave-mine-mine-baby-chick-stayclose.

Sometimes it was difficult to have a rein on his instincts, this was one of those times.

Maybe he'll loosen up a little once both of his boys are back at the nest. He can cuddle with Wilbur, but he still doesn't know if Techno will let him yet. Maybe he'll just give him one of Phil's old blankets to use. The bird calms a little at this, satisfied to give the chick something from its nest so that something with Phil's cent can cover the baby.

Techno hugs the plush closer to himself, "I wouldn't say we're friends..."

Phil breath stutters as he stops himself from snatching the boy into his arms and cooing over him.

It was the first time he has heard his voice; it was deep and monotone for someone his age. But it fit him, he can already hear him make snarky remarks filled with sarcasm. It seems he has made some progress with his trust, and Phil plans to cherish it.

"Acquaintances then?" Techno nods and his hold on the stuffed polar bear eases a bit.

"Either way, he was a nice lad." It was true, the kid was polite. Well mannered, but he still had a mischievous glint in his eyes that most young ones had. It reminded Phil of Wilbur.

Phil quickly puts away the rest of his groceries and starts up the car.

He needs to get Wil's coffee anyway.

He looks at the message from Warden,

And then chucks his phone at the wall behind him.

"The one day I get off from work!" He speeds up to his couch to kick it. "And NOW they text me about some random cult!?"

He grabs the pillow and screams into it, as if he held every single sound of pure agony from the earth and was releasing it into a sort of sound suppresser.

Someone hits the floor beneath him, "SHUT UP YOU MAGGOT!"

"MIND YOUR OWN BUSSINESS BASTARD!" That's the same guy that blasts subbed anime in the middle of the night. He can burn in the Nether.

He sits down on the floor and pouts. He honestly hasn't been feeling like himself lately, maybe it was guilt. Maybe it was just plain rage. He hasn't been able to get a good night's sleep the past few days. The thoughts of possibly being too late to have helped that kid, the boy that didn't even look much older than himself. It might've finally been the last straw for him.

He doesn't know what to do, or even what to think about the funeral that was recently announced.

It would be held later in the future, about a month or two from now, give or take. The news caster said that it was planned to be held in front of the Whitehouse, the President and director of the Hero Committee, along with the people that overlook some parts of the Essempii. Even people that lived in the Life Legion Remains, Hermitcraft, and Bear Union were coming. Their leaders even agreed to come. Which was a feat in of itself considering many knew that the Leader of the Bear Union tended to keep to himself.

It would be an important occasion, which means there would be a lot of supers as well. Including Villains.

He groans loudly, and in a blink is laying on top of his bedsheet.

Conner needs his energy for his patrol tonight.

"I'm home!"

Techno tilts his head at the sound of Wilbur closing the door to the home. His hands pausing and inspecting all of the new clothing Phil had bought.

     -o soft!-                                                                                         I like the hoodi-

 -ITS OUR BOY!-                                                                      -the blue one is my favor-

              -an we look at the toy bin?-                                                            -ook for Wilb-

                                    -is that food I smell?-                                         -ittle ghost boy has retu-

He grabs at a pair of soft grey pants, they reach below his ankles and it was a bit big for his waist. But Chat had said he could pull on the weird strings to tighten it so it wasn't a big problem. He pulled down the pants he was already wearing and replaced them with the grey pants, pulling the strings tight. Even if he had earned more food from the fights that he did, he knew it wasn't enough that he was incredibly healthy. He still had gotten sick multiple times in rapid succession the first year or so, but his immune system got stronger and getting sick was on the back of his mind. Over time of course.

He takes the light blue T-shirt and puts it on as well, the piglin purrs at himself. Even Chat had quiet down slightly, murmuring their own satisfaction.

Gold?

He snorts, almost forgot. Techno reaches over into the discarded pant pockets and grabs for his gold, the only things from his horde he had brought to the Overworld with him. The Quartz Ring with it's blue jewel and gold colored engravings, and the two Emeralds attached to it's golden chain. He places them in the grey pockets, patting them reassuringly.

Make them wither away-

His hands are trembling, and breathing feels heavier, slower. The sounds of the creaking wood are too loud, and the light isbrightbrightbright!

Make their foundations decay-

His vision turns black and white, and he brings up his hands to stop their shaking.

His fingertips are slightly darker, and ashes swarm him up to his wrists. But slightly going higher, higher, higher. Stronger!

Take take take away-

He's cold, so cold. How can I warm up? The blankets are too thin!

What was never theirs to keep.

He needs something alive! Something-Someone who's warm heart still beats!

Their, on the wall, is a spider. It was small and helpless, barely the size of a fingernail.

It was doomed once Techno's white iris caught on it. He lunged, and caught it in his hand. His landing was silent, and he watched as the small creature crumpled. It's ashes joining the others, the skull of the exoskeleton dropping between his fingers before it too disappeared with the rest of it's remains.

Techno came back to his senses, and the ash vanished from his palms. His eyes returned to their normal red, and his fingertips returned to their usual color.

He lost control... it was only for a second, but it still happened.

-too early-                                                                                                            -AT WAS THA-

        -how are we gonna-                                                                                                        -e still have time!

   -on't panic!                                                                                            TIME TO PANIC!

                             no stop-                                                                                              -let's think rationall-

"Hey Techno?"

Wilbur knocks on the door.

"It's time for dinner! Phil made baked potatoes today."

We'll talk about this later.

Techno get's up and ignores the problem! Gaslight it away as Chat says I guess!

He get's up and casually opens the door, where an eager looking Wilbur is waiting behind.

Well, at least he was eager.

His face went through a multitude of emotions as he looked at Techno's arms, and his eyes kept on going back to his tattoos on his right bicep.

"What in the Prime?!"

Wilbur could probably take a lot of things, and he's pretty sure he can hold back a good amount of his emotions.

But he absolutely was not prepared for the number of scars on Techno's arms alone!

He hovered over the scars, big and small. He paused at the Prime tattoo! But his instincts didn't allow him to lay a finger on his companion. His brother! 

Until Techno grabbed his hands and squeezed them, Wilbur then let his fingers wrap his own. Holding them tightly.

"Who-who did this to you?"

Techno didn't say a word, and closed the door (on Wilbur's face, the scoundrel) After some rummaging around from the other side he came back out wearing a long sleeved shirt, and walked past Wilbur like nothing was wrong here!

"T-Techno!" He catches up to him, "You're seriously not gonna say anything?!"

He looked at Wilbur for one second, before reaching out with two fingers and poking the bruise between his ribs. Wilbur winced before giving him a half meant glare. 

So that's how it is huh?

Techno won't say anything unless Wilbur starts. Well, this is a losing battle. Even Phil can't get through to him, he was that stubborn. He can outlast Techno any day!

The clinking of plates reminds him to thank Primes above that Techno changed his shirt. If he reacted that way, then Phil would have gone to mother hen mode in an instant. That would have ended badly for both of them.

Scar looks at the news playing on his screen, his tail curled over a pillow from the pure excitement going through his body.

He reached over and grabbed his phone, quickly calling Grian since the others were most likely busy. Well, at least they had reasonable excuses with their tasks.

"Hello?"

"Grian!" Scar looks over at the screen again, smiling wide at the absolute genius of the idea. "Have you seen the news yet?"

"Haven't yet, I needed to clean my gong. Why?"

He pauses for a moment before continuing. "Turn it on! Quickly!" Ignore it and it's not real Scar!

He hears some shuffling before the sound of the newscaster's voice appears in the background. He hears his friend breath in sharply in a silent gasp, no doubt his eyes were blown wide. "No."

Scar leans back as he continues, "There is a number of ways we can go about this development."

His smile sharpens, revealing his sharp canines.

"But."

"But what?"

He pauses for dramatic effect.

"This would be a perfect opportunity for a certain someone's debut, don't you think?"

Grian stays silent, before coming to a conclusion. He can basically hear his friend jumping up and down. "I'll notify the others." he hangs up, leaving the lion hybrid purring at its own thoughts.

After all, what better way to remind this city of who is in charge than to crash a certain hero's funeral? The salt on the wound will only be replaced with lemon juice once Hannah makes herself known as the newest member of the Syndicate. Her power will make many warry of her, and those who underestimate her will know the reason why she was powerful enough to join their ranks. Her poisons might as well be legendary!

All they have to do is plan on what their going to do.

And Hannah's rebranding will have to be taken into account.

So much to do. So little time!

Connor creeps up behind the building, sticking close to the shadows of the dirty brick wall. His blue mask secure over the top part of his face as he brings up a hand to press a button on the side of it. Activating the night vision goggles, he sees about five people moving crates to vans. They wear nothing but black under their bullet proof vests, except for the red earpiece they each have. They each have at least one gun, a few knives, and a baton strapped to their waste that by the few extra buttons on the handle it could possibly be electric. A stick version of a taser, yay.

They don't talk to each other, they don't even make eye contact with one another. It sets Connor off, their movements are too precise. Too perfect of a stance for it to be normal. They each walk the same way, turn the same way, and even hold the crate the same!

Something is wrong.

For each second that Connor looks at them, the more he begins to feel that these are less like people and more like puppets. Their facial features never change, not even showing any struggle against the heavy weight they hold.

This is only a recon mission; he was told not to engage unless they attacked him first. But it doesn't seem like they even know what they themselves are doing.

He goes to back up and report back to the others and-

His toe scrapes over a pebble, it clicks against the concrete as he freezes. Connor looks up to see if they heard.

They did.

Every single one of them stop and turn their heads towards him in perfect sync. One of them smile at him, as if meeting their friend at an unexpected place.

"⊑⟒⌰⌰⍜ ⌇⏁⍀⟒⏃☍. "

He runs, past buildings, over streets and highways until he knows he lost them. But the adrenaline doesn't fade for a good while, and his hands still shake as he picks up his old beat-up phone to message Warden.

Something is wrong.

Something is coming.

Something is here.

You're dreaming.

At least, you think you are.

Because you can't feel your body, but your mind feels like it's running at hundreds of miles an hour. It's warm, but comfortable. How do you know  that?

You gain back your vision, but not your body. You're floating in the middle of a large circular room, with no way out and no way in. You look up, up, up and see that the ceiling is too far away for you to see. But no stairs can be found anywhere in the room, not even a ladder. There are floating platforms, each having a different sort of furniture; from bean bags to couches to indoor gardens. Warm sunlight comes into the place, but you see no true source.

Books line the walls, each shelf filled to the brim with them. There are hundreds of each genre that you can think of, some thin, some thick, some the size of your chest, and some the size of your hand. Some look ancient, while others are newer. But all of them are well used and loved, you can tell from the bending of the binding. Many are scattered around the floors and platforms, even a few beside the occasional windowsill that looks out into whitespace.

You hear music.

It's an orchestra, and a quiet piano can be heard in the background. You float upwards, up until you come into the largest platform you've seen yet. Grass with stone steps that varied in size cover the floor, furniture placed around the center; a comfortable looking chair-couch-recliner in front of a large table. Paper, books, drawings, notes and half made out ideas cover each corner, and a laptop sits in the middle. It's user typing furiously, and pausing every once in a while to think before their fingers fly over the keypad again.

She is young, although for some reason you can't put your finger on how young she is. She has thick, wavy hair that reaches down to her shoulder blades, a piece of it cut into a side bang that's long enough to cover her left eye naturally. Although she keeps tucking it behind her ear, so that she could see clearly through her glasses. Two big blankets cover her lap and over her shoulders, and she runs her hand through the soft fabric every once in a while. She reminds you of a cat.

She looks up.

At you.

She gasps and stands, her blankets falling around her. Dark brown eyes widening, so wide that you startle.

"You're not supposed to be here yet!"

She spreads out her arms, and the library falls apart. Hundreds of neon purple strings attached to void encircle the both of you, and she reaches out towards a few of them.

"Sorry!" She pulls, "Wasn't expecting company yet!"

She shrugs as your world fades to black.

"Soon though."

And-

-You wake up, and in a frenzy, check the time.

It's morning.

You glance at your open tab, and see a notification for the new chapter.

The author just posted.

The Start of Something close to Freedom

Chapter 14

You feel as if this is going to end differently then you expected.

...

Awesome.

Chapter Text

Techno woke up pretty early the next day.

Let's rephrase that, someone woke him up early the next day.

He was getting some long-needed rest after what had transpired the day before. Still slightly frazzled, but with a plan this time.

He talked with Chat for some time before coming to the conclusion that every day, from now on he would get a small plant, animal or bug from the outside and use his Withering on it. It would at least quell his Wither instincts for a bit until he can find a better solution. He won't succumb to them as easily as he did, he is in control. He's kept them locked up tight up till now, granted the fights from The Pit did help him there. The signs would have happened sooner if he hadn't been using this trait often, frankly he should've been expecting it earlier.

Chat had to remind him to breath when he thought of the possibility of what could have happened if he accidentally used his Withering on Wilbur or Phil if he had come in earlier. After that he decided that it was time for him to rest his eyes.

Until now of course.

Sleepily, he got out of the soft mattress and walked towards the door. His small hooves pad against the soft carpet silently before touching the cool, smooth wood. He twists the doorknob and peeks through, relaxing almost immediately once he locks eyes with Wilbur. Not because he's emotionally attached! No matter how good it feels to be near him, they're not exactly... close. Besides, he hasn't survived for this long without being the teeniest bit warry. He relaxes because this is somewhat familiar.

All of these changes have been catching up to him recently, and now that he's showing symptoms of Wither Madness it doesn't exactly help him with adjusting to this new world. Everything is so different here than from The Pit, by fire it's so different from the Nether as a whole entirely! He just remembered what the color blue looked like! He figured out that there was no ceiling in the Overworld, they even have little lights here! Granted they only come during resting hour, but he can see them before he sleeps!

Being around those his age and younger is familiar to him, the adults were not kind nor merciful. In a way they were almost worse than the fights, because they encouraged it. They bet and cheated, took out their frustrations on all of them, would hurt them badly to add suspense to the fights and sometime even worse.

With the fighters, they all had equal ground. They all were in a bad position, they were aware. They knew that most of them would die sooner rather than later, so most wouldn't try to make others suffer more than they needed to. Most.

So, Wilbur was familiar, in a way.

More ways than one actually.

"Hi Techno!" The boy looked like he didn't want to be awake either, yawning loudly before giving him a tired smile. "Sorry that I woke you up."

"What are you doing up this early?" Technoblade leans on his door, yawning as well before snapping his jaw closed. As he blinked, he saw Wilbur flicker for a moment before bringing up a hand to show him a ball of string. His grin wide and mischievous.

For the next half hour, Techno learned the way of pranking.

Apparently, Phil was a very early riser. He would get up early every day to cook the food every morning and to see Wilbur off to his school. But on the rare days that Wilbur wakes up before him (for whatever reason) it was basically tradition to pull a prank on the quote on quote "Old Man."

The only rules applied were that they couldn't be anything hurtful or destructive enough to destroy walls, doors, other houses or streets (much to Wilbur's disappointment.) Other than that, it was free game.

Wilbur decided that they would start small.

"Since the extra closet is right in front of his door, we won't have to worry about untying the string to use it." He emphasizes this by doing multiple complicated nots on each door, he plucks the string to see how tight it is until he deems it good enough.

"That should be sufficient enough!" He turns to him, sleepy eyes filled with excitement. Before his face turns sheepish as his stomach grumbles. Techno would laugh, if his didn't make the exact same noise as well.

"We could eat and watch something while we wait for Phil to wake up, we'll have to keep the volume low though." Techno nods, blinking slowly as he tries to comprehend what Wilbur meant by 'Watch Something' but he doesn't worry too much about it. It too early to be thinking this hard.

Wilbur poured each of them a bowl of something called 'cereal' and they each picked up their plate before Wilbur dragged both of them into the living room. Wilbur turned on the TV (as Chat called it) and they just went ahead and ate their cereal in peace. Until Phil wakes up of course.

It was still pretty early when they finished their breakfast, so they sat a little longer just to watch whatever was playing. Eventually, Wilbur fell back to sleep, his head resting alongside Techno's shoulder and each of their temples touching. His skin went semi-translucent, and a faint ghost of a wing rested over them, draping both of the boys in a blanket of sleep and comfort. He started to snore softly, body relaxing against Techno's side each second since his eyes had closed. Wilbur leaned into Techno so deeply that his ghost-like wings could wrap around Techno, while the other stayed limply by the brunet's side. Almost as if he was prioritizing keeping one of them safe, hidden and out of sight.

Techno was still pretty tired, but he couldn't quite get himself to get past dozing off. Finally, he thought maybe it was just the way he was sitting up.

But he didn't bother to move. He was tired, his shoulder sorta hurt where Wilbur was laying his chin, and some of the brunet's hair was starting to tickle his nose. But he didn't really want to move, the Piglin in him didn't really seem to mind either. Although, that was probably from being near their scents for the past few days.

Chat started to make fun of him for it, calling him soft. I'd just rather not wake him up, that's all. He could at least try to position himself a little bit more comfortably, Techno could do that without waking Wilbur up.

Through barely lifted eyelids and a large yawn, Techno snuggled them both into the couch cushions and pillows. His grip on his instincts loosened a bit, and he allowed them to wrap his arms around Wilbur. The boy always seemed to be freezing, even if it was because of his hybrid trait. His mind was still filled with the thought of cold?cold?cold? Only resting when Techno's warmth surrounded them both. Through the whole ordeal Wilbur never let him go, tightening his grip on Techno's sleeves until he settled. He even sent a low hisssss when he had to reach farther for a particular pillow.

What Techno almost couldn't believe was when Wilbur chirped at him. It made him, his instincts, and even Chat pause momentarily. He felt like that was somewhat important, but couldn't really fathom why. Either way, he sent a chuff in response. Reassuring him that he was still there, raising an eyebrow when Wilbur seemed to melt even deeper into their hold. Once everything felt right he let himself relax, and he closed his eyes. Forehead connected with Wilbur's as his breath slowed and matched the brunet's.

Later, when Phil kicked down the door, (The boys weren't responding to his calls) he ran and searched all of their rooms. Him and the bird were full on panicking until he spotted them on the couch, crooning softly at the boys. He quickly snapped a picture of the two (he might use this for blackmailing purposes) he turned off the TV, and carefully pick them both up. Bringing up his own wings to shield them from any harsh light, the shape reminding him of a shield-like basket. He carried them up to his room with no struggle whatsoever, gently placing both of them in his nest. The bird was more than satisfied, seeming to want to fluff up his feathers in pride. For providing, for protecting and nurturing his chicks.

Phil placed more blankets and pillows around them, accommodating to the change of having another chick in his flock. Only joining his boys when the nest was perfect, spreading his wings to hide them there. Softly tucked in his wing, he lets himself sink into the cushions. Both boys on each side of him, although Wilbur still holds on to Techno's hand from across his lap. Refusing to let go of him, the rosette holding on to him as well.

Phil brings up a hand to run through their hair, through Wilbur's curly locks and a few times through Techno's pink strands. The bird in him whistling in satisfaction. He'll contact the school to tell them that Wilbur was sick, or something along those lines. Right now, he's going to be getting some proper sleep, with his chicks right here beside him. Maybe they can go get something to eat later.

They all sleep soundly, more at ease than they have been for the past few days.

"We don't have to go..."

Ranboo twiddles his thumbs, nervousness and anxiety thrumming through his veins. Nikki had gotten an odd day off, and she used this opportunity to take him out of school so they could go home and change into something more comfortable. She said she was taking him to a restaurant as a treat. 

And Ranboo was grateful! He was happy that he gets to have a day off from school and have a special day with his sister! Heck, they even invited Jack, Sam and his kid as well. They were no doubt going to have a great day.

But.

What if something bad happens again?

Ranboo understands that he is far from human, so is his sister. It was usually rare for someone not to give weird looks or comments towards them in public. A Mer Hybrid and her little Ender hybrid brother, total opposant species that are just walking around hand in hand. Like people don't gawk or scorn them at every turn.

Like that mean lady from a few days ago, Ranboo gets reminded over and over again how not-normal he is compared to other humans. Its sad for a seven year old to understand, and be used to the abuse in his day to day life.

He thinks he is so unlike Nikki, she was stronger than him in so many ways. She doesn't back down easily when others oppose her, neither in civilian form nor in a vigilante suit. Although he was the one who had 'cool eye contact', his sister seemed to have more of an effect than him when it came to glares. Nikki was strong.

Ranboo was not.

"Nonsense Ran!" She fixes his hair, he always did like to look nice for anything. "We're having a break day, no work, no school. Just relaxing, we can watch a movie afterwards okay?"

He brightened at that, maybe this time he can convince her to let him watch that scary movie. "Okay!"

Once they got outside, they could see the familiar car of a certain Warden. Jack in the back seeming to have an intense conversation with Quackity, all the while him having smirking and shuffling a deck of cards in his hands. His yellow wings flapping happily behind him. Ranboo readjust his goggles, and goes to the empty seat next to Jack while Nikki goes to the front with Sam.

"Hey Nikki, Ranboo." Sam greeted them, once they put on their seatbelts, he put the car on drive and started on their destination.

"Hey Ran!" He turned towards Quackity who was waving some cards at him, "You wanna play Bullshit with us?"

Sam coughed and almost swerved the car into the next lane, Quackity and Jack laughed while Ranboo and Nikki startled. "Can't you think of a better name to call it?"

"Oh relax Sam! It's just how the game goes. Ranboo can say baloney instead if it makes you feel better."

"Shouldn't you be saying this to Nikki and not me?"

Nikki in question snorts, "I swear in front of Ranboo all the time, he just never took up the habit."

Quackity nodded sagely, "He is simply incorruptible to my whims of persuasion."

"W-wait, you were trying to manipulate me?" Ranboo turns towards the duck hybrid.

"Well it's not like it worked!"

He rolls his eyes but takes the cards from Quackity, "I'll play."

Quackity grins, as if he just caught his prey on his calculated snare. "What are you willing to give?"

"No gambling in my car Nook."

"Ooh~ he brought out the last name!" Jack whisper-shouted.

"Agh, fine." Quackity sighed, but still held his cards close.

The car ride was then filled with laughter, and the occasional accusation of the young boys targeting the older one.

It seems like a good day.

"You want to go to a restaurant?"

Grian was trying to convince his cat to get down from the ceiling, when he got a call from Phil. He seemed to be in a good mood and had decided to spend some time with his boys for the day. They were going to go out, but he also wanted to invite the rest of them so that Techno could learn to be more comfortable around them as well. Mumbo and Scar were coming, and Grian wouldn't mind as well. Besides, this seems like the perfect opportunity to bring up a certain someone. It would kill two birds with one stone, Hannah would be able to visit Techno and they could discuss about her debut.

"Sure I'll go, do you think we could invite Hannah as well?"

"That's a good idea- Wilbur stop trying to convince Techno to kick down the neighbor's door- No, ours aren't the exception!"

"I can call her? I'm sure you have to get our little hell-spawns ready." Grian grins as he hears a small crash and a shriek that was unmistakably Wilbur's. Phil let's out a long sigh.

"That would be much appreciated, thank you Grian."

"No problem! See you in an hour Phil."

"Bye- WILBUR DROP THE SAND JAR-" Grian ends the call, before giggling when Phil's last words registered through his mind.

It seems like the boys were getting along quite well, if the play-fighting was anything to go by. That's good, Wilbur would be able to indulge on his instincts a bit more often. Especially if both him and Techno roughhouse regularly, it is quite often that other members of a Phantom's haunting play to increase their bonds. It just reminds Grian of kittens.

Grian looks for Hannah's number and calls her, she answers on the third ring.

"Hello?"

"Hi Hannah! It's me, Grian."

"Oh! Hi Grian, wasn't expecting for you guys to call so soon. How's Techno?"

Grian chuckles, "From what I could hear over the phone from Phil, he's having fun causing trouble with Wilbur."

Hannah laughs with him, "That's good to hear. Anyways, why'd you call?"

"The rest of us were going to get something to eat, we were hoping to invite you."

"Hmm, sure I have no plans today. At what time?"

"Mumbo will come and pick us up on half an hour, you just need to get ready and we'll wave through the window at you."

"Ha! I'll look forward to it. I need to get ready, see you then?"

"Later Hannah!" he clicked the end call button and promptly flumped onto the couch. Face snuggled into the cushions as the wings behind his back flapped around, trying to balance him back up again. And after a second of stillness, his cat let go of the ceiling and landed on his back, startling his wings to flap again.

bad-notouch!

Grian laughed at his cat's displeased face before getting up again.

Its a good day.

You are the softest creature we have ever encountered.

Techno sighs and bumps his forehead to the car window. He continues to do this because he is not soft, he was just tired shut up Chat.

So tired in fact, he cuddled.

He adds more force.

"I can see you dwindling your remaining supply of braincells, stop it." Techno, in fact, does not stop. He does this just to annoy Wilbur actually, and from what he could see from the corner of hi eye it is working spectacularly. Shouldn't have tackled him the moment he woke up then!

Wilbur smiled at him sharply, even though it didn't reach his eyes in the slightest. A shadow seemed to go over his features as they regarded each other, "Techno..?"

"No powers in my van!" Mumbo called from the driver seat. Phil chuckled as the brunet exclaimed his displeasure, Techno-from his headbanging-raised an eyebrow at the boy. He turned towards him, determination in his features, and unbuckled himself to grab ahold of him.

Techno let out a squeal as Wilbur got him in a headlock, not tight enough to stop him from breathing but strong enough to stop him from his continual assault on the window. In retaliation, he tickled him in his sides which didn't actually do anything besides put them both in awkward positions as the brunet tried to get out of his reach while still holding on.

"Boys?" By the time Phil, Hannah, and Scar turned towards them Wilbur was furiously trying to hide the evidence by trying to put on his seatbelt. Techno was just slumped over in his seat, his hair sticking out in different directions even though he acted like it was completely normal. When he made eye-contact with Scar, he quickly signed to him. Scar in turn burst out in laughter.

Hannah raised an eyebrow at them, "What did he say?"

"H-He said, 'He started it!' "

"WHAT!?" Wilbur whipped his head towards him, "You're the one who wouldn't stop banging his head!" Techno stuck out his tongue at him. "When I get my hands on you..."

"Oh, look we're here!" Grian jumped out of the van while it was still in motion, over everyone's shout he heard him say "I'll save us some seats!"

"It's at times like these I wonder how we're still alive." Mumbo turned off the van and got out, everyone else following.

Apparently, since it's a 'School Day' as Wilbur worded it, there won't be many families going out at this time of the day. They should be able to find seats fairly easily.

Ughhh, now you jinxed it!

"C'mon Techno, let's catch up." Wil grabs on to his hand and leads them to the entrance, right beside Mumbo who was helping push Scar's wheelchair while Hannah and Phil went a bit ahead.

There was this nice old lady who sat at the front desk, she had a calm aura to her even if she seemed exhausted. Her six arms each had gloves on as she waved at them towards Grian, and only two out of her eight eyes were opened, but the special glasses she wore were made specifically for her. There were lenses for each individual eye, and even though the lenses were thick, they didn't fall off. Her fangs peaked over her upper lip a bit as she smiled at them, although nothing about her appearance really creeped them out in any way. In fact, it seemed to fit her quite well in a way that someone's demeanor matched their look.

They were able to get a big round table, it was set in the corner of the room. From across the large room were very few other customers, the only other large table was a large family from the other side of the room. They seemed to be focused on a game involving a set of cards from what Chat says.

Some want them to look over and notice them.

Mumbo places a small box in the center of the round table and presses a button on its side. "That should do it."

Techno startles at the weird echoing distortion in his voice, "Whoa," Hannah looks around the room, "What did...?"

"It's a special device I made." Mumbo seems to be very pleased with himself, "It prevents eavesdropping from a certain radius."

"Which comes in handy with what we wanted to talk to you about." Scar takes a sip of his water that he ordered, Hannah just sighs and shrugs. "Honestly? Why am I not even surprised?"

"Sorry!" Grian does not look apologetic in the least, snatching a piece of bread from the basket and munching on it.

"We wanted to talk about your debut." Phil stirs his drink, Hannah straightens.

Techno gives a questioning glance to Wilbur, he sits beside him looking over his piece of paper that shows different food options. They lock eyes and he seems to read his mind, leaning in to whisper to him while the adults continue talking.

"Debuts are like an introduction of sorts. Most Heroes and Villains do it to show their power to the public, Vigilantes do this sometimes as well but it's not that common."

"The idea is to show the citizens just how powerful they are, including those against them." Will smiles at him as Techno gets the idea of what Hannah was preparing for. She was shedding herself in a new light.

Once someone came and delivered their food, Techno enjoyed just hearing the background noise of the others talking while he and Wilbur ate. They both stayed silent as they went over specific plans over were they wanted her to debut, how much time they had to plan, and how she would look.

"Is there something wrong with what I'm wearing now?" Mumbo shakes his head.

"There isn't anything wrong with it, we just need to properly adjust it to battles. Add protection and all that jazz. Probably get you a firmer mask while we're at it." Hannah nods, and takes a bite from her salad.

"We can look over the specifics over that later, what we really wanted to know was if you think you can handle the location in which we would like for you to debut." Phil taps his finger against the table, he hasn't even touched his food yet. Which, you know, sort of peeves Techno and Chat. Eat your food.

      Phil is so old-                                                                                                                             -bruh eat-

  -AKE CARE OF YOURSEL-                                                                                                    -on't make me come over there!-

           -eat your greens-                                                                                                                       -self care is important.

oh no, he can't even take care of himself... we have to take him to a group home now.                                                  lol

Listen Phil, let me tell you a story about an old man. When he was a little boy, he wouldn't take good care of his body. So he grew up to be a weak and frail. He was so weak and frail that everyone in the neighborhood just called him grandpa, the whole neighborhood could hear the creak of bones when he walked (not important to the plot ha.) One day, he didn't eat his daily nutrient intake, so then he died. The End. The moral of the story is that you should always take care of your body.

...

Heh?

bro wtaf?

Wilbur seems to have caught on as well since he pushed the plate closer to the man, Phil took notice of it and smiled at him in thanks.

"There'll be a lot of heroes, and security present. But also a lot of eyes to see your potential." Grian leans in forward, "We get it if it's too much pressure-"

"No." Hannah shakes her head, staring at Techno with a look he couldn't quite read. "I'll do it."

"It's probably a better idea if I have my debut there anyways."

Scar raises a single eyebrow. "You think so?"

She nods, "Those who know what happened will put two and two together and know what sort of deal we struck. Plus the extra salt in the wound is that I trusted Techno to you guys instead of any other vigilante or hero." 

Wilbur giggles, "We're touched." Techno rolls his eyes, but he can't seem to wipe off the small smile from his face.

Mumbo takes back the device, and they go back to eating their meal. The silence occasionally broken by slow conversation, or small tangents from Wilbur while Techno listens closely (much to the amusement to the others.) Everything was going fine, good even.

Of course someone had to interrupt that.

Techno had started to notice a man walking around the place, talking to a few people while also going back to the nice lady at the front sometimes. He didn't seem like a threat; he could barely balance all of the drinks in one tray. The only thing that seemed to stand out about him was his slightly better attire, and the fact that the other people who worked their seemed to listen to whatever he told them to do.

The first sign was probably the weird looks from a few of the patrons, mostly only when after they got a piece of paper from him. Some looked angry or disgusted, but most were just sad. They would leave shortly afterward. Most of those people were Hybrids.

The second sign was the way he treated a few of the workers. He didn't miss the way one of them shook, or how their serrated tail dug into their leg until the man moved on to something else and away from them.

And the nail in the coffin was when he almost power walked his way to the table across from them. The one who were once focused one a card game. Smile a tad too sharp and the grip on the piece of paper a bit too tight.

"The hell?" A man with green hair turned toward the sus-guy, "This is way too much! We can't pay for all of this!" They all turned towards the exclaim, Wilbur hissing sharply as he tugs closer towards him.

"Well sorry sir, I don't know what to tell you. This is what you ordered, correct?"

"Well yes, but the price is con-"

"Whatever you ordered you must pay for, no matter the price."

"There must be some sort of mistake. I'm sure we can recount everything and figure something out?" A young girl with fins stood up slowly, and three more came up beside her. One with a buzzcut, another with duck wings, and the smallest one with half white and black skin and hair- his eyes were red and green.

The man made a face at them.

It did not go unnoticed.

"I see what this is about." The green man practically growled, "I'll think we'll leave now."

The man stepped in front of him before he could do anything.

Everyone in the villains' table decided that it was a good time to take action. Quietly of course.

"Grian?"

"On it." Grian ran off towards were they came from.

"Now listen here you half-blooded scum-"

The room became considerably colder.

"What gives you the idea that you can go anywhere and just belong when your very existence is just a giant screw up?"

The green man stood up taller and regarded him, but Phil beat him to the punch

"Excuse me?"

The family turns towards them, a few seem to startle when they notice him. Widening their eyes, the girl even made a gasp, the only reason he could hear it was because of his sensitive hearing. They stared at him, before turning to Wilbur and Phil who where emanating a faux calmness. The others were cleaning the table as if they were preparing to leave, and Grian nowhere in sight.

"You seem to be making a ruckus, we would appreciate it if you walked away from this establishment." Wilbur's words were coated with honey and sugar. Techno could feel the air around him getting colder and colder. He held the urge to shudder.

Quietly, Chat starts their chant.

"Frankly, I don't think this has anything to with you. You c-"

"I think we'll leave now!" The boy with yellow wings repeats, quickly putting away their cards and rearranging the utensils left on the table.

The man narrows his eyes, moving his hand as if to grab the nearest person.

That being Wilbur.

One moment, Techno was beside Wilbur, slightly annoyed but has already delt with worse than this. And in a blink, he was suddenly gripping the arm of the man.

Muscle memory took over, and he twisted the wrist to an uncomfortable angle without a single ounce of hesitation.

"This can be used for a good warning, firm enough so you won't break the bone. But strong enough so they know you could, all it would take is the flick of your wrist."

In Techno's humble opinion, the man overreacted greatly. He really didn't need to keel over, by fire it's not even going to bruise! "Let go!"

While the family starts to panic, and Phil cackles in the background- Techno uses this example by explaining to Wilbur that this was a good way to assert dominance. Which he actually takes note of.

"What is going on here?" They turn towards the old lady by the front counter, beside her is a very smug looking Grian. The other villains start to follow.

"Miss!" The man gasped. "These people are causing a scene, I tried to calm them down but-" He purposely moved his hand to make it look like Techno twisted it harder, he narrowed his eyes at him. If you want it to be worse than be our guest!

She crossed one pair of arms, another pair she planted on her hips and the last she used to wipe the nonexistent dust on the on her shirt. "Is that so?" She hummed, "I guess I should do something about it."

She gave a look towards Phil and he took it as his cue to help. "Techno?" He turns towards him, as if not knowing what he was doing. It causes the man into another giggle, "L-Let go of his hand!"

He rolls his eyes but complies, the man practically collapsing once released. Phil rustles his hair a bit and he stops sulking, content with the small praise.

The man ignores them all in favor of turning towards the lady, "Th-"

"Your fired!" She cut him off, then reached downwards towards a small pin attached to his shirt reading 'Manager' and ripped it out in one swift. Throwing it in the trash while the guy was still in shock.

"What!?"

Wilbur starts to laugh silently, "You can't just-!"

"But I can! And I will and have!" The lady takes off her glasses, opening all of her eight eyes and narrowing them at him. Smartly, he quiets down. "Did you really think I wouldn't notice your behavior young man? Should I expose more than necessary, or will you go silently?" 

For a moment, he seemed to actually consider it. But then he looked towards Techno, and he took that opportunity to growl very quietly (the windows shook it was so loud) at the man.

He left the premises so quickly some would think he had a speed boost.

"Thank you Clara." Phil sighed, "That could have dragged out longer than it needed to be." The woman in turn smiled sweetly.

"It's no trouble at all!" She turned towards the other group, who all seemed to be having a conversation with their facial expressions. "I am so sorry about him! I've had my suspicions, but I had hoped it was just my imagination..."

"It's not that big of a deal ma'am." The Green man said, and Clara shook her head. Stopping when her eyes notice Techno, "And who might you be?"

Techno, like the incredibly intelligent person he was, paused as the words tried to compute through Chat. Thankfully, Wilbur was there, "This is Technoblade. He's my brother!"

"Oh!" She gives Phil another look. "Is that so? Last I heard, you didn't have any other children!"

"We just went through the adoption papers," Mumbo says, the other villains following. "He's officially a Watson!"

"Oh that's wonderful! We should celebrate!" Techno, through all of this, is just getting more confused as time moves on. Maybe he'll ask Chat about it later.

Or we could just, tell you now?

SHHHH- NOT YET!

Clara focuses on the Other Group(TM) "Have you people had dessert yet?"

"NO WE HAVEN'T!" The younger child and the kid with wings shouted before the others could answer. Clara merely smiled and raised up a pair of hands to motion towards a few of the workers, "Well, we're going to have to fix that."

Techno was then introduced into the wonderful world of chocolate ice-cream, Wilbur had chosen vanilla but they made a compromise with each other that they would share (apparently, since it was about to be winter nobody was buying that many cold sweets, meaning Clara had an infinite supply of this masterpiece. That also meant Clara let them get free refills, not that she let them pay for any of it.)

They got to talk with the other kids as well, mainly the two younger ones. Apparently, their names were Ranboo (cookies and cream) and Quackity (cookie dough), the older ones (Sam, Nikki, Jack) were their father/sister/close friend. In that order.

He ignored how they kept eyeing him when they thought he wasn't noticing.

Overall, they had an... OK, experience with them. They were nice, (at least Ranboo was, Quackity was like a different version of Wilbur. Which shouldn't have disturbed him as much as it did) and Quackity took out his cards again so that they could all play. Thanks to Chat, he was able to win a few times- much to the udder bafflement of the others from someone who never really took the time to learn any card games. Not like we had many of those to begin with.

It was an ok experiance.

...

He wished his pack could be with him to enjoy it with.

Soon.

"This is your new workspace."

The Grand- Emperor Schlatt -opened the double doors, revealing a decent sized room filled with the tools essential for creating whatever weapons she is ordered to make- or simply feels like making in the moment. But that was not the main purpose of the room.

Where the flames of burning iron could not reach, were many books and scrolls placed into the carved cave wall. By the weapons rack, was a rarity to those who dwelled in the NetherRealm.

An Enchanting Table.

Lapiz Lazuli had already been measured out and put away in secret compartments that only The G- The Emperor and the Enchanting Master were to know of its location.

Peace could not find the words to describe her feelings.

"When the Overworlders came into the Nether, many tried to steal or destroy any knowledge of enchanting. Thinking it too powerful or unnatural."

"The former Grand was smart enough to see their worth, and he ordered to take any piece-scrap of the literature from all over the NetherRealm. And to bring it here for safe keeping."

"You will be using it to strengthen our weaponry and The Axe of Peace, it will need to be at its full potential when it is needed."

She bows towards the young ruler, "I am grateful that you provided me with these supplies Great Emperor."

He gives her a sharp smile, almost hiding the bags under his eyes. "We already have the first batch of swords for you to enchant."

Peace splutters, "At this moment?"

Schlatt laughs, although there was a bit of a serious undertone to it. "Of course! We must prepare after all."

He sobers quickly, "We were unprepared when the Border had opened itself for the first time in decades."

"So, the next time that it happens, I'm planning on being prepared."

"But of course, if we have any trouble with any of the Overworlders, your enchantments could make a great difference."

We aren't just preparing for freedom. She looks at the cart being brought in. It was loaded with weaponry, swords and axes, bows and arrows, armor and shields. We're preparing for war.

Peace hardens her heart. Because she knew, deep inside, that this was inevitable.

She reaches towards the enchanting bottles, and some Lapiz, preparing her table for the first weapon to be graced.

"I'll work on it immediately your Highness."

He turns to leave, "Good."

"For your sake, I hope you don't disappoint."

He leaves shortly afterward, the face of his lost kid weighing in his mind. Only knowing that he lives because of the blessing from the deity, but he collects himself mentally, and heads towards the others.

After all, Schlatt has an army to gather.

Chapter Text

"Thank you again for the meal." Nikki thanks them before heading out towards the door, "We appreciate it greatly."

"No problem deary!" Clara brought up a hand to wave at them, "Just make sure you spiderlings get enough food in your system. You're always welcome here!"

"I appreciate it miss, but we don't go out very often- with how hard it is to find work and all." She sheepishly backs away, thinking that that was the end of the conversation.

"Wait a moment deary." Clara meets her at the door, handing the pink haired girl a contact card. "If you ever need a place to work at, I'm always open to a chat." 

It takes a moment for Nikki to take in the words, but once she does- Clara merely gives her wink and sends her off to join her group who were waiting in the car.

Phil chuckles from a few feet behind her, "Already looking for a replacement for that man?" The blond has been running his hands through the boys' hair for a bit while they sit and wait for Mumbo to get the van. Both of their bellies full and their energy spent, allowing the adult to run his fingers through brown curls and pink locks- occasionally scratching their scalps in the process.

"Oh, shut it! This old hag can still kick your arse with ease." Clara teases, arching her back as the bones pop.

"I don't doubt it." His easy smile falters for a moment, "If she does end up working for you then-"

"I know, I know, I won't let her figure out your night job." She walks towards the three of them- Techno feels the slight tug of a tight grip before it loosened, although it felt rather forced.

"There are some leftovers that I have packed up for you guys. Your compliance in taking them is not optional." Phil sighs but doesn't argue with her, Clara smiles to herself as she goes through a backdoor.

Wilbur warbles as Phil scratches his scalp again, leaning against his hand to get closer. Although Techno can't really blame him, he has to check himself every so often to make sure he doesn't end up purring to the group. And it's not exactly helping that his instincts have stopped seeing these people as a threat; and slowly started to consider them somewhat of an ally.

A Symbiosis!

Eh, sure, I guess?

But doesn't-? SHHHH!

"Here you go!" Clara comes out with multiple bags of food. Phil chokes at the sight, startling the boys until Wilbur burst out laughing once he realizes what's wrong.

"Clara this is way too much-!"

"What do you mean? You have two mouths to feed! This is just perfect." She hands all three of them a bag, except for Phil- he held about five in total. "But-"

"No arguing with your senior! Besides, I feel your friends waiting outside."

At that moment, Grian comes through the door. "The van's ready! Oh- uh, you need help with that?"  Techno snorts along with Wilbur, but still follows the sound of an engine outside. Hannah, Scar and Mumbo were talking but were quick to include the other adults in. Including Clara.

"So, you're the newest member?" Hannah startles but tries to play it off. "Sorry miss, I don't understand-"

"Yep!" Mumbo pipes. "We were discussing about her debut." Hannah looks at the man as if he just swam in lava and said it was too cold.

"How wonderful! I hope everything goes well for you." She chuckles, "You've been causing such a panic with your disappearance and all that. The Underground was such a mess the first few days. And it's not like the bounty helps."

Hannah's jaw drops.

Phil shakes his head fondly, "Hannah, meet Clara Shovel; Although she also goes by 'Clementine'. "

"...No way." Hannah seems to be going through a life changing realization, "You're Clementine!?"

Before Techno could question Wilbur what was wrong, his mind went silent. It was just for a second, but it was enough to put him off. Something always happened when Chat was silent- and it only ever went one of both ways.

He didn't move other than to balance himself in case something came running and strained his ears as he tried to listen for anything out of the ordinary.

Behind you.

He turns his head slightly, locking his eyes in a dark alleyway. Although he didn't see any movement, heat doesn't lie.

Techno takes in a silent deep breath as his vision turned blue, with a vaguely small orange, yellow and red silhouette peeking through a giant dumpster. They closed the lid and backed away, but Techno could still see his heat signature. How they curled up into a ball, and how they kept very still.

With the bag of food still in hand, he walked over, returning his vision back to normal. His curiosity beating his logic- besides, none of the others noticed. They were still in deep conversation with Clara.

He paused once he was in front of the hiding place, unsure of what really to do. He wants to confront them, but is that really the best thing to do at the moment? He could ignore them, pretend that he noticed nothing and go on with his day.

But... Chat went silent when they noticed them. So that means they must be important to him.

Or could be.

Throwing all caution out the window, he slowly and quietly opened the lid. He peaked through-

-and saw gold.

He blinked, not gold. It didn't help much; he could still feel his body warming up and his pupils are surely dilated. But his instincts are kept at bay as he took in the sight of a small blond-haired child. Little red, orange, white and golden feathers covered his ears and eyebrows- although they were too dirty to shine like Phil's. His eyes were a deep blue, although the fire in them could rival of those burning in the Nether.

He wore thin clothing that Techno could tell he was growing out of. Besides the dirt and grime, he looked malnourished and weak- as if a simple cold could bring him crashing down. In the back of his mind, he reminded Techno of those stuck in the Pit. The same gaze of fire, because if there was no fire there was no life. Hunger pangs to remind them that they were alive, at least for that moment. Prepared to run but not afraid to fight.

Techno hated it.

Not so different here then huh?

Chat questioned as he reached down and grabbed a bag of food, they weren't directed at him- but rather the boy in front of him. Like they seemed to forget that only Techno could hear them. Like they were physically there.

The boy tensed when Techno moved, but didn't take the chance to run away. Either out of fear or curiosity, Techno was glad.

He still didn't move when Techno offered the bag of food, but the way his face turned told him that he wasn't expecting for this to happen.

He shook the bag. "Take it." The boy scowls, but snatches it from his hand anyway.

"I don't need pity." His voice was dry, but young- a bit squeaky.

"Experience and pity are two very different things." The boy seems to pause.

"You were on the streets too?"

Techno blinks, a bit confused but goes along with the boy. "Something like that."

-Techno looks at his father as they set camp for the night.

He hears him whine as he counts their food supply.

He dares not make a sound when a ghast floats by, his father holding him tightly- using his body as a shield.

The boy picks a fry, his eyes going wide as he chews- warbling happily as his feathers shifted.

And as a gold feather hits the light-

-his vision goes black and white

When Techno came back to his senses, the kid was significantly closer. The bag of food closed off and held firmly in small hands, eyes closed and slow- deep breaths as he snored softly.

Techno's hand was on top of the child's head, his finger between the curls as if he was just running through them a moment ago. But that wasn't the worst part, oh no. What stood out to him the most was that he was purring. 

-our fourth!-                                                               -FINALLY-

     -it too early?                                                                    -it'll work out-

   -e can't take him wi-                                                    -not yet-

            soon                                                                         soon

Techno backed away, confused. He should ask questions, ask what happened or what he did. But he didn't know how long he was away from the group. So, making sure the boy had the food and that he was comfortable, Techno quietly walked back to the group. All none the wiser of the short disappearance.

Somewhere else, a clock restarts- going back to a few hours and counting down again.

Somewhere else, Death welcomes the new child's soul into her flock.

Somewhere else, Life smiles at the small creature.

Somewhere else, the Ocean parts as a blue pyre appears- the subjects watch their Queen closely as she stands before it.

Somewhere else, listeners and watchers laugh at the mortals below and go back to report.

Somewhere else, four men feel another string being made- another soul in the connection.

Hannah sits down and reflects on what has led up to now. With her laying in her living room couch, head back and staring at her popcorn ceiling. Questioning if she can really look at anyone the same way she used to.

Who would have thought that the sweet old lady was Clementine of all people?

In the Underground, people with a multitude of skills and abilities could be found. There weren't many jobs that at least one person couldn't do. Looking for less than legal substances? There were dealers in almost every building. Illegal equipment? As long as you pay- then no questions asked. Need to hire a hit on someone? Take your pick!

Although there were a lot of opportunities for these things, the one thing that was especially hard to find was information. Relevant and new information anyone could find was useful, but the smallest details could be changed by word of mouth- that could cost many lives. So, informants were extremely valuable.

Clementine was a well-known informant, having garnered a reputation for accuracy and detail that a lot of others in the field fail to reach. There was rarely anything going on in the country without her already knowing. Many heroes and government officials have tried to get her in a contract with them or capture her to stop her from telling secrets, and all have failed- since she already caught wind of it and had time to prepare. All the attempts did stop her from having an official base of operations, but the truth was that- if someone was looking for her to talk business? She would find out sooner rather than later- if she thought some worth her time than she would arrange a meeting.

All of these factors made many have a respect for her, and her precautions have made her nothing but a mystery to those unfamiliar. Especially since she only does business through phone calls and a voice moderator.

And now Hannah knows.

Well, that wasn't the only eventful thing to happen today of course. She isn't thinking about that dude- because they clearly deserve to be forgotten!

No, she meant her debut.

They suggested that she did her debut on the memorial. Everyone would be there, to witness the rise of a new villain, to show the heroes the cause of their actions. Because in the end, that's what it was- if they had shown more care or compassion, then she would have never considered this possibility. She might've gone to the memorial; she would've gone about her day as a slightly less-legal typical nobody.

Those children wouldn't have died.

Techno wouldn't have gotten hurt.

But he did, because of those she now goes against.

In a rush of energy- she stands. The roses in her hair letting out a strong floral aroma, blooming larger petals and giving out a more vibrant color of red. Bright-young vines turning dark and hard, thorns rotating to sharp points and stick out from Hannah's brown locks. Like a twisted crown enwrapping and bundling her hair into a lethal looking braid.

She heads towards her garden, the hidden seeds sitting in her mind as she considers.

"Aconite- that was the flower you threatened us with, right?"

Hannah nods, taking a sip of her drink and wondering where Phil was going with this.

"How about that as your alias. I think it fits you quite well."

Aconite...

Hannah thinks she needs to go on a supply run.

Curse mortals.

Curse their weird traditions of their Memorials and Death Days.

Why does everything they do have to be so inexplicably complicated for absolutely no reason at all? Ugh, maybe XD should have gone with that madman's plan. It seems better than this.

...

No.

XD storms out of their office, startling many interns and heads for the stairs. Because by everything that is holy, they will not stoop as low as that two eyed piece of cabbage. Anything coming out of that creature's mouth and mind should be thrown into lava, literally and figuratively. 

They slam open the door leading towards the roof, aiming for the sky. With a small bend of the knees and a powerful push, they are in midair and going higher into the bright blues. Clouds trail them as they mumble and curse into their cloak.

They abruptly stop, soft clouds swirl around them- creating a bed of sorts. And because XD is who they are, they lie in it as if it was one. Detached wings gather more of them before curling around a frustrated immortal.

XD, for as powerful as they are, cannot for their endless life understand why so many people are making this memorial such a much larger thing than it needs to be. Isn't it enough that its being held in the White House? Isn't it enough that slightly more important people are taking the time to come as well? Isn't the fact that the mortal is even given a burial at all not enough for them?

Seriously, it's just one life! Not even a particularly fulfilling one at that, the mortal was a bastard with a complex that bordered on Hero and God.

They scoff, they weren't even close to as a powerful being in general-

-A volcano erupts, illuminating the physic of the God. Antlers seeming to be on fire-

-"They're too many timelines where everything could go wrong!" "Then destroy the causes!-"

-Cities being crushed under the weight of an ocean, people screaming as the Drowned start to-

-The Withering march on, eyes barely glancing at the skulls left in their wake. A woman leading them all, her angel close behind-

-"Don't think we don't know what you plan to do inexperienced one-"

-scarlet-

-They watch entire worlds go mad, as their hundreds of creators keep on adding fuel to their fires.

"This is madness. How can all of you live with that inside you?"

A smile is all they receive-

-XD has seen power, they've seen everything from the sidelines.

Believe them when they say that whatever power they have now, is weak and fragile at best.

Grumbling, they float towards the square where the memorial is being held. They plan out the stage and decorations, the seating and where the roads will be blocked. At least now, they are as close to the other Gods as they will ever be allowed too again.

"You are a great disappointment, have you really forgotten all of your morals for power?"

"I have forgotten nothing! Isn't power and control rightfully mine?"

"You have done nothing deserving of it."

XD hisses, holding themselves back from making a thunderstorm from their rage.

What good will emotion do? What they need is patience.

Patience is key.

Sam might've almost crashed his car on the way to driving everyone else home.

Quackity, along with the Jack and Niki seemed to notice too- but none of them knew how to drive yet. So, he was stuck manning the wheel and checking on the younger ones every few seconds. Ignoring the problem presented to the vigilantes.

Or the lack of a problem.

Technoblade seemed completely healed of all injury, no wincing when he moved too harshly or face twisting when the young brunet would seem to lean his whole body weight into him. No signs of pain other than indignance when the same boy would give him a side hug every few minutes, no discomfort when the black winged man would untangle some strands of the boys' hair.

Isn't that a good thing?

Wouldn't that mean that the boy was safe? That the family was perfect for him? That Sam didn't need to think too much about it or interfere? Technoblade's alive and healthy, and seemingly content- happy even. So, shouldn't Sam not need to worry?

He didn't know.

What he did know was that something wasn't adding up.

Good Samaritan was the only person last seen with the kid; people who heard of the rumors only knew that there was a child survivor of the Battle by The Veil. But that was as far as it went, no one else had any other information of the whereabouts, or their health condition. Even the well-known informant Clementine wouldn't arrange or speak about the events that happened, always claiming that there wasn't enough information for her to be sure of anything.

But there he was, somehow in the arms of a seemingly loving family.

How were they able to adopt him?

How did they find him?

Sam wasn't sure.

He dropped everyone else off and was working with the parts he had spared from his mechanic's shop, Quackity playing games on the TV- when his phone rang. Sam glanced at the caller before wiping his hands and picking up, going into another room so his son might not overhear.

"Connor?"

"Hey Warden." It was a work matter.

"What happened Streak? You texted me gibberish and refused to elaborate afterwards- you've been calling me everyday." There was a silent is everything ok with you? 

Streak caught on to it too.

Something really weird is going on. I couldn't explain it properly when I tried to text- so I thought it would be better if I just called..." Sam glanced at the door, just to see how Quackity was doing.

His boy was playing Mario Kart, smashing the buttons but still seeming to do terribly. After coming in close to last- he throws his head back and makes a noise of frustration, but a small smirk still adorns his young face. Flopping onto his back and flapping his wings, the downy feathers looking incredibly soft as they make eye contact.

His little duckling gives him a comforting smile, as if knowing something seemed to bother his father- but he would still be here when it was all over.

"Take your time, I want to know everything you saw."

Tommy Kraken Danger Iden was the biggest man he knew.

He was clever and resourceful; he can outrun anybody in the whole city- he was that great! He had the best flock anyone could ask for, they had very pog wings- At least Eryn does, Beau's are still growing in, and Tommy still needs to wait a year or two before his come in. But the both of them can already tell by the feathers on their faces that they're going to look majestic.

Protector?-Provider?

Tommy shakes his head, eyes squeezing shut with his greasy curls bouncing. Glancing down at the bag before walking faster.

His instincts have been acting strangely ever since he met that pink haired boy, Tommy would call them a bitch for messing with his head- if it weren't for the fact that they gave him food. So, he can't be all bad the blond thinks. This could last them for a few days, and it didn't smell old at all!

Tommy's feathers lift at the sound of his flocks' voices, sprinting off with a giggle.

Eryn had dark hair that would stand up when it was windy, his red and grey eyes contrasted one another- a fiery red and cold grey. But his wings were bigger than any normal fledgling, and instead of feathers they had scales with a few spots of fur- like a big bat. Which actually made sense given the boy's power.

Although Beautie's wings hadn't broken the skin yet, everyone could tell that they were going to be absolutely beautiful when they came out. Instead of feathers or scales on her face and arms, Beau's were covered in little heart-shaped grey, white, and black butterfly wings. They reflected the sun like actual butterflies and everything! So, Tommy and Eryn were particularly excited for her wings to come in.

He comes into their view with a trill, they respond with clicks and warbles- meeting him halfway to see what has their youngest in such a good mood.

"Wow! How'd ya get all this food?" Beau grabs the nearest burger and bites off half of it off, only then eating slowly.

"Did you steal it?" Eryn said snagging off a packet of fries.

"Wha-No I didn't!" Tommy gets the nuggets, no it is not cannibalism- and no, he is not a chicken!-

"Some dude just gave me a bag of food and left, didn't even say bye- which was rude." They roll their eyes at him, never bored of his antics.

"How's your back Beau?" She was wearing an old shirt that went past her knees, but it didn't touch the two stubs barely growing out of her back so she delt with it just fine.

"It aches a bit, but I can handle it."

Eryn nods sagely, "Pop off Queen."

They laugh, like how children should. With friends who are thick as thieves, and with the people they can gladly call family. And although circumstances were far from perfect, right then they were good enough for the three orphans.

Of course, this did not last.

The subjects were feisty, they gave them that.

Grumbling, the goon finished off the bandage around their arm where the small blonde had bitten off a good chunk of it. The little rat got knocked out pretty hard rather quickly, but the damage couldn't be undone.

Besides an unconscious child, they also had a miniature bitch that keeps on trying to rip out the obsidian bars and a small demon that keeps on either hissing extremely loudly if it wasn't trying to reach for the smaller one. Which is impossible by how they were separated, even if the other armed guards weren't there.

When they were sent out to capture the first batch of test subjects, they were slightly offended by the manpower they were put in for a few little malnourished weasels. But they wouldn't question The Boss, they would never. But after the little demon turned into a bat right in front of their eyes, they understood quickly why The Boss wanted these little monsters as their lab rats.

They had potential, however small.

Of course, whatever Boss has planned will quickly turn those odds. Without a doubt.

Look at themselves! Before they were nothing, just some speck of dust someone else could clean up when they felt like it. Some pen to be used occasionally and then lost, replaced with another and quickly forgotten. Or until its ink ran out, thrown to the trash the second it wouldn't give more of the black liquid.

Now, they were under something greater. Something no mere mortal, no Super could ever grasp. 

The Plan- with The Boss' guidance, will change everything for the better.

And #2.1.21.5.18 couldn't be happier to grant their entire being as the price.

One of the guards slam the bars, hitting a small hand with a crack!

They sigh as cries fill the van, reminding themselves they'll be punished if they took matters any farther. The rats can't die on their watch.

They are meant for something greater.

Chapter Text

Section Regarding : Piglins (Pacts)

Although these inordinate creatures are untamed, undomesticated, and quite frankly have a bloodthirsty and brutal way of life- their fierce and undying loyalty is something to aspire towards. Even many full-blooded humans don't show this much affection towards those considered "Family". 

Much like wolves, Piglins have as well positions of authority deeply rooted into their instincts and credence. Set in place to insure survival of their bloodline among the minacious terrain. The order goes as follows:

-   Protector(s) is the highest ranking in the order, entrusted with the survival of the entire sounder. They are the strongest, most powerful, and capable- masters of the blades and battle strategy; usually ranging from one to seven at a time depending on the size of the sounder.

-  Provider(s) are second in power and in strength, assigned the responsibility to feed, gather and hunt for the Pack. Trained with crossbows instead of swords or axes, second line of defense and offense. Younger ones usually trained in that position once of age; ranging from two to twelve depending on the size of the sounder.

- Caretaker(s) is precisely what the title implies, they watch over the children and protect them with their lives- fully putting into effect the saying "It takes a village to raise a child". Masters to all forms of hand-to-hand combat; any other adult that isn't in any other position is assigned this title.

There are small subgroups in these titles that, quite frankly, I cannot be bothered to list in this section. The hierarchy is a fickle thing that in any other circumstance, it would be considered demanding, suffocating, obsessive- even possessive (depending on perspective)

But it keeps the species alive in a place that would seem like the equivalent to hell.

She rolls up the scroll, she keeps on going until she finds the section she wanted- almost as if she's read this same ancient piece of paper hundreds of times before. She turns and looks at you, smiling as she lets you and the others look at the words up close.

Imprints:

Persuading these creatures into a comradery is quite easily attainable. As long as you clearly wear the precious metal the land is filled with, and don't engage in hostile combat- they can be an honest and hospitable species. And through time (or depending on the circumstance) you can even form a special bond, an imprint in technical terms.

Peculiarly enough, it is not much of a task to form said bond if they consider the victim to be a child (underage or something along those lines etc.) We soon discovered this once we took care of the debacle regarding my butler; at the time still had the remnants of a 'baby face'.

Of course, that only includes this circumstance. Most hybrids of the NetherRealm tend to have Courting Rituals to convince either side to be a part of their Pack; These Rituals can be viewed as familial, platonic, or romantic depending on which relationship they're going for. For example, Ghast Hybrids give their tears in necklaces or pendants for whoever they pursue- if excepted their other familial members can consider it a first step to gaining another member to their haunting.

Or a better example of this is the Withering.

Known for their deadly up comings, it would only make sense for their courting to incorporate a sort of Memento Mori into everything. Hybrids that have a connection with death (such as Undead and Phantom Hybrids) are more easily accepted into their bonds and tend to marvel at the similarities of their relationship with Lady Death. Others can still be considered as family, just with a bit more effort from both parties.

You keep on reading, until boredom starts to make itself known when the writer goes on a tangent about his newly met acquaintance. Some person that is referred to as Master Άλικος. You memorize the lettering, not knowing why this name brings such a funny feeling to your chest. Or, where your chest should be.

"Done reading already?" She rolls up the scroll, securing it with the leather strap and revealing the writer's name to you; Sir Billiam Blade III. 

"Maybe next time ya'll show up, I'll let you explore my library a bit more." Turning to shelf the roll of paper, only to pick out about four different books. "But for now! Our meeting must come to an end."

The little adventurer snatches her pens, highlighters, tabs and sticky notes. "I hope you understood that small interaction a little better, I'll look at your feedback when I can. So much to learn!" 

The last thing you hear as you black out, is the warped laughter of a stranger who wants to tell you a story.

Techno is starting to see why Wilbur likes TV time so much.

The soothing tone of the narrator explain how some guy hid a corpse, while he absentmindedly practices making tiny braids with Wil's hair is not how he thought his day would end. But he can't say it isn't soothing.

Phil was in the kitchen, wearing glasses and looking through some papers that he didn't let Wilbur close to when he tried to peek. A somewhat serious look in his face, although it would relax whenever he glanced at the two boys over the couch. Although he didn't know that Techno saw.

He leans back into the weighted blanket they brought down from both their rooms, undoing the braids quickly and deciding just to look out the window as his eyes start to droop.

Since he saw that little boy-runt- he hasn't really felt like he was in the moment. As if he wasn't really experiencing everything around him properly. On the other hand, his paranoia has skyrocketed- hands shaking and bouts of nervous sweats giving him whiplash. He's pretty sure he almost threw up when Mumbo dropped them off.

Chat on the other hand, decided that they can now keep secrets from him and fell back into a rather tense murmur. Few answer him, others muttering about a 'last one' and an 'act two'? Mostly worried speculations and a few even sound a bit outraged, about what exactly he doesn't know.

He gazes at the Outside as he entertains himself with this problem. Watching the weird specs of White-Gold sparkle in the sky, subconsciously allowing the boy in his lap to inspect his hands as he paid no mind. Wilbur's cool touch barely bothers him anymore, but is still an unfamiliar feeling. 

Cold-cold-cold-

He brings the blankets closer to himself, snuggling up to them and trapping their warmth. Wilbur never let's go of his hand, tracing the scars there until they lead under his sleeve. Examining his nails, at one point he presses his own palm into his hand- spreading their fingers and then closing them again. Hand in hand, swaying them together until Wilbur is content to just hold on- intertwining their fingers together, an unbreakable chain.

Techno watches the whole process, too tired to really do anything else. Amused but leaves it at that, looking to the Outside once again.

"Dad!"

Phil looks up from his paperwork, at the same time Wilbur raises their two hands together over the couch- as if declaring a victorious battle over the mystical land called The Living Room. "Can you give us a glass of water please?"

The man looks at their hands for a second, before smiling and rises from his chair.

Techno doesn't miss the way the furrow in his brow doesn't disappear this time- how the corners of his lips were twitching down before he left Techno's line of sight.

He clenches Wilbur's hand.

Did he do something wrong? Maybe he's wondering why Wilbur implied that both of them wanted some water, and he wanted Techno to ask him himself. But that doesn't make sense, he didn't even hint at anything like that. Was there a silent rule? Or something he wasn't aware of beforehand? Techno doesn't think he could have overlooked anything that could have upset any of them-

His tongue tastes ash.

"Techno?"

He breaks his staring contest with the White-Gold outside and turns towards cold-cold-cold-cool blue eyes. Phil hands them the glasses of water, which Techno finishes in a few gulps- Wilbur finally letting go of their hands to drink his own cup. Phil doesn't turn away the entire time.

"T..." When he doesn't continue, Techno looks over at the man whose wrinkles haven't smoothed out- brows still furrowed.

Techno's hands tighten around the glass he holds, nodding up at him to say he's listening.

A breath, from all three of them. But the conversation that follows might as well leave Techno at a loss for words for the rest of his life.

"Can I see your hand?" Phil extends his own, as if asking for just that- nothing important, nothing awful.

Then why does it sound like he's asking for Techno's heart and soul?

Reluctantly, he complies. He lets rough, calloused hands hold his small, scarred ones- he can't help but look at the black coloring in both of their hands. He doesn't know why the thought that they might share something in common comforts him, especially in this moment.

He turns them around, never enough to hurt- why is he so gentle? -carefully keeping his nails from scratching him as he traces-

The scars.

Wilbur you clever-conniving-lava eating-!

"How did you gain these?" Phil's voice was even.

Maybe that's what made him nervous.

Techno shrugs, not looking up even when he lets Phil roll up his sleeves- showing more scars from the years of fighting.

"T...Tech?"

His heart squeezes but he doesn't know why-why-why- this was never a problem before. None of the others looked at him the way that Phil does when they saw his scars, it was normal! Nestor was blinded, one of his arms practically shredded at one point before they met. He's had to help Calvin reshape his Iron parts because of the heat, although he knows they were never the same again. And so many close calls when Schlatt...-

Scars are just part of his everyday life; he might not have gained as much since he came here but...

Fighting is just part of life; he can't avoid it- he could never avoid it, he knows better now. As long as he's alive he will gain scars, he's not afraid to get hurt that way anymore. Life is a constant battle, that is a common fact for all of them- for him.

So why do these two people look at the proof of his survival as if it has done them a great wrong? Why do they look at his scars with sorrow when he gazes at them with gratitude?

Is there something wrong with him? Do scars mean something else in this realm-?

"Techno." The cold-cold-cold eyes harden. "How long have you had these?"

Do Phil's hands shake in rage or fear?

He looks away, the movement hiding the slight shiver in his spine even as Wilbur- Cold! -slides closer.

Why is this so hard for him?

Why does he feel awful? Like he rather be gutted than keep going through whatever this is. They just want to know about his old wounds, some of the braver strangers would ask the same questions in The Pit. He never had trouble then why-

Cold-freezing-ash-ash-wrongwrongwrong-bones-cold-dust-pack?-where?-taketaketake-Protecter?-Provider?-find-Caretaker?-runt?-runt?-runt?-where?-death-death-de-

"-no? Techno breath!"

He gulps the air, filling up his lungs to wade off the feeling of frost. Coughing when his senses pick up the taste of smoke instead.

He covers his mouth in an effort to keep the ash from slipping past his lips, but from their expressions he knows it doesn't matter.

So, he does what any logical strategist would do in this uncomfortable situation.

He ran.

Nowhere far, Techno just speeds up the stairs- three steps at a time until he came into the room they'd lent him- because it's not his, this won't last forever, he just has to keep hanging on for the rest of them- fumbling over the lock when Chat suggested it-

-Blink-

-Ripping out the sheets from the bed and gripping the blankets like the lifeline they're currently being for the boy, even if the room slowly starts to smell like smoke and fire. Each exhale tinted with ash-

-Blink-

-He lays on his back against the floor, blankets incircle him in an attempt to look like his den back in the NetherRealm. Why does the thought fill him with such grief?

-Blink-

He can see the window from here.

-Blink-

...Stars, that's what they're called. He thought there would be more.

-Blink-

He doesn't know at what time Wilbur came into the room, but at one point Techno woke up in the middle of the night covered in the soft cloth and fur of blankets- his hand held firmly as the other snored softly beside them.

He isn't sure why he didn't let go.

He's late.

Punz is late and Purpled is never going to forgive him for this atrocity. The absolute nerve of that coconut flavored popsicle dressed man. The lion, the witch, the audacity of this bitch.

Yes, this is the perfect time to curse. If Punz didn't want him to- then he should have watched his mouth in front of him. The Bastard.

It's movie night, and he hasn't come back yet from whatever night job he had to do. He promised they would stay up till two in the morning and binge watch all of Purpled's favorite sci-fi movies. He even secured it with the ever-sacred ritual known as the Pinky Promise!

Of course he had to pick up a call last minute, and the job was important enough that he had to leave in a rush. Telling Purpled that he would return soon for their movie night.

But that was two hours ago.

Purpled isn't a snitch, but if this keeps on happening, he's going to anonymously report his next location to the Heroes. He'll survive, but it would ruin his day- and at the end of it all, isn't that Purpled's duty as the younger sibling of the household? Making Punz regret he has emotional attachment with him?

His antennas twitch with the sudden movement in the air, he watches dust that only he can see move away from the door to their apartment. The violet glow of his eyes and antennas makes them more distinguishable as he reaches for his favorite weapon under the couch. His little fingers skimming over a set of knives and a box-like shape that he's pretty sure is some extra C4 that Punz hasn't had the energy to use. His eyes narrow once he grabs the cool grip.

The lock jingles. Purpled doesn't even turn as he aims.

The white dressed man steps into the home, running his hand through blond locks.

"Hey Purp-"

The bullet hits his left eye, and from the sound of it, he hits the ground hard. As he falls Purpled moves the Nerf Gun slightly lower, so that the next bullet hits right below his chin.

A choked noise and a few coughs later, he finally turns to face his victim.

"Well hello to you too angry child." Baby blue eyes look into violets, waving the bag they had on hand earlier. "Will you except my peace offering?"

He huffs but stands up to reach it. "Maybe."

That 'maybe' quickly turned into a 'fine' once he got a look into the contents of the bag. Filled to its fullest with sweets and sours, salty snacks and fizzy drinks. He dropped the toy, letting Punz sit up and he rub his eye, ignoring the half glare the older sent him.

He decides on a chocolate bar while skipping over to the ratty couch. It was stained with powder, potion spills and blood, none of it his but he couldn't really bring himself to care that deeply on that thought. There'll be a lot more stains to come in the future, most likely caused by the both of them.

One day, when he's bigger and stronger- he'll be the best assassin in the Underground, working alongside the best of the bests with Whiteout; Punz. Heroes, villains, and vigilantes will gape and aw over them both- even more so once him and Punz figure out what his power is when it comes around.

But for now, he's just Purpled- secretly Whiteout's biggest fan and tormentor of Punz.

"What's takin' so long!?" He yelled towards the kitchen, where he knows Punz is heating up the popcorn.

"I'm coming you little shit!"

He smirks and goes back to staring intently at the tv remote, before giving in to his urges and starting the movie without the other.

Curses and mutters float from the kitchen and into the ears of an entirely too smug child as the opening song to Star Wars opens on the screen. "F- WAIT! ITS ALMOST DONE!"

Purpled's imitation of Emperor Palpatine's laugh echoed through the apartment.

Ironically, Bad doesn't take well to spicy foods.

Apparently, the universe didn't get the memo when he got cursed for disrespecting not one, not two, but three very powerful deities. It didn't matter that no matter the environment, he will never die by fire nor heat. The fact didn't matter that he was basically a demon in almost every physical sense, or that if he wanted to- he could burn this city to the ground with enough effort.

No, none of that information mattered.

A single Hot Cheeto could bring him to his knees.

Hot wings might as well be a sort of torture to the man.

Which is why he now shivers whenever he looks towards Skeppy shoveling his face with the curry Sapnap helped cook for him. Of course, he made it for the diamond golem in mind, but he has the history of knowing exactly how much more spice his son put towards the recipe.

His son is the first to speak, "Skeppy what the fuck?"

"Oi! Language!" Bad snaps out of his stupor just to discipline Sap, almost forgetting how his best friend is swallowing the reincarnation of hell of a meal.

"C'mon pop!" He gestures towards the confused golem, "This is a WTF moment!"

"What 're you guys talkin' abou'?" Skeppy speaks through the mouthful of food.

Bad grimaces "Swallow please."

As the man gulps down the meal, his son stands with his plate gesturing for the others to hand theirs over as well. "Anyway, it's my night to do the dishes."

Sapnap's fiery eyes blaze against his father's, "I'll close the door so you two can talk about work."

The young teen left afterward, keeping his word as he went into the kitchen.

Sapnap has been tense around Bad lately, somberly- he knows the exact reason why. Being a Hero isn't as glorious as it looks like, Bad and Skeppy- or better known as Oni and Troll, have seen some gruesome things in the past. Bad has long since accustomed himself to the sleepless nights a long time ago, but it pains to see how it affects mortals like his partner Skeppy. And his son isn't naive enough to not notice the frantic calls in the middle of the night, once again trying to calm down the golem after a bad day at work.

Lately it had been getting worse, ever since the incident by The Veil- it was harder to truly focus on anything.

Void, a fellow Hero for the country where Bad lives in every day- where his son is growing up and learning and loving, having the best life Bad can provide. This mortal single handedly caused the deaths of at least a hundred children ranging from teen to toddler.

This mortal shot the only possible survivor, who had the same raging look of lava and flame as Sapnap. He watched as this child about the same age as his own son fell down from the impact of bullets, its source supposed to only use such a weapon when left with no other choice to apprehend the dastardliest of criminals.

Sapnap knew something was wrong when he came home, when he carefully kept the rage from showing in his features when the news mentioned the ''absolute tragedy of losing a great hero that had so much to offer the world'' and how they were going to ''honor their death'' with the upcoming memorial. He stayed off the news for a few days afterwards, not wanting to test his patience in front of his own kin.

That didn't stop the news from infecting his work life.

"You're planning to attend?" Skeppy glanced at him, already knowing the answer to his question.

"In civilian form?" his face twists as if tasting the most bitter lemon in the world. "No, but Oni doesn't really have a choice in the matter."

"Possible revenge from multiple angles?" Bad nods at him, recalling the meeting their boss called regarding the event.

Skeppy twiddles his thumbs as he asks the one question they both want answers to.

"Do you think Samaritan will be there?"

The catch.

On one hand, if she were to come- they could ask her about the young boy. Finally know their condition and put their aching hearts to rest over information that none of them have. But if she were to come, what would that say about her reason? Would she be there to spit upon the grave? Would she reveal the truth to every news station in the area? There wouldn't be a real reason, unless-

Unless the child didn't make it.

So would it be better if they never saw her at all? Would that be a good thing to look forward to?

Bad sighs, "I don't know..."

He doesn't know.

He doesn't know.

He doesn't know.

He's not sure if he really wants to know.

"Who the fuck are you?!"

Finally, after so long- the first step has been made.

Three children stand in front of you, the oldest of them all growling through the binds around its mouth and keeping the other two behind it. The young girl holds the broken baton that was used by the workers- looking ready to beat you to death.

The youngest, the one who spoke and unlocked the cages holds a pin. Your goons lie on the ground injured and unconscious.

You really want to laugh.

You settle for a smile, happy with the subjects you've chosen for this plan. They are strong, rough edges and sharp corners in every way. They'll survive, they'll live- and once they're ready they will go out into the world to get ready for what's to come. They'll help you destroy, create and mold a new era for the earth- knowingly or not.

You've had your control on them for a while, control on your masterpieces, control on this city- this country for a while. You've gathered your seeds and they have lied dormant for such a long time.

You are the sun, these three shall be your soil. And until you place your water, this is your main focus.

"Let us go!"

They charge you, one towards your head, another towards your chest, the other for your stomach. Using the tip your cane, they fall easily- slamming against the cool white floors of the containment room. As amusing as they can be, you have other things to do- to watch -and would really rather start incorporating the training regimen as soon as possible.

"🕯︎💣︎♋︎⬧︎⧫︎♏︎❒︎🕯︎ ⬥︎□︎◆︎●︎♎︎ ♌︎♏︎ ⧫︎♒︎♏︎ ◻︎❒︎□︎◻︎♏︎❒︎ ⧫︎♏︎❒︎❍︎ ⧫︎□︎ ◆︎⬧︎♏︎ ♋︎❒︎□︎◆︎■︎♎︎ ❍︎♏︎📬︎"

They freeze as the old language grates their ears. You chuckle as you watch their expressions, as they finally realize that this is something much bigger than any kidnapping or hybrid trafficking situation.

"✡︎□︎◆︎ ⬧︎⧫︎♋︎❒︎⧫︎ ⧫︎□︎❍︎□︎❒︎❒︎□︎⬥︎📪︎ ❍︎□︎❒︎⧫︎♋︎●︎⬧︎📬︎ 👎︎□︎■︎🕯︎⧫︎ ♎︎♓︎⬧︎♋︎◻︎◻︎□︎♓︎■︎⧫︎📬︎"

You drop the set of plain clothes at its feet, a sandwich in each shirt. It has to be in perfect condition for the things you planned.

You hear rather than see their distress, the banging against the obsidian door- the sobs and demands to let them go, to tell them why they're here.

You hum a song, tapping your cane as the cries of the unfortunate children start to fade away.