Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Everyone to the pods! Come on! We don't have-" Techno grunted and caught himself on the shaking walls as another explosion rocked through the ship. People were running around in chaotic panic, some trying to desperately save some sentimental or important items, others scrambling to get into the escape pods. The pods can only allow a maximum of two people at once, four if you really want to push your luck. They had far too few for everyone. Techno was trying to help steer people towards the pods, closing and launching as many as he could, saving as many lives as the fires and explosions allowed. It was by no means his job, but the actual emergency crew had already launched their own pod, so he didn't have a choice if they want as many survivors as possible. He might be scared as hell, but he’s not an asshole like the rest of them.

Another explosion shook the ship, metal creaking and fires roaring through the corridors, separating entire sections of rooms and hallways from the launch bay. Techno clung to the handle of a door until the shaking stopped enough for him to stand again.

How did this even happen? One minute everything was going fine, everyone was minding their own business or sleeping in their cabins. Techno had been tending to his garden, one of his playlists playing over the speakers (even if he technically wasn’t allowed to put anything on those). The next moment hell broke loose, after the sound of the first large explosion echoed through the ship. Red lights were flashing everywhere, the alarms blaring in his ears telling everyone to evacuate immediately.

He helped two more panicked crewmembers climb into a pod and launch, the flow of panicked people into the launch-bay growing weaker with every second. There were only a few functional pods left, the launching bay on the other side of the ship completely destroyed and unusable. It only crippled their number of far too few pods for everyone. Not that it mattered much, since a large portion of the ship was already blocked off through fires and collapsed hallways. He tried not to think too much about the people trapped on the other side, focused on saving the ones he can.

"Come on guys! This way! We can't-" A loud crack overhead made him stop halfway through launching another pod. One of the large metal beams fell from the ceiling, fire and debris following it. Techno jumped out of the way with a yelp, pressing himself against the wall as it crashed into the ground, the new fire now started to grow in the launch bay. His heart ached as he saw the crushed and blocked off entry to the bay, knowing there were still people on the other side, screaming for help. Trapped and burning alive, if they don’t suffocate first. Fuck, what had any of them done to deserve this?

He slammed his hand on the launch button, allowing another group of three to escape the ship. A few more empty pods, no more people able to enter the launch bay... At least there is a pod for him to escape in too.

“Ajuda! Por favor! Estou preso!” Techno turned away from the pod he had been about to enter, instead looking for the source of the voice. Not far away, a man was trapped under fallen debris. A second person was trying to free him, parts of their clothes already charred from the nearby fires, flames eagerly reaching for the pair. They were yelling at each other in a language he couldn’t understand, both panicking and desperately trying to reach one of the pods. Techno abandoned his pod and ran over, assisting the other man in trying to free their crewmate.

Even through the gloves he wore, he could feel the rising heat of the metal. Sharp edges pressed into his palm as he attempted to help the other man lift the debris up, their trapped crewmate crying out in pain. Fuck, he was starting to get lightheaded. The oxygen is being eaten up by the flames and the ship’s systems have most likely already failed.

When the metal finally gave way and allowed them to pull the man free, one of his legs was covered in blood and had pieces of metal piercing into the flesh. He looked like he was ready to vomit at the sight of his leg, but his companion forcefully made him look away. “Merda! Espere, tudo ficará bem! Eu peguei você, Pac!" The injured man sobbed, clinging to his friend. “Estou com medo Cellbit!” “Eu sei, estamos quase lá!”

Techno grabbed the not injured man’s shoulder, making him look at him. “We have to get him into a pod! There is medical equipment in it!” He has no idea if either of them even spoke English, but it was all he could do. The healthy man seemed to understand him though and picked up his friend, dragging him over to the nearest pod.

Techno forced the hatch open for them, allowing the healthy man to carry his friend inside and place him on one of the chairs. As soon as both men were inside and he could see the healthy one reach for the provided med-kits, he closed the pod and launched it. He swayed a little as he made his way to his own pod, the lack of oxygen starting to get to him. He squeezed his eyes shut against billowing smoke and finally climbed into it himself.

His lungs were burning from the ash, his skin feeling like it was on fire from the temperature alone. With shaking fingers he punched in the launching code, buckled himself into the seat and held on for dear life as the pod launched away from the ship. With life support functioning within the pod, his vision finally cleared as his body was restored with the missing oxygen.

Once the violent shaking of his escape pod stopped, he looked up to the hatch at the top, equipped with a small circular window. The ship was visible from this angle, making his stomach twist as he saw pieces break off and engines smoking, fires visible everywhere.

Then something bright green flashed into view, too bright to make out what it was… but it caused another explosion. Larger than the ones before, almost tearing the large ship in two. Techno screamed as the shockwave made his pod shake, the rumbling continuing as he approached the atmosphere of the planet they were just passing by. Panels started to come lose, objects flying around the space of the pod as the shaking increased. He ducked his head, trying to cover himself as best as he could, avoiding the flying objects.

But when one of the heavy panels smashed right into his head, everything turned dark.

~ * ~

When Techno woke again, it was to blazing heat and a raging headache. He groaned and blinked his eyes open, squinting at the glowing thing across from him, blinding him with it’s light. Why was it so warm? What happened? Fuck his head hurt so much… his face felt all warm and itchy. Why was his head so heavy… why was he so tired? He just wants to sleep…

Something cracked across from him, loud and sharp, making him snap his head back up. That glowing thing across from his seat, finally starting to focus in his vision, was fire. A raging fire, slowly filling up more of his pod.

And Techno panicked.

"Shit shit shit-" He practically punched the control panel to release the seat buckles as he started coughing. The fire was quickly eating up the oxygen in the pod and filling the rest of it with smoke, the deadly combination threatening to knock him unconscious once more. Finally, the restraints let him go, making him fall to the floor with a pained grunt. Everything hurts… his headache worsening with every passing second.

With a strangled gasp and increasingly blurry vision, Techno grabbed the fire extinguisher he knew was provided in every pod. It took three tries for his shaking hands to release the safety latch, nearly dropping it in the process as the fire inched closer. But eventually he got it, finally able to extinguish the fire.

Techno sighs immediately once the heat died down, even if just barely. He was alive, against all odds. Had he been knocked out any longer, the fire would have killed him. If the lack of oxygen didn’t do it first. His panic settled, shoulders sagging as he leaned with his back against the ladder, trying to get the room to stop spinning.

The air was still incredibly warm and oxygen was low, since all the life support systems were offline. He needs air, and fast. So, he forced his weak body up the ladder, arms shaking as he climbed up one step at a time. Before opening the hatch, he checked the little screen beside it to make sure it was safe. There were no warnings, so he assumed the atmosphere was breathable.

Blue sky greets him as cool air rushed into the pod, thankfully air that seemed to be breathable. With his systems fried, the screen might have been wrong. Techno greedily gulped down the fresh air, his head finally starting to clear and his vision focusing. How long has it been since the crash? Minutes? Hours?

Once his hands stopped shaking, he grabbed on to the edge of the hatch and pulled himself up and out of the pod.

The sight that greeted him was equally as breathtaking as it was terrifying.

Deep blue water surrounded his pod, which had thankfully triggered the detection system and had made his pod use it's floating devices. The colours looked familiar, almost normal. Nothing but vast ocean, no islands, no distant shores. Nothing. It almost seemed like he was just stranded in an ocean on earth, if it weren't for the giant planet he could clearly see in the sky. Either this water planet was an orbiting moon to that large red planet, or that was a very large moon orbiting this planet.

But that wasn't even the worst of it all. Because a couple miles away, the remains of the large exploded ship sat half submerged in the water, lifeless and silent. Some fires were still burning, now fuelled by the new oxygen this planet provides. It stung, seeing it like this. It would have been his only way home, his only way of calling for help. But he doubts that any of the radio systems were still working. No long-range communication to other ships or even a space station or two. And the systems of his own pod were fried too.

He was completely stuck.

Techno slumped against the hatch, trying to keep himself from having a panic attack. His head started spinning again as the realization hit him. He was stuck, alone, on an unexplored planet. No communication, no resources, nothing. He’s dead. He’s so dead. “Fuck… fuck fuck fuck-” His shaking hands gripped onto his hair tightly, pulling at it to try and focus. Deep breaths, keep calm.

This was… fine. He’ll be fine. He’s been trained for this, for emergency situations where they need to survive on an alien planet. The fact that this atmosphere was breathable for him was already a good sign. He’ll manage… somehow. He’ll survive and find other people. His pod can’t be the only one that landed here, with so many other ones having been launched during the explosion. This planet’s gravity must have pulled most of them towards it.

He needs a plan, some course of action that will keep him productive. Keep his head from spiralling into blind panic. Protocol… what was the crash protocol again… Trying to repair his pod seemed like a good start. Explore the surrounding area, see if there is anything useful. Yes, that should be good. Repair, explore, survive. Find other people once he knows he’ll be okay. “Come on Techno… you got this… you’ve survived worse than this. You’ll be fine…”

Techno shakily stood again and climbed back into the pod, leaving the hatch open for air. Apart from the loose wires behind one panel and the obvious fire damage, it looked like everything was in relatively good shape. He should be able to get the systems back online if the battery cells aren’t damaged too much, since they can be charged with solar energy. The fabricator seemed to still be fully functional, so that’s good. Checking the storage revealed two water bottles and some protein bars. He can last a while with that if he rations it out. Until he figures out if there is anything that is safe to eat.

He decided to start fixing the wiring first, hoping that he can manage to at least bring the life support system back online. The problem was that Techno was by no means a mechanic or technician. His purpose on the ship had been sustainability and if worse came to worse, combat for survival. He had been in charge of most of the food supplies and the massive garden providing self-sustainability. They technically had enough supplies to last the entire mission, which was estimated for roughly three years. But with experiences from other space travel projects, even small inconveniences can lead to massive delays. So they had hired an additional four people to only take care of the plants, while the entire rest of the almost 200 people crew were all kinds of construction experts to build the phase gate.

He has watched some of the technicians work and he knows basic wiring, but that doesn’t mean he was in any way qualified to build or repair structures or vehicles. Hell even Toby, the seventeen year old son of the captain, was better at this stuff than Techno was. Something twists in his stomach at the thought. Toby… did he escape the crash? He can’t remember if he helped the boy into a pod. Or he could have launched one by himself. Toby had been by far the youngest member of the crew… the second youngest being three mechanics that had just turned 21 only a few months prior to the launch. He can’t recall if he helped any of them into a pod too. Everything from then was… blurry. Chaotic. Faces all looking the same in their panic and desperation to reach the pods.

Techno shook his head, trying to focus on the task at hand. Try and rewire everything properly. So he set out to do that, carefully fiddling with the wires as he tried to ignore sounds he knew were coming from somewhere below the surface. Deep rumbles and distant low whines that must be the animals that live on this planet.

Focus Techno. You got this.

Just survive.

Chapter Text

“Shit!” Techno shook out his hand, blowing on the spot he burned himself with the wire. This was bullshit. Why were a handful of wires so difficult to work with? He will have more than a few blisters tomorrow. Cold air filtered in through the open latch as wind rushed by, carrying with it all kinds of sounds. Rumbles from the large ship, it’s still burning metal screeching as it bend and broke. Cries of the weird avian creatures, looking more like flying stingrays than anything else. The sounds and feeling of the waves rocking against his pod. Somehow, all of it only made it harder to work on the wiring. More difficult to concentrate when you know your survival chances are basically zero anyways.

He grabbed the wires again, carefully twisting them together once he was certain they belonged together. The color coding was helping a little bit, but only a little. There were multiple sets that had the same color down to the fucking shade of it. His mind began to wander again as he worked, which was probably why he got burned so many times. He thinks of the crew, of the survivors in other pods, most likely going through the same thing he is. Maybe not the repairing, but the helplessness and panic. Thinks of the few acquaintances he might have called friends if they had spent a bit more time together, of Tubbo and Quackity and Fit. He even got along with some of the people that weren’t native English speakers. He thought of the pair with the crushed leg that he had helped onto a pod, of the amusing french man he often shared the gym with when he wasn’t caring for plants.

Just thinking about how many of them were probably dead made his stomach twist. So many lives, innocent people, lost to the fight between large companies wanting to be the first ones owning deep space phase gates. This wasn’t the first ship to go missing, to crash somewhere and leave survivors stranded, if there were any to begin with. But these projects pay good money and did compensate for the risk, supplying the families left behind with monthly payments until their partners or children return.

Fuck, what will his family even think when they hear the news. It takes a week at least to realize that the ship was not transmitting anymore. Another week until they were deemed dead and gone, unless they receive distress signals.

The mental image of his little siblings, so young, being told their big brother will never come back, his parents hearing their oldest was gone… it broke something in him. His hands dropped from the wires, twisting in his hair instead as he tried not to sob. All he could see were their heartbroken faces. He’ll never see them again, he’ll… he needs fresh air. The small, confined space felt too tight, like it was closing in around him. Without a second thought he climbed up the ladder, pulling himself out of the open hatch. The air was still cold, salt settling on his tongue as he took desperate gulps of air.

It took a few moments for his head to stop spinning, trying his best to not start hyperventilating and fall over into the water. Was that even water? It could be acid. Or any other kind of liquid. Would it burn his skin if he touched it? Only more questions added to the whirlpool that was his mind right now. It took a while before he could think straight enough to try the breathing exercises they were taught, forcing his racing heart to calm down again.

He will get home.

He will see his family again.

He will never just sit by and let his family bury an empty casket. Not after he promised his siblings to take them ice skating as soon as he returns, an attempt at calming them down when he broke the news about his upcoming journey to them.

His hands clench at his side as he stared at the remains of the ship, fire still burning bright. “Get a grip Techno… you’ll never get home like this. The pod won’t repair itself.” Yet it still took him several minutes of staring at the ship before he turned around and went back into the pod. And after fiddling with the cables a bit longer, he was finally confident enough that he sorted them correctly and connected them all.

The systems whirred back to life, lights turning on with a little flicker. “Yes Yes!” Techno immediately went for the main computer every pod had, checking if it still works. A little monitor to the side booted up first, showing the status of the pod in terms of charging and damages. The main one stayed off. “Of course, this was too good to be true anyways.” But hey, at least he knows the solar charging is working fine, batteries fully charged. The life support is also back online, filtering oxygen into the pod and warming up the freezing metal plating around him just a little bit.

Techno sat back in the single chair on the wall, sighing into his hands. First step completed, a functioning shelter and base of operation. Next step, get the radio back online and try to contact other survivors. By the looks of it, the fire did some serious damage, as well as the crash. He won’t be able to fix it without any tools. And to make tools, he needs resources, which means… fuck he had to go outside. Outside where there could be all kinds of threats, animals or an environment that will immediately kill him.

Weapon… he needs a weapon. Something to defend himself with.

He began to look through every little storage space he could find. There was something close to a diving suit, made to withstand high pressure, as well as a small oxygen tank and a mask, even a little scanner for ores and lifeforms. But no weapon, not even a little knife. He’s starting to hate this company more and more. Who equips pods for alien world survival and doesn’t include a weapon? The only option was a broken off part of a panel, one edge sharp enough to at least give a serious injury, even if it wouldn’t be that deep. Hopefully enough to just scare off whatever is attacking him.

The suit was a tight fit but he managed to zip it closed, strap on the tank and mask and equip himself with the scanner and metal shard. It was almost scary, staring down into the water from the side of his pod, carefully balancing on the floating devices. “Here goes nothing…”

The water wasn’t as cold as he expected it to be, it was actually quite warm compared to the air outside his pod. How odd…

His train of thought halted when he took in his surroundings. A large, colorful coral reef spread out over soft sandy dunes, brightly colored fish swimming around in large groups. They looked odd, with giant eyes and boomerang shapes, but they resembled fish close enough to calm down the human just silently taking it all in. If he ignores the odd looking creatures, this almost looks familiar. Like home, when his family went diving while on vacation once. Well, mostly him and his dad, his siblings were too young. Some of the fish started swimming around him, just passing by, not threatened in the slightest. Techno took the opportunity to scan one of them. He can view the data later when he is back in the pod.

Slowly, he began to swim along the sandy ground, making sure to always stay in viewing distance of his home. The last thing he needs right now is to get lost. There were some rocks, but nothing seemed too useful to make a tool out of. Until he came across a half buried metal box, the coloring looking awfully like everything they had in the ship. It makes sense, a lot of debris and crates have probably been blasted away from the ship as it crashed, but most of it is probably broken. But hey, maybe it had some useful things inside.

Pulling it out of the sand was a bit of a challenge, but he got there eventually. Inside the crate he found some tied up cables and some screws, but sadly no tools. But this should be helpful regardless, if he needs to replace cables. Or maybe when he finds other survivors and one is a mechanic or technician, they will find the cables helpful. With that in mind, he began dragging the box back to his pod. It was mostly walking along the bottom, since the weight dragged him down, but it would still be faster than doing multiple trips to get all the items.

It took a while, but when he finally reached his pod, he realized a new problem. How in the world will he get the box up into it? It was too heavy to swim with and the bottom hatch too high up to try and lift it inside. Alright then, other plan. Find a safe area nearby and turn it into some kind of storage for the heavier things. Not that he would have a lot of storing space inside the pod anyways. For now, he just pushed the box against a little cliff like wall near his pod, praying none of the animals would mess with it too much.

After checking how much air was left in the tank, he started to explore a little more, soon pulling a second box with some metal plates and more cables over to the first one. It wasn’t a great haul, quite terrible actually considering it won’t do much to help him survive right now, but at least it was something. The animals kept on swimming around him, often giving him a heart attack when one decides to zip past his face unannounced. It was weird how they didn’t seem to recognize him as a potential threat. He might as well become one soon, if they turn out to be edible and he is out of rations. But that wasn’t right now, so there was no reason in going after them and waste his strength.

Finally, with barely any air left, Techno dragged himself back into his pod. The original adrenaline boost started to fade, taking what’s left of his energy with it. He was fucking exhausted. So, he grabbed a single one of the ration bars and slowly chewed on it as he stared out of the open hatch at the darkening sky, thousands of stars starting to glitter in the darkness. The reef below him also seemed to start glowing as well, hundreds of little glowing spots zipping about underneath the waves, some plants also started to emit a soft glow. He couldn’t see much through the two hatches, but what he can see was enough for him.

And despite his awful situation, he admired the sight just for a little bit, until the protein bar was gone and he had taken a small sip from the water bottle.

With nothing left to do and absolutely rejecting the idea of diving while its dark, Techno dragged himself up the ladder and closed the hatch, locking it. He absolutely doesn’t want any animal in here or a storm and waves flooding everything with water. When everything was secure, he simply curled up in the corner of his pod, leaning against one wall. There was no soft surface, no blanket or even scrap of cloth outside his own charred jacket laying on the floor beside him. He wrapped it around his shoulders, finding little comfort in the soft fabric of it.

That was how Techno’s day ended, silently staring at the wall opposite of him, slipping in and out of consciousness in a restless, light sleep, awoken by every little rocking of the pod or too close for comfort sound from outside.

Chapter Text

Techno didn’t even notice when the sun finally rose over the horizon. The lights inside the pod don’t turn off, so if you weren’t looking at the sky through the hatch, it was impossible to try and tell the time. On top of that, the day-night-cycle of this planet was definitely different from earth. Though it was difficult to tell if the days were longer or shorter.

The human emerged from his pod sometime after the sun passed its highest point, not well rested but not completely exhausted either. Just like yesterday, the wind carried a chill with it that clashed with the odd warmth of the water, but that was quite literally the least of Techno’s worries. No, as soon as he figured out how to refill his oxygen tank, he was back in the water, scavenging for useful resources. He still kept to the rule of wanting to always see his pod, so his luck in finding crates and parts of the ship was getting smaller with every little scrap he pulls towards his new home.

His stomach complained about skipping breakfast, but he doesn’t want to waste any of his precious rations. According to the scanner he can safely eat the fish swimming around here, but he’d rather wait as long as possible before he does that. He did drink a bit of water, simply because he knows water is more essential for his body than food.

Techno grunted as he lifted another crate into his growing pile of resources. So far, he has collected a total of five supply crates, two yesterday and three today. Cables were still the item he had the most of, but his pile of metal bars and plates was also growing. He did also find a med-kit inside one of them. And while it was soaking wet when he threw it into his pod, he hopes at least some of it will still be useful after it dries. Yet with all the crates he has opened, there wasn’t one with any kind of tool inside it.

And now came the problem that was mentioned earlier. He was starting to run out of crates near his pod.

The hatch creaked a little when he pushed it open, climbing inside and flopping down on the ground with a groan. Even with the bi-daily workouts and hours of gardening boosting his endurance, this was fucking exhausting. Plus, he has never been a good swimmer, preferring running or even sparring way before he would consider to go swimming.

His body screamed at him when he forced himself to get up and close the hatch for the night. He felt like a newborn deer, with his legs shaking as he walked back into the corner where his jacket laid abandoned. Ignoring the growls of his stomach, he curled up against the wall and covered himself with the coat.

He felt disgusting, hair crusty with salt and whatever other shit was in that water, body smelling like fish and sweat. What he wouldn’t give for a proper shower… or even a bath, that would be good too. A nice warm bath to ease the constant ache in his muscles. He’s probably going to get sick from this, maybe even die to some infection he won’t be able to clean. There was barely any disinfectant inside the med-kit and he rather not waste his precious water until he found a way to get more.

His eyes lazily drift along the walls as he tried to sleep, tracing the little lines on the panels, counting buttons on the different devices attached to the walls, most of which don’t work. Anything to try and help him relax. The radio at the back of the pod sat innocently on the wall, almost mocking him with how it was right there, yet unable to be used to call for help. Or see if other people are calling for help. If the damn thing weren’t so important, he would just smash it, maybe use the parts to repair other systems.

His eyes keep going, trailing along the wall until they land on the single storage compartment on board. It held the two water bottles, one of which he already opened, and the handful of protein bars he had, as well as that PDA tablet thing that he never fully understood.

Actually, since he had the time…

Techno crawled over to the storage and pulled out the PDA, tapping the screen a few times before it finally turned on. Now with something new to fight off the boredom, he settled back into the corner, cuddled into the jacket and began reading.

There wasn’t anything that interesting at first, an instruction manual, emergency protocols, a small entry of the crash that was automatically made when the escape pods were launched. Then he got to the parts that got added once he started to use the scanner. How the fuck the two items managed to connect is beyond him.

Environmental scan

The surrounding area seems to lay within an old volcanic crater, possibly holding an inactive volcano beneath it. The remains of a large eruption several decades ago have caused the development of a flourishing eco-system within the crater. Scans show a complex system of caverns beneath the surface as well as rising temperatures with increasing depth.

Further close proximity scans necessary.

Great, so he may or may not be sitting directly on top of a ticking bomb, that’s reassuring. Any by the sound of it this whole area was the crater, so there wasn’t really an option to leave, at least not without some sort of vehicle. He sure as hell can’t swim that much of a distance, especially without a target location. But hey, it explained why the water was oddly warm. Maybe. He wasn’t necessarily the greatest at this whole geography stuff.

The other entrances in the PDA were less interesting, mainly telling him about the two fish and some plants he had scanned so far. The fish were safe to consume when cooked properly, the plants could be used to craft certain materials, both options preferably done by the provided fabricator. He has never used a fabricator before, but he heard from other people that it was the new peak of technology, able to create both organic material like food and craft machinery within minutes.

He’ll have to see it before he believes it.

But that was a plan for tomorrow. He’s far too tired to experiment with technology he doesn’t fully understand. Placing the PDA down next to him, he tried to get a bit more comfortable and closed his eyes, forcing his mind to at least try and shut down for a bit. His body desperately needed the rest.

Techno groaned when he woke again, body aching from sleeping on the floor again. Sunshine glared through the window in the hatch, making him roll onto his side to try and block it out. For fucks sake, he had actually been a little comfortable! Way to ruin a good sleep!

He was just about to debate between getting up and eat something or going back to sleep when a loud banging sound echoed through the pod. Techno screamed and shot up, head snapping this way and that to try and find the source of the sound, praying that it wasn’t some animal from outside trying to get in. He didn’t need to search for long.

“Oi! Good to know you are alive! I would have just checked your pulse, but you locked the hatch!”

A shadow had fallen over the window of the hatch, someone kneeling over it and looking at him through the glass. They were wearing the same suit Techno had on, a mask pushed up onto their head. Another survivor from the ship. The sun right behind them made it difficult to see who exactly it was, if he even knew the person at all. But he’ll take anyone at this point.

Techno fought himself to get up and climb the small ladder, going far faster than he should in his condition, still fucking exhausted. His fingers fumble a bit with the lock, but it finally snaps open to let the other person inside. To say he was shocked to see who came in would be an understatement.

“Fit?” The other man grinned at him once his feet were on firm ground. “Good to see you in one piece Techno! I wasn’t sure if you made it, helping everyone into the pods and all.” Techno gripped him by the arms and pulled him into a hug. Neither of them were touchy people, preferring a handshake in almost all cases, but right now the younger was just happy to not be alone anymore.

Fit seemed to have the same thought, patting him on the back. “Yeah, I’m glad to see you too. How are you holding up?” “Apart from a lack of actual sleep and food, I think I’m doing okay.” They parted again and actually took in the appearance of the other. While Techno was a bit of a mess with his hair and the burned jacket around his shoulders, Fit looked a little bit more put together. Well, he also didn’t really have any hair to look messy. He had some sort of makeshift spear strapped to his back, a survival knife taped to a metal pole.

His left arm however looked to be in bad shape. It was a well-known fact around the ship that he had a prosthetic arm and has used it to his advantage multiple times. It was a useful thing, especially when it came to handling hot or really heavy materials, as his arm could handle those without pain. And if it got damaged, it was easy for either Fit himself or any of the other people on the ship to fix it. Not that it happened a lot. It quite literally only got damaged once during their two-year trip when it got crushed beneath a heavy metal crate.

But now the arm stayed limp by his side, even during the hug, only the metal hand visible as the rest was covered by the sleeves of the suit. “Is your arm okay?” Fit looked down at the prosthetic, humming. “I think one of the cables disconnected itself during the crash, nothing too serious. But I don’t have the tools to open it up and repair it, need to find or make one of those first. But apart from my arm I am completely fine.” “Good good…”

Fit looked around the small space, taking in the state of the machinery and computer. “Your pod is in better shape than mine. I only got emergency life support for oxygen, everything else was busted beyond repair.” Speaking of Fit’s pod… “Did you swim all the way over here? I’ve been exploring and never found another pod.” The other man grinned and stood a little straighter. “My pod is closer to the ship, I swam over here when I spotted your pod drifting closer. Or mine drifted towards you, I don’t know.”

“You swam over here with one functioning arm?”

“Sure did.”

“How the fuck…”

“I mean my legs are fine, the flippers did all the work. Didn’t really need to keep my head above water with the mask and shit.”

“You are fucking insane.”

“And proud of it.”

Techno sighs, sitting down against the wall again. Just hearing that made him tired again. “Well as far as I know only the radio and main computer are down, everything else should work. I have a stash of cables and metal parts down in the water, inside some crates. No idea what to do with them, but they’re there.” Fit’s face immediately lit up. “Your fabricator works?!” “I think it does? I don’t know how to use it.”

He stepped over to it immediately, pressing some buttons until it whirred to life and began displaying several holographic screens. “Oh my god it works! This is perfect!” Techno just watched him tap on the screens, scrolling through pages of text and images, something that vaguely looks like a recipe and bright red safety instructions at the very bottom.

Well, at least one of them is excited about this.

Chapter Text

“Now you need to put these last two pieces on the pad here- perfect! And now the fabricator does the rest! See, not so difficult right?” Techno had half a mind to protest and say that no, this was still very much impossible to understand, but he didn’t want to dampen Fit’s mood. So he just nodded and watched the bundle of cables, little pile of some yellow powder and different metal plates get turned into a multi-purpose repair tool.

As soon as Fit found that particular tool in the list of things the fabricator can make, he dragged Techno out into the water and demanded to know where he was stashing the valuables he found. The younger spent a good twenty minutes watching Fit rummage around the five crates he had in his possession, mumbling something about different metals and cable types required to make the tool. Technically the fabricator requires ores, but the technician was convinced the metal plates would work just fine.

It was odd seeing him move around with only one arm, but he was right when he said he only really needed his legs to swim. Especially when he only had to go such a short distance. The younger became his shopping cart, carrying everything Fit deemed useful up to the pod, stashing it in a messy pile until both men eventually climbed back into the pod.

Techno still wasn’t sure where or how Fit had acquired that weird yellow powder thing and he was too afraid to ask for a detailed story after he heard the words ‘exploding fish’. He’d rather not meet whatever creature deserves the title ‘exploding’. Not that it mattered much now, with Fit proudly lifting the tool from the little pad. “This should work just fine in fixing my arm and whatever is still damaged in your pod. The stash of cables will also be quite helpful.” “If you say so.”

The pink haired man had switched from the floor to the single chair that the pod had, letting Fit have his fun with the machine. “Come on Techno, a bit more enthusiasm! This is the first step in getting us off this planet! Now come here and help me, I need a second hand to keep the prosthetic in check.” They switched places for the sake of Fit being able to keep his arm still a little better when sitting. “Okay, let’s start with the section down here…”

It took a little fiddling on Techno’s part as the other slowly instructed him on which screw he needs to loosen, until finally a section of metal plating disconnected from the arm. As soon as the cables were visible, his only job was to keep the arm steady and turn it whichever way Fit needed it. Easy enough, even with the nerve-wracking knowledge that one mistake could just destroy the prosthetic entirely.

Silence filled the small space as cables were carefully nudged around, trying to find the problem that caused his arm to stop working. If Techno thought the stuff on the ship was complex, Fit’s prosthetic was straight out of a futuristic sci-fi movie. Even more futuristic than space travel, which is quite the achievement. He dreaded the answer of ‘okay, not this part, next section’, not wanting to touch or open any more than absolutely needed. A wrong connection won’t just break the arm, but probably hurt Fit too.

“Okay I found it. Right over here. Turn it more to the right, I can’t properly reach it like this.” Techno winced when he had to twist Fit’s arm almost at a painful angle so he could see the cable better. “Good, just keep it like this…” The repair tool was a bit big to work on the tiny details of machinery, but the space between cables was just big enough to allow Fit to weld the cable back into place, connecting it back into the main circuit.

Almost immediately, the metal hand clenched into a fist. “Haha! Got it!” Techno took his hands away and watched as Fit lifted his arm, moving each finger and turning his arm this way and that, until he was sure everything worked perfectly. “This should do it. Help me close it up and we’ll get to work on this pod.” Getting the metal plating back on was a lot easier than taking it off, which makes sense if you consider how durable the prosthetic has to be.

“So, which part should we get working first?”

“The radio. We need to call for help, maybe other pods are still out there, we need to be able to receive messages from anyone we can reach.”

“Alright then. Help me get this panel off and lets get started.”

There were several charred wires inside the radio, as well as a handful of broken ones that tore in two. Fit didn’t even have to ask, Techno quickly putting on his gear again and jumping down into the water to retrieve more cables. Since he wasn’t exactly sure which cables are needed, he set out to crab a bundle of each type he could distinguish. Which wasn’t a lot, but it’s the thought that counts.

He could tell the sun was starting to lower, the light underwater starting to dim and the surface almost glowing in oranges and purples. Some fish were already starting to show their bioluminescence, zipping past Techno in little groups as he rummages through each crate. He could hear distant wails, almost sounding like whales, as well as a multitude of chirps and peeps, those more sounding like dolphins.

It was so easy to pretend he was still home, doing some diving training or similar shit. But what wasn’t easy at the end of the day was to ignore the growing unease and helplessness he feels each day, thinking of his family back home. And even with Fit now there to keep him company and a glimpse of hope, Techno still didn’t feel like he will actually make it off this planet alive.

A low rumble made Techno halt in his movements, heart stopping.

He slowly turned, hand tightly wrapped around the metal shard he still uses as a weapon. But no matter where he looked, he couldn’t spot anything nearby. Only small fish, the largest ones barely as wide as his chest. Nothing that could produce that kind of noise, at least not that he thinks. Nothing that looked even remotely like some sort of predator.

“Techno? You okay? You are taking an awful long time down there buddy.”

Fit’s voice echoed through the little mic inside the mask, usually meant for the little system telling him he was running low on oxygen. Techno took a shaky breath, trying to calm his nerves as he grabbed the bundles of cables he collected so far. “Yeah, I’m coming up. Thought I heard something.” With one final look around, he swam up towards the bottom hatch, just wanting to get out of the water.

He didn’t spot the curious eyes watching him, observing his every move.

“Fucking hell. The rest of the pod might be fine, but the fucking radio took a beating and a half.” Fit cut off another broken piece of cable and gave it to Techno, who measured the length on a new piece and handed it back. “At least it’s the radio and not the life support. You are absolutely sure yours doesn’t work anymore?” “I am not even sure if my pod is still above water or not.”

He did mention that most of his pod was broken, but the floatation devices had apparently worked. “So swimming over to your pod is not an option? At least for the radio?” “Techno, buddy, I have no idea where the fuck my pod is. The waves probably carried it away.” The younger snorted. Fair enough, none of their pods had any sort of anchor. Which might be a good idea to make, considering he had a very valuable stash down below that he doesn’t want to lose.

“I mean, mine didn’t move much.”

“Maybe because you are half surrounded by rocks, the current isn’t as strong.”

“Okay I may not be the best at mechanics but I know that’s not how drifting works.”

“See? I know just about zero things concerning the ocean. We can complete each other’s knowledge.”

Now Techno did start to laugh. It was such a silly thing, arguing back and forth like this. But it did the trick in making them both feel a lot better. “I wouldn’t swim over there right now anyways. It’s getting dark and I am fond of seeing what’s around me when I’m on some unknown alien planet.” Fit just rolled his eyes and went back to work. “I put so much work into this radio, I am not giving up. Just give me some time to figure things out.”

Techno just shrugged and tossed the broken cable into the little pile in the corner. Maybe the fabricator can find some use for them, but he doubts it. The water outside the bottom hatch was growing darker, showing the brilliant coloured lights that hide during the day. The sky was quickly following, although it will probably be another hour or so before the sun is fully set.

“Another cable please.” The younger looked away from the sky and took the charred piece of cable, looking for a fitting replacement. “Fit?” A hum was the only response, the older too concentrated on welding a loose circuit board back into place. “Do you think someone else survived? With the way our pods looked… and how the ship crashed.”

Fit sighs, finally placing the tool on the ground and leaning against the wall. “I hope so. Almost all in tact pods were launched, I doubt the two of us are the only survivors.” Both their gazes went back to the sky, watching faint orange clouds slide by the glass. “I miss Etoiles, fucking bastard. He still owes me a rematch in the ring.”

Right, the French man from the gym. He was quite fun, but Techno only had few short conversations with him. “Do you know him well? I’ve barely talked too him.” Fit smiled, twisting an old piece of cable between his fingers. “I met him on this trip, same as you. But I spent more time in the gym, so we got to chat quite a bit more I guess. I think you two would get along great.”

“Oh yeah?”

“He’s a night owl and never does things by halves, much like you. While you tend to your farm with a dedication I’ve never seen, working until you collapse, he does the same with training. Two drastically different things, I know, but it’s the same idea. It’s both of your passion.”

“What was his role on the crew? I never asked him.”

“Honestly, no idea. He’s always been my gym buddy and I never questioned it much, we were all on board for a reason.”

That was true. He was probably another mechanic or something, like most of the crew.

“How about you? Do you miss anyone in particular? I know you are not much of a social person, but there has to be someone you spent some time with.”

Techno let his mind wander, recalling all the different faces he had seen on the ship, only few where he could confidently match a name to. Fit was one of the people he talked to the most and he’s right here, so who else…

“I guess Toby? He’s a good kid, spent some time in my area just rambling about projects and experiments he was doing. Said I’m a good listener and don’t kick him out within 20 minutes, even if I didn’t understand a single thing he said. It’s odd how used I am to his chatter… I hate how quiet it has gotten without it.”

Just thinking about the possibility of Toby being dead made his stomach churn. He is so young… far too young to risk his life on a mission like this. But he was the captain’s son, so if he wanted something, he got it. And this mission was like a dream come true for a young mechanic and inventor like himself. Who knows how much he begged his father to take him along, let alone give him the proper training for space travel.

It was a little sad, honestly. Despite having everything delivered to him on a silver platter, he seemed quite sad most days. Lonely. You never saw him with his father or other members of the crew, usually you found him by yourself. Maybe that’s why he liked being in Techno’s farming area. Techno was willing to give him some company and let him ramble about his ideas and machines. Sometimes he even allowed him to bring his newest invention there to work on and demonstrate what it can do.

Fuck, his heart ached when he thought of that radiant smile after he complimented his little companion robot he built. And it stung even more knowing that his latest blueprints had been a little harvester he wanted to build for Techno.

Fit hummed in agreement. “Yeah… I hate how young he was. Or is, hopefully.” “I helped him into a pod I think. I can’t remember. I hope he’s okay…”

A loud boom echoed over the waters, the sound making both men jump.

“The fuck was that?!”

“How would I know?!”

Techno scrambled for the ladder, climbing up to the hatch to push it open. His first instinct was to look towards the ship, maybe some section of it exploded. It seemed unchanged from the outside… if something inside exploded no one could tell. Fit squeezed out of the hatch next to him, looking around. “Techno, over there!”

Both men stared at something just east of the ship, where black smoke was rising up into the darkening sky. 

Chapter Text

The pod rocked with the waves, swaying them back and forth on the calm sea as they stared at the black smoke just east of them.

It was hard for Techno to tell what Fit was thinking about this situation. On one side, he was grinning like a madman, like he just lost the rest of his sanity. Not that the younger would blame him for that in any way.

On the other hand, his eyes were also widened with horror, a stark contrast to the maddening grin on his face. His tone as he asked, "Do you think it could be another pod?", didn't help at all.

Techno pulled a face. "Uh, well it has to be, it's not connected to the ship I think?" The ‘I think’ was mostly unnecessary, they both could clearly see that whatever caused the explosion was miles away from the ruins of the ship. Miles might be an overstatement, but it was hard to tell anything from such a great distance.

Silence hung in the air as the two stared at the horizon. The sky darkened by the minute, barely a sliver of light still coming from the setting sun, most of the sunset colours already gone and replaced by a glittering night sky.

"Yeah alright, we're going there and check it out." And Fit dropped down the ladder, back into the pod, without even glancing at Techno.

"Wha- no we're not?" Techno followed down, just to see Fit already scrambling to put on all of his gear, much to the younger’s own dismay, who kept being ignored by his friend. Nevertheless, he kept trying to convince him that this was a terrible idea.

"I mean- It's already dark, we wouldn't be able to properly see where we are swimming!" Fit was pulling on the extra parts of his suit, fastening the oxygen tank onto his back, freshly refilled while they had tried to repair the radio. "So we go there now, before it's too late and we have to wait an entire night." “It’s already dark!” “Not fully!”

Techno kept himself from rolling his eyes. Probably because he was less annoyed than he was panicked, but that didn't matter.

"Even if we reach the other pod- Fit for god's sake no we are not going-" And Fit was already pulling the mask over his head to rest around his neck, in case he will need it. But Techno’s complaining did finally work, as the older stared at him now. "What if someone is out there, needs our help right now, and we are just sitting here even though we know they are there?"

Techno put up a hand on the ladder to support his weight and leaned on it. "Fit, please-"

"Techno there was an explosion there and something must've caused it for it to go off only now and not immediately when the pods landed!"

Techno sighed, closing his eyes and pinching his eyebrows together in frustration. Fit only continued, sensing the weak spot in his defences. "There are so many possibilities Techno! It could have been a person that causedthis, who is now injured and can't keep themselves above water!"

The younger just opened his eyes again and stared up at the hatch to avoid Fit's eyes. There was no point in arguing, yet still he did. And if he looked at Fit and saw him with a pleading look in his eyes, it would just continue, because he himself wants to believe there is someone out there now, who can be saved and can join them. But he was also so fucking terrified of going into the water after dark…

Fit walked forward to lay a hand on his arm, holding it gently. And he kept pushing it.

"Techno, if we don't go now, you and I both..." He took a deep breath. "If we'll find a body floating towards us in the next days, we will know that it's them. That there was a person aboard that pod as it exploded, and we did nothing." Fit's tone was now drilling into him. "We did nothing and that person might've made it out alive if they had just received our help."

Techno sighed and shrugged the other's hand off. "Fit, please. Be realistic. The smoke was coming from somewhere close to the horizon, yet we still felt and heard the explosion all the way over here. Do you really think someone could've survived that?”

And Fit stayed quiet at that. Silence stretched out again, laying its claws around Techno's throat like a tired cat. He had the need to continue his argument, keep fighting despite knowing Fit won’t listen to him anyways. He could practically see Fit's next words already forming behind his lips. And so he did, he continued.

"Besides, if we go now, we will just lose sight of our own pod in the dark. And..." He threw his hands up, with which he just barely missed hitting himself with the side of the ladder, "And someone's unconscious body would be too hard to drag, or carry or whatever, inside the water."

Techno finally moved his gaze back to Fit, who just stared at where his hands were a second ago. Face blank, distant.

"Is it really worth it?" Techno whispered, and let his own painful defiance seep into his words. He understood the thoughts of Fit, he also felt that need to go and help a survivor- but risking his own life for someone who might already be ripped to pieces?

"Techno, what if it's someone you or I know?" God damnit. He also felt the need to go and help a friend. And... the underlying message of Fit's spoken words didn't have to be said out loud.

'Do you think you could handle the guilt of seeing the body of a friend, floating towards you over shallow water, no movement, nothing at all. Would you be able to handle knowing that you could've saved them? Or at least give them a moment and hold them as they breathed their last word?'

No, he would not be able to handle it if he saw the body of someone he knew. If he saw Etoiles, or Quackity, or Toby…

Techno groaned loudly.

"Okay, GOD. Alright go ahead and get them then. I am staying here, maybe I’ll find something to-"

Fit grinned. Techno did not like that.

"Nuh-uh. A person might be too heavy for one person without proper swim training to carry, but with the two of us?" He bumped his fist against Techno's chest a little too hard, making him grunt. "You have some good strength in your body, I can see that from just your build! If we are getting someone out of there, we can only do it together."

Fit really was a madman. He should've never thought that the guy who made it across the sea, from one pod to another, with a non-functioning, METAL arm, was in any way normal or sane. Techno stared at him dumbfounded and unfazed.

"You sound as if you're giving a bad motivational speech."

Fit's smile only grew wider as he picked up the other suit and threw it at Techno's face.

"I basically am, am I not? I read too many of those posters in the gym to NOT use those lines against you." Techno groaned a second time. But there was no bad blood behind it. Fit already knew anyway that he had Techno convinced. And he was clearly quite proud of himself for that.

It was only emphasized by Fit stemming his hand proudly on his hips as he watched Techno struggling into the suit and equipment.

"Besides, if only one of us focuses on where the two of us are swimming, the other can keep his eyes on the pod, so we would know in which direction we should be returning. Would work, wouldn't it? Maybe you can use the sky or something mister geography."

Techno zipped up the suit and pushed the mask onto his face.

"...If you are the reason we die in those waters tonight, I am personally strangling you."

As expected from swimming towards something you only saw at the horizon, it took ages to reach it.

While Fit took the lead, keeping his eyes on the smoke as they steadily swam towards it, Techno kept looking around and made sure to know which way their pod is. He hated the fact that Fit was right, he could use the stars and giant red mood as help to remember their way back, though he had to be careful, since those positions change throughout the night.

But so far, he could still kind of make out the little black dot that is their current home.

His limbs were starting to get tired, the already long day of swimming not helping his stamina in the slightest. How was this in any way a good idea? By the time they get to whatever wreck they will find, they’ll be too exhausted to swim back.

“Fit, I really think we should turn back. This is much further than we thought and-“ “We’re almost there, just a bit longer.” He grumbles under his breath, but dutifully swims right behind his friend. He may hate the idea, but he won’t just turn around and leave Fit by himself.

Techno looked to his left, where the burning remains of their ship sat half submerged in water, an occasional creak or crack echoing over the water. It still stung every time he saw it, a painful, cruel reminder of his current situation.

Sometimes he still hopes that this was all a nightmare, that he’ll wake up at home and everything will be okay.

But instead, he keeps waking up here and is forced to try and find a way home by himself.

Well, not entirely by himself.

“Techno look!” The younger strained his neck, trying to spot whatever Fit was seeing. They were still quite a bit away from the smoke, but something else had his attention now.

Only a short distance away, a large piece of debris was rocking on the waves. It almost looked like a chair from the pods…

And draped over that debris was a person.

“Fuck…” Fit changed his course immediately, pushing himself to the person’s side within a few beats, Techno close behind him. He tried to get a good look at the body, swimming around the debris until he was finally able to see their face.

His heart stopped.

“Oh shit…” “Toby!”

Techno practically climbed onto the chair, trying to get a better look, see any kind of lethal injury. One of his hands shakily pressed against the boy’s neck, desperately trying to find a pulse. Burns covered half of the teen’s face, his clothes charred and sticking to his skin. The salty water could by no means be good for his wounds.

“Come on, come on… don’t do this to me Toby!” Fit checked the rest of his body for anything that could be bleeding, all while Techno pressed two fingers to his pulse point. Fuck, Fit had been right. They should have left earlier, should be here much sooner. Why did he have to be such a coward-

“Techno, we should-“

“I got it!”

The younger nearly cried when he felt a weak, steady thump against his fingers. They’re not too late, he can still be saved.

“He’s alive Fit!”

“I know Techno, I know.”

“We have to get him to the pod!”

“I’m working on it.”

Fit carefully took off the mask still around his neck, shaking out the water before he gently began tugging it over Toby’s head and onto his face. That way no water will be able to get into his lungs as they carry him back. The little foggy spot over the boy’s mouth was the only thing keeping Techno sane.

He began to tug the younger off the debris, using Fit’s help, who fully climbed on the debris to push it underwater with their combined weight. It was safer than dragging Toby’s charred body over the surface.

“You got him?” “Yeah, I think so. You keep that weapon ready, just in case.”

They manage to get his unconscious body on Techno’s back, who huffed a bit as he did some experimental kicks with his legs. “Just stick close, he’s connected to your oxygen tank.”

And so they swam back, with Fit keeping one hand on Toby’s back, making sure he doesn’t slip off as Techno desperately swam towards their pod. He never went that fast in his life, his muscles screaming at him that this was a terrible idea, he will hurt all over tomorrow. But that didn’t matter, not with Toby’s life on the line.

“Techno you will tire yourself out like this-“

“No time, he needs first aid as soon as possible.”

Not for the first time since stranding here did Techno wish he had one of those fancy gliders he saw on the ship, both able to be used in space and for underwater travel. Usually back on earth, but hey, it’s also useful now. It would go so much faster.

Silence settled between the two men as they swam, saving as much of their energy as they could. It didn’t help that Techno was also desperately trying not to drown himself with the added weight, but he refuses to use his own mask in case Toby needs his oxygen as well.

That was, until there was a soft groan right next to his ear, the body on his back shifting ever so slightly. Techno turned his head as far as he could, watching as the boy’s eyelids flutter ever so slightly. It only made Techno try and swim faster. “I got you Toby, it’s okay. Just hold on a bit longer. I’m here.”

Finally, they could spot the lights of his pod, the little dots moving up and down with the waves. Almost there, only a little bit further.

“Techno we can switch of you are getting tired-“ “No, I’m fine. Make sure he doesn’t slip off.” He sputtered a bit when a little wave splashed against his face, but he didn’t let that slow him down in the slightest.

The movement on his back started again, a little whine meeting his ear when Toby most likely strained one of the burns. “Tech?” It was so quiet, so weak, it almost made Techno cry again. “I’m here Toby, I’m here. I got you.” There was another pained whine, and he swore he could feel something hot drop onto his neck, far warmer than the water they were currently in. “Tech.” Just as weak, but shaky with tears.

Techno swims faster.

It took far too long for his liking until they finally reached the pod. They switched out Fit’s mask for Techno’s own, so that the older could climb into the pod and open the bottom hatch for them. Techno took a deep breath and dove underwater, dragging Toby the few feet it took until they reached the hatch.

Fit was there immediately, carefully lifting the boy into the pod as Techno dragged himself up and out of the water, all his limbs shaking with exhaustion. But he couldn’t rest, not yet. “Please tell me there is something to treat burns in the med-kit.” Fit rummages around in the red box, pulling our bandages and band-aids, a tiny sewing kit and some little jars. “There is, but not a lot. We need to check which burns are the worst.”

Techno kept Toby’s healthy hand tightly clasped in his own as he watches Fit examine the burns on his face. He would help, but he is far too shaky to go near wounds like that. He’ll just end up hurting him more.

The boy whimpered and cried as Fit worked, carefully cutting away pieces of clothes and using the salve wherever he could. All while Techno kept reassuring him that he’s there, everything will be alright. And while he couldn’t be sure if Toby was hearing him, repeating those words were also a desperate attempt at keeping himself calm too.

He did need to help Fit loosely bandage the burns, but that was far easier than going near them with a knife.

“Okay, this should do it. Clothes near burns removed, it has been decently cooled through the water, loosely bandaged with pain relieving salve. This should be all. Now all that is left is wait.”

Techno just nodded, his thumb stroking over the back of Toby’s hand. Now that the burns are bandaged and protected, he placed his jacket over the boy, a meagre attempt at keeping him warm.

The crying eventually calmed down, most likely from the pain-reliever, leaving the teen to have a hopefully decent sleep.

Right. Now all that was left to do is wait for him to get better.  

Chapter Text

Despite his exhaustion, Techno barely slept at first.

He remained propped up against the wall, nodding off every now and again, but never for more than 20 minutes at a time. His hand remained tightly curled around Toby’s, pressing his thumb up against his pulse point whenever he jerked out of a light sleep. His body was complaining with every movement, muscles aching from the lack of rest, but he remained stubborn until his body physically just gave out.

Fit was dealing with the whole situation a lot better than Techno. While the younger was a nervous wreck shaking with exhaustion but refusing to sleep, he maintained some sort of schedule and tried to keep himself busy. He would check on the burns every couple hours to make sure nothing was infected or opening up, coaxed some water into the unconscious boy to make sure his body stays hydrated and continued to fiddle with the radio for a while.

But he didn’t just care for Toby, but for Techno as well. Hours after the rescue, when the sun was already up again, he had to practically force feed the younger with what was left of their rations, both food and water. Techno didn’t have the energy to protest after the third attempt and just accepted defeat.

When the younger did end up sleeping a bit longer, body just shutting down entirely, Fit did his best to cover the lights of the pod and not disturb him. He nodded off soon after, despite his plan to have some sort of guard schedule where at least one of them would be awake in case Toby ended up waking up.

Which didn’t happen for quite some time.

Both men lost count of how much time was passing, even with the attempts of scratching little marks into the metal of the pod. Their sleep was too irregular in length and frequency to know if they only slept an hour or from one night to the next. Techno, once he fully passed out, slept for at least 12 hours.

Eventually, with their rations empty, Fit decided to try and catch one of the fish, the only real source of food they had, unless they want to live on a diet entirely made of dried kelp or some shit, if this planet even had edible plants (for humans). On top of that, they need to start figuring out a way to gather clean water too, those rations as good as gone as well. Just one problem after the other…

Fit left the pod with his spear contraption, contemplating on where he should try and hunt. While they haven’t seen any large predators just yet, he also doesn’t want to risk spilling blood near the pod, where it could possibly attract danger. In the end he decided on a little valley a good distance away, covered in little corals and anemone like plants.

While he went on his hunt, Techno took care of checking and rewrapping the bandages. With the at least decently long sleep his shaking had stopped just enough to give him some confidence in not hurting the boy. He still felt like shit, but not as bad as before.

Toby whined a little as the older worked, the pain reliever long since losing their effectiveness on the wounds. He never truly woke up, but he reacted to things around him, loud sounds or touches to his healing, painful wounds. Techno murmured soft apologies as he worked, cringing when he saw one of the wounds developing large blisters.

“Those are good… they help healing… don’t let them pop…” Fleeting memories of first aid classes and biology lessons float by, only a small help in making sure that whatever they are trying to do to help might actually be working. He also remembers something about salt water, but he can’t remember if it was a good or a bad thing for a burn.

The possibility of broken bones or some other internal injury was still there, but those were things that neither Fit nor Techno knew how to take care of it. He prayed that Toby was alright outside of the obvious burns…

Techno froze in his movement when a deep rumbling noise echoed through the small space. Something that definitely did not come from inside the pod. He stayed still, carefully listening for any more sounds. For a second, he debated whether or not he should quickly comm Fit and warn him, but making a noise right now seemed like a terrible idea.

Another rumble came from somewhere outside, louder this time. Techno could feel the sound vibrate through his bones. Toby beside him whined again, most likely not enjoying the vibrations at all. “Shhh… shhhh it’s okay…” He squeezed his hand, the reassurance more for himself rather than the boy, but hopefully enough to keep him quiet.

Suddenly, the pod was seemingly bumped by something, making it sway left and right harshly. The man yelped, clinging to the ladder with one hand, holding Toby with the other. Fuck fuck fuck-

He reached for his mask, attempting to use its commlink to call Fit, but froze when he saw movement outside the window of the bottom hatch. Where he could usually see the coral reef below was now a solid wall of scales, slowly sliding past. Techno did not dare to move. The scales looked huge on their own, showing that whatever creature they belong to must be massive. They had a sandy, almost golden colour, with a lighter coloured pattern curling around the scales.

But as soon as they had showed up in his vision, they disappeared again, the creature suddenly making a sharp turn apparently, pulling it’s body out of view. The swaying of the pod stopped for a few moments, but the sounds didn’t. Another low rumbling, but a bit higher in pitch.  

Techno took a shaky breath, fist unclenching from around the bar of the ladder, grabbing the mask and sitting beside Toby again, his free arm laid over him in a weak attempt of protecting him.

The pod shook again, metal creaking slightly as the entire thing tilted to one side. Techno yelped, pulling Toby into his arms, despite his cries of discomfort. He was shaking, mask clattering to the ground as he practically wrapped himself around Toby like a shield.

The light from outside dimmed.

Techno looked up towards the hatch.

Instead of seeing the blue sky or white clouds, he saw green. Bright, glowing green, covering the entirety of the small glass window. He was frozen with fear, not even Toby’s cries of pain being able to make him move.

The green only stayed for a moment.

Just seconds after Toby started making noises of pain again, the green moved away from the window, followed by a blur of blonde and black. The metal of the pod creaked again and with a sudden rock of movement, it returned back to normal. He could clearly hear a splash of water, another low rumble… and then it was quiet.

Techno waited for a long while, making absolutely sure that whatever the fuck that thing was, it has fully left. When he was sure it was safe, he placed Toby down and quickly grabbed his mask, pinging Fit.

“Techno? What’s-“

“Fit, something is near the pod! Something huge! Be fucking careful!”

“What? Did you see something?”

“There were scales outside the hatch, huge ones! It growled and climbed onto the pod! I don’t know if it was trying to get in, but it almost tipped us over!”

The other stayed silent for a bit, only fuelling Techno’s anxiety as he stared out the hatch, waiting for the creature to come back.

“I can’t see anything near the pod. And it’s pretty flat for a good mile or two, nothing where some big ass predator could hide. Are you sure?”

“Very fucking sure! I just saw it!”

“Okay okay, I believe you. I am on my way back now, I’ll be careful.”

They stayed on the commlink until Fit actually made it back, just in case something does happen and Techno needs to come and help him. Not that he thinks any of them would actually be able to defend themselves against some huge ass creature that will eat them in one bite.

Relief flooded Techno’s body as Fit pushed open the hatch and lifted his spear into the pod, showing off his catch. “Pretty good right?” Three different fish were all speared on the metal pole, the older man grinning proudly as he held the spear up towards Techno. “Yeah, pretty good, while I am losing my shit over a huge creature!”

Fit huffed, placing his spear on the ground. “Like I said, I didn’t see anything nearby and the pod looks fine from the outside, no scratches or dents. I feel like some big ass monster would leave some sort of mark.” He climbed fully into the pod and closed the hatch again. “Fit I swear there was something outside!” “I believe you! I just don’t think it was some massive thing. I feel like I would have seen it.”

Techno groaned, holding his head in his hands. “Fit I promise you-“ “Hey, I am not saying you are lying.” Fit gently patted his shoulder, giving him a smile. It didn’t make Techno feel any better. “How’s Toby doing?”

Techno sighed, looking up towards the boy. They are glossing over this fucking creature far too fast, but according to Fit it is gone. “Fine I think, I changed the bandages and checked how the burns are healing, but we’re out of them now. I moved him around a bit when the creature started moving the pod, I think I opened some blisters on accident.” Fit hums, taking off the jacket they were using as a blanket. Like Techno had feared, some spots on the bandages were showing a yellow colouring.

“We’ll find something else to use… maybe make something with the Fabricator. I did see some kelp forest or some shit quite a distance away, opposite of the wreck, those should be useful for something. I think it’s fine as long as we keep the burns dressed and clean. But no more dragging him around, even if the pod starts moving around.” The younger nodded, guilt pressing down on his chest as he watched Fit carefully tug the boy in again.

Then the older moved over to the Fabricator, placing one of the fish on the little pad. That sure as hell caught his interest. “You can cook with that thing?” “Of course! It’s a survival tool, it makes both machinery and food. Well, very bland, unseasoned food, but it’s safe for consumption afterwards.” Techno eyed the Fabricator wearily as Fit used it to cook the fish, not liking the sounds or lasers it was using in the slightest.

“And that is… edible?” “Sure is. I’ve eaten Fabricator made stuff before, doesn’t taste the best, but it is safe- holy shit I can turn this fish into water!” Techno visibly gagged at the thought of drinking fish water. Let alone use it for Toby. “That sounds disgusting.” “Don’t judge it until you try it!” He had to watch as Fit used his precious empty water bottle and filled it with whatever the fuck the Fabricator was making.

“I am not drinking that.”

“You will when the other water bottle empties.”

“You did not just threaten me.”

Fit just grinned and looked at the liquid in the bottle, swirling it a little. “Looks alright…”

“You can have that, not me.”

He just rolled his eyes and closed the bottle, putting it into the storage. Then he handed Techno one of the two cooked fish. “At least eat.” He can do that, cooked fish sounds far more appealing than fish water. “Thank you.”

The two sat beside each other as they ate, all while the younger stared at the bottom hatch, flinching whenever something swam past the glass.   

Chapter Text

Night crawled over the horizon, clouds floating off to the south, the bright blue sky slowly fading to a pleasant yellow. The humidity of the air gained to a wavering mist, a first for all the nights they have stayed here so far. Looking up at the top hatch, he could see little droplets and miniscule puddles forming at the edge of the glass, running down to form a circle at the edge once they turned too heavy.

But when Techno kept looking up at the glass, he could still see a trace of that terrifying green, now seared into his brain in a previous panic and now unease. Every sound, every movement he saw, a trick of his mind, making him see too large scales and bright, bright green.

Despite the obvious fear and panic and annoyance Techno felt towards what had happened, he was glad that whatever had messed with their pod didn't think of returning. If it even thinks that complex. Well, he would assume so with a creature that size... But size does not necessarily determine intelligence, so who knows. Doesn’t matter, as long as it didn’t come back, he was happy. 

Even if he still did not take the fact Fit didn’t fully believe him well, the safety Fit was guaranteeing was still better than being proven right in his terror. That though, doesn’t mean Techno was any less jumpy about anything swimming close to the thick glass bottom hatch of their pod. Fuck, he was really starting to hate the fact they had a window looking down into the water.

“Are you sure you’ll be able to put that back together?” Techno eyed the mess of cables, plates and circuits piled around Fit in some organized mess only he could understand. He had taken apart most of the radio by now, repairing and replacing whatever broken pieces he finds. How any of this mess made sense to him was beyond Techno, but he won’t start complaining when Fit is literally the only one able to repair their radio. “About ninety percent, yeah.” Techno sighed. “How reassuring.”

With Fit busy and the younger unable to help him this time, Techno was left to entertain himself. He did so by reading all the scans Fit had made when hunting fish, learning about the ecosystem they were now forced to be part of. Apparently, the largest creature he had seen so far was about the size of a dolphin and according to the scans, not a predator. There have been a few, but all of them are too small to pose a real threat to the two humans. 

Fit did suggest that maybe what he saw below the bottom hatch had just been a large swarm of fish who dumbly hit the pod a bit harshly while swimming by, but Techno wasn’t entirely convinced that the fish would be able to get to the top of the pod to form a big, glowing green mass to stare down at him. Fit continued arguing that it was maybe his paranoia playing it up.

Although, the thought of a school of small flesh-eating fish wasn’t exactly a calming thought either.

While one by itself was harmless, having 50 of them swarm you was more terrifying than one large predator. He needs to make himself some proper weapon soon, no way he’ll leave the pod without it. Not that some makeshift blade or spear would harm some massive creature (that he was still convinced he saw), but maybe it could buy him some time for an escape or something. And it would be a help against the smaller threats. 

When night came, Fit carefully moved and organized all the radio parts in one corner so both of them could go to sleep. The last bit of colorful dusted sky they could see faded to black and stars peeked out as the older got comfortable in his spot beside the still unconscious teen, Toby, snoring against his side, covered in Techno’s jacket. He seemed well enough, face not scrunched in pain, so his burns shouldn’t have been too badly affected after the accidental movement earlier. 

But despite all the stress of today, Techno couldn't find it in himself to even just close his eyes for more than a minute, let alone come to rest. After he had just managed to find some small amount of sleep after Toby’s rescue, he now had a brand new fear keeping him awake.

There had already been reason enough to fear the ocean beneath them, with its limitlessness horizon and depth, unknown species of mammals, fish and plants.
And now also unknown creatures, that you would call monstrosities on Earth. He could soothe his mind thinking it was something like a whale, but what kind of whale could swim away that fast, let alone fling out of the water and land on top of a pod without sending it trundling across the surface and shaking its interior up completely?

In the dim light he stared at the gaping void beneath their pod, now even less illuminated than before, watching as little air bubbles moved at the glass. He tensed whenever he made out a movement somewhere in the water below that got too close for his liking. The bioluminescent creatures went on about their business, not bothered or aware of Techno watching them swim around. 

He sat unmoving for hours maybe. Knees pulled to underneath his chin, eyes fixed on the hatch. His body complained within the first twenty minutes, back aching with the awkward position he sat in, but he couldn’t care less at the moment. 

This was as close as he would probably ever get to a living night-terror. Techno had to hold down a sick gag and his vomit following, when a curious fish bumped its anterior against the glass and he had a feeling those empty eyes lingered on him for too long. A trick of the light making the empty eyes reflect back a bright green. 

And every now and again, he could swear he saw the same bright green glow in the void below, hidden too far away in the darkness to see what exactly it belonged to.


Morning came gradually, fading the black, star-sprinkled sky into soft pinks and velvet orange. 

Techno woke at first light through the hatch.

He hadn't meant to fall asleep, and he didn't remember when he did, but opening his eyes tiredly, he stared into the sea below. The waves slowly rocked them up and down and the illuminated ocean glimmered at its bottom with all of the crates he had dragged underneath it.

His head laid on the glass, sharing the same odd warmth as the water around them, offering little comfort to the aching in his bones from the hard floor and odd position he had slept in. He blinked sleepily into the water, still slowly waking up, trailing the patterns of sunlight glimmering over the sand and plants, reflecting back up at him.

Out of seemingly nowhere, a fish swam right into the glass from the side, bumping half its body into the circular glass. Techno yelped, his eyes shooting open and his head snapping off the ground. His body wasn't quite awake as his panic though, which just ended up with his hands slipping from beneath him and his head slamming against the glass again in full force, making him groan in pain as he rubbed over his sore forehead and nose. God with how warm his upper lip and nose felt now, he wouldn’t be surprised if he actually got a nosebleed from that. The impact surely would’ve been enough-

The pain was immediately forgotten upon hearing the most beautiful, relieving yet so pained sound in the world.

A weak, raspy giggling, coming out as something more alike to a shaken cough. But a giggle nonetheless.

Techno never got up faster in his life, nearly tripping over, but managing to grip onto the ladder beside him to not fall flat on his face again. His eyes were unfocused for just a second, but it still managed to feel like too long before his sight sharpened up again.

There, actually mere inches in front of him, sat Toby. Propped up against the wall, but nonetheless actually sitting and not leaning on one of them. And the boy’s mouth corners were raised just so slightly in a snicker, laughing at him. Actual joy in his finally open, alive eyes.

Toby was breathing in amused huffs, his eyes tired but focused on him.

And Toby was awake.

He felt his arm which held him up, shaking underneath him, threatening to give out. Nevermind, he could just so feel his lips quivering. Maybe it was all of him that was shaking? 

His voice struggled to form words, and finally when croaking out “Toby…?” it was more like a shudder of the air between them, more like a whisper that was prepared not to be heard, less than an actual projection of his voice.

Toby pulled his lips further into a shy smile, but winced when the skin beneath his new bandage was moved. His voice didn’t sound better when he answered.

“You okay, Big Man? Looked pretty bad there.” Throat having gone unused for days, made every word vibrate in a dry and raspy tone. There was something pained to it, like every breath of air caused pain to echo throughout him at the inside of his own being. Maybe it was the prolonged time he hadn’t said more than just two words or a groan, maybe it was an open wound left untreated and still getting seared by remaining salt of the salt water he might’ve swallowed. Techno wasn’t sure.

But still, he was breathing, he was alive, he was awake. How relieving to see after days and hours of uncertainty, of waiting for a sign that he would ever wake again and wasn’t stuck in some deep coma for the rest of his life. And Techno really couldn’t be any happier about it. Fuck, now he was unsure if the warmth on his face was the maybe-nosebleed or if those were tears slowly but surely streaming down his face.

“I’m okay, I’m okay.” He wiped at his face with his sleeve experimentally, not caring to see if there were any stains on it afterwards. “How are you feeling?” He continued, crawling over on shaking limbs, over to his other free side, only now noticing Fit sitting next to Toby, again treating wounds and fixing bandages like they do daily.

Taking his uninjured hand with unsure fingers as Fit worked on the burns, they stayed silent for a moment. Toby flinched when the bandage got rewrapped, hissing through his teeth, calloused fingers that he found familiar, clenching around Techno’s hand weakly.

“Honestly? Like shit.” Techno huffed in a laugh but returned to being completely serious once Fit showed him a pointed look. Tubbo soundlessly chuckled, seeing that his comment successfully landed, tensing his shoulder and letting them sag too quickly. The bandage which had been applied carefully before, moved its place and let some kind of salve drip out from underneath it. Techno nodded, squeezing Toby's hand until the bandage was tied again. “It will get better as the burns heal.” His hand shook a bit as it held Toby’s, guilt over his wounds twisting in his chest, despite the explosion being by no means his fault. “We don’t have any salves left to treat them or pain medication, I’m sorry.”

The boy looked up at him, his hand weakly squeezing back, eyes glittering with unshed tears, though it was unclear to him if the tears came from the pain or overwhelming emotions. “You saved my life. What are you apologizing for?” The guilt only grew, even with his reassurance. “That I can’t do more to make it hurt less.” He could feel Fit giving him a look, but he only cared for Toby right now, and for the guilt eating him up ever since they rescued him. “Tech… I am alive because of you and Fit. That is the only thing-.” 

He started coughing, the lack of water and unused voice finally getting to him. Fit helped immediately, holding the water bottle to his lips as soon as the coughing gave him an opportunity to catch his breath. Toby took a few greedy gulps, his healthy hand still clutched in Techno’s own. “There you go, that better?” Fit gently patted his shoulder, waiting for Toby’s nod to close and put away the water. “Thank you.” 

“I’ll try and catch us some food in a bit, we are out of the emergency rations. Techno will keep you company, he’s not too fond of the water right now.” Usually, he’d give some sort of comment, defend himself or quip something back at him, but he is not too fond of water right now, not when the images of that beast were still so fresh. “Oh no, he’ll be so upset about being alone with me. What a punishment.” 

There was a little cackle from Toby as Fit gave them an over-the-top eye roll, his own laugh bouncing off the walls of their pod. It was starting to get a little cramped, with three people in a space usually meant for one, two at most. But Techno wouldn’t trade it for anything, preferring the crowded space far more than deafening silence. As long as the life support can provide for them all, everything should be fine.

The quiet, happy moment was interrupted by an icy chill running up Techno’s spine.

He is hearing it again. Felt the soft vibration of the metal beneath his fingers. A deep rumbling sound, quiet, but unmistakably the same one that has been haunting him for days, ever since he first started gathering crates and bringing Fit cables on the third day. 

“Shhhh shut up!” His voice was a harsh whisper, reaching up to cover Toby’s mouth, who responded with a confused noise. The sound grew a little closer, a little louder, making Techno’s heart race with panic. Fit and Tubbo remained frozen in place, Fit’s eyes wide, his weapon clutched tightly in his hands. 

The vibrations grew stronger the louder the noise got, only fuelling the growing panic between the three survivors. Techno didn’t dare to look at either of the two hatches, focusing his attention at some spot on the wall, still clutching Toby’s hand. He didn’t need to see scales or glowing spots to know what was waiting for them outside.

The pod began swaying again after something bumped into it, although much weaker than yesterday. Still, Toby curled against Techno’s side as much as his aching body would allow, eyes wide in terror, his body shaking. Techno kept him close, one hand clutching the younger’s while he carefully wrapped the other arm around his shoulder.  A weak attempt at protectiveness, much like yesterday.

Oddly enough, it remained at only one, gentle bump against the pod. The swaying stopped shortly after, though the rumbling stayed for a bit. But within minutes, the rumbling got quieter… and quieter… until it was fully gone again, as if it had never been there in the first place. 

When he was sure that it was safe again, he shot a look over at Fit, who met his gaze immediately. “Told you.” The older man stared at the wall where the sound had been coming from, still clinging to his weapon. “I am never doubting you again.” “What do you mean told you? Did it show up before?” Toby looked between the two, still staying close to Techno. “It did, according to Techno. Yesterday, while I was out hunting.” 

Scared brown eyes looked towards him now, waiting for an explanation. “It bumped the pod and climbed on top of it… I saw it’s scales through the hatch. Something massive… I hoped it wouldn’t come back.” 

“It climbed on top of the pod?” 

“Yes, I could see it through the top hatch.” 

“Do you think it’s here to kill us?”

“I don’t know… I think it could just break the pod if it wanted to.” 

“Maybe it doesn’t know there is food in here.” 

“I’ll go check if it’s gone.” Before either of his friends could protest, Fit climbed up the ladder, slowly pushing the top hatch open. There was a tense silence as they waited for confirmation that the creature had left. The oldest didn’t say anything for far too long. “Fit?” “It’s gone.” 

The mood noticeably calmed but Fit still didn’t climb back down. Instead, he held his hand out towards Techno. “Give me the scanner.” Confused, Techno fetched the little device and placed it into Fit’s awaiting hand. “What are you doing?” “Just read out the scan when it comes through.” With that, the other fully climbed out of the pod. 

Techno gave a confused look towards Tubbo, who just shrugged in response. The little PDA gave a beep only a few minutes later, signalling the arrival of a new scan. He grabbed it immediately, surprise clear on his face as he saw that Fit had scanned a plant. “Why are you scanning plants up there?” “Just read it out please, I’m curious.” The bald head of his friend poked in through the hatch, but he remained outside. 

Techno frowned but did as he was told, opening the log and reading over the notes. His eyes widened when he got to a certain section just after a description of its appearance and usual location. “Tech? What does it say?” Toby tried to push himself up a little and see the screen. Fit was equally curious, leaning down further. 

Techno read over the section again, just to make sure he understood it correctly, before reading it out loud for the others.

‘Scans suggest that the oils held within the plant contain a great medical use. When ground up and applied to wounds, it will have a cooling effect as well as using the sticky substance to seal the wound off from outside disturbances such as dirt or water. The soothing effect it causes can be utilized both for internal and external irritations of an organism.’

“What the fuck…” He stared up at Fit, eyes wide. “Where the hell did you…?” The other gave him an uneasy smile as he lifted himself out of the pod again, voice still ringing clear from outside the pod as Fit moved around. “So, funny story…” There was a grunt, then a large bundle of plants landed inside the pod with a wet splash. “I found it floating next to the pod. Same side the noise came from.” 

Techno stared down at the plants, noting how they were arranged in a neat bundle, tied together in the middle by another piece of some vine. He looked up at Fit, who must have noticed the same thing. Medical plant, neatly bundled, showing up outside their pod while they were trying to help their injured friend. 

“Call me crazy… but I think that creature brought this.” 

All three of them just stared at the plants that were innocently sitting in the middle of the pod. 

“What the fuck is going on…”

Chapter Text

“So… this is supposed to heal?” Toby eyed the plant suspiciously as Techno and Fit worked on grinding some of the heavy leaves into a thick paste, like the scans suggested.

Sure, this was probably not really sanitary in the slightest, using some spare plating as a massive chopping board for Fit’s knife and then just grinding the plant into a paste with whatever they could find… but hey nothing about this was really sanitary in the first place. Kind of hard to do with no showers or soap or a way to properly wash tools. They did at least have the mind to use the little alcohol wipes to clean the knife and metal before using it to try and make medicine. Plus, the leaves were given to them by some giant sea creature and left at their pod, and who the hell knew how sanitary that thing’s claws were in the first place.

Techno grumbled in suspicion, still not trusting that giant creature thing in the slightest. “Well, I do hope it does.” Toby squirmed seeing the heavy gaze Techno had on that bottom hatch, knowing there was the creature somewhere down there. Knowing Techno, he was probably already plotting the murder of said creature, if the leaves did in fact not work and would only harm him further. The younger appreciated the thought, but still it was just slightly unnerving that his friend doubted the scan’s information. Was definitely very calming that the one person he trusted the most here, did not trust the stuff that was going on his injuries in a second. 

Fit sighed, seeing the youngest’s growing unease, and crouched down in front of him. Which, in retrospect, seemed like a bad idea with the pod rocking back and forth on the waters, so he kneeled down instead of balancing on just his feet. Toby’s eyes fell on him and locked in on his face.

Fit considered his words carefully before he began to speak. “Listen, we don’t have any actual medical supplies left to treat your burns. If this can help you, has even the slightest chance of treating your injuries and make them heal faster, we are going to try it.” Toby’s body stiffened and he nearly visibly backed away against the wall. Fit’s face fell, before jumping back to word, “Of course only with your consent, Toby. It’s your body after all”, he hurried to add, to hopefully ease his fear a little bit. 

It seemed that Fit also sometimes forgot how Toby was just a kid, just how Techno had in the beginning of their journey through space. With everyone you ever interacted with on the ship being trained to receive orders and knowing how to distinguish a suggestion or idea from an actual order that you couldn’t question… You were so probable to forget that there might be a person together with you on that journey, that wasn’t taught that, solely for the purpose of keeping the innocence or freedom of his age.

Fit tested the substance on his finger, under the watchful eyes of Toby, rubbing it slowly over his skin. All three of them stared at the area, all awaiting some visible effect, that would confirm that the scan had been wrong, too much focused on human nature and unfamiliar with alien plants to know their actual concomitant.

Within a few moments Fit only sighed, relaxing visibly, drawing the other’s eyes on him. Oh, he could definitely feel that cooling effect the scan had described, its working wonders on his slight sunburn that has been building slowly but surely for the past days.

Fit cleared his throat quickly with a cough. “Okay. I think this is good… Doesn’t burn or sting or anything”, he added looking intently between Toby and Techno to reassure them.  “Let’s test it on Techno’s hand too and maybe a weaker burn? To see if it’s the same for all of us.”

Toby nodded in response, already trying to fumble with the soft fabric of his bandages, but ultimately failing to reach the knot and instead settling to watch Techno roll up the end of his tight sleeve. Fit took a small smear of the paste, trying to save most for Toby even though there were more leaves still drifting outside in the water, close to the pod, as well as a hefty pile sitting in the corner, slowly forming a puddle of water underneath. 

The older took Techno’s wrist in one hand to support it and prevent it from swaying around too much, while the other hand applied the substance where pale skin faded into a forming red sunburn. Techno just silently lifted his hand closer to his face when Fit finished, inspecting it curiously. Fit waited for Techno’s go-ahead before he untied the bandages on Toby’s arm.

After a second, Techno nodded, following it up with a short “Works.”

Toby eagerly turned to the side to give Fit better access, the older fumbling with the little knots quickly, undoing one after the other as gently as possible. If it did hurt, Toby for sure did not give it away in any way, probably too focused that there would be relief awaiting him in just some minutes that would put enduring this to justice. Soon enough the bandages were pushed to the back, where they rested between his more severe injuries and the pod wall. Fit pushed Toby against them gently, nudging him to move in the right ways to expose a lighter burn between his arm and chest, which laid mostly covered in a normal sitting position, with the arm being in front of it. 

The boy hissed a little when the paste was spread over the raw, irritated skin, biting his teeth together and scrunching his eyes closed, to not let out a whine. Fit’s fingers continued lightly massaging the paste into that spot, searching Toby’s face for any kind of discomfort, other than the obvious ‘someone touching an open wound’ one, yet it never came. Just moments later, his face instantly relaxed, eyes fluttering open to stare down at the wound in an awkward angle, as if making sure that it’s even there. So the soothing effect must have settled in.

Fit spoke up slowly, “So…does it wor-” but Toby cut him off instantly with “Holy shit! You told me that it would just cool the wound!” Techno just switched looking between the two, a mix of amusement and confusion on his face. Fit stared at the youngest for a second before giving him a raised eyebrow, signalling him to continue. Toby grinned down at him from his place in the seat. “I swear, this feels so good. I don’t know, maybe it’s because it’s a deeper injury than just sunburned skin, and my body is maybe adding to it, or! or maybe it’s because it’s a water based plant that this injury was made by fire? Or-”

Now it was Techno’s turn to cut Toby’s ramblings short with a fond little smile. “Toby, what else did the stuff do?”

Toby snapped his ‘straight-up-manic’ eyes, as Techno liked to call them from their time on the ship, towards him. He could swear that he saw one of those over dramatic and unrealistic glimmers that you usually see in movies, shining in his eyes. “It- It numbed like the entire pain of the burn, Tech.”

Techno’s eyes went wide, very slowly drifting around between Toby and Fit again. A warble came up in his throat and it sounded like some questioning sound. But he was ignored by the other two who were already chatting away.

“This is far better than whatever shit medicine you put on the bandages before. Like really! That stuff only cooled a bit and stung like a motherfucker! This is actually good- ” The oldest snorted, putting the second metal plate holding his freshly made paste next to the one he was already working with. “Don’t get ahead of yourself, kid. This was only a small burn so the numbing effect will probably lessen on the bigger and more intense ones. My guess is that it reacted to some other substance your wound was naturally producing.” He went at the half grinded leaf with the knife again before looking up at Toby and smiling. “Or maybe you are just that special.” And he winked. Toby laughed loudly.

Techno zoned back into his senses, finally coughing the silence in his throat out. “Why the fuck is some alien medicine,” he raised his hand to the tone of his words, letting his index finger rock forward in tact to the parts of the sentence, “better than our medicine, which was professionally tested by the Federation itself! While that grass was just… just ripped out of some underwater growth?”

Fit stared at Techno, watching silently with a deadpan expression as the younger’s world seemingly fell apart behind his eyes. He sighed, but hey, out of the corner of his eye he could also see Toby practically shaking from excitement and curiosity. The youngest was nodding at him, trying to get him to explain. Seriously, why was he the only one here with at least some common sense of medicine?

“Guys, you do know that most medicine produced back on earth is literally just some chemicals thrown together, to mimic things made out of plants and animals?” 

Toby just grinned from ear to ear (he can’t imagine how that must hurt on his damaged skin and he did not want to know how the hell the kid endured it right now) and Techno stared at him dumbfounded, his locked closed jaw looking very close to falling open. Fit groaned and rolled his eyes “Come on guys it’s common knowledge, the natural medication just got more expensive to produce so they gave up on it. Again, it’s common knowledge!”

Silence filled the pod. Fit sighed and smiled. “Okay no, sorry. I was joking, my roommate during training on earth had a particular disdain against that whole medicine stuff.” Fit grimaced at the memory, making Toby giggle.

Fit looked up at him fondly, before carefully taking the ends of the bandages into his hands and wrapping Toby’s skin once again. “Let’s wait for a few minutes, see if it stays the same, then use it on all of the burns.” He patted Toby’s head. “Just in case it does start stinging once it really settles in.” The boy nodded, watching the two adults move around the pod to bring things back to their original state. 

While Fit went down into the water for just a second to grab some things from the crates, Techno started stacking the metal plates they used for making the paste carefully, cleaning the knife off and placing it in the one that was most like a bowl, so it would not fall down.

Of course Techno had objected to Fit leaving the pod at first, leaving him alone with Toby as well as risking his safety while there was that wild creature out there, but the older did convince him in the end to let him go out for just some minutes, as they needed more things and it was safe to assume that there were no large creatures near the pod at that moment.

The theory of that creature being intelligent, intelligent enough to be somewhat friendly, still hung heavy in the humid air. It was just… so odd how the plants had shown up at the edge of the pod, clearly torn off their original place and not just having drifted there. They were tied into a neat little bundle for god’s sake! All of it right after the shaking of the pod, feeling that creature visit them again.

And yet, they had no proof, even though it came so close two times. It could all be some freaky coincidence, since neither Techno or Fit have seen the thing, let alone watched it put the leaves there. The younger of them both was convinced in his theory though. Even so, Techno’s fingertips shook ever so slightly when he shoved the metal pile into the corner, the paste sticking to his finger and suddenly feeling the intention of the plant.

His fingertips buzzing and getting a pleasant chill, little left over, not-yet healed little cuts being quickly covered by a thin film, the unpleasant tingle he hadn’t even noticed leaving quickly.

A certain plant, which created a soothing effect on burns and healed wounds faster, being brought to their pod. To their pod specifically.

The back of his head, at the nape of his neck, turned heavy.

His neck felt bare, nevermind the long hair covering it, feeling too broad and too soft.

Where hair tips brushed just by the end of his ribcage, he became awfully aware of just how unprotected the back of his waist was, facing outward to the nearly empty pod.

And there were eyes on him. He was watched, preyed on.
A little voice beckoning him to trust through actions, just so he would come closer out of hiding, just so it-

“Alright, how does it feel? Anything hurting?” Fit said in a cheery tone, lifting Toby’s arm and peeling away the bandages to peek underneath. Techno gulped, quickly wiping his fingers on his suit. But thinking about it, the words were already gone, having forgotten what he just thought. Like snapping out of a daze.

He felt strange. Something missing, like a sensation that would burn your skin but in a pleasant way, suddenly gone. And he felt weary and empty from it. He shook himself from it.

He sighed, walking the few steps towards the other two and kneeling down before the boy.
Fit pulled the few bandages up higher when Toby gave a nod, for Techno to see. While the older talked to the younger, Techno checked the skin underneath the fabric, looking to find if there were any irritations visible on the surface. He mostly blocked out their talking, too concerned to discover some sort of allergic reaction or anything similar. He quickly asked if he could try to touch the burn to which Toby nodded, before hissing sharply when Techno brushed over the edge of the burn. Techno carefully let the fingers of his other hand touch down on Toby’s uninjured arm as an apology.

Toby kept on talking through the discomfort,  “... so it feels alright in general. Moving around still hurts and I guess it’s back to being damn sensitive to touch. But hey, the burn is feeling better.” The younger one grinned at the two adults.

“Alright, so we are putting it on everything?” Techno grunted out, looking at Fit for his opinion, who gave him a nod of approval.

Techno stood, quickly shuffling back to where the prepared paste laid, picking it up and holding it gently, hearing Fit murmur something about having to figure out where the plants grew on one ear.

He took the prepared paste and settled at Toby’s side, Fit already having disappeared to probably somewhere outside again, too eager to find the plants hopefully nearby. Why, he had no idea, they had a sufficient stash of it for now. But he just hoped Fit was able to take care of himself while he took care of Toby.

The youngest shifted back to lean on the wall a bit, face scrunching in discomfort when the bandages rubbed against the sensitive skin of the burns.

There was a quick silence of them staring intently at each other before Toby realised with a laugh that Techno was just waiting for him to tell him where to start. “Uhhhh, can we do my face first? That one hurts the most, I guess.” Techno nodded simply, scooping some of the makeshift medicine onto his fingers and brushing it off in the palm of the other hand, gathering a good mass to work with.

“Can you hold your hair away with your healthy arm?” Techno gestured at the dark hair still covering a good part of his facade. “If not, we can also wait for Fit to hold-“ “Nah, I got it.” Toby lifted his arm somehow quickly and carefully pushed his hair back, trying his best to avoid the burn.

Face mostly exposed, it was easy to see how the damage stretched across his skin. Taking up a large part on the right side of his face, crawling further down the side of his neck and to his shoulder. His right eye had stayed mostly closed, eyelid only raised enough so that some white peeked out in a line. Looking at it, Techno could tell that the boy could not see anything from it. Judging by the way the eyelid trembled when Toby moved his other eye to look at something else across the room, he knew that the right eye underneath was probably still intact, even though injured trying to see and make out something around him. 

He couldn’t imagine how weird Toby’s vision must look like, half normal, half static and dark because of the struggling eye, only obscured by seared and scrunched together skin refusing to move. It will probably end up being a large, permanent scar, that much was sure. But maybe he won’t ever be able to open that eye again, forever seeing the contrast of the little light, and whatever blur he could make out when looking down, coming to meet his injured eye and the dark just annoyingly enough overshadowing his sight. 

Techno’s face sagged just a bit when Toby did not look, feeling so damn sorry for the boy. He sighed, scooping the paste from his palm to his two fingers. The least he could do was make it hurt less in this moment and soften the scarring as much as they could manage to.

He carefully began spreading the paste over the burn, murmuring apologies whenever Toby flinched a little against his hand, involuntarily trying to pull away from the hurting touch. Too often his hand flew up, letting go of the hair, making the strands fall into his face and sticking to the paste, before they picked it up again. The fifth time Techno sighed and leaned back.

 “We should try to tie your hair back. Should be long enough for it.” The teen nodded, tilting his head away when Techno pointed to the left side of the pod, so the older could treat the burn on his neck. It went on quietly. “Do you have a spare hair tie?” The younger mumbled, trying not to move his throat too much while speaking. “I don’t think a cable would work, even a thin one.” Techno snorted at the suggestion.

 “I’ll check, I think I only have one, but you can have it. Your hair is more important right now.” Toby laughed, glancing back at him. “My hair is long enough to be tied with a pen, and we could use that tie so you don’t have to hold it up for hours until this stuff has dried.”

Techno slightly pushed against Toby’s left shoulder, the younger turning his torso even more so the older could reach around and treat the burns at his back. He was almost done with the burn now. “Your hair is already a damn crow’s nest, and you can tie it up.” Tubbo huffed out.
Techno just snorted, flicking him against the back of his head.

“Yet another perk of being bald.”

Toby nearly full on jumped against the wall in front of him. Techno behind him just whipped around, faster than he himself would think, staring at Fit, grinning at them like a satisfied cat. “No hair problems at all.” Toby just turned around and targeted Fit with a death glare.

He was going to question how Fit had gotten back into the pod without making a sound, but suddenly had the awful feeling that the youngest, with how he was staring at Fit, was going to stand up in a second and deck him. Which obviously, seemed more important on behalf of Fit’s old bones. 

So, he carded his fingers into Toby’s hair, and gently guided his head to face away from the oldest, at the same time speaking, “No offence Fit, you look great, but I don’t think me or kid here could pull off that look.” The oldest shrugged, grabbing the third cooked fish from the fabricator that he had left too cool. “Your loss.”

Tubbo huffed from in front of him and Techno between the two, genuinely could not tell if he was making fun of Fit’s statement, still pissed off about getting jumpscared, or if he was genuinely laughing and trying to hide it because of the same reason. 

Techno set the paste aside, now already long done with the largest burn. He pulled the hair tie out of his own hair, shaking out pink locks that have become tangled and broken already. “Here, let me try and sort your hair out.” Toby’s arm crossed in front of him, nose scrunched but still not minding when Techno’s fingers touched his scalp. “Only if I get to try and untangle yours.” the kid murmured, almost pouting, “Unless you want to just chop it all off because it got matted.”

Techno rolled his eyes and pulled Toby’s hair back, tying it into a little messy ponytail at the back. “I just might cut it short, would make it easier to maintain.” Truly, it was funny how offended Toby looked on his behalf, snapping forward at the comment, as if a car he was in just abruptly halted and gave him a shock. “You spent so long getting your hair like that! You were really proud of it back on the ship! Don’t just cut it off!” He spit.

“Well, I could properly care for it on the ship, which I can’t do now.” Toby rolled his eyes again. “It’s just hair, it’ll grow back, kid.” A strand of Toby’s hair fell out of the ponytail and stuck to the remnants of the paste. Techno plucked it out, careful to not touch the wounded skin and reached with the other hand to open the hair tie again, catching all of the hair before it fell against the wet skin again.

“But you love your hair. Just as much as your garden.” Tubbo whined. Techno sighed softly, gathering all of Toby’s hair into his hand and putting the hair tie over it again, making sure that no hair would slip out again.

“I don’t have a garden, kid.” Images of little green fields, with tiny, just sprouting plants under a variant of odd UV lights and more, flashed before his eyes. He focused on the boy before him, yet the walls became too vivid. Walls with cheap paint-

Techno stared at his fingers as they opened Toby’s hair again without him moving them, pulled the single strands into his other hand and again tied the hair tie over. The head moved around and his hands hung lost in the air, eyes still staring at that same space.

As Toby began speaking, did his eyes find focus. He snapped out of it.
Wait what was he… tying Toby’s hair, cutting his own hair, kid likes his hair, yep.

Techno sighed deeply, dropping his one hand into his lap and bringing up the other to rub at his brow instead. “Toby…“

“Don’t.”

The older snapped his jaw right shut, blinking at the younger, confused. The entire argument about his hair had been playful, or at least light, but… now Toby looked genuinely upset, eyes narrowing and staring down at him, laying his healthy arm over his chest as if to cradle it closer, as if afraid and trying to protect and hide himself. Techno’s face softened, him bringing his hands down to hover over Toby’s knee.

Toby looked like he had disgust burning in his eyes, fuelled by something of hurt.
“Don’t say ‘Toby’ annoyed like that. You nearly sound like my dad.”

Oh right. The kid had so often told him about his father during their travels, most of the time whenever that moment came up, once again being kicked out of the electrical department for being too young, or when told to busy himself with something appropriate he won’t mess up. While Techno might not hold a lot of helpful advice, or authority on the ship to actually help the kid, Toby had told him often enough, how sacred it was to him that the older even bothered to give him a safe place to wait and work at. 

In that little corner of the gardens… Just a place where he could speak his mind or find a pillow to hug when his new experiment went wrong, and he tried to keep the disappointment from dripping out. Apparently, that was enough. That, and all the times that Techno risked over-watering the plants by turning on the sprinkler, just so they could sit together on the raised pathways, leaving their legs dangling off, ankles getting sprayed by the recycled water.
They shared a lot there, just the memories tied to his gar-

Techno shook the memory off, hands resting kindly on Toby’s uninjured knee.

“Hey, kid. I promise you, I’m not annoyed.” The flame in Toby’s eyes very quickly dimmed down, just as fast and unexpected as it came. His face went sour, as if having just bitten into a bitter lie. “I’ve never been annoyed with you and I don’t plan on starting now.”, he said, pulling down Toby’s arm gently, laying it to rest in the younger’s lap. “And I’m sorry if it looked like it.”

He opened up his arms, in an invitation and Toby leaned against his side, accepting the offered comfort, as Techno carefully brought his own arm over the one uninjured shoulder, creating a small, makeshift hug.

Fit stayed quiet, somewhere on the other side of the pod, giving them what little privacy he could even muster. This wasn’t his conversation to have, with how little he knew about the subject of Toby and his father. Maybe it wasn’t even his to listen to, but climbing up the ladder and disappearing off to outside would be too loud and interrupt the mood too much. It would maybe close off Toby further instead of getting him to talk with Techno, so he stayed put, slowly sliding down the corner wall and covering himself with a jacket once he hit the floor and pulled his knees up to his chest.

“I’m… I’m sorry Tech, I shouldn’t have come off like that'' The kid murmured, voice quiet, as if that would help cover the waiver of each tone. Techno only tried even harder to somehow wrap himself around Tubbo, without hurting his wounds and while staying kneeling on the ground himself.

“Hey, it’s okay. Don’t apologize, your dad being an ass and giving you terrible memories is not your fault.” Toby sniffled a little, pressing more against his side. “I don’t even know if he’s alive…” Techno bit the inside of his cheek, trying to find the correct words. Even if Toby didn’t have the best connection with his father, he would never wish death upon him. He definitely wouldn’t. Especially a death like this. 

“He was always so annoyed with me… gave me everything I ever even mentioned that I like so I would be occupied and leave him alone. You’d think getting everything I want would make me happy… maybe I’m just spoiled for thinking like this but… Whenever he said my name it always had this… undertone to it. I hated it so much.” And, oh, that was another heavy load to unpack. “I… I’m sorry. I know it’s hard-” Toby sobbed, pressing his face to Techno’s shoulder in an attempt to hide his tears, the newly applied paste smearing onto his suit. 

Techno hugged him as tight as he dared, glancing up at Fit, who carefully settled beside them. He placed a steady hand on Toby’s back in an attempt to ground him, while Techno tried his best to calm him down. 

“I am so confused. I hated him so much, hated how I was just some accessory to show off. His inventor son, so intelligent, but he never wants to spend time with me. Always had some comment to my name. ‘Toby, the captain’s son’, ‘Toby the spoiled child’, ‘Toby, only here because his dad is in charge’.” Another loud sob, shaking his whole body. “And yet I am so upset that he’s gone!” 

“He’s still your dad… your family. You’ll miss him, and it will hurt… I don’t think we will be able to make it go away. You’ll mourn and then you will heal, even if it takes much longer than you want it to…” 

“Why can’t I just ignore it? He’s been such a dick, I was much happier hanging out with you, and now even my own fucking name reminds me of him!” 

Techno and Fit shared a look, both unsure about how to comfort him. Neither have gone through a death of an immediate family member before, not in recent times at least. Usually just listening and allowing him to vent had helped, but now that seemed inappropriate. 

“It’s so unfair! What did I ever do to make the universe hate me?!”

“Tubs… none of this is your fault…”, Techno attempted to calm him down, but it only seemed to make it worse. Toby just shook his head in response. “I just want to forget everything… Don't even think about this shit...”

 “Would a nickname help?” The oldest still carefully rubbed circles on his back, keeping his voice low in an attempt to try and keep the situation calm. “Just so if we ever have to yell your name or anything similar, we don’t trigger any bad memories? I know avoiding the problem is never a good idea, but I also don’t want you to relive hard memories. And if you hate your name that much right now, maybe that’s a solution for now until you have healed a little.” 

Toby stared at him for a moment, the hiccups still shaking his body. “Maybe? I don’t… I don’t know if it would help. Where did that even come from?” “You did say your name has negative connotations, so it was just a thought.” The boy hummed, wiping at his good eye, shoulders finally starting to relax a tiny bit. “Sure? I… my only nickname has been Tubs… Techno is the only one who calls me that.” 

Fit nodded, giving a look towards Techno. “We can work with that. Would you like Tubs as a new standard? Maybe something similar?” The youngest contemplated his answer for a while, staring at a spot on the floor as he sat there, squished between the two adults in an attempt at comfort. They didn’t disturb his contemplation, allowing him to sort out his thoughts, keep him grounded while he hiccupped and rubbed at his tear-stained cheeks.

“How about Tubbo? I like the sound of that one.” Techno smiled, giving him a nod. “Sure, it sounds great. Tubbo, the great inventor. Has a ring to it.” Toby -Tubbo- laughed, healthy skin on his face turning a light pink. “Shut up, I’m not-” “If you are about to say ‘I am not a good inventor’ I will feed you to the creature.” Tubbo laughed harder, clutching his stomach with his good arm, tears forgotten. God it felt good to see him laugh like this. 

“Okay okay. Tubbo, the great inventor. I like that. Thank you, Tech.” 

Chapter Text

The salve did seem to work just as the scans predicted. Over the next few days, they applied the salve every day, twice on the most severe wounds. While the healing would still take a long while, Tubbo felt a lot better, able to move around with something stable to hold on to by the third day. The scaring itself on the weaker burns and on his face developed fainter than they had assumed, so while it still will be a permanent scar, it won’t look as terrible as it could have without any treatment.

During the whole healing process so far, the creature had not once returned. At least not that they had noticed. While Techno and Fit still remain on high alert whenever they entered the water, the general atmosphere in the pod was lighter than before. For a little while Techno even felt the pressing paranoia leave him, as the feeling of burning green watching him lessened, even vanished once.

It was odd, but he accepted the chance for a good sleep.

With Tubbo feeling better and able to move around, he sat down together with Fit and helped him repair the radio. They basically ripped apart every single connection, cable and some circuits, made twenty different organized piles and had Techno grab cables and plating from the crates down below. At least it helped Techno feel a little less useless, being the only one who had no idea what to do with all the different electrics.

Two people working on the repairs did speed up the process. By the end of the fifth day after applying the healing salve on Tubbo, the boy carefully screwed the metal casing back onto the radio, declaring it repaired. The different buttons and lights were lighting up again, so at least something as been successfully fixed. A little Radio message started playing as soon as Fit booted up the full radio system.

“Radio back online. Sending distress signal to all nearby receiving radios. Would you like to attach a message?”

The group shared a look, hesitating for a second. Eventually Techno just shrugged and took the lead. Pressing the blinking button to attach a message along their distress signal.

“This is Technoblade from lifepod 04. My pod is located on the south-west side of the crashed ship, maybe two miles out. I have crewmembers Fit and Toby with me, all of us in relatively good shape. Are there any functioning pods receiving us?”

He let go of the button, allowing the radio to process and send out their signal. “So now we wait?” “Yes. We can’t really do much more than to send and receive messages. All we can do now is hope that there are other working pods out there that can hear us.” Tubbo eyed the hatch that led out to the top of the pod. “Shouldn’t we be able to pick up already existing messages?” “That depends on how far away the pods are. Our signals aren’t exactly strong. Especially with an already damaged radio.”

The youngest sat in the only functioning chair still mounted on the wall, staring at the slow blinking lights of the radio. “What if we never get any messages? If we are the only…” He trailed off, leaning his head onto his palm. “Some radios might be broken. You and Fit would not be able to contact anyone from your pod either. Doesn’t mean you are dead. It’s just another chance for us to find other survivors.”

“Well, at least the three of us are together. We have some company to keep us distracted. And speaking of distracted, since we will be notified when we get radio messages, let’s do something productive. I saw this fun little device called a habitat builder and I would like to experiment with it. Techno could help me grab some resources for it. Maybe you could come down into the water too, there should be a second oxygen mask in here somewhere.”

Fit began to rummage through the storage and in the two little wall containers. “Did you just say ‘habitat builder’?” Techno watched the other move around the pod, eventually making a little happy noise as he held up a functioning oxygen mask and tank for Tubbo, who instantly got up and grabbed it from Fit’s hands. “I did! I have never used one before, but it seems like a useful thing. If we find more people, this or any pod will be way too small. We already have to squeeze together when we sleep.”

He does have a point in that. This space will get too full way to quick.

“Do we have to take Tubbo outside?” Fit didn’t even have time to respond before the teen in question made a offended noise. “I can swim! Moving around doesn’t hurt anymore and the alien salve actually keeps my wounds closed and separated from the water!” “But you are still hurt! And who knows what is still out there, or the creature comes back, or-“ “Techno!”

Fit grabbed him by the shoulders, turning Techno away from Toby. “Listen. We need all the help we can get. Tubbo can’t stay locked in here until we are rescued, he’ll go insane, like any other person that gets locked in a room, no matter if alone or with other people. We will keep an eye on him and stay close to the pod, okay? He’s healthy enough to go outside now. We can defend each other, it will be fine.”

Techno grumbled, looking back at Tubbo, who’s burn marks will always make him worried for his wellbeing. Tubbo, who had already eagerly strapped on the new equipment and checking his tank. “He’s been in here for over a week Techno.” “I know, I know…” He glanced back at Tubbo, then sighed heavily. “If anything happens to him, I’ll rip your head off.” “I’m willing to take that risk.”

Fit clapped him on the shoulder, smiling, before turning to the fabricator to check what materials they need. “Alright. One battery, one wiring kit, one computer chip. Hmm…” He began to take note of all the different requirements for each object, containing both metals and things that can be found in the environment.

“Okay so the scans have found some natural resources that we can use to make these things, we just have to find them. Some gold, pieces of coral, copper and acid mushrooms. That doesn’t sound too difficult.”

“We have no idea where any of that is.”

“Still. It’s only four things we need to find. And all of them should be relatively close by.”

“Oh yeah, because I just find gold randomly lying around.”  

“Stop being so pessimistic. We’ll find everything, we just won’t know how long it will take.”

“Can we go outside now?” Tubbo looked between the two, his arms crossed as he leaned with his back against the ladder. “We should use the daylight as much as we can.” “Yes, I agree with Tubbo.” Techno groaned, but grabbed his equipment anyways. “Fine. Let’s go.”

The trio soon enough climbed out of the bottom hatch, Fit taking the lead with his weapon. “We should also look for stuff to make you guys weapons. Any minerals should work for now.” “Got it. There should be a little cave somewhere over there, maybe we can find some stuff in there.” The two adults began to swim towards the potential cave, only after a few seconds realizing Tubbo hadn’t said anything since going into the water.

“Tubbo?” Techno turned to look at the teen, seeing him frozen in place right underneath the hatch. The older immediately turned and swam back towards him. “What’s wrong?” Tubbo blinked, shaking his head as Techno gently shook his shoulder. “Nothing. It’s just… pretty? A bit scary, but pretty.” He looked over the colourful coral reef in front of him, watching as the different fish swam about, minding their own business.

Fit joined the two, waiting for Tubbo to process everything. “How are your wounds feeling?” “Alright, don’t even feel anything apart from cold.” The oldest hummed, scanning their surroundings for any potential threat. Techno carefully squeezed the youngest’s healthy shoulder. “You can go back inside if-“ “No, I’m fine. I just needed a second.” He smiled up at his friend, finally turning away from the new view. “Lead the way, let’s find some resources.”

Their little adventure turned out quite disappointing. They didn’t find a single ingredient from their list, despite scanning corals and digging out small chunks of minerals. Most of it had been titanium, which was also useful, but not the material they had been looking for. Despite that, all three of them carried as much of it as they could back towards the pod, storing it inside a half full crate together with their other stuff.

“I told you.”

“And I told you it could take us a few days to find everything. At least we were productive.”

Toby sighed, dropping his equipment into the corner, carefully rolling his injured shoulder. “You two argue like a married couple.”

“We do not!”

The youngest just rolled his eyes as he grabbed one of their water bottles to take a big sip. “We got some stuff and Fit caught a big fish for dinner. I think we did good.” Techno didn’t respond, instead deciding to check on the radio. It was still working, sending out their distress signal in hopes of contacting other people. But they hadn’t received an answer or a separate message in return.

“Give it some time. Don’t stress yourself too much over it.”

Fit plopped down in his usual spot, nibbling on his part of the dinner. Techno wished he could be as relaxed as his friend seemed to be. Tubbo tugged on his arm, getting him to sit down and eat something as well. “Tomorrow’s another day. We’ll go out and get more stuff and maybe we get a message. Or we find a person without the radio. I don’t know.”

Techno hummed, staring down at his piece of cooked fish. “I hope so.”

Time slowly slipped by, the sun slipping past the horizon and allowing the sky to glitter with millions of stars. The three survivors curl up in their usual spots, falling asleep one after the other, ending another day of survival.

A quiet crackling noise brought Techno back out of the mist that was a wistful sleep. Tubbo stirred slightly when Techno's hand came back from tired stillness and started to comb through some strands of his hair tiredly. Fit still snored under his jacket on the other side of the pod. As far as that could really be. A little cramped, but they all found their spot to sleep.

A frown grew on the kid's face as some quiet noise escaped his throat, annoyed from awakening again. It was far too early to get up, it was still dark outside. Tubbo's eyebrows scrunched together as the radio continued to make white noise. Techno's progress of slowly drifting off for the night was reset, now again nearly wide awake from the minimal movement and the static. He yawned slowly, trying not to wake Tubbo further, and glanced at the radio, before turning a bit more on his side to try and block out the noise.

Tubbo stayed in place, not leaning against Techno again, weary eyes blinking up to the corner. Techno just sighed and carded through the kid's hair again, tilting his head back towards himself. "Interference or something. Old signals from the main ship maybe, you can just ignore...”

A quiet, chapped voice crackled to life, emitting from the small and weak speakers.

“If there is anyone who can hear this, we... need help. We're here together, somewhere underwater. There's only one of those oxygen masks and my friend is badly injured, so we can't swim out. God... We don't even know how far underwater we are. Maybe a few meters? Ten maybe? We still get light down here, so who knows."

Static crinkled over the audio, interrupting it. Techno was sure Tubbo could hear very clearly in that moment how he swallowed a lump in his throat.

The static went again. The message continued.

"We are down to our last two rations and we'll try to make it last for as long as we can, but it won't be long. Maybe one or two days if we're lucky. I... I don't really know how long we can do this. If you're out there, I beg, please, we are on the left side of the-“

The message cut off sharply, only white noise playing over the speakers.

The duo sat in grave silence, as the tiny screen flashed up and displayed some words on its blue and white screen.

“Message sent out several days ago. Coordinates of origin attached.”

Techno's heart felt heavy, or maybe not his heart? His lungs just felt awfully heavy and hollow, as if they should fall in to each other any second now. Or maybe it was his entire chest? No matter, something ached when just reading the words 'several days'. That could be two, that could also be seven. One was better than the other, but still the horror struck him, just hearing the words replay in his head, of only two rations left, not nearly enough for two people to survive for days. As well as one of the two carrying some severe injury, possibly bleeding out while sending the message.

Next to him, he could practically feel Tubbo's frozen in place posture, feel how his lungs only expanded so far, before breathing out again. The kid's head turned and in the dead of the night, with all the glimmering lights below and the night sky above, he saw terrified eyes, threatening to fall out of their sockets, mouth slightly agape as if desperately wanting to choke out a response to the call for help, as if the people on the other side could hear it.

Techno cursed beneath his breath. Unnecessary, as the silence (besides Fit's unaware snores) allowed for them to hear every single letter perfectly.

They were wide awake now.

And Techno felt sick to his stomach.

And he pulled Tubbo back into his arms, feeling him shake, on the verge of breaking out into sobs. And they rested there. Not moving, staring at the walls of their metal sanctuary, having no idea what to do now.

That might be a dead man's voice.

And they both were wide awake to hear it.

Chapter Text

Morning came all too quickly, the reddish sun rising, smiling at them as if unaware of what had happened on her planet during the night. With it came the tiniest waves, which rocked the pod back and forth in a circle ever so gentle, a repetitive motion they all had grown used to over time. 

Tubbo, trapped in his arms, never slept. Techno realized that the moment he came back to his senses, blinking his dry eyes against the lights of the pod. The younger still sat between his legs, leaning with his back against Techno’s chest, hands laying in the folds of his sleeves. But now at least-

Techno was just fast enough to catch his arms around Tubbo’s torso, before he started trying to get up, thrashing wildly around himself in a panic, attempting to at least get closer to the radio. The boy shook in his arms, as he held him tightly, holding him against himself with force. The chest of the younger heaved with each breath, threatening to become an ugly sob.

He let himself get hit a few times. A leg that kicked out and hit him in his thigh or foot, Tubbo’s head knocking back and hitting him square into the jaw or again into the nose, making it feel all warm and numb, or if his hand lashed out and a finger caught on some fabric and pulled it just a little too forcefully.

As much as Techno wanted to let the kid go, let him to the panel, send out an answer, he could think logically, while the younger’s thoughts were wild with panic. The message was sent out days ago. If they had a working radio or were alive, what if they were dea- if they had a working radio… What?
Techno sighed. Where did that thought go again?

With a functional radio they would’ve changed the attached message, or sent out a new signal, updating their current status. So it was useless to try and respond. He knew exactly that Tubbo was just yearning to push the “record emergency signal” button, but it would only come with more devastation. Standing around at the radio, waiting, awaiting nothing, and knowing exactly that.
Tubbo was already aware of it, he was a smart kid. Right now he was just shrouded with his first impulse to fight, to help, but he just had to wait before his brain cleared off the adrenaline and the younger too, would calm again.

Why are you so calm? 

What?

He brushed his palms against Tubbo’s shoulder as a wordless ‘good morning’, not yet finding his voice to greet him verbally. He received an answer as Tubbo shuddered slightly, flexing his back and sitting up straighter, taking weight off of his chest. 

Looking at the younger’s face, it was just so evident how Techno was right about his assumptions, with dark bags lining the underside of his blue eyes. Techno gently nudged Tubbo’s leg, gaining no reaction. His leg probably fell numb already hours ago, much like how his own limbs were starting to complain. After all, the kid’s form was still the same as it had been hours ago when-

Minutes, Minutes if not an hour it took for Tubbo not to lean tense with his back against Techno’s chest.
With a shaky exhale the younger twisted himself, halfway pushing his side into Techno’s front, moving his calm and weak legs, swinging them over Techno’s thigh and rolling into a kind of ball.

He brought a hand up, brushing a thumb from the younger’s nose bridge, over his cheek, to his cheekbone. With a plummeting feeling his chest sunk into itself, feeling his finger pad get slick with tears. His hand fell to Tubbo’s back, pushing him just slightly closer. Tubbo’s hands reached forward, little, abrupt grabbing motions lurching for his arm until coming to rest at his elbow. The fingers grabbed a handful of the folds of his sleeves, clutching at them desperately.

“We can’t do anything right now, Tubbo.” Instead of a direct answer, he felt the boy’s jaw clench where he buried the side of his face at his chest.

Minutes, maybe an hour, maybe longer it took until Techno’s vision blurred slightly, started swimming and twitching as if under stress. Staring ahead at the wall, mind feeling slowly falling, falling...somewhere. He still felt the storm inside of the younger, crying up a waterfall somewhere in his heart.

His arms ache just slightly as he unwinds them from around Tubbo, rolling his shoulders to try and get some of the stiffness from his muscles. He can’t remember the last time he had been this sore… then again they had been swimming the whole day yesterday. Tubbo, noticing Techno starting to stretch, slowly climbs out of his arms, his stiff legs still unsteady beneath him. The other immediately steadies him, getting on his own unsteady knees and offers the younger to support himself on Techno’s shoulders.

Gently, he pulled the younger to sit down again, although now in a more comfortable position. “Give your legs a second.” Tubbo only hummed, spine making a loud popping sound as he stretched and arched his back. Techno could see how exhausted he was, how both his body and mind needed rest. It will take a little more time until he will be able to relax, with the distress call still fresh in their memories. 

Speaking of which…

“I’m gonna wake Fit and tell him what happened. Just stay put, you can barely stay awake.” The idea of telling their friend like this did make him nervous. Fit may be furious that they hadn’t immediately jumped out and went to check on the pod. Or hadn’t instantly woken him up when the message started playing. His friend was a protector… his first instinct had been to go look for and save people. Save Techno, save Tubbo… 

Techno was shaking when he crawled over to where Fit was still curled up, arms still aching from being tightly curled around Tubbo for a long while. The oldest of the group was still unaware of anything that had happened or what he could’ve heard had he been awake. From messages and friends likewise. He had no idea how much time had passed since the message had played, but the sky was slowly starting to brighten in shades with the rising sun. The steady noises from the ocean continued like they always have, yet it seemed like the pod was filled with suffocating silence this time. 

“Fit…” He nudged his shoulder, barely getting any response outside of the light snoring. He shoved a little harder. “Fit wake up…” His voice seemed as uneven as his arms and legs, breaking a little at the end. The oldest of their little group grumbled, turning from being curled up on his side to laying on his back, trying to turn away from the source of disturbance. Slowly, while Techno’s heart was still slowly pacing up to nearly racing with nervous energy, brown eyes started to blink up at him, still unfocused with sleep. 

“’s mornin’ already?” Techno hummed a confirming noise, nervously fiddling with the fabric of his suit. Why is he so nervous? Fucking hell, this shouldn’t be difficult. “Yes. Get up. We got something during the night.” 

Fit frowned, blinking up at the hatch to see the sky brighten as the sun rose higher over the horizon. It took him a second to slowly recognize the distress on Techno’s face and the shaking in his voice, already fearing the worst. The last time he was so nervous a huge creature messed with their pod. Almost instinctively he glanced down at the bottom hatch, but there was no sign of large scales or glowing eyes peeking inside. Good… so they probably aren’t in immediate danger. 

He pushed himself up to sit, noting how Tubbo was staring at the wall across from him, unmoving. Staring at the radio, who’s light is still steadily blinking away. His posture was slouched, almost curled in on himself. Fit’s eyes locked with Techno’s, brows already drawn together in worry. “What happened?”

He was handed the little PDA, where the radio message had been transcribed into text. They didn’t dare play it again, for the sake of their youngest member. Not that Techno wouldn’t be just as shaken about it, but Tubbo was more important right now. Fit didn’t say anything for a short while, reading over the text more than once. “Shit…” 

He looked at Techno, who was messing with the straps of his mask, staring aimlessly at the floor, much like the teen on the other side of the pod. “Did you recognize the voice? Anyone you know well? It’s not anyone I recognize.” “I… I don’t know. It was quiet and static messed with it a little. It did sound familiar, but…” He couldn’t match a face or name to the voice. He didn’t really want to match anyone to that voice. Not when he could still hear their screams. Tubbo just gave a shake of his head when the oldest looked over at him. He didn’t recognize the voice either.

Fit hums, reading over the message again, then looking at the coordinates, quickly connecting it to the little location marker in his mask. Techno didn’t really understand how it worked, but he knows its able to project small symbols and short messages onto the visor of their mask. 

Fit put on the mask and had to look around for a second before he spotted the marker. It was far. Further away than Tubbo’s pod, that’s for sure. And it had taken them most of the night to swim over to him and back to this pod. Thinking about it, it should be near the kelp forest Fit had spotted a good bit to the west. They hadn’t dared go near it yet in fear of larger creatures living in the deeper waters.

They could make it if they leave now. It’s early morning still and the sun seems to be taking longer to pass over the sky than back home on earth. The days feel longer at least. If they are fast… they could be back before sundown. 

“Techno…”

“I know.”

The straps on the mask were pulled tighter, then loosened again. A repetitive motion, one trying to keep him occupied with something other than his spiralling thoughts. He also didn’t look up to meet his friend’s eyes. Fit had seen him like that before, when he was repairing the radio and Techno was left to watch Tubbo while the youngest was still unconscious and healing. He also knew what Techno was going to answer, but it was worth a shot. 

“It’s the right thing to do.”

“I can’t. Not with Tubbo. Not after…” He trailed off.

“What if they are still alive?” 

“Be reasonable. The only thing we will find is a rotting corpse. If the pod is still intact.” 

The oldest sighs, rubbing the back of his neck in an attempt to get rid of some aches that come from sleeping on the floor. They had this back and forth before and he had a feeling it will happen a few more times. While a part of him wants to be mad at Techno for being so stubborn about it, he also knows the guilt that’s wrecking his heart every day. He feels it too, even if he deals with it differently than Techno seems to be doing.

Although it was difficult to keep his voice steady and calm with Techno acting like this. Again. 

“You said that about Tubbo’s pod too. When we heard the explosion, saw the smoke. You said there is no way someone could survive that. Now he is here and healing.” 

Techno huffed, turning his head just enough to glance at Fit. “I knew you would use that against me.” 

“Techno, I’m not doing this to spite you. But it feels wrong to have the distress call right here, have exact coordinates to the pod that needs help, and just decide not to go out and help them. Even if it ends up being a dead person, or two, I would still want to find them. Give them a proper goodbye, maybe find out their names so if we get rescued, we can give closure to their loved ones.” 

“I’d rather say they died in the crash than slowly starve in a tiny box at the bottom of the ocean.” 

Fit was about two seconds away from grabbing the other man by the collar. “Didn’t we repair the radio so we could rescue people? Maybe the scans are wrong and it hasn’t been a few days. Or they found other ways to find some food. We have to try Techno, or I will never forgive myself knowing that somewhere out there, someone was desperate for anyone to hear them and come rescue them, just to be ignored when their signal does reach someone.”

He could see Techno chewing the inside of his cheek, could practically hear him think. Fighting with himself over what is right. What they should do. 

Then, miraculously, Tubbo’s voice chimed in. Just as broken as Techno’s had been when he had woken up Fit. The oldest only now noticed the dark bags under the youngest’ eyes.

“Fit is right. We should go and look. We can’t abandon a rescue call, even if technically it is too old for them to still be alive. I waited during the night, now it's bright enough to go.” 

“You definitely won’t go.” 

Techno scooted over to Tubbo’s side, taking his hand. The teen flinched, glancing up at him, looking unsure. What exactly had happened during the night?

“You are far too young to see something like that. I won’t take you along to retrieve a corpse and that’s final. I think Fit agrees with me on that. Besides, you are far too tired to swim that far.” 

Blue eyes glanced over Techno’s shoulder, giving a questioning look, only to receive a hard nod in return. They were on the same page on this one. Tubbo’s remaining innocence should stay unharmed for as long as possible. That includes keeping him away from a potential dead body. 

Surprisingly, the teen seemed okay with that, not even trying to put up a fight. Most likely realizing he already had both adults against him, not able to count on Fit to speak in his favour. “Okay…” He looked down at his hand, still squeezed in Techno’s own palm. “I’ll stay here if you promise to go look at the pod. I’ll try and treat my burns, work with some of the minerals if you can bring some of it up for me. I’ll even stay inside the pod so nothing can hurt me, okay? Just please… go check on the signal.”

Techno hated how everything was always turned against him lately. But if there was one thing he knows he’s weak to, it’s Tubbo begging him to do something. He hardly refused any favour back on the ship.

“It’s so far away…” 

“We will use the ship to navigate. Plus we could mark our pod with the PDA, we are sending out a signal now. Our signal can be tracked just like the other pod is being tracked now. We’ll just have to take it with us when we go look for the pod.” 

Techno sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose. He doesn’t want to go far away from the only safe place they have. Not with the creature out there. Or other large predators they haven’t seen yet. “This is so dangerous.”

“Please Techno… We need to check if they are okay.” ‘You owe it to me, after holding me back’ was left unsaid, but he could clearly see it in the stare Tubbo gives him.

Techno knows he lost.

“Alright. Fine. Fit and I will go. But you have to promise you stay inside the pod. Maybe catch up on sleep. We can stay in contact until we are out of range of the transmitter in the mask. Stay away from the windows, draw no attention to the pod, try to-“

“Techno, I’ll be fine. Just go.”

He nodded, grabbing his jacket from the floor and wrapping it around Tubbo’s shoulder. “We’ll be back before you know it.”

Tubbo gave him a little smile, reaching up to hug him tight. The older returned the hug, squeezing him maybe a bit to tight, feeling the younger’s heart beating just as rapidly as his own. When Techno finally pulled away, Tubbo tugged on Fit’s sleeve until he bent down to hug him as well. “Stay safe. Please.” “We’ll be fine kid. I promise.”

The two adults fully geared up, with Fit handing Techno a freshly created knife he had worked on after the radio was finished. He was glad to finally have some sort of weapon, even if it was useless for large predators. As promised, they brought different materials up into the pod for Tubbo to tinker with while they gone, something to keep his mind busy if he can’t sleep.

Which he probably won’t.

And then they were gone.

Fit took the lead, swimming purposefully towards the location of the distress call. Techno trailed close behind, nervously looking around as they started to leave the safety of the shallows their pod is located in.

It was decided that they stick relatively close to the ground in hopes of avoiding being spotted and if they were spotted, be able to push off the ground and move a bit faster. But so far, their only companions were schools of fish and the slowly disappearing reef. Some of the larger, but peaceful, creatures with the odd glowing tails occupied a large part of the reef’s edge, forcing the two humans to swim around the area in hopes of not triggering their defences.

They reminded Techno of skunks, deploying weird green spheres that explode into a gassy mass seconds later. They never hunt, only swimming away while using that defence to avoid the predator chasing them or the creature getting near them (mostly not on purpose). Tubbo asked them to maybe try and get a sample, but both adults immediately opted against it, not wanting to test the theory whether or not the gas was acidic.

The sun slowly made its way across the sky as they made steady progress towards the pod. Techno’s fist clenched nervously around the knife, feeling far to exposed without the cover of the reef or other fauna. He could spot the kelp forest not too far away from them now, the first long plants already dotted around and passing them by. Contact to Tubbo broke off a while ago, but according to Fit, they were getting close now.

“Techno… if they really are dead…”

“We leave the pod be. I am not opening it if there are two corpses in there. It could attract predators.”

Fit hummed, seemingly agreeing to the idea. They wouldn’t know what to do with the corpses anyways. They had more than enough stuff in their own pod, so there is no reason to try and take some things from this pod.

The kelp started to grow more dense now as they entered the forest, sticking to each other’s side as the water around them got a little darker, light blocked out by the plants surrounding them. They stopped talking, carefully listening for any noise that indicates danger.

After a little while, Fit nudged Techno in the side, pointing at something just ahead. Techno squinted, scanning the general area where Fit was pointing until he finally spotted it. A pod, sunken to the bottom, half buried in the sand by the sheer force of the impact. Or maybe covered over time from sand moved by the current. The hull still looked in tact and the top hatched looked like it was still sealed.

Techno almost immediately started swimming towards it as soon as he spotted it, wanting nothing more than to get this over with.  That was a mistake.

A roar, screeching and loud, just to his left.

“Techno, watch out!”

The man turned, seeing a large fish speeding towards it, snout with sharp teeth open wide. He yelped, clutching his knife as he attempted to swim out of its way. Fit bolted forward, his makeshift spear held out in front of him, aiming to ram it into the creature’s body.

It screeched in pain as the knife buried itself in it’s flesh, promptly turning away from Techno to try and snap at Fit instead. Fit clutched his weapon tightly, bearing his teeth behind his mask, aiming for another hit. Techno, finally able to willing his body to move, jerked forward and slashed his knife at the smooth scales in front of him.

An angry snarl was the answer as it attempted to turn and bite Techno’s arm, only to receive another hit from the spear. Yellow-greenish blood stained the water around them as both humans made their respective attempts to distance themselves from the creature, weapons held out in front of them, ready to strike again. The creature seemed to understand the warning, giving a frustrated growl before speeding away, picking off a fish on the way as it disappeared between the thick vines of kelp.

“Are you okay?” Fit was by Techno’s side in an instant, checking if the predator had gotten a bite on him. Techno could feel his body shake from the rush of adrenaline. There was hardly any other feeling right now. “I… I think I’m fine.” The older still swam a circle around him, holding him by the shoulder, until he was sure his friend wasn’t injured. “Good. That’s good. Fuck that thing came out of nowhere.”

He looked into the direction where the creature swam, hands already closing around the spear. “Let’s just get this over with and go home. I want to be back in the shallows.” His friend nodded, still watching out for the creature possibly returning as they swam over to the pod.

Techno swam around the side, checking if the hull was still fully intact, while Fit swam up to the hatch, pushing some plants away from the window so he could peer inside. Surprisingly, while he did find dents and scratches, nothing seemed to have broken through the metal plating. So the inside of the pod should still be dry.

He glanced up at Fit, who had his face practically pressed against the glass so he could see something. “The lights are out. It’s hard to see. I don’t think they are moving.” Techno swam up to join Fit, gently nudging him so he would give him some space to peer into the pod too.

With a sort of hurry and eagerness, Fit pushed himself from the metal outside of the pod, drifting to the side, allowing Techno to take a look. He took hold of one of the orange handles at the side of the hatch and pulled himself closer.

And closer.

It was dark inside there, just as Fit had said. And there were smears of someone wiping something from the glass, which Techno wasn’t sure if he wanted to know what kind of dark liquid was staining the glass.

There was residue where metal met glass, just in the gap where the wall started but glass had not yet begun, wall penal covering the see-through surface, where something clumped and dirty had gathered.

Techno drifted even closer, taking hold of the second handle and nearly pushing his face, or mask, into the thick glass of the hatch. His stomach churned. His heart flipped and fell down all the way to somewhere into the bones of his hips, restless, unrelenting.

The pod seemed lifeless.

There was barely any light, but how could he have seen even that? Where it hit the surface and there weren't dark scratchy floors, there was dark red, almost black matter spilled out.

There was drying blood, gathered and nursed into a corner, but there were obvious streaks and stains all around.

Someone laid there, dead in motion, as a small curled up lump, too dark to make out where their body started and ended.

It reminded him too much of the horror movies they once used to watch. This looked like you just cracked open the upper half of an egg, peeled it away, pinched the tiny skin, and poked holes into it, ready for a feast. But instead, the egg's inside were bleeding, seeping out dirty, and you found a dried up snake sleeping, cradling the rotten yolk.

This looked like some wild creature's feast and nest.

Like Pandora's box if they opened it.

The pod seemed almost hollow. Void of anything worth saving.

Something moved in the corner of the glass as far as he could see.

Techno's heart jumped back into his throat, this time cutting off the oxygen to his lungs, expanding unevenly in his airways.

Breathe in, and they were fine. He had just imagined it. They had come to the grave of dead people.

Breathe out,

and suddenly there were naked, glassy eyes pressed against the glass, seeming nearly glowing, full of wild, maniac panic.

It sent Techno reeling away from the glass, nearly screaming.

He only heard Fit's breath catch in his throat in terror.

They were alive. 

Chapter Text

Tubbo stared out at the slow moving waves, feeling the pod sway beneath him. Techno and Fit had left barely 10 minutes ago, leaving him by himself while they attempt to find out what had happened to the two people that sent out the distress call. He had spent almost the entire time pacing from one end of the pod to the other, listening to the conversation between the two adults over the mics in the mask.

He can’t recall a single time where he had been this nervous.

The weak, crackling voice from the radio still echoed around in his head, replaying the desperate call for help like a broken record. What if they waited too long? What if they had been alive when they received the call, but have succumbed to starvation in the hours they had hesitated to go out and rescue them? Tubbo doesn’t know if he can live with this guilt. He should have fought harder against Techno. Maybe scream so Fit wakes up and backs him up on the rescue mission.

Anything but just sit there, silent, waiting.

Anything but sob in Techno’s arms as the night slowly progressed and the sun started to rise.

Anything but silently stare at the wall while feeling Techno behind him drifting in and out of consciousness, never fully sleeping.

Fucking bastard dared to use the argument of Tubbo being tired, when he himself has barely slept at all himself. He probably got more sleep than Techno! But even knowing that, he knew he had no chance when both Techno and Fit decided to keep him inside the pod no matter what. Two against one is so unfair…

Tubbo groaned in frustration, leaning over to bury his face in his hands. He knows he promised Techno to stay inside the pod, but sitting on the ledge of the open hatch won’t do any harm. The occasional cool spray of water helped keeping himself grounded, as did the cries of the weird avian creatures that occasionally circle up in the sky.

That thought made him pause, lifting his head from his hands to instead look up at the sky. A few fluffy clouds slowly drifted across the sky as the weird flying creatures gracefully caught the breeze. The young human frowned and squinted, trying to get a better look, but they were too far away.

Birds… or something of the same nature as birds. An airborne, air breathing animal. Which means that they probably have to land somewhere that isn’t covered by water. So, if those creatures are actually similar to birds… there has to be solid land somewhere. Somewhere close too. Well, that depends on the stamina of the creatures, actually.

Maybe that should be their next goal, along with the habitat builder that Fit wants to make. Find wherever these birds are landing. If there is some sort of island or even a larger section of dry land, that area could make a good base too.

A voice crackled to live on the little mic, accompanied by a rather uncomfortable static noise, startling Tubbo a little. “Watch out for those big manatee things.” “Yeah, I got it. They shouldn’t follow us once we are past them.” Techno’s and Fit’s voice drift from the little device inside the mask, easing Tubbo’s nerves a tiny bit. He can still hear them. They are fine.

“Are you guys talking about the gas spewing guys? The ones that Fit pissed off once?” A rather annoyed, but affirmative noise was the answer. Not one of Fit’s proudest moments, when he got too close and was almost knocked unconscious by their club like tail. At least he managed to swim away before the weird gas balls exploded. Techno had lectured him for nearly fifteen minutes, then dotted over him to make sure he was alright.

“I still really want a sample of that stuff. Maybe we can use it for something.” “Absolutely not”, came Techno’s answer, almost instantly. Tubbo huffed, but he had expected that answer anyways. “Not without some sort of proper container for it. Who knows what that stuff does to us”, Fit added to the response, a bit more gentle than the other had done. “Once we do, you can go crazy with experiments.” Tubbo grinned in victory, even though neither of the two adults can see him. “Awesome.”

The excitement only lasted for a little while.

Only a few moments after the exchange, the mic connection cut off. The two were too far away now and continuing onwards, leaving Tubbo truly by himself for the first time since he got rescued. It was an odd feeling, having nothing but absolute silence, knowing it’s not because the two adults were just currently silent or napping. The somewhat calm atmosphere changed back into nervousness and unease.

Tubbo stared out at the slow rolling waves, into the direction where his friends had disappeared to. Now all he can do is wait for them to come back in one piece. And maybe accompanied by more survivors.

He awkwardly stretched and arched his back, attempting to get the salve on every inch of his burns. It had worked for the most part, with all of the burns on his front and side treated, as well as the one on his face. His hair was messily pulled back into a short ponytail, Techno’s borrowed hairband keeping everything together. It was by no means perfect, quite the opposite actually considering he never tied his hair before. But it holds for now while the paste dries and gets absorbed into his skin.

He discarded the leftover paste with a frustrated groan, giving up on reaching the last few spots on his back by himself. At least he has regained almost his entire mobility now, with the burns not hurting and his skin softening again with the help of the paste. It was freeing to not feel the uncomfortable pull of too tight, injured skin anymore. Those vines really were some sort of miracle healing medicine.

With the salve now applied, he was left with nothing to do once again. His nerves were already acting up again, making him grab the mask and click the mic a few times, checking if he could reach one of the others. But there was nothing. Of course they aren’t back yet, the coordinates were so far…

Tubbo tossed the mask aside, back to the rest of his equipment.

He needs something to do. His first thought was the pile of cables, metals and ores that were left in the pod for him, but he had no motivation or ideas what to do with those things. Maybe he could figure something out with the fabricator, but he doubts there is anything useful that can be made with so little resources. Usually his head was filled with ideas for new machines, trinkets, tools… but today, right now, nothing came to him.

Tubbo sighs, taking the red jacket that innocently laid on the floor, wrapping it around his shoulders once he was sure the paste had dried enough. It kept him warm considering a good chunk of the suit protecting his shoulder and side was damaged. Sure, Techno’s jacket was also a bit charred and had a few holes, but it was better than nothing. And it brought him comfort.

Carefully, he climbed back up the ladder and resumed his position sitting on top of the pod, silently staring out into the distance and waiting for his friends to come back. He turned his head to stare at the ruins of their once so great ship, watching some of the fires that were still burning. It was honestly impressive that most of the fires hadn’t gone out yet. Sometimes you could hear metal creaking or stuff exploding.

His eyes trailed over the ruins, focus jumping over the waves, seeing the white foam at the top of each wave build and break again. He looked for nothing in particular, just grazing the horizon and the things dotting it. Something to distract himself with, anything that could catch his interest.

No matter how many times it may have danced across his vision, the broken spaceship just now seemed interesting enough to actually look at. Almost on instinct, he began to search for the familiarity of the, at this point, memorized name of it painted on the side. His father had allowed him to pick the colour of the paint, despite the trouble he could get into for not having it applied according to protocol. One of the few moments where he seemingly genuinely had cared for his opinion.

Spotting the scratched and darkened, barely visible letters towards the front put a sad smile on his face. The orange paint clashed harshly with the blue and white colour scheme of the ship. But it had been his, a little mark he was allowed to put there. While the name was still weird, seeing it brought back memories that he had grown a little fond of.

Big, bold letters proudly read "Q.S.M.P" and a '04' in red colour following it.

God, how proud he had been to be let aboard that ship. Proud to make a contribution to such a great cause, especially when so young. Even if he never could memorize what QSMP even stood for, it still seemed nice to gaze at the name on the metal side. The M was barely visible among the destruction and the Q looked more like a C now, but he knew they were there.

He wrapped the jacket tighter around himself, trying to ignore the memories flooding his mind, faces and names that he will never see again. His eyes squeezed shut when he saw his father, one of the few memories where he had smiled, laughed even. Tears prick the corners of his eyes. “I’m sorry dad… I’m so sorry.”

Suddenly, the pod rocked beneath him, sending him scrambling to find purchase on one of the handles next to the hatch, screaming out in confusion. His eyes frantically searched the waters around the pod, trying to see what was happening, clinging to the handles on each side of the hatch as the pod continued to sway dangerously on unnatural waves, threatening to tip over if it weren’t for the flotation devices.

He attempted to open the hatch and disappear into the pod, but froze when he spotted something next to the pod. As the swaying calmed down, a fin poked out of the water, trailing in slow circles around the pod. It was massive, about the length of Tubbo’s arm maybe. Right behind it was a second one, the exact same colour, only a little shorter. The scales were a dark grey, slowly growing lighter towards the bottom.

The fins were accompanied by a low rumble. The same low rumble Tubbo had heard before. It sounded a bit off now that he was above the surface, no small space to echo around or travel through water. But he could recognize it regardless.

This was the creature.

The one that had climbed on their pod.

The one that, maybe, had brought them the vines to heal his burns.

Tubbo watched it slowly circle the pod, fin smoothly cutting through the water. It was difficult to make out defined shapes, but he could see that the creature was, as predicted, massive. The colourful mass beneath the waves must be at least a hundred feet long, maybe even bigger. He had never seen an animal this big in his life. The colours of it scales seem to be a mix between greys and yellows, but the water makes it hard to see if there are any other colours on it.

All Tubbo could do was watch it glide through the water, in awe at the fact that it seemed peaceful. If it were hunting him, it would have probably already tipped over the pod to get to him. It did climb on the pod before…

It did a few more circles, slow and steady, seemingly more careful with its movements now after it almost knocked him over. Was it… guarding him? Waiting for something? He wasn’t sure… but it was still rumbling, whatever that was supposed to mean.

Then it stopped, the fins no longer cutting circles around him. Instead, they now pointed in a way that showed the creature was facing the pod now. Looking at it. Looking at him?

Carefully, he leaned over the edge a tiny bit, clinging to the support handles to not lose his balance. This was a terrible idea, he knew that. He was tempting fate with a gigantic creature that could probably swallow him whole if it wanted to. If it even was a predator. But it hadn’t harmed any of them yet.

When he leaned over an almost dangerous amount, he spotted two large, glowing spot, looking straight at him. Those were it’s eyes… it was looking at him. Watching him.

The two stared at each other for a long while. Tubbo didn’t dare to move, almost didn’t dare to breathe, mesmerized by the glowing eyes just a tiny distance below the surface. The creature didn’t move either, although the glowing spots shifted occasionally, indicating that it was probably moving its head around. Involuntarily, Tubbo imagined a giant cat, tilting it’s head in confusion.

Maybe that’s what the creature was doing. Watching the confusing new creature it had never seen before, figuring out whether or not he was something dangerous. Which seemed a little silly, considering the size difference between them. But hey, maybe Tubbo could be extremely poisonous. Dangerous to eat.

The creature was the first to break the silent staring contest. It moved closer to the pod, closer to the surface, exposing more of its grey scales as well as some of the sandy-yellow ones. Tubbo nervously leaned back, unsure if the creature’s intention, but stopped halfway and stared at it with his jaw hanging open.

A hand lifted out of the water. The same colour as the fins on it’s back, with webbed fingers and sharp claws. But it was a hand. A massive, humanoid hand.

For a moment he thought the creature would grab him now, or attack the pod. But then he noticed that clutched between the large claws was a bundle of green vines, which the creature placed on the flotation devices, being oddly careful in doing so. Then the hand disappeared beneath the waves, the creature returning to stare at him from the safety of the water.

Tubbo didn’t know what to think. The plants sat so innocently on the orange rubber, as if they held no significance whatsoever. “So you were the one that brought them…” The creature remained unmoving, just staring, most likely not understanding what he is saying. Yet Tubbo still felt like he should show he is grateful. These plants saved his life… or at least made the healing easier. But he didn’t know how to say thank you to a creature.

Turns out, he doesn’t have to.

Out of nowhere, the creature began moving again, doing a final loop around the pod before zipping away, disappearing fully into the water and out of sight. The speed with which it moved was incredible, far faster than what he expected such a large creature to be capable of.

But why did it run? Did it get scared? Is something else coming? Did Tubbo do something wrong?

He wasn’t sure.

What he was sure of was that Techno will have a heart attack when he tells him what happened. First time they leave him alone and the large creature immediately comes back. Even if it didn’t harm him, the opposite actually, the teen knows that Techno doesn’t trust it one bit.

When his heart at finally calmed down a little, he carefully used the ladder on the side of the pod to climb down and grab the first few of the vines, carrying them up and throwing them into the pod. They were running out of the paste for his burns, so a new cluster was actually just what they needed.

Maybe the creature knew…

He was just about to pick up the last few bits of the plants when he caught the sight of movement bellow the water again. But this time it wasn’t a large creature. It wasn’t a creature at all.

A head popped out of the water, pink hair standing out against the blue water as Techno swam closer. Tubbo grinned when he saw Fit’s head poke out next, soon followed by an arm waving towards him. He waved back, dropping the plants back into the water.

Then, a third head appeared, with long dark hair.

Tubbo nearly fell off the pod. They had found survivors. They were still alive.

“Tubbo! Open the bottom hatch! We need-“ The teen didn’t wait for Techno to finish, instead racing to climb back into the pod, dropping down into the small space to unlock and open the bottom hatch.

Fit was the first to appear beneath the hatch, waving up at him before guiding the survivor to the hatch so they could climb in. Tubbo helped pulling them inside, helping them lean against the wall as they panted, trying to catch their breath, fogging up the mask a little. Tubbo quickly checked them over, but couldn’t see any immediate injuries.

“It’s okay, you are safe now. We have a bit of food for you, and water, here lemme get the mask…”  He pulled at the fastening, loosening it before carefully pulling the mask off. The face that greeted him was familiar. Framed by dark hair and a small section of bright white curls at the front, was the face of a friend.

“Cellbit?”

The man smiled, his face pale and dark bags under his eyes, a bruise on his cheek and one on the left side of his forehead, a slowly healing cut over his nose and some scratches over his jaw and chin. But he smiled. After everything, he was still smiling. “Hey Toby…” He surged forward and hugged him, probably too tight for a frail body that has gone through starvation and dehydration. Weak arms circle around him, returning the hug.

Behind him he could hear the noise of Techno and Fit entering the pod as well. But it was accompanied by a pained whine and coughing.

Tubbo turned to see what was going on, seeing the two pull another survivor into the pod, carefully lifting him out of the water. He had shorter hair than Cellbit, black in colour with a few blue tips here and there.

“Careful, watch his leg. Tubbo, can you get some of the salve?” Fit carefully removed the man’s mask as he asked Tubbo for the salve, dropping it on the floor beside him as he started to look him over for injuries. Tubbo nodded, grabbing the last batch they had, turning back to the adults, just to almost drop it at the sight. When Techno and Fit fully heaved him out of the water and helped him lean against the wall, Tubbo saw that one of the man’s legs was gone.

Not mangled or injured. Gone.

He looked to be in far worse shape than Cellbit, face scrunched up in pain as Techno took a look at what was left of the leg. His skin was just as pale and bruised and he could see clear signs of starvation on him.

“Tubbo, the salve.” He jerked back into reality, quickly handing the metal plate to Techno. “Sorry.” “It’s okay kid, we reacted the same when we saw it.” Fit gave him a soft smile before returning to care for the injured man, who’s name Tubbo does not remember.

All the teen could do was stand and watch as Techno began to apply the salve over the area where a leg once had been. Maybe it would ease the pain like it had done for Tubbo.

With the two adults crowding around the other man, Tubbo took to taking care of his friend, carefully placing a water bottle to his lips. Cellbit greedily gulped down the liquid, almost emptying the entire bottle at once. The teen knows this is probably a bad idea, having so much water at once on an empty and starved stomach, but he didn’t have the heart to slow him down. 

“You’re okay now… we got you two.”

Chapter Text

Throughout the entire journey back and the treatment of injuries, Techno had to will himself not to throw up. The poor guy’s leg was a mess, the remaining stump tightly wrapped in scraps of fabric and a belt cutting of the blood flow as best as possible. It was a mystery how this guy was still alive. If blood loss wouldn’t kill him, then an infection definitely should have. There were stitches, but some had ripped open again from the movement, too fresh to hold tight as they moved him about and swam all the way back, even with Techno and Fit carrying him most of the way.

But here he was now, alive and breathing. In pain, but alive.

They had washed his wound as best as they could with the last of their water supplies, after he had taken a few gulps of it first, leaving half a bottle for the wound. Fit already confirmed that he would go out and hunt some fish as soon as they were done. After the wound was washed and they had given their best attempt at replacing the stitches with what is left of their medical supplies, they quickly applied the salve over it. With great relief they realized that it pretty much sealed off the stump and prevented any further blood loss or movement of the stitches.

The man hasn’t said a word since his rescue, only making pained whines and wheezes whenever he had to move. His friend, Cellbit if he heard Tubbo correctly, had only given a brief answer to the question if there were both able to swim if they give the injured man a mask. It forced them to swim near the surface, since they only had three masks, but it was better than nothing. Techno had to wait at the surface until Fit guided them up to him, unable to hold his breath for so long.

That was not something Techno wanted to think about. Not really. It doesn’t matter anymore, they were here and will be taken care of as best as they could provide. Bringing up any memories of their time trapped in the pod is a terrible idea anyways, those two are probably traumatized far too much as it is.

It had taken him a bit, but he did recognize the two as people he had helped into one of the escape pods. The black haired man had his leg crushed by one of the support beams crashing from the ceiling. Back then they had spoken in a language Techno couldn’t identify, not even sure if they spoke English at all. He was a little glad that they did, but they would have figured out a way to communicate regardless.

“That should do it. The pain-relieving effect will kick in any minute hopefully, it did for our buddy at least.” Fit gently patted the shoulder of the injured man, wincing at the pained whine he got in response. “I know. I’m sorry we can’t do more.” The man looked like he wanted to respond, but nothing outside of wheezes and raspy groans leave his throat. “You’ve done plenty for us already.” The brunette’s-  Cellbit’s- voice was just as raspy and will most likely take a few days to fully come back to him, much like the still unnamed man. If his voice will come back at all. “Thank you. For saving us.”

“Of course! We came as soon as we were prepared and had your coordinates figured out. Well, they did. I wanted to come too, but they wouldn’t let me, which was still unfair, by the way.” Cellbit laughed, weakly patting at Tubbo’s knee, not really able to lift his hand any higher to reach his shoulder. “Probably for the best. You look terrible.” The teen huffed, lifting a hand up to the burn on his face. “Yeah I know. But it’s mostly healed up to where it doesn’t hurt anymore. I already went out to swim once and it didn’t hurt, I would have been able to handle it.”

Techno watched the interaction carefully. Tubbo had never talked about Cellbit when he came visit him in the garden area of the ship, but it seemed like they were good friends. Why had the teen never brought him up before? Then again, he wasn’t sure if he ever brought up Techno when he was with Cellbit. That would be interesting to know.

“I would try and catch us some food now. Can you two handle the injured?” Tubbo gave an immediate nod, while Techno hummed a confirmation, deciding to check the med kit on what supplies they had left now. There was barely anything left… How were they supposed to get more? The plant salve can’t be used for everything, probably. Maybe they could get more from other pods…

Fit deemed that as a good enough answer, grabbing his equipment and leaving the pod to hopefully catch both food and the weird water fish. Techno decided to put the med kit away and worry about that later, instead taking Fit’s spot next to the injured man, who he still doesn’t know the name of.

There was an awkward silence now, unsure what exactly to talk about. Techno hated it.

“So…” He cleared his throat a little, thinking over what he could do to start a conversation. “There isn’t really anything for you to do here. Tubbo and I could work on making more paste, so we have a bit more to treat your wounds. Those scratches on your face look pretty bad… Cellbit? Was that right?” The man nodded, shifting a bit to get more comfortable, scrunching his face a little when something seemed to start hurting again. “Yeah, that’s my name. And his name is Pac. Yours?” “I’m Techno. The guy who just left is Fit. You already know Tubbo it seems.”

Cellbit frowned, turning his head to look at the youngest. “Tubbo?” “My new name. I abandoned the old one for… reasons.” The older hummed, nodding. He obviously wanted to say more, maybe ask the reason for it, but he refrained from doing so. “Alright. I try and remember-“ He started coughing, dry throat finally complaining about the sudden wave of conversation. Tubbo immediately patted his back, even though there was nothing stuck in the other’s throat. “Fit is getting more water, rest your voice until he gets back.”

The man just nodded, heaving for breath once the coughing fit finally stopped.

Techno gave the two a sympathetic look, not sure how he could help the situation. Instead, he focused on the pile of vines in the corner opposite to him and Pac, frowning at the little pool of water forming around it. They seemed fresh, a lush green and still glittering with little water droplets. And last time he checked, they had barely anything left.

“Tubbo?” “Mhm?” The teen looked over towards him, tilting his head a little in question. Techno nodded towards the plants, still frowning. “Those seem fresh.” There was a brief flicker of panic on his face, but it quickly vanished again. “They are. They were floating outside the pod, so I just grabbed them.”

“How did you see them outside the pod when you were supposed to stay inside?”

“I sat on top of the pod for a while, too suffocating in here.”

“Tubbo you promised.”

“I didn’t leave the pod. Sitting on top of it doesn’t count.”

Techno sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration. Teenagers… he was glad his siblings aren’t at that age yet, even if it would be worse for his parents than for him. Was he this stubborn as a teen?

“Did you see how the plants got there?”

Tubbo remained silent, staring at the wall opposite of him, playing with his fingers. That’s not a good sign. Techno knows the teen is a terrible liar, who rather avoids the subject or just stays silent. Meaning he does know something, but doesn’t want to tell Techno. And if he doesn’t want to tell Techno, then it’s bad.

“Tubbo… what did you see?”

He finally looked back at Techno, obviously nervous, fidgeting in his spot next to Cellbit. The brunette watched him with worry, leaning over just a bit to bump shoulders with the youngest.

“Promise not to be mad?”

Techno’s feeling of the whole situation only got worse. But he also doesn’t want to scare his friend. It already felt bad enough that Tubbo was scared to tell him something.

“I promise.”

Tubbo took a deep breath, trying to sit up a bit straighter.

“It was the creature, I watched it place the plants right on our pod.”

Techno nearly had a heart attack. Not only was the creature close to the pod again while Tubbo was alone, but Tubbo was outside and close enough to fully see it. He looked at it instead of hiding.

Okay… keep calm…

You promised not to get mad…

It brought more healing plants…

It could be worse…

“What did it look like?”

Tubbo stared at him like he grew a second head.

“You’re not mad?”

Techno shook his head, shifting a bit to sit cross-legged across from Tubbo. “I promised I wouldn’t be mad. Now, you’re the only one who has fully seen it. What does it look like? What did it do?”

The youngest sat up straighter, a grin on his face. “It’s huge! I only saw it’s general colour beneath the surface and some dorsal fins poking out of the water. Those fins are big and look like dolphin or shark fins from earth! Dark grey and at least the length of my arm! It had two of them! And Techno, it has a hand! A humanoid hand! It had webbed fingers and claws! It placed the vines on the pod and then left again! It’s fast too! It disappeared so quick! When it arrived it bumped against the pod and then circled around it for a while. I don’t know what it was doing, but I don’t think it was hunting. It could have knocked me off or slashed at me easily. But we stared at each other for a bit! Like a staring contest!”

Tubbo’s eyes practically glowed with excitement as he rambled about the creature. Seemingly fascinated by it, both from it’s appearance and it’s apparent intelligence. He wasn’t scared of it. Wasn’t worried it could be a threat. Maybe even already considers it a friend, or friendly, at least.

It’s worrying.

“And that’s all? It swam around, gave you the vines and left again?”

Tubbo nodded, still grinning. “Do you think we may get to see it fully when we try to make ourselves a base with the habitat builder? Could we make underwater windows? That would be so cool! I wanna see what it actually looks like! Maybe it has a humanoid face too!” He gasps, eyes growing impossibly wider. “Maybe it can talk.”

“I doubt that. Even if it could talk, it will most certainly not be English or any other earth language. So far it has only grumbled at us… or whatever that sound is supposed to mean.”

“Can I-“ Cellbit coughed, trying to swallow some spit to get some moisture in his throat. It barely worked. “- ask what creature you are talking about?” Tubbo patted his back again, waiting until the coughing stopped. “We have a creature visiting us occasionally. It has for a while now. So far it has been friendly, only bumping the pod around and bringing us these vines we use for the healing paste. We have never really seen it, only glimpses of some scales or a fin.”

He nodded, humming in thought. “Grey colour?”

“Yes. It has both grey and this sandy yellow blonde colour. And big glowing eyes!”

Cellbit and Pac shared a look, holding an entire silent conversation. They knew something… had they seen it too? They had been underwater the whole time and probably had a much clearer view on it.

“You’ve seen it, haven’t you? Or something similar to it.”

Both men nodded. “Only shadows passing over the pod. Something massive. I could never tell the colours apart when it was right against the sunlight.” Techno hummed, trying to recall how deep down their pod had been. “It never messed with your pod?” “No. Not really. Just passed by.”

Interesting…

Before the conversation could continue, there was a noise from the bottom hatch. It flung open a second later, revealing Fit with his spear, two of the weird water fish and two of the regular fish on it. “It’s not a lot, but it’s getting dark.” Techno helped him climb inside and lock the hatch behind him. “Take me with you next time. I’ll try and learn how to catch them. Tubbo can stay with Cellbit and Pac.” The teen was already huffing in protest, but Cellbit just bumped his shoulder again.

“Four fish are plenty. Thank you Fit.” Fit gave Cellbit a smile, placing the spear on the fabricator. “Technically it’s two fish. These two purple ones make water.” The brunette’s eyes went wide. “You drink fish water?!” His throat immediately complained about the shout, making him cough violently. Tubbo immediately started scolding him for it.

Pac, despite his current weakness, started laughing at the scene.

Making Fit join right in, while Techno simply rolled his eyes.

Surviving this will only get more interesting from here.

Chapter Text

It took a little bit of bribing before the two newcomers agreed to drink the freshly made water. Mostly the fact that they literally had nothing else, so either drink the fish water or find your end with dehydration. It was a little messed up to use that argument, since they were literally just rescued from near death, but it did get them to finally drink the much needed water. And it didn’t taste like fish water, so they’ll get used to it quickly, like the rest of them had. (Although the would have probably found a way to get different water if they absolutely refused to drink this one)

The actual fish was much easier, both of them eagerly taking their portion of cooked meat to finally sate their hunger. Pac had to be fed, more or less, his arms still too weak and shaky to hold the cooked meat on his own. Fit volunteered to help him, carefully helping him take each bite and wash it down with more water. The injured man had been a blushing mess the first time Fit held the fish up to his mouth, but they settled into the short routine after the third bite.

Techno had to shush Tubbo’s teasing mocking multiple times for the sake of Pac eating anything and both Fit and Pac not to pass out from all their blood going to their head.

Cellbit was a bit more stubborn, refusing to accept help even though his arms weren’t strong either. But he fought through it, taking each bite with a little grin, determination to live burning in his eyes. Techno admired that a little, that stubborn drive to stay alive, even after everything that happened to them. He was almost certain that Cellbit’s fire was the only thing that kept both him and Pac alive, with the other man being far more reserved and accepting of their fate.

However they did it, it led them to finally escape their hell and find new strength and a helping hand to steady them both.

With full bellies and much needed hydration, the mood in the crowded pod became more and more quiet and sleepy as the sun disappeared behind the horizon. It was a struggle to somehow fit all five of them, but they managed, even if they felt like sardines in a tin. How ironic.

Techno had decided to give his jacket to Pac, although it had mostly been claimed by Tubbo. The teen didn’t complain though, eagerly handing it off to the injured man at the older’s suggestion. It would have either been Cellbit or Pac, wanting to offer a much comfort as they could with the new safety and food. Cellbit looked more than pleased that the jacket went to Pac, so they made the right choice in offering it to him.

In the end they found somewhat acceptable sleeping positions, half laying down, half sitting, huddled together against the chill of the night.

The night wasn’t as restful as Techno hoped it would be.

Despite the exhaustion pulling at his bones, he couldn’t sleep. While everyone else slowly dozed off cuddled together, he was leaning against the wall beside Tubbo, staring into nothingness as his mind refuses to shut down and let him rest. He drifted in and out of consciousness, but never fully slipped into that little space of rest. It was annoying, frustrating.

The pod was starting to feel more and more suffocating with so many people squeezed together, the life support working overtime to provide oxygen for all of them, filtering the air as fast as it could.

Maybe he should open the hatch to let in more fresh air. It was safe, after all, they have been breathing it for days, weeks now, maybe. Techno wasn’t sure how much time has passed now.

He wasn’t feeling like sleeping right now anyways, so he could watch the hatch and make sure nothing can get inside. Or close it if for some miracle reason it starts raining. During the whole time since they crashed, it hasn’t rained once. Not that Techno had seen at least. Maybe it had rained when they were sleeping, or when he was still unconscious after the crash.

He carefully wriggled out of his place between Fit and Tubbo, sighing when they both grumbled, but didn’t wake up, simply turning more to lean against the other people sleeping right next to them. Techno slowly climbed up the ladder to unlatch the hatch. The loud click made him wince, but one look back to the group showed that none of them woke from the noise, exhaustion pulling them all into a deep sleep. Everyone except him.

The night air was a lot cooler than during the day, but it was still pleasantly refreshing in comparison to the air inside the pod. Techno carefully sat down at the edge of the hatch, taking a deep breath, checking on his friends to see if the temperature change was the last straw to wake them. But they only huddled closer together, seeking out each other’s warmth.

He could see Pac pressing into Fit’s side, relaxed in the hold of a strong mechanical arm.

See Tubbo comfortably nestled between Cellbit and Fit, curled into an impossibly small ball now that he had a bit more space to do so.

See Cellbit’s face finally relaxed for the first time since their rescue, although he was twitching quite a lot, most likely dreaming of something. He unconsciously inched closer to Tubbo after a particular bad jolt, but remained asleep.

Watching them like this, Techno felt horribly out of place. They seemed to fit together so well, seeking out each other’s comfort without even thinking about it. Even without fully knowing each other, in the case of Cellbit and Pac, they started to trust almost immediately.

Was it because Techno never really had been part of a team? Always remained isolated in his little garden, with only Tubbo to visit him and Fit to train with in his evenings in the gym? Techno never had been a social person and during the whole travel, he only wanted to go back home to his family. Play games with the few online friends he had made that were just as awkward as him. Now, in such close proximity with so many people, it was a little overwhelming. Yes, they are his friends, if he can call them that, but… it just felt different.

He shook his head, trying to rid himself of the dark thoughts that always try to invade his mind. Instead, he stared at the view in front of him, at what this planet had to offer to distract him.

If you take away the fear and worry of being stranded… it was actually quite beautiful. The sky was filled with stars, the large red moon slowly passing by behind the crashed remains of the ship. Every now and again he could see a shooting star zip across the glittering void, alongside the colourful stardust that told of great suns long since expired, their remains now starting to birth new stars and planets.

He’d never have this view back home…

The thought of home brought the stinging pain back he had ignored ever since he and Fit managed to find each other. Thoughts of his family, his friends, a safe home…

He took a shaky breath, averting his eyes from the wrecked ship and instead tried to look at the night sky, but the beautiful sight was quickly blurred by his gathering tears. Instead of the beauty of space, he saw his siblings stare back at him, asking him when he will come home. His mother, reaching for him, his father comforting her.

The first sob tore from his throat, quickly muffled by his hand as the tears started to flow. He allowed himself to cry, to just feel the grief and homesickness wrecking his heart. His body shook as he tried to muffle his cries for the sake of his… team? Group? They shouldn’t be ripped from their much needed rest because of him.

Just another thing he could fuck up.

More lives he could ruin.

He could still hear their screams…

Techno’s head jerked up when he picked up a familiar noise. A soft, low rumble, something he still sometimes hears in his dreams. Tears and grief forgotten, his hands found the handles on either side of the ladder on the outside of the pod, holding on tightly as he scanned the water below him. He could see the luminescent plant life and fish swimming about, as if nothing was happening.

Then a large shadow, blocking out the lights below.

Techno’s heart dropped.

Two large, glowing eyes stared up at him from beneath the surface, no other features visible from the darkness of the water. The human did not dare to move, quickly realizing that this must have been how Tubbo encountered the creature hours earlier. It just suddenly appeared, no signs of it’s arrival until it wants to be seen. A perfect predator for the hunt. Was Techno it’s next target?

Fear didn’t allow him to move or to make a single sound. Maybe it only sees movement? Like the dinosaurs in the movies. Or maybe he was too small to be an interesting meal. Does it know there are more people inside the pod? Was this even the same creature? Maybe there are multiple ones and they had experienced a different creature in each encounter.

Nope, that thought only made it worse.

Much to Techno’s horror, the creature came closer, the two great fins Tubbo had described slowly rising from the water. But it didn’t stop there. More of the fins rose above the surface and soon the water above the glowing eyes rose a little, then broke as it’s head lifted out of the water.

Techno stared at it with a mixture of complete awe and something close to horror as he stared the creature in the eyes. It didn’t lift it’s head fully out of the water, only halfway really, but it was enough to show that it was humanoid looking. Much like the hand Tubbo had described to be humanoid.

It’s face was a sandy gold in colour, the same colour as the massive scales he had seen through the window in the hatch during the very first encounter. The eyes glowed a pale green, no pupils visible to the human. It even had hair, although it looked much thicker than hair, jet black in colour, almost like the stary void above them. Fins poke out of the hair on each side of his face, almost mimicking ears.

Why does it look so fucking human…

The creature just stared at him, tilting it’s head a little when Techno refused to even move an inch. It rose a bit higher, still not lifting it’s head fully out of the water, instead lifting a very much humanoid hand up and towards him. His heart raced as he watched the hand come closer until it tapped the pod right below him, making it sway slightly.

Techno gripped the handles harder, tempted to kick at the hand to maybe shock it into going away. If it would even feel the kick…

The creature waited a little, then tapped it again when Techno refused to move again. Was it confused that he wasn’t running? Maybe it thinks he is dead. What is it waiting for?

“Techno?” Fit’s tired voice echoed up from inside the pod, immediately catching the creature’s attention, who’s ears perked a little at the noise. “What are you doing up there? Why is the pod-“ Then he heard it, the low rumble vibrating through the pod. Without another word, while Techno kept staring at the creature, Fit started to shake Tubbo awake. He immediately covered the teen’s mouth when he began to protest, who also immediately froze once he realized what he was hearing.

Although unlike the fear that Techno and Fit held and the confusion of Pac and Fit, Tubbo seemed excited by the return of the creature. He pushed past Fit instantly and vaulted up the ladder, despite Fit trying to catch him. “You’re back!” The teen’s eyes glowed with brilliant awe as he stared down at the creature, gasping when he saw that it had revealed it’s face. “Hello! I didn’t think you would come back this soon! Is something wrong?”

The creature continued to rumble, a bit louder now, as it reached up further to tap the pod beside Tubbo. It seemed happy to see him…

“Yeah, you probably don’t understand me still. We need to figure that one out.” Tubbo was about to slide down and get closer to the creature, but Techno grabbed his arm and held him at the top of the pod. “Are you insane?!” “He’s not gonna hurt me. Look at him! He would have done it already.”

Fit carefully squeezed his way past Tubbo, trying to catch a glimpse at the creature as well. His eyes went wide immediately, sinking back down into the pod almost instantly, only his head poking out still. “Christ that thing is huge…” “Oh come on you scaredy cat, he’s friendly.” “What is happening up there?” Cellbit had placed himself beside Pac, looking very much like a protective sibling.

“My creature friend came back!”

“It’s not your friend Tubbo.”

“You don’t know that. I think it’s my friend.”

“It will rip you to shreds!”

“No he won’t, look at him!”

“Tubbo I’m serious.”

“I’ll name you Blorp.”

“TUBBO!”

Chapter Text

“No, you are not going down there.” Tubbo was whining at this point, his fourth attempt at pulling free failing again as both Techno and Fit refused to let him get any closer to the creature, while Cellbit and Pac remained inside the pod, still too weak to actually climb up and see what is going on. Probably for the better with the creature around.

Which was still watching them, curious about what the weird small creatures were doing. It hadn’t moved much since it appeared, only moving it’s head around to look at things and alternating the pitch of it’s rumbling. None of them had a clue as to why it was making this constant noise, considering it only ever started to make it near the pod. Whenever it approached them it was silent, only making noise once it’s right there.

Tubbo didn’t seem to have any concerns about it. “Look at him Techno! Blorp won’t hurt a fly!” “I am very sure that he does, actually.” Techno was seconds away from forcefully locking the teen inside the pod, for his own safety. It was scary how quickly his fears had turned into teenage recklessness and the need to explore and touch everything.

He will also absolutely not refer to the creature as Blorp.

Tubbo huffed, sitting at the edge of the hatch with his arms crossed, glaring. “Okay then mister know-it-all, what will we do if he never leaves? You want us to starve? Dehydrate? We don’t exactly have any weapons outside of two small knifes that will not do anything to scare him off. If anything will ever scare it.”

“Maybe if we stab it’s eyes and make it blind…”

“What is wrong with you?!”

“I am trying to keep us alive Tubbo!”

“By killing something that could help us?!”

“How is that creature supposed to help us?”

“It brought us the healing plants! It checked on me while you two were gone rescuing Cellbit and Pac! Maybe if we train him he can lift heavy stuff for us! How much more proof do you need?!”

“Okay, that’s enough you two.”

Fit tugged Techno to the side a little, careful not to accidentally throw him off the pod. “Tubbo has a point. It has helped us and so far has not shown a single sign of being a threat. If it wanted to eat us, it would have done that already. Or maybe it’s not a predator, who knows. It could be feeding off the kelp and other plants. Just because it’s massive doesn’t mean it eats meat, there were massive dinosaurs even bigger than this that only ate plants.”

Tubbo gave a self satisfied grin at hearing that Fit was on his side, much to Techno’s dismay. Here goes the only person that could back him up in this. “I am still against just jumping into the water with this thing, but Tubbo has a point that we won’t have a choice in the long run, if it stays around.”

“Exactly, it could still kill you-“

“Oh stop it, Blorp won’t do that.”

“Why is everyone just okay with this?!”

“Just for the record-“, Cellbit’s voice echoed up from inside the pod, “I don’t want to get near that thing too!”

“Thank you Cellbit!”

“No problem.”

Fit gently tugged at his arm, successfully getting Techno’s attention. “This situation is basically hopeless. Even if there is a ship on it’s way to rescue us, it will take years to reach us. And it takes years for our distress signal to reach the nearest station, without the proper long distance coms that we had on the ship. And if we want to survive out here for years, then we should take every extra help we can get. This creature… uh… Blorp… could help us a lot, if we actually manage to train it. It’s already friendly, especially towards Tubbo. Maybe it’s not as crazy as we think…”

Techno already opened his mouth to protest, but all he got out was a shout when he realized that Tubbo had disappeared out of his sight. When he turned, he saw the boy balanced on the floating devices, hand stretched out towards the creature. “What do you think you are doing?!” “Oh shut up, leave me alone.” The teen grinned over his shoulder, sticking his tongue out at the other. When he saw how quickly Techno was climbing down to try and grab him again, he simply grinned and let himself fall forward into the water.

Techno’s heart stopped. “Tubbo!”

The creature dove beneath the water, following after Tubbo, great fins disappearing beneath the surface.

For a second there was nothing but deafening silence and the rushing and splashing of water.

It had stopped rumbling.

IT STOPPED RUMBLING!

He doesn’t know what kind of sudden bravery took hold of him, but Techno was already down by the water with a knife in hand a second later. But before he could jump after his friend and try getting a hit at the creature, both appeared above the surface again. The creature came back up first, head and dorsal fins raising out of the water, before it’s large hand followed, Tubbo balanced in it’s palm.

The teen was laughing, shaking water out of his hair as the creature lifted him higher, aiming to place him back on the pod. This time it lifted it’s head higher, allowing the humans to see the full shape of it’s head. Apart from the black hair, sandy-gold-coloured scales and glowing green eyes, they could now see a slightly open mouth, filled with sharp teeth. No nose, which was to be expected, instead having large gills at the side of it’s throat. It still looked far too humanoid to not be creepy.

“See? I told you he’s harmless!”

Techno immediately grabbed him by the arm, pulling him fully onto the pod and almost shoving him straight into the hatch.

“You are grounded!”

Tubbo sputtered, halfway between a laugh and an offended squawk. “You can’t ground me!” “Yes I fucking can! You just jumped into the water with a large unknown creature! You are absolutely grounded!” The teen looked to Fit for support, but the older man was busy smothering a laugh behind his hand, not even trying to hide his amusement. He, surprisingly, didn’t seem that panicked about what Tubbo had done. Probably expected him to do it.

The teen huffed, trying to pull his arm free from Techno’s grip. “I just showed you that he isn’t dangerous! We can befriend him and he’ll help us survive! Why are you so mad?!”

Techno grabbed him by the shoulders, shaking his smaller body. “Tubbo you are insane! You are endangering your life with unnecessary risks! Don’t you understand that?! You gave me a heart attack! I thought you would die!” Tubbo stared up at Techno, at how despite seeming angry, his eyes were filled with fear and panic. And for once, he didn’t have some sort of comeback.

The knife was still clutched in his hand, the hilt pressing into Tubbo’s shoulder while the blade pointed safely away. Techno had been ready to jump into the water and attack the creature. Ready to risk his life in a hopeless fight, because he wanted to save him.

Tubbo felt a little stupid now, scaring his friend like that.

“I’m sorry…” Techno sighed, relaxing his grip a little. Fuck, this night was just all over the place. “Just… don’t do it again.” “I’ll warn you next time, promise.” That was not what he wanted to hear, but it was already better than nothing. And, even if he somehow managed to convince Tubbo now, there is no saying he won’t do it again next week.

The low rumbling started again, drawing everyone’s attention back towards the creature. “Right… what do we do about… him? Can we just like… go back inside?” Fit nervously glanced between the creature and the open hatch, seeing Cellbit and Pac still huddled together, both looking up towards him, just waiting for whatever the others decide to do next. “Or will it climb on the pod again if we do?” “How are we supposed to know what he will do?”

“I have an idea!” Tubbo grinned, inching his way down the side of the pod. Techno immediately tries to grab him again. “Tubbo-“ “I am not going into the water, just let me try something.” After a moment of hesitation, looking between the large creature and Tubbo, he slowly let go of his arm, backing off a little. The teen turned back to the creature, balancing on the floating devices again.

The creature came closer, it’s large hand lifting up instantly to hover below Tubbo, as if ready to catch him. The two adults watched in silent awe, letting Tubbo try whatever he is about to do. The teen grinned wider, carefully reaching out and patting one of the large fingers. “Thank you for trying to rescue me Blorp. We’ll be fine for the night, we’ll go back inside the pod and sleep. You can go back home and rest too.”

The creature curled it’s hand a little, only leaving the one finger stretched out for Tubbo to hold on to. It’s rumble got a little louder, rather resembling a large cat than a terrifying creature. Tubbo held on to the finger with one hand, using the other to point out towards the ocean behind the creature. “Go home, we can hang out tomorrow! When the sun comes up again!”

It turned it’s head, looking at where Tubbo was pointing, then back at him. Techno was fairly certain that it did not understand what the teen wants to communicate. “Home, Blorp. Go home.” Tubbo points at himself, then at Techno and Fit. Then he pats his hand against the pod. “This is our home. Home.” He does it a few more times, the creature watching him with sharp eyes.

When he hoped that it understood the first part, he patted the creature’s finger and pointed back out towards the ocean. “Go home. Your home.” The creature turned to look at the open ocean, then back at Tubbo. For a second, it didn’t move. Tubbo already lifted his hand to try again when the creature made a louder grumble and dove beneath the waves.

Great grey fins circle around the pod for a moment, cutting through the water with ease, before it swam away, fins disappearing beneath the surface after a few moments.

Then, silence.

None of the humans move much at first, staring out onto the ocean, where the last waves and ripples that the creature made were now fading. As if it was never there in the first place.

Tubbo turned to look at his friends, who stared down at him in awe. “See? I had a plan.”

Techno didn’t say anything, just staring out at the now still water.

Fit on the other hand gave the teen a grin and a clap on the shoulder. “You are a real beast tamer! Maybe we can train that creature after all!” “I hope so! I really like Blorp! He looks so badass! Did you see his teeth?! I swear to you when I was underwater I saw some shiny stuff on his body! Like gold!”

The older nodded and grinned, nudging Tubbo towards the hatch and into the pod. “Maybe he will come back in the morning and we can see him in the daylight.” “Yes I hope so!” Fit looked over his shoulder to check on Techno, carefully nudging his leg with his foot. “Come on. At least try and get some sleep.” “I don’t think I can…” “Then at least stay by my side while Tubbo rambles the whole night.”

Techno huffed out a laugh, finally turning his back to the water. “I can do that.” Fit shot him a grin, then descended down the ladder and into the pod. Techno followed close behind, leaving the hatch open for fresh air.

Tubbo was in the middle of his retelling of what happened, Pac and Cellbit listening with rapt attention, even when having heard everything that happened. Fit placed himself next to Pac again, keeping a minimal, respectful distance between them (in the tiny, crowded space they have). A small smile formed on his lips as he watched Pac laugh, wheezing and hoarse still, leaning against Fit as Cellbit gave a small shove against his friend’s shoulder.

Techno sat down beside Tubbo, ruffling his still wet hair as he excitedly recalled what he could see from the creature underwater, since his vision without the mask had been quite blurry.

Eventually, after more hours of still present nervousness and worry (on Techno’s side) exhaustion did finally pull them to sleep.

“Hurry up Tubbo!”

“I’m coming, I’m coming!”

The teen strapped on his mask, checking if the oxygen tank was connected properly. Cellbit tried to help him as best as he could, fastening the straps across his back that keep the tank in place. He had opted to stay in the pod with Pac, leaving the hatch open for fresh air and coms open so they can hear and chat with everyone. Hopefully it will be enough to not reactivate any traumatic memories they have from being stuck inside their own pod for so long. But going out and getting resources was essential, so this was their best solution to try and make sure the two newest team members feel safe.

“Stay safe please…” It was obvious Cellbit was nervous about letting him go. Tubbo got reminded of the discussion he had with Techno and Fit about his first venture outside the pod, when his burns were still in the middle of healing. At least now the brunette wasn’t trying to stop him going outside. “I will be fine! You keep Pac company while we try and get resources for the habitat builder, okay?” Cellbit nodded, glancing back at Pac, who was happily nibbling at the last bits of fish they had.

Tubbo patted his shoulder, thanking him for helping with the straps, then climbed up the ladder and disappeared out of the pod.

The air was still crisp as the sun was just starting to warm up the air around them, but Tubbo knew the water would still be warm regardless. It probably was some sort of volcanic system below the surface keeping the water so warm. Techno did mention they had some environmental scans, he needs to get his hands on those.

Both Techno and Fit were in the water just beside the pod, quietly talking about something. Their coms were off, making Tubbo unable to try and listen to the conversation. Probably not something he’s supposed to hear anyways.

“Okay I’m ready now!” Both adults looked up towards him, instantly yelling at him when he jumped off the pod and landed beside them in the water, creating a huge splash. “What did I say about jumping off the pod!” “Oh relax, it’s not even that high.” The teen swam to Fit’s side, sticking out his tongue towards Techno, who in return tried to reach over to try and dunk him underwater.

“Okay enough. Let’s try and get some stuff. I’ll catch food in the evening, but now we need to find those stupid ingredients for the habitat builder.” Fit strapped the mask over his face, checking that his com was now on and ready to receive the others, then dove underwater. Tubbo and Techno following close behind.

It was still just as beautiful as the first time, colours and shapes of all variants present in the reef. All the fish zipping about, some of the larger gas spewing creatures a good distance away. You wouldn’t even think this place was dangerous.

“Alright guys. To recap the list, we need about two Acid shrooms, three copper ore, two large samples of table coral and a little bit of gold, one piece is probably enough. Techno, you have the scanner right?”

“Right here.” He lifts the little device, already activated and ready to go. Fit nodded, opening the PDA and started scrolling through all the things they had scanned already. Tubbo glanced over his shoulder, catching glimpses of different coral and mineral deposits. “If we find anything that looks new, we’ll scan it and hope for the best. I think we skipped the caves to the west of here, we could start there to try and find the minerals.”

And so the group went off, swimming towards the handful of small cave entrances they had avoided last time. They weren’t deep or long, so there had been little hope that there would be anything valuable in it.

Tubbo, despite his seemingly fearless recklessness, stuck close to the two adults. They were the only ones with weapons as of right now, as they were missing some resources to create more of them. So he stayed close, for his safety and the poor hearts of his friends. If he decided to swim off on his own, they surely will have a heart attack.

And while they were making their way towards a cave, he kept on the lookout for a certain creature that will hopefully return soon. He had only managed to convey the message ‘go away’, so he was a little nervous if Blorp won’t come back anymore. He doubts it, but the chance is still there. But for now, the creature was nowhere in sight. Probably for the better, so far away from the pod.

“Here we go. Stay alerted, we don’t know if there are any bigger creatures living in here.” Fit held his spear tight in both hands, Techno following his example with his knife. They entered the cave slowly, checking each and every corner before they even dared to start looking at the resources. But apart from a few small fish, the cave was empty.

Techno began to scan all the different rocks and outcrops, Fit reading out the material each time. At least they know where to find thingy like silver, titanium, granite and similar stuff. But still no luck on the resources they actually need. That was until they reached the very back of the cave, where Techno scanned two more outcrops. He already turned around and was ready to swim away when Fit and Tubbo, both watching the PDA, give and excited cheer. “Those are both copper!” “Fucking finally!”

The two ores immediately got smashed out of the wall with the two weapons, both landing in Tubbo’s arms to carry. “This at least puts us a little closer to the habitat builder! Now we just need to find a little more and some gold, then we have all the minerals we need.” “Took us long enough to find this. Maybe the other caves around here have copper too, if it’s a local deposit.”

They made their way back towards the entrance of the cave, happily relaying the news to Pac and Cellbit. The sooner they find the rest, the sooner they can start creating a little base with enough space for all of them. Maybe they can even make beds! None of them have ever used a habitat builder before, so it’s abilities are unknown to all five of them. Techno really hopes it can make beds…

Fit turned the corner to finally exit the cave, only to scream and jolt back, spear in front of him. Techno immediately went to his side, knife stretched out in front of him, only to let it sink down again when he saw what had scared his friend.

Right in front of the entrance was the creature, it’s large, glowing green eyes fixed on them as it just laid there on the ground, staring at them. As soon as the humans came into view, it’s weird rumbling started up again. Tubbo practically zipped past his two friends as soon as he heard the noise start up. “Blorp! I knew you would come back!”

The creature rumbled louder, holding still as Tubbo practically hugged it’s face, the two copper forgotten in the sand. Techno didn’t have the energy to try and pull Tubbo away, plus the creature didn’t seem to mind the weird habit of the tiny human. So, he and Fit just stared.

Now that they were underwater with a clear view of the whole creature, they realized it was far bigger than they had imagined. Without anything to actually measure it, Techno guessed it somewhere at 90 feet in length. It’s fins and arms were grey, going from dark to light, before shifting into the sandy gold he is familiar with, the same colour that made up the creature’s face, now framed by gently flowing black hair. Or what looks like black hair.

It’s tail reminded him of a shark, only that it had multiple rows of fins on it. But it still moved and looked the same. It had two dark dorsal fins on it’s back, a bunch of smaller ones lining the rest of the spine all the way down towards the tail. True to Tubbo’s word, there seems to be something shimmering wrapped around it’s body in some spots, almost looking like gold. The upper body, apart from the scales, fins and such, seemed pretty humanoid. Almost like those drawings of mermaids.

“Look at you! You look so cool!” Tubbo swam a little away from it’s face, grinning. “You came looking for us! Maybe you can help us search for things! You probably know where a lot of things are around here. If we can manage to communicate that to you… Fit, do we have pictures on the PDA? Of the things we need?”

The oldest of their group finally snapped out of his thoughts, mumbling something Techno couldn’t understand before he opened the PDA, checking all the different tabs he could open for the materials. “Oh. There are.” Techno not so gently shoved his friend’s shoulder. “You had pictures this whole time?! And I’ve been scanning all those plants and mushrooms!” “I didn’t notice it!”

“Great! Give it here!” Tubbo took the PDA from Fit’s hand, picking out one of the pictures and holding it out for the creature to see. It squinted at the picture, so fucking human looking, most likely from the small size of the screen. “Can you find this for us? We’ve been looking for ages.” It took a few moments, but then the creature rose from the ground, turning around and disappearing from sight with surprising speed, swirling up a bit of sand in the process as it’s massive fin swings from left to right.

Tubbo turned to grin at his friends. “If this works this will go so much faster!”

Techno and Fit just stared at him.

“What?”

“How are you doing that?”

“Doing what?”

“Make it do what you say!”

“I don’t know. I just try and communicate what I want to say. It’s mostly luck I think.”

“Are you guys okay?” Cellbit’s voice echoed out of the little coms, a bit static but otherwise perfectly understandable. “We’re fine, Tubbo is just playing beast tamer again.” “I told Blorp to go find the mushrooms! If he actually brings them back we can definitely build the habitat builder today!” Techno has to be honest, seeing Tubbo so excited and practically vibrating with energy was a nice change to how down he has been feeling about everything himself. “That sounds great!” “I know right?!”

“I hate to interrupt, but I think we should use the time while uh… Blorp… is away to try and find the other minerals. Who knows how long it will take him to find those mushrooms.” Tubbo and Techno nodded in agreement, following Fit towards the next little cave, Tubbo quickly picking up the two copper he had dropped.

The second cave proved successful as well, as they found another piece of copper almost instantly. “I can’t believe it was here the whole time. We just looked in the wrong place.” “All the wrong places, since this is our last spot.” Fit shot Techno an unamused look, earning a grin in return. “Alright, I had that one coming.”

“I’m sure I can tell Blorp to find the coral too, so we only need to find some gold now! I see something shiny over there in the stone, can that be gold?” Both adults turned to where Tubbo was pointing, spotting the small glittering object sticking out of the wall. Techno swam over immediately, aiming to scan the object. Not even a second later, Fit whooped as he swam over, clapping him on the back. “We did it bud! Now we only need the creature to find the other things!”

They dug the gold out of the wall, a sizable chunk too. And before they had even left the cave, they could hear the slowly growing rumble from outside the cave. Tubbo, once again, zipped right past them. “Blorp! Did you find it?”

When they left the cave, the creature was in the same position as before, laying on the ground as it allowed Tubbo to swim close and touch the smooth scales. And right in front of it was a small pile of mushrooms. “Good job Blorp! You helped us so much with this!” While those two were distracted, Techno scanned the mushrooms, looking towards Fit for confirmation. The other read through the newly added file, then nodded. “It’s the right one. Now all that is left is the coral.”

Tubbo instantly knew what to do and took the PDA from Fit after he gave a lot of pats to Blorp’s head, who rumbled louder despite probably not even feeling the tiny hand on his head. “Alright Blorp. I need to ask one last favour of you okay? Can you find us this thing?” He opens the picture of the coral and shows it to the creature, who squinted at it for a while again before rising and taking off.

Tubbo squealed and turned to his friends again, the biggest grin on his face. “This is so fucking cool!” Techno smiled at him and ruffled his hair, the long strands all wavey and flowy underwater. “Good job. This is really impressive. We should listen to you more often.” “Damn right you should!”

They decided to wait there until the creature returned, not wanting to confuse it at where they had suddenly gone. It didn’t take long, barely five minutes before they spotted it- him?- swimming back towards them, something clutched in one of his massive hands. The rumbling started as soon as it circled around the three to lay back down, dropping a massive piece of coral into the sand. It was bigger than Techno, probably fully ripped out of where it had been growing.

Tubbo instantly went back to praising Blorp for his amazing work, while Fit and Techno looked at each other. “I guess this gives us long lasting supplies. We need a fraction of that for the habitat builder.”

“How will we even move that?”

“Good point. Maybe we just cut off what we need-“

“Blorp can carry it for us! I’m sure he’ll follow us back to the pod!”

The two adults shrugged. It was worth a shot. And it’s listening to Tubbo like a well trained dog… “Alright Blorp. We need to go home now. Home, do you remember?” The creature rumbled louder, rising from the sand. It didn’t hesitate to grab the coral as soon as Tubbo pointed towards it, then watches curiously as the humans divided the resources between them to carry back home.

“Let’s go build ourselves a cool new base!”

Chapter Text

“I really hope this works…” Fit placed all the necessary ingredients on the fabricator, having to awkwardly balance the mushrooms so they wouldn’t fall off. And while he was working at the fabricator, he decided that giving everyone a lesson on how to use it is beneficial for everyone’s survival. Only him and Cellbit seem to have actual previous knowledge of it’s functions. And Tubbo kind of does simply through watching him use it ever since his rescue.

“It’s easy, really. The fabricator tells you what you need to create certain things. All you need to do is to gather resources and place them here. You can also upload new blueprints into the system to extend the library of items it already knows. I think we could connect that to the scanner. It can make both organic things and machinery, even clothes if we actually get materials for it. A lot of machinery requires that you make a bunch of smaller things first and then combine those. I am doing that for the habitat builder too, since we need certain wires, a battery and a computer chip.”

He placed the final three items on the little pad, satisfied when the marker for the habitat builder turned blue after it scanned the offered materials. “And if it turns blue, that means everything is ready to go.” The others listen carefully as he demonstrated everything, even if they had already watched him use it before to make food and water. Fit won’t always be available to man the fabricator, and it was pretty simple to understand, so this shouldn’t be much of a problem in the future.

Cellbit watched the little lasers of the fabricator move around, slowly constructing the new tool. “Hey, just out of curiosity, could we use the fabricator to make another mask and oxygen tank? We only have four and once Pac recovers enough he should have a set too.” Fit hummed, scrolling through the offered recipes that are already in the system. “I don’t see a mask, just tanks… once we have made our new base I’ll mess around with the scanner to see if we can use it to create blueprints. Then we could scan one of our masks and see what resources we would need.”

Slowly, the offered parts on the fabricator pad were turned into a small device, similar in size to the thermometers you see in old ghost hunting videos. It was smaller than they had expected, lighter too. “That thing is supposed to build us an entire base?” Techno eyed the little device warily, watching as Fit picked it up and turned it in his hands. “Apparently. I’ve never used one before, but the description says it can.”

The little PDA gave a beeping noise, causing Tubbo to pick it up from the ground to check what is happening. “Oh, it made a note for the habitat builder. The builder tool is designed to construct habitats capable of withstanding extreme environmental conditions. Fabricates habitat compartments and appliances from raw materials. Interesting…” Techno glanced over his shoulder, reading over the little message and instructions on how to use it (thank god those are there). “Extreme conditions does sound promising for an underwater base…” “Let’s go try it out!”

Tubbo was the first one up and grabbing his equipment again, with everyone having taken it off so the oxygen tanks could be refilled. Techno stayed by Tubbo’s side as he too put his equipment back on, knowing that the creature was still roaming outside and he does not want Tubbo to be alone with it. Not while he is still so reckless and blindly trusting.

Fit grabbed his equipment, then turned to Pac and Cellbit. “Do you guys want to join us? We could figure something out with the masks, I feel a bit bad just locking you guys in here after… you know.” Cellbit wanted to respond, but closed his mouth when he noticed Pac move beside him, sitting up a bit straighter and smiling up at Fit. “It’s okay, we’ll be fine. Thank you for asking.” His voice was raspy, barely more than a whisper and sure as hell not ready for him to start talking, but Fit didn’t comment on it.

Instead, he nodded and began strapping on the oxygen tank and mask. “Call if you need anything, I’ll try and catch you something if you get hungry in here. We’ll probably get very distracted playing with the habitat builder. And don’t get a heart attack if you see Blorp through the window in the hatch, he’s friendly. We hope.” “Oh we hope so too, with you guys out there in the water with him.” Fit grinned at them and went over to the hatch. “We’ll be fine.”

As soon as they were out in the water again, they could spot Blorp laying on the ground nearby, propped up on his arms and watching them curiously. He- was it even a he?- hadn’t left since their little resource collection and had simply laid himself on the ground, almost like a cat just lazily watching their owner walk about the flat.

Tubbo, while immediately waving at the creature, actually stayed with his friends, more interested in trying to create a new base of operation for their group. It helped calm Techno’s nerves a little bit, having the teen close-by rather than messing around with the creature all by himself.

“Let’s see how this thing works…” Turning the little device on, it showed a list of basic base compartments it could create, from rooms, windows and hallway connections to solar panels and reinforcements. “We should start with a room right? And add connections from there?” Techno took a quick look at their surroundings, picking a spot that was close to the pod and the little pile of loot he they have collected over time. “Sounds about right.”

Fit picked the option to create a room, checking what requirements it had. “Six pieces of titanium. We should have that. Do we want it right here?” “Yes, we still need the radio from the pod and the fabricator. Maybe we can tie the pod down with something, so it won’t drift away…” The oldest nodded, pressing the build option on the basic room. “Okay. Here we go.”

Much to everyone’s surprise, a large hologram appeared, showcasing how large the room will be and how it will look like when placed in the area. “Wow, that’s so cool! I’ve never seen holograms that don’t use the base graphic pad! Even my father never had these!” Tubbo swam closer, swinging his arm through the light blue hologram. “How do we turn this into a building now?” “I am working on that part. It says we need to supply the titanium, but I have no idea how we supply it to this little thing…”

Techno swam down to their resource stash and picked up two titanium pieces, carrying them back towards Fit. “Maybe if we just…  hold it close? Can it use the titanium from a certain proximity? The instructions didn’t include any kind of container for the resources.” They held the habitat builder just above the titanium, causing a little screen to pop up that said ‘2/6’. “Hey that kind of works. Can you still start the building from the ground? I don’t think we can hold six pieces of titanium up here.” “Only one way to find out.”

It took a little bit of rearranging and discussion before they had the ideal setup for the room and a way to supply all six parts of titanium. Through it all, the creature remained laying where it was, watching them with it’s glowing eyes, curious as to what the tiny humans were doing. Techno glanced over at it every now and again, growing more uneasy the longer it just laid still and stared. It was creepy.

“Alright, here we go!” Upon completing the requirement, the little device opened at the bottom, two laser like beams meeting the titanium gathered bellow. Then two actual laser shot from the top part and began to seemingly construct the room out of nothing. All three of them stared in awe as the room took shape, even going as far as taking on the usual blue and white colour scheme of the Federation. Where was it even getting the colour from?

“Holy shit this is badass! Look at it! We are making a room out of nothing!”

“We are using titanium…”

“I know but look-“

“Tubbo, can you go fetch two more titanium? We need to attach a hatch compartment so we can actually get inside.”

The teen saluted and swam off towards their pile, Techno looking after him just in case. “I want whatever he is taking at night.” The pink haired man shoved his friend a little, causing Fit to laugh. “It’s called being a teenager. Endless energy, I swear…” “Reminds me of you when you train. You never seem to get tired once you get to hold a blade.”

Techno snorted, still watching Tubbo as he rummaged through their resources. The creature, curled around the large rock who’s cave harbours their stuff, made a little noise at Tubbo as it tried to see what the teen was doing. “Don’t remind me… I miss my sword. Would feel much better with it, even if underwater combat is something that all of us need to learn.”

Fit hummed, lowering his arms a little so the habitat builder could reach the bottom bits of titanium, the room almost completed. “Maybe we can find you a new one when we explore the ship.” That got the other’s attention, who turned to face him with wide eyes. “Since when was that the plan?” “Since I think there could be a lot of valuable resources there. And having Blorp with us could help getting there and back reasonably fast.”

He did have a point, the ship holds a lot of valuable things, if they were still intact after the crash. Seamoths, Gliders, Prawn suits, food and water, maybe even long range communication… and weapons. Lots of weapons. Rifles, swords, heated blades… All of those things would be so incredibly useful to help them survive. But the ship was so far away and still burning. More sections could explode every minute and he did not want to be inside there once they do.

“Oh come on Techno, I know that look. You and I both know we should go over there eventually. And having Blorp will be plenty of protection if we encounter more of those aggressive things. I doubt he would allow Tubbo to get hurt, so he’ll probably protect us by extension.” “I am still not okay with how fast you trusted that thing.”

The older sighs, deactivating the habitat builder once it was fully done. “You have every right to be suspicious. I am also worried he might hurt us. But we do have to accept the fact that he is sticking around. And so far he has been a large help. Tubbo could have died without those plants and us out of bandages and salve.”

Oh Techno knows… he still sees the large wounds sometimes, fresh and bleeding. Tubbo almost torn to shreds by the explosion of his pod. “I’m trying. I really am. I just… need more time. More proof.” “That’s fine. Take your time. You know we all keep each other safe. And if Blorp does end up having ill intend, I will stab him to try and save you guys.” Techno laughed, bumping shoulders with his friend. I would try and save you too. With my tiny knife.” That made Fit laugh out loud, smacking away Techno’s hand as he attempted to poke him in the side.

“Hey what are you guys laughing about?” Tubbo swam right between the two, taking his chance to aim a poke at Techno’s side. “You and your slow ass. The titanium?” The teen pouted and placed the two pieces on the ground, allowing Fit to select the new build option and aim to attach an extra hallway and hatch. The hologram attached itself to the room instantly, having little need for Fit to perfectly aim by himself.

Creating the attachment took not nearly as long as creating the base room, although Techno was a bit worried that a hatch on the side will just flood the room every time it’s opened. Only one way to find out what happens. “I can’t believe we just made all this in like… ten minutes? It was so easy! We were squeezed together in that pod for so long!” Tubbo swam over to the hatch, quickly followed by the two adults.

The wheel turned pretty easily, allowing them to pull the hatch open with barely any effort. But inside they saw a little room, barely big enough to hold two people. A few screens were embedded at the side, all turned off. And a door blocked off entry to the room they just built. “Okay, so we have an air lock system, that’s pretty useful. It will probably pump out water before we enter the actual base.” Fit leaned forward into the room, tapping against the screens and buttons. “But it needs power.” “Wasn’t there a solar penal in the habitat builder? Maybe that works, we are pretty close to the surface.”

The oldest immediately activated the little device again and searched for the correct recipe. “We need quartz, titanium and copper for that.” “Great, so we can’t move in just yet. I have no idea where we can get quartz from.” Tubbo grinned, immediately holding out his hands for the PDA that they had taken with them.

Techno sighs, handing it over to the teen. “While your creature buddy knew what mushrooms and coral look like, I doubt he will find something like quartz.” “First of all, his name is Blorp. And second, we won’t know until we try it. So stop being so scared and come ask him if he can find it.”

While Techno was not particularly fond of getting close to the creature, he does not want Tubbo alone with it. So he followed, grumbling something under his breath. Fit stayed by his side, patting him on the back before opening their coms. “Cellbit, Pac? We need some more stuff for a solar panel and Tubbo will go ask Blorp to try and find it. We might be out of range for a little while, but we try to stay close.”

The answer came quick enough, Cellbit’s voice crackling out of the little mic. “Be careful please, don’t get lost. We just managed to find each other.”

“We’ll be fine, I promise. Do you want me to leave you guys some food?”

“We’re fine, don’t worry. Just hurry and get back quickly.”

“Will do, see you later.”

Blorp perked up from his spot a little when noticing that all three humans were coming his way, his tail fin softly swinging from side to side a little where it hung off from a small cliff. “Hey Blorp! We need your help again buddy!” Tubbo swam right up to him, going for some pets on the head. The creature allowed it, it’s rumbling starting up again.

“Can you find this for us? We need it to complete our home.” It squinted at the little screen, a small, almost chirp like noise leaving it’s throat. Techno and Fit shared a look, unsure what the noise might mean. It didn’t seem threatening, but who knows. Tubbo patiently waited for the creature to make some sort of move, either to shoo him off or give some sort of signal that he does know the material.

After a moment, the creature rose from the ground, but it didn’t immediately bolt away like last time. This time it swam closer to Tubbo, nudging him up until he instinctively reached for the creatures black hair to stabilize himself. That did seem to be the intention, as it now swam over to Fit and Techno, doing the same thing.

Both adults yelped as they were suddenly nudged upwards by the creature, far too close for comfort. Tubbo just laughed. “I think he wants to take us for a ride! Maybe he wants to show us where we can find quartz in the ground!” Fit clung to black hair as he settled beside Tubbo, spear now back in his hand. Techno, after a bit of flailing, managed to do the same, not looking the slightest bit happy about it.

“It better not be far away…”

“Only one way to-“

Before Tubbo could finish his sentence, the creature turned and bolted forward, speeding away from the pod and half constructed base.

Chapter Text

It was honestly impressive just how fast a creature of this size could move around. They zipped past the reef and into the kelp forest in a matter of minutes, instead of the hours it took them to travel there when they had gone to rescue Cellbit and Pac. Although the creature did slow down quite a bit when it realized the humans had problems holding on to it’s hair. And while Tubbo seemed to be enjoying himself, laughing and looking at their surroundings speed past, Techno and Fit didn’t feel nearly as excited.

“Are we sure he’s not kidnapping us?” Tubbo just rolled his eyes, not even answering the question or defending the creature. Fit did seem to be similarly worried as him now, occasionally checking just how far away they are from their pod and new base, frown growing with each minute that passed by. Contact with Cellbit and Pac broke off a while ago, leaving the three by themselves. And the creature.

“We are officially past Pac’s pod.” Techno could see the ruin zip by as Fit mentioned it, the pod covered in sand and kelp, the hatch forced open and half off it’s hinges as Fit had practically ripped it off to open it. Not that they cared much about it’s current state, as the systems and machinery of the pod were destroyed and useless. 

This was as of current the farthest they had travelled from home.

An uneasy feeling settled in his stomach as he realized that he was starting to refer to the pod as their ‘home’. Home was back on earth, with his family. Not here. Never here, no matter how long they are forced to stay. This was just a base… a temporary shelter until they get rescued. If they get rescued.

“Techno?” He blinked, shaking his head a little to focus back on the important things. Find quartz. Don’t get killed by the creature. The hand on his shoulder felt warm as Fit gave him a worried look, which he just  answered with a small smile and a nod. “I’m good.”

“Blorp is slowing down. I think we’re here.”

The creature almost came to a halt, slowly drifting down towards the ground with a lazy flick of his tail. Almost instantly they spotted the quartz that Blorp has led them to. It was a huge deposit, the white material reflecting the few streaks of sunlight that filter through the kelp vines, making it look like it was glowing.

“This can last us for weeks! Imagine how many solar panels we can make with this! And glass! You need it for glass too, right?” Fit nodded, letting go of the creature’s hair to inspect the quartz more closely. Techno followed close behind, ready to scan the deposit to check if it’s the right kind of quartz. Who knows how many different kinds exist on this planet, the habitat builder used environmental scans to determine what available resources it needs.

Techno did glance over his shoulder when he could clearly feel the creature move about, seeing sand drift past him at some point. It had curled up on the ground again, it’s body forming a crescent shape around the deposit, perhaps trying to keep them save. Techno wasn’t so sure about being boxed in like this, but he was more worried about Tubbo, who was yet again right in the creature’s face, petting it and praising it for bringing them to the right material.

‘Like a kid and his dog…’

“Techno give me a hand here.” He turned away from the troubling sight to aid his friend, helping him lodge his spear in a small crack, attempting to separate a small piece of quartz from the main deposit. They had to smash away at the base a little with the back of Techno’s knife until it eventually gave way and fell into the sand below. The second piece came loose a little easier, joining the first one. And since they had the creature with them, they broke off a few more, just in case they needed them. Maybe one solar panel wasn’t enough, and they will end up needing multiple.

The creature began rumbling again, which at first didn’t ring any alarm bells. It has done that most of the time and usually, it could be understood as something like purring from a cat. Although the calmness didn’t last long, as Techno realized the pitch was wrong. It was lower, more guttural and, to his horror, threatening. He spun to check on Tubbo and the creature, fearing for the worst, that the teen might have upset the creature and is now feeling the consequences.

 But that wasn’t the case. Tubbo was a few feet away from the creature, staring up at it with more confusion than fear, as it rose from it’s position on the floor facing away from the quartz deposit. It had it’s dorsal fins raised a little further, despite Techno thinking that they were solid, like the ones of sharks, it’s back arched like a cat and teeth bared in a snarl at the kelp and dark waters beyond.

Something was there.

“Tubbo…” The teen turned his head towards his two friends, the growing fear now evident. He was the only one out of them who doesn’t have a weapon. Techno held out his hand, clutching his knife in the other. “Come here… slow…” He nodded, slowly drifting over to them, where they could hopefully have a tiny bit of shelter thanks to all the different quartz outcrops. It won’t be much, if it was a creature big enough to make Blorp nervous, but maybe they can hide enough to not be spotted, or at least not be of interest.

As soon as he was close enough, both Fit and Techno pulled him close and behind them, weapons held out in front of them. They were barely able to hide behind the large white mineral, but it has to be enough. Blorp growled louder, his hands on the ground, arms bent so his chest is also close to touching the sand. Like a cat ready to pounce, a predator about to start sprinting at it’s prey.

Techno could see something move between the kelp, smooth light blue scales appearing and disappearing between the plants. It looked much smaller than their large creature, but still it remained just at the edge of their vision, circling, watching. If it’s this small, then it’s not after Blorp. It’s after them.

Blorp seemed to realize that too, backing up a little to be closer to the deposit, crouching right on top of them, attempting to shield them from view.

Neither of the humans spoke, staring at the treat gathering in the kelp. Where there had been just one body moving about, they could now see multiple. Small, fast creatures, appearing and disappearing between the kelp, long snouts filled with teeth snapping open and shut as they hissed and growled in response to Blorp’s threats. Techno recognized them as the same creature that attacked them when he and Fit went towards Cellbit and Pac’s pod.

He glanced over at Fit, who kept himself right in front of Tubbo, spear in both hands, face set in stubborn determination as his eyes tracked the creatures between the kelp. Blorp coiled around them a little tighter, snapping his jaw at one creature who dared swim a little closer before disappearing again, growling louder. At some point he started making other noises too, loud clicks and chirps, almost sounding like he was talking. But he refuses to leave and go attack them.

If Blorp leaves them to rush towards the other predators, then at least one or more will zip past him and attack them. He can’t block them all at once, they are too small and fast. Probably why they hunt in packs like this, distract the bigger threats while others pick off the babies or weaker prey.

“They won’t leave, they’re hunting us. We’ll have to fight our way out of here.”

“We could barely even handle one of them last time! There’s like ten of them in the kelp! And we have Tubbo!”

“Well what else are we supposed to do?! Blorp can’t leave us, those things will come for us as soon as he moves!”

“I know that! But-“

All three humans flinched as they heard a roar, not unlike the one Blorp had given when one of the predators tried to come closer. It was distant, echoing a little. Blorp reacted instantly, giving his own call in response, teeth snapping at the predators who seem to grow more desperate and frantic when hearing the call.

“There’s another one?” Fit glanced at Techno, seeing how pale he was when realizing that the roar could be a call for help. For another creature like Blorp. “Maybe Blorp has a mate. Or family. He’s calling them to help.” Tubbo’s voice was small, half pressed against Fit’s back as he gets squished between the quartz and his friend.

That is exactly something Techno does not want to happen. Just because this creature is nice doesn’t mean the other one will be. And if this was a family member of this creature, that decides the humans make decent snacks, Blorp will sure as hell take their side and turn on them.

Blorp gave a roar of his own now in response to one of the predators zipping out of the kelp, coming right for them. Techno pressed close to Fit’s side, shielding their youngest friend as best as they could as Blorp bolted forward, slashing his clawed hand at the attacker. He got a hit, yellow blood colouring the water as his claws tore chunks of flesh from the predator.

But now that he had moved, the other ones all came out as well.

He blocked their way as best as he could, slashing and snarling, biting at small bodies trying to swim past him. When one of them did manage to slip right underneath him, Fit lifted his spear and stabbed at it with an angry shout, the sharp tip of the weapon impaling itself into the skull of the creature.

Tubbo was shaking where he was now hiding behind Techno, eyes wide with terror as he watched the predators circle Blorp and try to make a bolt towards them, watched as Fit swung around his spear to try and scare them off before they could come close enough to harm any of them.

Another loud roar, but this one was not from Blorp. The creature in question retreated a little, returning to his position curled over the humans. The predators tried to follow and take their chances to get past him, but didn’t get very far.

A blur of blue and red shot past Blorp and right for the predators, it’s call equally as furious as their creature’s had been. The humans watched with wide eyes as the new creature tore through the predators, roaring and screeching as it swiped and bit the smaller bodies around it. With the new creature aiding them, the predators quickly accepted the fact that they were now outnumbered and fled the scene, leaving four corpses behind that slowly drift down towards the sand.

Once it was sure that all the attackers had left, the new creature turned and swam towards the group, calling out towards Blorp with a chirp. Blorp, now relaxing after the threat has left, uncoiled himself from his position above the humans and greeted the other creature, rumbling in that familiar way that Techno had come to call purring.

The creature was smaller than Blorp, about half as big, which was still far too big for Techno’s comfort. It’s scales were a mix of blue and red, with black patterns and markings all along it’s body. And, unlike Blorp, it didn’t resemble a shark. It’s tail moves up and down and it’s fins are wide and spread out, like those betta fish, just not as massive when it comes to fins. It looked just as humanoid as Blorp, with a face and dark hair and hands that have claws. But, unlike Blorp, it had four arms. Two sets of arms, right below each other.

It bumped into Blorp with a little trill, who reacted with a louder purr as he nuzzled the smaller creature, head resting on top of the much smaller one.

“Awe, I think it’s Blorp’s baby.” Tubbo was now beside his friends again instead of behind them, watching the interaction with a grin. He was still pale and shaken, but slowly starting to relax again with the threat now gone. He was relaxing a lot faster than Techno though. “I don’t think it is… it looks like a whole different species…” “Maybe that’s normal? All the weird humanoids are one big species that all look different. Like birds!” “I… you know what, sure. Let’s call it that.”

Blorp chirped at the smaller creature and turned his gaze towards the humans, the smaller creature doing the same. It tilted it’s head, promptly swimming closer to get a better look at the weird creatures it’s parent had tried to protect. Techno pulled Tubbo behind him before he could get closer, already knowing he would blindly try and make friends again if he doesn’t keep an eye on him.

The fact he was trapped behind Techno didn’t seem to bother the younger at all.

“Hello big guy! You look so cool! I need to find a cool name for you, just like Blorp!”

“Oh my god the thing has been here for 5 minutes.”

“It’s Blorp’s child! We have to pick a cool name!”

The smaller creature looked up at Blorp, then back at the humans, looking more than confused. Blorp swam closer, pushing past his child (presumably) to gently nudge at the little humans, rumbling again. If Techno didn’t know any better, he would think Blorp was checking on them, worried they might have gotten hurt. He very hesitantly, and awkwardly, patted Blorp’s head, even if just to try and make him leave again.

Tubbo laughed and reached over Techno’s shoulder to do the same, just like Fit. “We’re okay big guy, you protected us! Thank you so much!” Blorp rumbled even louder, clearly getting the message that they are alright. The smaller creature still watched them, mostly just looking confused.

“We should probably go home… Cellbit and Pay will get worried.”

“Yes, let’s get out of here. Fast.”

“Alright. Can you help us carry the quartz, Blorp?”

Tubbo pointed at the chunks of minerals Techno and Fit had broken off from the main deposit. The large creature took them without complaint, gathering the chunks in it’s hands before bowing it’s head low to let the humans hold on to his hair again. Once he was sure everyone was secure, he straightened and swam away from the sandy floor, making his way back into the direction of the pod. The smaller creature followed close behind, swimming lightly below Blorp, reminding Techno of baby whales and dolphins he has seen in nature documentaries.

“Awe he is coming with us!”

“The other’s will have a heart attack…”

“I think I’ll name him… what’s a good name…”

“Tubbo please-“

“What was that flower you liked so much? Hibiscus? That could be a fun name.”

“Absolutely fucking not.”

“Why not?”

“I am not calling that thing Hibiscus. Come up with something better.”

“Okay then. Cocka-“

“NO.”

Chapter Text

The sun had only slightly moved across the sky when the three humans spotted their pod and beginnings of a base in the distance. It has barely been two hours, most likely, for a trip that would usually take them a full day, maybe even more. Techno hated admitting it, but Tubbo was right about how useful their relationship with Blorp could be. And so far, he hadn’t hurt or endangered any of them.

Quite the opposite, he had just protected them from a pack of predators like they were his kids. Covered them and refused to leave their side, taking hits despite him being able to easily overpower the ones that got too close. Just because he didn’t want to leave them unprotected.

It was starting to get difficult to continue not trusting the large creature.

Techno glanced over to the side, spotting the smaller creature swimming beside Blorp, staying close to it’s parent. The two were in constant communication, chirping and clicking at each other as they made their way back to the Pod, bumping into each other occasionally in what Techno assumes are affectionate gestures. While he was starting to tolerate the presence of Blorp, having two large creatures around was not something he appreciated.

Tubbo was still trying to figure out a name, but so far he has only come up with terrible ideas. Blorp was already stupid, but he won’t accept anything that has a curse word hidden inside, which seems to be his newest trend in naming things. Teenagers…

Fit beside him reached up to his mask, opening communication as soon as he was sure they were fully in reach. His other hand still clung tightly to Blorp’s hair, not wanting to fall off so close to home. “Cellbit? Pac? This is Fit, can you hear me?”

There was a second where there was no reply, leaving the group a little nervous. The pod looks fine, maybe the communication is just broken. They were definitely in reach by now, so the others should be able to get their signal. But soon enough, Cellbit’s voice finally crackled to life through the coms.

“Yes, we can. Are you guys okay?”

“We’re fine. Blorp took us to a large quartz deposit. We have a bunch of quartz for multiple solar panels. We also found a second creature that came back with us.”

“Another one?”

“Yes, we think it’s Blorp’s child. It’s smaller and stays close to his side. It could also be a mate, but I think it’s too small for that.”

“And you’re sure that this one is safe to be around?”

“So far it’s been friendly. It helped Blorp chase off some predators trying to eat us.”

“Wait hold on, you were attacked?!”

Techno stopped listening at this point, more focused on making sure Tubbo does not try to swim over to the smaller creature. Again. “Just because Blorp allows you to hold on to him doesn’t mean this one will!” The teen pouted, unsuccessfully trying to free his arm from Techno’s grip. “You just have to rip the fun out of everything.” Tubbo will be the reason he grows white hairs in his twenties…

Finally, they reached their temporary home, Blorp slowing down to a halt right beside the newly constructed base. The smaller creature stopped right beside him, chirping curiously at the weird structure, but didn’t make a move to try and touch it. Instead, it stayed by it’s parent’s side. Better for Techno’s nerves, really. And for Cellbit and Pac, who are most definitely looking down through the window in the hatch to catch a glimpse at the two creatures.

Techno couldn’t really tell with the current angle he had and the sun right behind the pod, but he was certain he can spot a shadow in the window, so something or someone was definitely right on top of it. But for now it was safer to let them stay in there until the new base is completed.

The humans got off from Blorp’s head, Techno literally having to drag Tubbo along again, as the creature carefully placed the quartz on the ground for the humans to take. They could probably make about three or four solar panels from this, which should be enough for now. “What are the other things we need for the panels?” Fit checked the habitat builder, scrolling through the options until he found the solar panel. “Titanium and some copper. We do have a bit left over, so we can make at least two of them and use the rest of the quartz for something else.”

So, they went to work.

The creatures, once no longer needed, settled on the ground near the base and watched. Blorp idly preened and cleaned the hair and scales of the smaller creature, who only mildly fought against it’s parent before accepting it’s fate. It was most likely a teenager judging by the size, and annoyed to still be babied. At least that’s what it looks like, as Tubbo often wore the same expression whenever Techno or Fit want to keep him in the pod for his own protection.

The humans grabbed all the necessary materials and, after deciding on the best spot, constructed the first solar panel. It was still rather odd and partly unsettling how the panel just appeared, slowly taking form as the lasers worked their magic. But it worked, the panel and connecting cables appearing on the roof of the newly constructed base. And once finished, the two little lights by the hatch light up immediately. “We have power!”

Tubbo swam down towards the hatch, pulling it open with little difficulty. “The screens are lit up! We can go inside!” The other two humans followed him, watching as he messed with the buttons and the screen. “Okay, once we close the hatch we can drain the water, simultaneously get fresh oxygen to even out the pressure and then we can go into our new base. Sounds easy enough.” “Let me add a second solar panel just in case, it has to produce enough oxygen and electricity for five people.”

Fit grabbed the materials he needed and went back to the roof of their new base. “I’ll check out the inside of the base!” “Shouldn’t we wait for-“ Tubbo pulled the door shut behind them, locking him and Techno inside the small space. The older didn’t even have time to give a response before the water began to drain and air gets filtered into the airlock. Tubbo was vibrating with excited energy, bouncing on his feet the moment he could stand properly. Techno just sighs and lets him be excited.

Once the water was gone and pressure evened out, they were allowed to open the second hatch. It revealed a brightly lit, short hallway, and a large room right behind it. Tubbo pulled off his flippers and ran ahead, leaving little puddles of water behind. “We have so much space now! And we can add so much more!” Techno followed behind him, leaving his own flippers by the hatch together with Tubbo’s. It was a lot bigger and once they figure out what furniture they could make, it could become a comfortable place. A safe place.

“We need windows! So we can wave out towards Blorp and little Blorp!” Techno snorted, giving the teen a light slap to the back of his head. “Still shit, keep trying.”

“Oh come on, little Blorp is cute.”

“I still refuse to even acknowledge Blorp as a real name.”

“But he listens to it already!”

“Well, he’s stupid and foolish for that.”

Tubbo frowned at him, squinting his eyes. He remained quiet for a second, making Techno a little nervous. Had he taken it that serious?

“Foolish.”

“Huh?”

“That’s his new name! Foolish! I like it! Now I need one for little Foolish to match!”

Techno groaned, burying his face in his hands. But hey, Foolish did sound better than Blorp. So he is willing to accept it. “Good luck training him to listen to that.” Tubbo just grinned and shoved his shoulder against his friend’s.

“Where did you two go?” Fit’s voice crackled to live through the coms, sounding slightly concerned.

“We are inside the base. Tubbo couldn’t wait the last five minutes to check it out.”

“Hey!”

“Oh good. Everything working alright?”

“Yes, life support and electricity are working just fine. The second panel was still a good idea, to save energy for the night. Although Tubbo now demands a window to wave at his pets.”

“Fuck off!”

Fit laughed. “Alright. Give me a minute to check the requirements.”

The coms went silent again as their friend went to work. Cellbit and Pac, while able to listen to the conversation, didn’t say a word. Hopefully things will be less tense and awkward once they can come down into the base as well. He felt bad how despite being stuck together, the two newcomers had to stay behind often as the rest went on collecting resources and build structures. He’ll make an effort to talk more with them, make them feel more included. And finally get enough masks and oxygen tanks so they can join them out in the water.

“Techno look!” Tubbo pointed to one of the walls, which was starting to shimmer blue before slowly starting to form holes, which were immediately filled with glass. The two walked over and waited for the window to finish. Fit waved at them through the glass, then pointed behind him, where they could clearly see the two creatures looking at them.

“Now I won’t even have peace when I sleep.”

“Oh come on, stop whining. They’re friendly.”

“Doesn’t mean I want them to stare at us through the window.”

“Should we get Cellbit and Pac down here now? I just need one of your masks and tank for that.”

“Yeah hold on, I’ll help you get them down with Techno’s stuff.”

Techno snorted, crossing his arms with an amused grin. “Guess I am staying here then.”

“Yes. The airlock only fits two people, so you wait on the other side to carry Pac. I don’t think Cellbit can keep himself stable enough to also carry him.”

“I can hear you, you know.”

“Good, suffer.”

Techno just laughed and shrugged off his equipment, handing it to Tubbo and sitting down by the airlock once the younger had closed the hatch behind him. Now he only had to wait for the arrival of their two injured friends.

Cellbit watched his three companions and the two creatures through the window in the hatch. The mask was laying next to him on the floor, the voices of his friends steadily flowing from the little mic. Seeing the two massive predators near his friends made him more than nervous. Even more so knowing he will have to go outside and near it soon. He absolutely does not want to go near it, no matter how often he’s being told they are friendly. And he won’t let Pac get near it either.

“How is it looking?” Pac was still rested against the wall, not wanting to move much. Even with the salve helping with his wounds, his body still ached, and the phantom pains of a limb no longer there will never be cured by any medicine or treatment. Cellbit still felt terrible that he couldn’t prevent this suffering. That he was the one who caused it… “The base looks alright. Much bigger than the pod, enough space for all five of us.”

Pac hummed, closing his eyes again. He slept a lot since the incident, saving his energy so his body could use it to heal. Even now, after their rescue and receiving a proper meal, he still sleeps. It’s not like he can do much in his condition, or with the lack of gear to actually go outside. He’ll heal eventually, but it will take a few weeks, a few months to be fully okay again in terms of movement and pain.

And still… he felt so fucking guilty over it…

“Pac?”

“Mhm?”

“I’m sorry. About the whole-“

There was a knock on the hatch, successfully distracting them from the conversation. Cellbit turned back to the little window, seeing Tubbo grinning at him through the glass. “Taxi service is here! Ready to move into your new home?” He laughed and unlocked the hatch, allowing Tubbo and Fit inside.

“We borrowed Techno’s equipment for you, Pac. We’ll get you down into the base and comfortable in no time.” The brunette mumbled a thank you as Fit carefully helped him strap on the tank and the mask, trying his best to ignore the rising blush. Which only got worse when Cellbit grinned at him and wiggled his eyebrows. It may have only been almost two days since they got rescued, but that’s more than enough time to see how his friend easily gets flustered around their bald teammate.

And Cellbit won’t miss the opportunity to tease him for his quickly developing crush.

Getting ready didn’t take long, soon all four wore their gear and Tubbo had collected the last bits of useful things they had stashed inside the pod, including the med-kit and Techno’s jacket. It will get soaked during the trip, but it can dry again in the new base.

“Ready?” Cellbit nodded, watching as Tubbo lowered himself down into the water again. He tried to supress the nervous flutter in his chest when he remembered the large creatures just outside, instead glancing over his shoulder to check on Pac. Fit was helping him limp to the hatch, carrying most of his weight with Pac only doing one or two little hops with his healthy leg. “Be careful with him.”

Fit glanced at him, giving him a quick nod before focusing back on Pac again. Cellbit sighed, turning back to the open hatch. Here goes nothing…

He lowered himself down into the water, hesitating for a second before letting go of the edge and fully submerging. The coral reef was practically glowing in the evening sun, the sunlight dancing in spots and swirls on the sand bellow. It was a beautiful sight, it really was. He had only seen very few environments that were this peaceful looking, growing up in a massive city with only few little pockets of nature present.

His gaze soon travelled to the two large creatures half curled around the pillars supporting their base. They just laid there, relaxed and calm, no sign of threat or aggression. He had to admit… they looked kinda pretty. With the bigger one looking like parts of it’s body were made from gold and even some shiny materials wrapped around like an accessory. And the smaller one, with it’s blue and red pattern, reminded him of Spiderman.

“I’ll pull you all the way down to the base, so you don’t have to try and swim at all. Just hold on and try to relax, I’ll try and not irritate any wounds.” Cellbit turned to see Fit carefully helping Pac glide into the water, who had his face scrunched up in discomfort at all the movement. But this had to be done, there was no way around it.

They swam down towards the newly constructed base, with Cellbit’s heartbeat spiking the closer they got to the creatures. Just stay calm… they won’t hurt you… even if they are both staring at you now… Big green and blue eyes watched as the four got closer, with the larger creature making a curious chirping noise. But they didn’t move, much to Cellbit’s relief.

“Okay, Fit? Take Pac inside to Techno and get him comfortable. Cellbit and I will wait out here for the next airlock cycle.” He was about to complain, simply because he doesn’t want to stay near the creatures, but he knows Pac desperately needs to lay down again. So he just watched as Fit pulled Pac into the small room and close the hatch, locking it so the cycle could start.

Cellbit stayed close by Tubbo’s side, not looking into the direction of the creatures. Tubbo notices immediately. “Oh my god you are worse than Techno.” “I’ve never been this close to them, leave me alone.” Tubbo huffed a amused laugh, looking and waving at the two creatures. “I renamed the big one Foolish, it’s also funny and sounds a little more like a name. I still need a name for the little one, if you have any good ideas.”

With a lot of hesitation, he glanced over at the creatures again. They were still staring… “The smaller one looks like Spiderman.” The teen actually looked like he was considering the name. “That’s more of a title though. Maybe we name him Peter Parker.”

“He doesn’t look like a Peter.”

“Miles then.”

“Eh…”

“Is there like… a Spanish name? Wait you speak Portuguese, not Spanish…”

“I speak both. And not really…”

“You can pick a different name if you want, Techno refuses to help me find a name.”

Cellbit hummed, trying to think of all the different names he knows. He doesn’t want to give the creature a normal name, that would be boring. Plus, giving it something silly or more fun sounding could maybe make it less scary… “How about Roier? That sounds alright.” Tubbo hummed, staring at the smaller creature. “Yeah, that could work. It’s easy enough to pronounce.”

The hatch beeped, signalling that it was ready for the next cycle. Cellbit pulled the hatch open, letting Tubbo swim in first before following and closing the hatch. The water got pumped out and air filtered in, until the pressure was even and the second hatch opened. The older of the two squinted when they entered the base, not liking how bright the lights were. They’ll have to figure out how to dim those…

Pac was settled against the wall across the window, Fit and Techno sitting beside him to try and distract him a little as his body slowly relaxed and untensed. Tubbo jogged over to them, placing down all the materials he had taken from the pod. Cellbit stayed near the window, watching as Fit and Tubbo worked on reapplying new salve on Pac’s stump to ease some pain.

He turned to glance out of the window, a perfect angle to watch the creatures outside. They had gone back to minding their own business, chirping at each other in conversation.

Foolish and Roier…

Hopefully there aren’t any more of those around. It will be hard getting used to these two.

Chapter Text

“There are a few things we can add, but a lot of things are still not available until we scan objects or acquire blueprint schematics.” They had huddled together around Pac, sharing the freshly caught and cooked fish as they looked at all the options the habitat builder provides for them. An empty room makes for a depressing base of operation, after all. And an uncomfortable one. Techno really had hoped for some beds, but sadly there weren’t any available.

Currently, it was mostly Fit and Tubbo scrolling through the list of possible structures while the other three just watched and gave occasional opinions. The screen was too small to get a proper view for everyone. So far it has mostly been structural base components, like hallways and rooms, hatches and tools.  “We can get a radio and a fabricator down here, so technically we don’t even need to keep the pod close. It can just drift off after we take the signal beacon and our stuff.”

The pod certainly won’t be missed. Cellbit and Pac hated it anyways and the others saw no real use in it anymore. It’s not like it can fly anywhere, it’s only use being the radio. Once they moved that down here, there is no value in it anymore.  “I’m pretty sure this thing has a deconstruct option… so we can get the materials of the fabricator and then rebuild it in here.” Techno hummed, biting off another piece of fried fish. “I’d rather try that when we have the materials to build one ourselves. Just in case that doesn’t work and we’re stuck without a fabricator.”

Being stuck without one would be horrible, having grown so used to using it for cooking and filtering water. And getting useful tools and materials. Living without it would cause so much trouble.

“Speaking about the fabricator, did you manage to figure out how we can make more masks and equipment for Pac?” “Right! That’s what I forgot to do!” Fit pushed himself up and wandered over to where they had all their diving equipment stashed in one corner. One by one, he scanned all the items, waiting for the system to create blueprints and material lists. Tubbo, who had the PDA, quickly scrolled through the new list of items. “Oh that doesn’t look too hard. Mostly titanium and quartz, some silicone we can make from kelp vines… We should be able to make a new set of equipment for Pac in no time.”

“After he heals,” Cellbit added, playing with the empty water bottle he had just finished. “Of course, he won’t go outside until his wounds have healed over and he has regained a little balance.” Fit and Cellbit, despite knowing each other for only a little while, have quickly bonded over the fact that they were protective over Pac. Maybe a bit overprotective at certain points, but he was currently heavily injured and recovering from the blood-loss and trauma of losing a limb.

Which brings them to another point of discussion.

“I think one of our next steps should be checking out the ship. See if we find any important machines or resources we can take.” Techno sighs, slumping forward a little. He hated the idea, ever since Fit first brought it up. He was just getting comfortable around here, familiar with the fish and creatures and even their big leviathan friends outside. The ship was a long way away, bringing a new environment and new creatures. Possibly even more massive ones like Foolish.

Or the entire area by the crash site is one big wasteland. It was probably demolished and poisoned by the ship when it landed, not to mention all the animals that have been killed. What if radiation from the core is leaking into the water? They have no protection against that, it could kill them in minutes. Or the ship explodes while they are inside it. There were still fires raging and melting away at the structure.

“Techno, I can see your brain melting. What kind of doom scenario are you thinking about now?” Tubbo nudged his shoulder, putting the PDA down. The older just huffed, not meeting his eyes. Instead, he stared out through the singular window they had. The water was starting to grow darker, showing that nighttime was approaching. “The different ways the ship can kill us.” Tubbo groaned, rolling his eyes so hard he got worried they might get stuck.  “Of course, you always think about everything that could go wrong.”

“I know you love bringing up your creature friends, but that’s not what I am worried about. The ship is still on fire, still able to just explode some more, possibly leaking radiation or toxic gasses or something that could kill us. Having Foolish and…” “Roier.” “… Roier with us will only help with the travel distance and possibly hostile creatures. Nothing else.”

That did get the others to quietly think about those exact dangers. Just because they now have these massive creatures protecting them does not mean they are invincible. Quite the opposite actually. They are still the foreign species struggling to survive in this new and strange environment, moments away from dying to a disease or a predator. And that is something they can’t afford to just forget.

They can’t allow themselves to go on some power high when they were still at the full mercy of this planet.

“But… the ship can get us a lot of useful things. That doesn’t change. It might be worth the risk, if we prepare enough and take precautions. All the machinery we can get, the vehicles… maybe even a few prosthetic blueprints or even a still functioning one. For Pac’s leg. We sure as hell won’t be able to construct something like Fit’s arm by ourselves.” Tubbo sat up straighter, something close to determination in his eyes. “And I have the passcodes to the doors with all the blueprints and stuff! If they still work. And my dad’s room, my workshop, the vehicle launch bay…”

It was tempting, it really was…

Techno looks at the PDA, remembering the environmental scan he has gotten hours after the crash, added to now with the scans of coral and plants. They could use that. “How about we just… scout it out? Get an idea on what the crash site looks like. We’ll take the scanner and see if we pick up anything toxic or dangerous before getting too close. I have done environment scans before, they do work. We’ll take this slow and safe and we will leave as soon as it gets dangerous. Especially you.”

Tubbo rolled his eyes at that, but he was used to the protectiveness by now. But the plan was alright, it will get them one step closer to possibly leaving this planet, or at least make surviving a lot easier. “I’m okay with that, but you’re still an idiot.”

With a plan set for the next day and everyone having a full stomach, the group slowly settled down in their new base. Despite having all this space now, they did stay close together during the night. Just a bit more comfortably spread out, not forced to squeeze shoulder to shoulder anymore. Not that it was stopping certain people from still seeking out comfort through touch. It was honestly kind of scary how quick Fit and Pac seem to grow close, despite barely talking without almost the whole group being present.

Even now, they were pressed shoulder to shoulder, with Techno’s almost fully dry jacket serving as a pillow for Pac. Maybe they’re bonding over missing a limb. No one can fully understand the pain and phantom aches unless they also lost a body part.

After a bit of fiddling on the main touch screen by the door, Techno managed to dim the lights down to a comfortable level to sleep with, but still bright enough to chase away the fears when glancing at the darkness beyond the window. Maybe adding that window was a terrible idea after all… or at least get some blinds or something so its closed off at night.

Now there was nothing blocking off the endless void outside. Every now and again a glowing spot would zip by, groups of fish dancing like a swarm of fireflies. It was mesmerizing, the display of glowing spots and softly swaying plants emitting their faint light. And while the darkness can be scary, it can also be beautiful.

Techno stepped closer to the window, the weak light inside their base allowing him to see the outside better, although still acting like a mirror when further away. He tried to ignore his own reflection, ignore the dark circles under his eyes, the absolute mess his hair was without his hair-tie now, ignore the old scars on his face that spark unwanted memories.

Instead, he stepped closer to the glass until he can comfortably see the world outside. He tried to get a look at the creatures, see if they were still there and what they were doing. After Tubbo had successfully sent Foolish home last time, he had half expected the creatures to return to their home, wherever that was.

But as it turns out, they decided to stay around.

In the middle of soft glowing corals and plants, occasionally further illuminated by the fish swimming around them, lay the two creatures. Foolish seemed to be asleep, or at least dozing off, eyes closed and fins relaxed on the sand. Some of the shiny metals he decorated himself with reflected the weak light and gave the illusion that he was glittering. Like his scales were made of gold.

Roier was awake, his blue eyes glowing in the darkness, adding to the soft light surrounding the two creatures. He was playing with some of the glowing plants, occasionally plucking a strand or bead off to tangle it in his parent’s hair, making the black strands look like the night sky dotted with stars.

Occasionally he would snap his teeth or lazily swish his claws at passing fish when they got too close to his masterpiece, especially ones that wanted to snack on the plants entangled in his father’s hair.

The whole scene looked incredibly domestic and homey… and so human. So familiar. So painfully familiar…

Techno turned away from the window and walked back over to where the others were peacefully snoring, ignoring the aching in his chest, blinking away the tears at the corner of his eyes. He laid down next to Tubbo, who was curled up into a small ball with his head pillowed on his arm. He looked so small… so young… far too young to be here.

He swallowed around the lump in his throat and just stared at the ceiling, trying to calm his nerves.

Tries to shove the feelings and the memories into the furthest corner of his mind and lock them away.

Tries to ignore the painful longing in his chest.

Just tries to sleep.

Chapter Text

Morning came all too soon, the outside world lighting up with the rising sun. The bioluminescence disappeared, giving way to the regular colourful coral and sandy floor of the shallows. The two creatures, Foolish and Roier, were already up and about, circling around the area of the human base in wide arcs while also disappearing out of sight occasionally, establishing the new extension to their territory. Not that there were any equally large creatures to challenge their claim over the kelp and the shallows.

The humans slowly rose together with the rising sun, yawning and groaning and complaining about sore muscles and the uncomfortable floor. Even after days, weeks, of sleeping on the floor, none of them have really gotten used to it yet. Perhaps they never will… Unsurprisingly, Tubbo was the first one awake, buzzing with an unnatural energy. And it wasn’t difficult to figure out why.

“So, we go out towards the ship today?” Techno yawned again, stretching his arms and arching his back until it popped. “That’s the plan. Scouting the area. Nothing more, so don’t get any funny ideas.” Tubbo huffed, but his energy remained, clearing his breakfast in minutes. Fit was already preparing their gear, checking everything over, filling the tanks, trying his best to attempt sharpening his spear and Techno’s knife.

Techno moved over to where Cellbit and Pac were sat side by side, slowly eating their breakfast. They were both slowly starting to look a little better, still bruised and thin, but not as exhausted and sluggish as before. Not that he expected them to make huge progress, it’s been like… two and a half days since the rescue. Recovering from starvation and dehydration can take weeks. But hey, they were trying their best. Cellbit even started to walk around to slowly start exercising his body. He was still a little unbalanced sometimes, aches and bruises on his legs stinging with the movement, but he was getting better.

And what he is about to offer them may sound stupid, but it seems only fair that he gives them the option to make their own decisions. Even after only two days, he wants to at least make an effort to make them feel included, despite the wounds and unsteadiness. “I’ll let you two decided if you want to stay here or come with us. This shouldn’t be dangerous, since we scout everything from a distance. And I don’t want to always ditch you in here by yourself without even asking. You are still hurt, and I don’t know how well you can move, you’re a better judge of your own body and it’s current limits.”

The two Brazilians share a look, with Cellbit giving an uncertain look down at Pac’s leg. There is no way the pain had already faded enough for him to start going on explorations. Even with that weird wonder paste they have. “I don’t want to leave Pac all by himself. So I guess I’ll-“ “I think I’ll be alright. The creatures will carry us most of the way, no? I don’t have to do much swimming?” Techno shook his head, feeling Fit’s gaze pierce into the back of his head. “No, not much solo swimming. Just scouting, if the creatures allow us to decide the route. Not that Foolish seems keen on getting us in any trouble anyways.”

Pac nodded, pushing himself up a little. “Then I want to join you guys, see the reef outside. Anything distracting is good right now.” Cellbit frowned at that, not liking the idea at all. The younger needs all the rest he can get, not adventures outside. And if Techno were to turn around, he would see an equally unsure and upset looking Fit. But he knows neither will actually say anything, too eager in providing anything that could give their injured friend a distraction.

But that doesn’t mean they will reason with him at least once. “Are you sure? You’re still hurting. It’s been two days.” Pac slowly pushed himself up the wall, immediately aided by Cellbit when he saw him struggle. His arm got slung over Cellbit’s shoulder and he hopped once on his leg to centre himself. Then he looked over at Fit, giving him a small smile, almost looking a little guilty for his request. “I’ll be fine Fitch. I really want to see the outside for a bit.”

Fit sighs, shoulders slumping in defeat. Techno would tease him about it under any other circumstance. “Alright, can’t blame you for that. We will travel with the creatures so… not nervous about them?” He shook his head, leaning over a bit so Cellbit didn’t have to hold all of his weight. “You guys have been hanging out with them for days and nothing happened. Seems fine to me.”

That seemed to be the final argument, as no one raised another question. Instead, breakfast was finished with the last few bites shoved in and then they went and put on their gear. They still only had two weapons, but at this point Techno had faith that their two creature friends would protect them.

“Techno?” He hummed and turned to Tubbo, who held out his hair-tie for the other to take. “I forgot to give it back after the salve stuff.” Techno stared at it for a moment. He was honestly surprised that the younger still had it. At this point he expected it to get lost somewhere. But here it was, undamaged and ready to tame his hair again. Techno took it with a quiet thanks and started to tie his hair up, glad to get it somewhat out of his face. He still thinks he should just chop it off…

Once everyone is ready, they took turns using the airlock to go outside. Fit and Tubbo took the lead, with Cellbit and Pac following right after. Techno dimmed the light inside the base in an attempt to save some of the energy while they were gone, before finally following the others outside.

The other four were already by the creatures, with Tubbo excitedly talking to the creatures as if they fully understand him. To his credit, it did look like they were listening to him, both creatures staring at him with their undivided attention. Techno swam over, settling beside Fit, listening to Tubbo’s rambling. Eventually, he pointed into the direction of the ship, causing Foolish to turn and look into the direction. He must have figured that the humans want to look at the weird structure that fell from the sky, because he chirped in answer and raised himself from the ground, angling his head down to let the humans climb on.

Roier swam closer as they started to latch on to Foolish’s hair, tilting his head and chittering as he looked at Pac. The Brazilian stared back, curious hat the creature wanted from him. A large, clawed hand reached out, hovering next to where a second leg should be. Oh… so even the creatures notice something like this. Pac smiled and patted the large hand, not showing any fear when dealing with the much larger being. “It’s okay big guy. I’m fine.” Roier lingered there a moment longer, a very human looking frown on his face, but then he lowered his hand and instead offered his back, just like his father had done a few moments ago.

Cellbit and Pac shared a look, unsure at first about splitting up, but it will be a little difficult to fit all five of them side by side on Foolish’s back. So they accepted the offer and held on to Roier, while the other three chose Foolish. A little ironic that they split up into the usual two groups, but that won’t really matter, as the two creatures travel side by side anyways. Foolish waited until everyone was settled before he pushed himself forward with a flick of his tail, Roier following close behind, resuming his swimming position slightly below and to the side of his father.

Techno glanced down towards where their two friends held on to Roier, relieved to see neither of them having any problems with holding on. Having them separated into two groups does make him a little nervous, since there was nothing stopping Roier from splitting up from his father. And you know… if teenage… big fish… act just like their own resident teenager, then he might try and get into dangerous situations with those two still holding on to him. This was certainly not something he had anticipated…

“I can see your brain smoking. Stop overthinking.” Techno just grumbled and ignored Tubbo, instead focusing on looking ahead of them to observe their surroundings. The shallows zip past them, the coral growing more sparse and giving way to sandy dunes, an occasional piece of junk from the ship sticking out from the ground. The closer they got to the ship, the more the surrounding area started to look like a wasteland. Exactly as he feared…

They could stop and search through the pieces of the wreck they pass by, but they also want to make the most out of the daylight they had. Maybe they can scout out the crash site for a while and then loot the other wreckages on the way back. That way if they find anything interesting, their creature friends don’t have to carry it for very long.

During their travelling, conversation came easy. Tubbo started talking about the different things they could take from the ship, if they were still in tact. His father had a wide array of high security blueprints and prototypes in his quarters, which do include spaceship blueprints, as he was looking them over before giving a report to the Federation whether or not the designs were reasonable and of good quality.

Then of course the machinery that was already there, the weapons in the armoury, maybe even large amounts of rations. And spices! Herbs! Maybe they could actually season their fish and not have to eat it bland anymore! Techno indulged him in his rambling for a while, even if it was just to ignore the racing thoughts trying to show him every possible scenario they could die during this little expedition.

Foolish and Roier started to slow down after a while, now gliding along with weak flicks of their tails instead of strong pushes. Fit clenched his prosthetic hand around his spear, not liking how both creatures seem a lot more alert now, no longer clicking and chirping at each other. Instead, they silently stare ahead, muscles tense beneath the humans hands. Something was wrong…

“Something is bothering them…”

Conversation died immediately as they looked around, trying to figure out why their two large friends were so tense. Techno didn’t like this in the slightest.

“Maybe this was a bad idea…”

Roier’s row of back fins flare up, his finlike ears pressing to his head as he stayed low to the ground, head swivelling from left to right as he took in his surroundings, now visibly nervous. Foolish was much the same, dorsal fins raised as he swam close to the ground too, shark like tail almost still behind him as their speed slowed significantly. He stayed close to his son, teeth bared in an obvious threat to something none of the humans can see.

“Guys… I think we should-“ Foolish turned his head as much as he could to stare at Tubbo, snapping his teeth. The teen shut his mouth immediately, pressing down against Foolish’s back, squished between Techno and Fit. None of them made an attempt to speak again as the two creatures finally came to a stop at the top of a sand dune, pressed low to the ground.

The ground sloped down drastically on the other side, but not quite sharp enough to be considered a cliff. The water around them wasn’t as clear as it is in the shallows, almost seeming muddy, the large amount of sands and dirt from the crash still tainting the water. A few large boulders stick out of the sand here and there, but apart from that the area was empty.

Apart from the massive wreck that was barely half a mile away

It was a little difficult to see the true distance, as the wreck was almost fully obscured by the muddy waters, but they were fairly certain that if their two creature friends would actually move towards the wreck, they would reach it within a minute or two.

But they weren’t moving now, just staring out ahead into the empty waters. Techno could see the gills at Foolish’s neck flared and wasn’t sure whether or not it showed he was having difficulty breathing in the dirty water. If he was having difficulties, he didn’t show it, seeming as stoic and threatening as he did whenever he thinks something is threating him.

He could feel Tubbo press more against his side, scared by the sudden nervousness of their creature friends. Until a few moments ago he had thought there was nothing that could scare them, that as long as they were with Foolish and Roier, no other creature would come close to hurting them. Now they know that there are things that scare even them.

Techno squeezed Tubbo’s hand tightly, sticking to Foolish’s warning of being silent.

Cellbit and Pac press shoulder to shoulder, unsure whether or not they could get up and move up to the rest of the group.

Fit tried his best to follow Foolish’s line of sight while also keeping an eye on both groups.

Then, they heard a roar.

And it wasn’t one of theirs.

Chapter Text

Then, they heard a roar.

Was it- No it… it wasn’t one of theirs.

It was loud and low, sending vibrations through the water itself. They all flinched, and Techno was surprised some didn’t get knocked back just by the force of volume alone. Especially not when he felt his hair moving to it and his neck shivering behind the high collar of the suit. Both humans and creatures stood on edge, a feeling of dread settling over the whole group.

The aftertone of the roar hummed through the water, echoed against the hull of the empty ship… It sounded so full, so loud, so… so- close. Far too close for their liking actually.

Out of the corner of his eyes he saw hands next to him holding on stronger to the dark hair, white knuckles barely visible with the fingerless gloves. He didn’t have time to judge or come up with some sort of plan, not when his own hands ran cold and his body, of its own accord, gripped harder itself. A moment of silence passed, all humans clung to their creature friends, looking around frantically, trying to find the source of the sound.

Foolish, with barely any hesitation, once the roar passed, pushed himself off from the ground, shaking the humans from his shoulders with an urgency while shrieking at Roier.
In a flash, before they even knew what had happened, their hands were forced loose from Foolish’s hair and Roier gathered all five of the humans underneath his own body in an attempt to shield them, much like his father had done when they got attacked back in the kelp forest. 

They watched Foolish’s massive form tense, fins flared outwards and sharp teeth bared in a snarl. He roared, this one familiar and, despite the volume and proximity, it seemed far less scary to them. 

And suddenly, as if it appeared out of nowhere, a massive blue and orange body sped towards Foolish, who met it head on with a screech and the swiping of claws. Almost instantly, there was yellowish blood colouring the already murky waters. Techno couldn’t tell which creature it belonged to. 

The creature that attacked them was just as massive as Foolish, maybe even bigger, with four massive fang like extensions around their head that were trying to impale their friend on it. There were no other limbs on the creature, nothing humanoid or any kind of flippers or fins. Just the head with its massive fangs, a long body and at the end an almost whale like fin rapidly swinging up and down as it measured it’s strength with Foolish’s.  

Roier screeched, visibly torn between guarding the humans and helping his father, who struggled to evade the attack as he plunged his claws into the creature’s neck. Despite both of their sizes, the two creatures turned and twisted with incredible speed and agility, circling around each other in a deadly dance. If their lives weren’t on the line, it would almost be mesmerising. 

The humans could do nothing more than to hide underneath Roier. Their meagre weapons will not do any damage and if anything, trying to interfere could distract Foolish and get him into even more danger. Roier must think the same thing, as he still hasn’t moved to try and aid his father. Or he was too protective over the humans, which would be surprising. Techno would choose his father over some strangers. 

Foolish screeched as one of the fangs managed to pierce into his shoulder, ripping into his flesh and attempting to pull him closer for a bite. He twists and screams, sinking his claws into anything he could reach, until he managed to pull himself off of the fang with a pained roar, slipping under the jaw and turning to bolt, getting a little distance between them so he could catch his bearings. 

The creature tried to follow and snap at his tail, trying to pull him back into the fight, but he reacted quicker and turned his body abruptly, delivering a powerful hit with his tail that had the creature involuntarily snap to the side, twisting it’s body away from Foolish, who managed to get a little more distance before he turned back to the creature, one clawed hand hovering above his injured shoulder. 

But it seemed the creature had a different idea than to try and fight him head on again. Instead it found a smaller, easier prey.

With it’s body turned from the hit, it had spotted Roier and the humans hiding with him. It roared and bolted towards them, abandoning it’s previous target. Roier roared at it, baring his fangs, refusing to move from his position protecting the much smaller beings. But instead of colliding with the creature in another bloody battle, it’s jaws and fangs snap too far away to reach any of them. 

Foolish had his claws embedded in the creature’s tail, his own tail swinging rapidly to pull the creature away from Roier and the humans. It roared and thrashed, but couldn’t free itself from Foolish’s grip until it turned around and re-engaged combat. When it did, Foolish bolted around and placed himself between the creature and Roier, slashing at it’s tail and smacking it again with his own tail, all while screeching at his son. 

Roier understood the message clearly, turning and grabbing the humans, moving them away from the battle as fast as he could. “Wait! We can’t just leave him!” Tubbo wriggled and tried to break free, but Roier was far too strong for any of them to break out of his grip. “What can we even do?! We have nothing to help him fight! We only distract him!” “But that doesn’t mean we should leave him like this!” 

They stopped a little ways away, still able to see the fight through the murky water, but far enough to safely bolt should the creature decide to come for their asses again. Roier will not just leave his father by himself after all, but he will still listen to most of his orders when it comes to his and the humans' protection. He resumed his position above them, shielding them from anything that might decide to surprise them as they continued to watch the fight, Roier’s muscles tense should Foolish get seriously injured and need his help. 

Which might happen sooner than they expected.

Because when they looked back, Foolish was losing. 

Both of them had drawn blood, leaving deep, bleeding wounds on each other, but while in the beginning the defiance of their friend was convincing, it now seemed to slowly seep away over time. Instead of quickly swimming out of reach most of the time and even practically teasing the larger creature with his agility, his movements became more erratic, more desperate. His tail did not hold that same soft waving they were used to anymore, it moved abruptly, freezing in place, doing a sharp swoosh, and holding still again, always trying to keep it out of reach from the creatures attacks.

His head moved too quickly, going in circles, just barely getting out of the way of those fangs and jaws before they could bite into part of his face. For god’s sake, he held his hands close to his body and if he ever moved them, it was more to push himself through the water, further away from the other creature than to actively slash at it unless he was certain he could safely hit it. He was playing more defensive… more scared.

But the other thing went on,
Swam closer.
With every snap and bite.
Even closer.

Maybe if the crew had been closer, they could’ve seen the way Foolish’s eyes widened in a panic, how his movement became more frantic, but they were mere humans. They couldn’t make out something with such quick motion, especially from so far away. From their perspective, they could only see the broader picture.

At some point, Techno felt awfully reminded of an Eagle battling a snake. Just that this golden snake was zipping around the Eagle with no real chance, just barely escaping at this point not even trying to attack, and the eagle had its talons nearly grappling the sleek body of the other and so close to just ripping it in half. He was trying to safely escape, without making the creature attack his son or small friends.

The battle carried higher and higher. Foolish trying to gain more space up, the creature following close behind, jaws snapping, roar echoing throughout the waters.

At some point Roier shuffled them all closer together, tried to whine at his father, instead just burrowing the screen of teeth against the scales of his own arm and tracing lines there. It would be too dangerous to let the creatures hear them now, especially as it got more frustrated with it’s prey constantly escaping. It had already switched it’s attack to them once, they can’t risk it again.

One of the creature’s fangs caught into the hair of Foolish, making him screech as it tried pulling him forward to the opening jaws. 

Roier pushed them back further while roaring towards his father, yet still staying in place, once again torn on if he should abandon them to pick a fight with the creature. Tubbo stared with wide eyes, already beginning to yell and swim forward before Fit ripped him around, pressing his face to his chest, not allowing the teen to see any more of what might happen.

The teeth of the creature snapped widely as Foolish struggled against the grip, attempting to slip out of the hold or even untangle his hair from the large fang it got caught on. But it didn’t work.

A roar from the creature and just a weak beating tail from their friend. He was going awfully still in the creature’s grasp, still pushing against it’s fangs and jaw with his hands to not be pulled in.

Techno nearly turned back around even in his horror, but still he stared, unable to do anything to rescue or even aid Foolish.

The creature reared up, momentum taking it and Foolish skywards, their friend hanging on by his hair at the fang, getting dangled in between the hundreds of teeth. Roier finally moved, bolting forward with a screech towards the two fighting creatures, Foolish getting pulled into it’s jaws-

A disgusting, loud crack echoed through the water.

A cloud of yellow blood almost exploded around the two and Roier froze, halfway towards them. A loud, painful screech echoed around them, carried across the sea and for a second, they feared the worst. 

But then the gold and silver tail of Foolish moved, his body turning and quickly swimming downwards towards them, followed by a trail of yellowish blood as he sped away. Unharmed, for the most part, but with a giant fang still dangled in his hair and in his hands. Ochre colour oozed out of the end of the fang into the water, forming a sickly cloud behind him, leading all the way back to the creature.

The creature, who now turned away and fled the scene, now only three large fangs left as it moaned and whined in pain, the stump of its fourth fang heavily bleeding. 

As soon as Foolish got close enough, Roier bolted to press against him, almost sounding like he was wailing as his father shakily purred and leaned his head on top of his. They clicked and chirped at each other as the younger pulled away and started fretting over the still bleeding wounds on Foolish. 

Fit finally let go of Tubbo, who turned and swam towards Foolish, giving his best attempt at hiding his head as Foolish lifted one of his clawed hands to carefully lay over the teen, giving him a quiet purr too. “You scared me… I thought you would die…” His sob broke Techno’s heart.

The other humans swam closer too, Pac being assisted by Fit now, carefully assuring Foolish they are glad he is mostly okay, even if he couldn’t understand what they were saying. Hopefully the message got across. He didn’t seem mad at them for wanting to go towards the ship, mostly just glad that all of them seem unharmed.

Techno looked towards the ship, where the creature blood had now dissolved in the water, as if it had never been there in the first place, but he’s sure other predators could still smell it. Especially with Foolish still bleeding… and the water is so dirty around them… fuck the resources of the ship, they had to leave. Now.

“Let’s go back to the base before more of them show up. Foolish needs to be patched up too, maybe we can use the vine salve. He’s the one who brought it, so it probably works on him too.” Tubbo agreed instantly, gently petting Foolish’s head as he chirped at Roier. “Foolish?” He looked up at the small human instantly, looking as attentive as ever, if a little tired. “Home. Let’s go home. You need rest.”

Foolish purred and gently nudged him, lowering his head for him to hold on. The large fang was still tangled in his hair, but they could worry about that later. With Foolish hurt, they decided that Fit would stay with Cellbit and Pac on the way back, even if they’re sure that their weight means nothing to a creature this large. Techno stayed with Tubbo, just in case.

The way back was slower, patiently going at Foolish’s exhausted pace, but they at least got into cleaner water relatively quick. Roier kept looking around and switching on which side he swam, guarding his father against any smaller predators that could smell his blood and try their luck dealing the final blow. None of them dared to come close the moment he screeched their way.

Soon enough, they reached their base, where Foolish slowly curled up in the same place he had slept the night before. The moment he was settled and the humans let go of him, Roier zipped towards the kelp forest to retrieve vines. Fit hovered by Foolish’s head, spear in both hands, guarding him in case anything showed up. Not that Foolish was too weak to defend himself even when wounded, but they don’t want to risk it.

Despite a little protest, Cellbit and Pac retreated into the base while Techno grabbed what vines and paste they had left to start helping Foolish heal up. Tubbo grabbed the bowl of salve and swam over to Foolish’s face, carefully smearing it across a bleeding scratch. It served it’s purpose, successfully sealing off the wound and hopefully easing some of the pain.

Techno worked on trying to grind down the plant into more paste when Roier returned, arms full with the same healing vines. To their surprise, he began chewing them into salve before spreading it over the wounds, chirring and clicking at his father whenever his mouth was free. Foolish chirped back, holding still as they all worked. Since Roier was back now, Fit started to work the fang free from Foolish’s hair, letting it drop to the floor once he got it out.

“Just so we are clear.” He looked down towards them from his spot by Foolish’s head, still lazily untangling some of the hair. “We are not going back to the ship.”

“Agreed.”

“Yeah… let’s not.”

Chapter Text

Once he was fully patched up and fretted over by Roier for at least another twenty minutes, Foolish went to take a much-needed nap. He curled up further on the sand, looking both uncomfortable and at peace at the same time as he drifted off. No one could blame him for it, he had lost quite a bit of blood, and the adrenaline crash surely robbed him of the last bit of energy he had. The humans were much the same, once the adrenaline and panic had settled down.

This was not at all how they expected this little mission to go. This was supposed to be just scouting, checking out the area. Even if there were dangerous creatures, the plan had been to stay far enough away so no one would get hurt. He had even promised Pac and Cellbit that there would be no danger. Now Foolish is injured and had almost lost his life, just because they made him go into a territory the humans were interested in.

Tubbo refused to leave his side, working through black hair aimlessly as he chatted to their large friend, not even caring if he was awake or listening to him. Although it did seem like Foolish was giving it his best attempt, eyes fluttering open every now and again as Tubbo rambled on, still softly rumbling as he did. He only stopped when Techno had to drag Tubbo inside to refuel his oxygen tank, the rumbling stopping as he seemed to melt into the sand below, chest slowly rising and falling with every intake of air through his gills.

Roier remained restless, constantly on guard and patrolling the surrounding area. While Techno is confident that with Foolish, the rumbling meant that he’s actually purring, Roier is most definitely growling as he was swimming around. It was intimidating, and one of the main reasons why currently, all five of them were staying inside their base, now that they have Tubbo inside because of the oxygen. None of them even knew of Roier was mad at them or not. During the travel back he seemed fine towards them, but he’s also been avoiding them for most of the time since coming home.

Not that any of them could blame him for it either, he almost lost his dad because of them.

“You think they have an actual nest somewhere?” Tubbo was sitting by the window, combing his fingers through his own hair has he stared out the window at Foolish. All of their hairs were starting to become increasingly messy and tangled, even with them trying their best to work out all the knots. “Maybe, they probably had some sort of cave or little valley where they went to sleep. Especially while having a kid. They are both far too territorial otherwise.” Fit stood next to Tubbo, staring out into the waters as well. He was starting to grow his hair back as well, a little bit of fuzz covering his head. He had already started complaining about it.

Pac was slowly massaging the stump of what remained of his leg, grimacing at the soreness. The wound itself was healing, whatever magic salve these plants have reducing the pain, but the wound was still too fresh to lose any of the stinging along the stitches. “What do we do now?” Fit turned his head almost instantly, which would have made Techno snort if he were in a better mood. “What do you mean?” The younger Brazilian sat up a bit straighter, biting back the wince that came with the flaring pain. “We need a new goal no? The ship is no option, so what do we work towards now?”

It was an attempt to distract them all, try and lighten the mood a little. At least someone was trying, with Cellbit and Techno just silently brooding about god knows what and Tubbo mostly concerned for Foolish. “I guess one of the things I want to do is instal the radio and fabricator down here. Maybe remove the beacon from the pod so we can attach it to the base. That’s about all I have planned, just get everything we need so we don’t care about the pod anymore.” Pac nodded, reaching over to try and snatch up the PDA from the floor, where it had been left after breakfast.

“That has been the plan for a little bit, yes. And after that?” Now Fit was silent, just humming and staring out the window again. Pac could see his reflection on the glass, how his brows were furrowed in thought. He lifted his hand and scratched his chin, where stubbles of a beard were slowly showing as well, just like with all of them. Even Tubbo had a bit of facial hair, although very faint.  “I don’t know… Survive I guess.” “We need a set goal, we’ll go insane otherwise.”

Fit glanced at him through the reflection, something almost like pity in his eyes. The Brazilian knew exactly why he was giving him that look. “The days blend together, and you will lose sense of time. The first steps of losing sanity. We need a set goal, something that distracts us and doesn’t make every day the same.” The others were now looking at him too with varying levels of concern and he made the conscious effort to not look at Cellbit right now. He wouldn’t be able to stomach the guilt he’d see there.

“I guess that makes sense…” Tubbo decided to chime in again, still trying to untangle his hair. “We still need to expand the base a little, get some useful things. Especially beds. That could be something to focus on for a bit? Even without actual blueprints we can improvise something, I don’t know.” Techno hummed his agreement, subconsciously starting to comb his fingers through the ends of his hair as well. Fit looked down at his metal arm, flexing silver fingers as his brows stayed furrowed in thought. “A leg prothesis shouldn’t be hard to make either…”

Pac didn’t know why his chest suddenly started feeling warm. That’s the first thing he thinks about? Making a new leg for him? “That can wait, it’s not like I can do much anyways… and it would still hurt too much to put on my leg I think.” “Nonsense, even if the wound still needs to heal, we can start working on a prosthesis. It will take a while to finish anyways.” The Brazilian stammered something almost sounding like a thank you, trying to hide the rising blush that came with embarrassment and fondness. Fit just smiled at him, then gently kicks Tubbo as he tried to tease Pac for said blush.

For a while, everything seemed to return to normal, as if nothing major had happened. They talked and bickered and teased, even if Cellbit and Techno didn’t partake much. Cellbit silently stared at the window, lost in his own thoughts somewhere. Pac reassured them that it happened sometimes, even long before the crash and that they should just let him be. Techno occasionally chimed in with some comments, but continued to mess with his hair, growing increasingly frustrated by it. It was tangled and matted and almost impossible to somehow work through.

“Fuck it. Fit, help me chop this off.” The oldest barely glanced at him for more than a second before shrugging and walking over. Tubbo on the other hand stared at him with his mouth open, as if he had just spoken the greatest insult the teen has ever heard. “Techno what-“ “Sure, how much do you want off?” Techno gathered it all behind his head, feeling for the worst tangles that definitely need to come out. “About here for now. I think that gets rid of most of the annoying parts.” He held his hand just above his shoulders, right above the last large knotted area.

“That’s so much!” “It will be easier to take care of this way.” Fit knelt behind him, taking the knife from Techno’s hand and gathering all of the hair into a ponytail. “I’ll try not to graze you with the knife. Hold still.” After a bit of hesitation and eying the area Techno wants him to cut, Fit moved his hand a little lower to still have the hair pulled taunt, but a bit more even so the cut area won’t be absolutely scuffed. “Any second guesses?” “Just cut it before I do it myself. And if I do it myself it will look even more shit.”

And with that, long pink hair started falling to the floor.

It was only a little difficult to cut somewhat straight as Fit carefully moved the knife like a saw, until the last strands joined the rest on the cold metal below. He did flinch a little when a chunk of hair made a louder noise when plopping onto the ground, showing how tangled, matted and heavy it had been. Once done, he took the time to ruffle the ends a bit, knocking off any last loose strands before handing the knife back to Techno. “And done. It’s all off. Honestly not too bad for a survival knife haircut.” It’s by no means a good haircut, it’s uneven and messy, but it does it’s job. Techno’s hair falls just above his shoulders and his head, strangely, felt a lot lighter.

“I can’t believe you actually just chopped it off. How dare you.”

“Tubbo, I told you before, I can just regrow it.”

“But now you look all weird!”

“Wow, thanks a lot.”

“Don’t blame me, I’ve only ever known you with long hair!”

“I think you look nice Techno.”

“Thank you, Pac.”

Techno began running his fingers through his hair, the last few tangles and knots far easier to get out. It should be manageable to at least not get it matted again. Tubbo began to playfully bicker with Pac about preferred hairstyles, with Fit ever so helpfully adding baldness to the suggestions. Once he was satisfied with the state of his hair, Techno tied it together into a tiny ponytail to keep it out of his face.

A flash of blue and red zipped by the window, signalling that Roier was once again doing his rounds around the territory. He really needs to take a break, he has done nothing but constantly swim around, growling at anything that moves. With Foolish asleep, he probably hasn’t stopped to hunt himself food either. Maybe they could try and calm him down, offer him some of their food…

“Hey, how much of the fish do we have left? The pile that Foolish brought us yesterday.” Tubbo stopped his bickering first, shrugging as an answer. “A good bit, it was far too much for us all. Why?” “We should offer some back to them. At least to Roier if Foolish is still sleeping. Maybe he’ll settle down for a little while and rests too.”

Tubbo turned to look out the window and managed to spot Roier circling nearby, checking out a cluster of rock and coral. “He’s still nearby, we could call him for food.” “If he listens”, Fit adds. “He might be mad at us, I don’t know. But we can try, I don’t think he’ll hurt us, just ignore us at most.” Techno grumbled something about ‘massive predators’ and ‘pets’ under his breath, but did get up to help whatever plan they want to set up now.

Much to everyone’s surprise, Pac started to push himself up as well, using the wall to keep his balance. That startled Cellbit to finally join the realm of the living again, jumping up to help his friend stand. “What do you think you’re doing?” “I want to help. I told you before we went out to the ship, I hate being stuck in here doing nothing.” Fit already opened his mouth to join Cellbit in protesting against it, but the look of sheer determination in the other’s eyes made him click it shut again. He can respect it, the will to keep going, now that he sees they have a chance, not allowing his new handicap to slow him down in contributing to the group’s survival.

It reminds him of himself, not too long ago…

Techno pats Fit on the shoulder, giving him a smile before he began to gather his equipment. Why a food offering requires all five of them to go outside is beyond him, but he won’t complain. Not right now at least. Instead, he made sure that Tubbo’ tank was refilled properly and securely attached to the mask.

They had to wait a few moments until all of them were through the airlock system. There has to be a better and faster way for them to enter and exit the base, especially if there is an emergency. Maybe a bottom hatch, so the water can’t spill into the base. He’ll talk that over with the others later when they are back inside.

The fish they had, which weren’t that many if you compare them to Roier’s size, were piled on the sandy floor near Foolish in the hopes that the close proximity to his father allows their friend to be somewhat reassured that he is safe while he eats. Techno stopped Tubbo from trying to go near and touch Foolish, as he didn’t want the teen to accidentally wake him up. “He needs the rest Tubbo.” “I was just making sure he isn’t bleeding anywhere.” The amount of care he has for the large creature was worrying… but also quite endearing. Thinking he could and will protect something so much larger than himself, despite Foolish being more than capable to defend himself without any help.

This relationship as a whole with the two large creatures was… interesting. They gained nothing from protecting the humans, if anything the best thing they could do for the two leviathans was becoming their next breakfast. Yet here they were, protecting the group and their home like they were their nest full of babies. Who knows, maybe Foolish does see them as babies and thinks they will grow as big as him. There is no way of knowing, with no real way of communicating with either of the creatures outside of simple words and gestures.

Communication would be quite helpful right about now, with them trying to make some sort of peace offering in hopes of making Roier not hate them anymore, if he even does in the first place.

When the pile was completed, Pac took to exploring the surrounding area a little bit, much to the annoyance of his companion. He also insisted he wants to try and swim a little by himself, pulling himself forward with his arms rather than moving his remaining leg too much. It contradicted what they had agreed on in the morning, with Pac having to use his won strength as little as possible. But it seems like he changed his mind and wants to start exercising as soon as possible, at least a little bit. He does laugh at how close Cellbit and Fit stay to him, even though they respect his wish to try and swim by himself.

Near death experiences cause quite different effects in people…

In the end, they didn’t have to call out for Roier, as he came back on his own as soon as he noticed that they were outside of their base. Unlike before, he greeted them with a chirp again, the growling and nervous pacing fading out of existence. That’s a good sign right? “Hey big guy. We got you some food.” The young leviathan looked at the pile of fish that Techno was pointing at, then at each of the humans. He lingered especially long on Pac, watching as he slowly swam around, almost looking like he is attempting to play very slow tag with his two guard dogs, escaping their close proximity as much as he can.

The calm, almost normal behaviour of all the humans seem to calm him down, so that’s a bonus. His fins relax and he sinks down to the floor, slowly starting to eat the offered meal. Every now and again he would glance over to the sleeping form of his father, making sure he’s still there and unharmed. Is if he could just get up and leave without anyone noticing. Techno stays there and sits on the ground, the weight of the oxygen tank making it pretty easy to not drift away. Tubbo, after a little while, decides to join the trio swimming around and starts making little challenges for Pac, most of which immediately get shot down by Fit alone.

It felt… nice. Seeing them like this.

It felt like a home, almost. 

Chapter Text

They settled into a little routine, after that day.

While Pac was right, they need some sort of goal and they do set themselves things they want to achieve, it was difficult not to have every single day slowly start being the exact same. Hunt for food, explore the area, gather materials to use in the fabricator. While they haven’t achieved the blueprint for an actual bed yet, they have discovered that a mix of kelp and blood vines (a not ominous name at all) make a comfortable layer of cushion on the floor. They have put together a woven pile in one corner of the base where they all huddle together for the night. It still wasn’t a bed. But it was more comfortable than the floor.

Their base was slowly filling with different little things the fabricator can make as well as tools and other self-made inventions. A first order of business had been to equip everyone with a weapon for self-defence, which turned into gathering materials to make three survival knives. Tubbo also seemed to get his motivation for inventing back, as he has started to keep all sorts of cables and plating in a pile inside the base, messing with it whenever he wasn’t helping or chatting with anyone in the group.

They have also added a second window on the opposite side of the base as well as some reinforcements, just to be sure. So far, the one room had been enough space for them, so they haven’t added any extra corridors to what they currently have. Although they did consider having some sort of storage room and finally move their supply crates inside.

Foolish seemed to be doing better by the next morning after the attack already, even if he was still a little slow. Roier was practically glued to his side whenever his father left the immediate vicinity of their base, cooing and clicking as he followed him around. With every day that passed, Foolish healed more, even the stab wound in his shoulder seemed to bother him less with each day. He also, much like Roier, does not seem to have any resentment towards the humans for what happened, happily accepting Tubbo’s attempt at a hug as he rambled about how sorry he was that Foolish got hurt.

Between the exploring and gathering and building, Cellbit and Tubbo have started construction on a prosthetic for Pac. It will by no means be the same quality or even nice sleek look that the high-tech prosthetics on the ship have, with Fit’s arm being a good example. But they were trying their best and right now, functionality goes over design.

Fit chimed in occasionally and especially when it came to the wires that were supposed to connect to Pac’s leg to possibly get the leg to move at will. He had experience with it, being the person who fixes the majority of damages within his own prosthetic. But whenever it came to simply weld plating and fit parts to the stump, the oldest busied himself with moving the radio, fabricator and location beacon down into their new base.

Finally, after weeks, they were now officially separated from the pod, no longer needing any of it. The important appliances were now installed inside their stationary base, they have taken the batteries and whatever was left in the small storage, as well as the half-filled fire extinguisher.

And when neither Pac or Fit are needed for the prosthetic, they went out into the water to work on Pac regaining movement, muscles and strength in said muscles. Swimming seemed a safer and less painful option for the Brazilian than walking and with Foolish and Roier around, they were confident enough in being outside. Roier was especially attentive whenever they were outside, multitasking watching his father and making sure Pac and Fit are in his line of sight as well. Which wasn’t difficult, as most of the time Foolish too was watching the little workout routine most days.

Techno, while a little worried at first, let them have their routine, even preventing Tubbo or Cellbit from joining in sometimes by asking them for help with other tasks. He even went as far as hiding the other masks with their comms so Pac and Fit can have conversations in private, mostly because he knows Tubbo absolutely would spy on them. So far no one has caught on yet.

It wasn’t really a secret that they were bonding over having a missing limb and all that came with it. And well… while Fit tried, Pac wasn’t discrete in the stares he gives their friend. There was nothing wrong with it and honestly, Techno was quite happy that his friends were finding affection and happiness in a place like this. If the feelings were mutual, it was honestly hard to tell at this point if it was just Pac or if Fit was feeling something too.

And while everyone was working with the technology aspects of their new life, Techno had started getting curious about possible non-fish food sources. Maybe it was just his subconscious that was remembering the garden on the ship, but he started working with the plant life surrounding them. Food, medicine, fabricator resources… he was exploring all of it with the help of their two creature friends and their scanner. Which is also the reason how they discovered their current bedding material.

There were a few types of plant they can consume when dried and possibly cooked by the fabricator, which brought a little more variety and flavour into their meals. The special kelp vines also didn’t stay the only medicine they have. It was great for pain relief and as a sort of bandage, but there are other types of wounds and, obviously, also sickness. So far none of them have gotten sick, but who knows how long that will stay the case. There were these blue cave flowers that produce a decent disinfectant and a plant with thin red vines that can be used as sturdy stitching. A yellow plant from the shallow caves can help inflammations, especially internally, which can soothe throat and stomach pains.

They have also encountered more species, many of which they can’t or won’t eat for various reasons. There were many different fish that were all pretty small and their main food supply, like the Pipers, Boomerangs and Bladder fish (gross). With the help of the scanners, who apparently always names the things it scans, they also identified the predators from the kelp forest as ‘Stalkers’ and smaller, aggressive grey fish that bury themselves in sand as ‘Sand Sharks’. Many of the names weren’t creative, as expected from a system like this, but they were easy to remember.

Techno also decided, after hesitating for a long time, to scan both Foolish and Roier. He made sure to demonstrate the scanner on different plants and fish plenty of times to show it causes no harm, before he attempted to get a scan of Foolish. Both creatures watched curiously as the pale blue glow washed over their bodies, almost resembling waves of the ocean. But it didn’t hurt, so they held still until it was done. It was safe to assume that both of the creatures were confused what purpose those scans have, but they were happy to entertain their human friends.

In the evening, when everyone was gathered in the base and eating their dinner, they looked at what the scans tell them about their large friends.

Foolish – Shallow’s protector

A leviathan class creature measuring 138ft in length from head to fin. Scans of the bone structure suggest that this specimen is a fully grown male adult. A second scan of a female is necessary to make further notes on possible differences and special development. Claws and fangs are design for the hunt, thick skin and strong scales as defence against other leviathans.

Main living area seems to be deeper shallows and kelp forests, as internal scans suggest a maximum diving depth of about 1000m without injury, but will feel more comfortable for permanent living arrangements to about 500m. With such a diving depth, current scan location and size of the creature, it is safe to assume that this is most likely one of very few, if not the only specimen in a wide radius.

The diet of this creature is a mix between meat and nutrient rich plants, such as the glowing seed clusters growing on the kelp. Current stomach contents suggest that a main prey for this creature could be the Stalkers from the kelp forest and possibly other young leviathan class creatures, to sustain a creature of such size.

Scans of the brain structure suggest high intelligence, including emotions such as empathy or sorrow. Such intelligence also hints at more communal living and communication with leviathans of the same species. It can be compared to species of whales and dolphins from earth.

Roier – Crimson Sand Raider

A leviathan class creature currently measuring 82ft in length from head to fin. Scans suggest that this specimen is a juvenile male and will approximately reach a length of 130ft at full maturity. How long this growth will take cannot be determined with a single species scan, although it is easy to determine that this species has a long lifespan, possibly well over 200 years in good conditions. Special physical attributes include a second pair of arms that share the same strength and flexibility of the main pair.

This creature seemingly has a save diving depth of about 900m, although will feel more comfortable in the shallow areas. Diving depth may increase with maturity. Scans suggest that the creature has the ability to see well in the darkness, making it either a nocturnal creature or a cave dweller.

The main diet of this creature is meat, with a strong digestive track to even break down scales and bones. At this age, the prey of this creature will be young stalkers or sand sharks. It’s extra limbs are an effective hunting tool, able to grapple its prey and shred it with sharp claws.

It is unknow if at this age, the creature would still live within family units or if it would move to establish its own territory. Scans of the brain structure suggest high intelligence, which could be a hint towards pack hunting and communication with other leviathans of similar species. This is supported by a well-developed emotional awareness.

“So, basically, they are super smart, have feelings and eat meat. We knew that already.” Tubbo chewed on his piece of fried fish, scrolling through the two texts again. It each contained a diagram detailing some physical attributes and points of interest. “Crimson Sand Raider… that sounds fucking epic. Why is Foolish’s name not that epic?” “I like Shallow’s protector. It makes him sound like a superhero.” Pac leaned over his shoulder, getting another glance at the information. “And it did confirm Roier is a child. So the father-son-theory is pretty spot on. Cross-species adoption, that’s cute.”

Techno glanced out of the window, spotting the two creatures eating their own dinner. It makes sense, creatures this big need food, so there aren’t a lot in shallow areas. But they do need to reproduce and apparently have all the qualities for pack living. Makes you wonder if these two are just special or got separated… or if they only meet up with mates to breed and then go their own way again.  But they do seem to make good parents.

“This makes me want to scan more big boys. Pretty sure that bastard by the ship is not nearly as smart. Wonder what that one is called.” “One, we are not going back to scan it. Two, you don’t know that, maybe it was just defending it’s territory.” Fit chugged the last of his water bottle, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand. “Dolphins are smart, and they still bully other animals.” “That’s true, I’ve read about that too!” Pac grinned up at him, earning a smile in return. “I heard dolphins also fuck ot-“ “And we are ending this conversation here.”

Techno covered Tubbo’s mouth, making the teen start tugging at his arm with muffled shouts of protest. Cellbit laughed at his misery, snatching the PDA from his hand. “Enough tablet time for you.” Tubbo glared at him before licking Techno’s hand, making the older jerk it away with a disgusted face. “That’s gross.” “Then don’t cover my mouth you bastard.” He shoved the teen away by the shoulder, ignoring how he stuck out his tongue at him again.

The evening ended soon after that and the lights got dimmed for the night. They huddled together in their makeshift bed, still without any kind of blanket, but comfortable enough to provide a restful sleep without any aching muscles in the morning.

Although for one of them, sleep wasn’t as restful as they hoped.

Techno tossed and turned in his sleep, drifting in and out of consciousness. Flashes of blue and white cover his vision, but it all disappeared the moment he opened his eyes to look around the room. Every time he felt himself drift off to sleep, the flashes return, along with a weird sort of static noise ringing in his ears.

It creeped him out to no end, jerking him awake again every time it happened. No one else seemed to be experiencing anything similar, all four of his friends sleeping peacefully beside him, although Tubbo had scooted away from him a little, probably because he had moved around too much.

He laid awake staring at the ceiling, growing more irritated the longer it went on. All he wants is some sleep, was that too much to ask for? Why was his brain deciding that he wasn’t deserving of any good rest?

When it happened again the next time, the ringing noise followed him into the waking world, making him cringe as it increased in volume. Fuck, his ears were starting to hurt. Covering them was of no use, the sound was coming from somewhere in his head. He groaned and turned on his side, clamping his hands over his ears anyways. It was so loud.

The flashes started to appear in his vision as well, no longer restrained to when he has his eyes closed. Was he high? Did the dinner drug him somehow? Maybe the fish had eaten something before being captured. This definitely feels like how people describe being on drugs. He bit down on his hand to muffle the pained whine when the noise increased again. Make it stop, make it stop.

And it did.

The flashes stayed, but the noise quieted. And in the middle of his vision, surrounded by the flashes of blue and white, was a silhouette. A transparent, grey silhouette with bright blue, glowing eyes, surrounded by a halo of glittering void.

And after a moment of silence, it spoke.

She spoke.  

“What… are you?”

Chapter Text

Techno jerked up into a sitting position, eyes wide in terror. But the second he had moved, had dared to change his position, the silhouette disappeared, the flashing lights stopped, the humming in his ears faded. All that it left behind was deafening silence and the lasting imprint of two glowing spots in his vision. And the echo of a voice sounding so human, yet so foreign. What the fuck was that… What the fuck was that.

His heart was racing, threatening to tear out of his chest.

“Techno? You okay?” His head snapped to the side hard enough he felt it crack a little, spotting Tubbo. The teen was barely awake, rubbing at his eyes as he yawned, none the wiser about what had just occurred. The others were still sleeping, although Fit did start to stir, mumbling something under his breath. Techno did not want to deal with explaining what just happened, especially not if he doesn’t understand it himself. “I’m fine. Go back to sleep.” That didn’t seem to satisfy the teen though. He frowned and pushed himself up, staring at his friend in the weak light. “You look scared.”

The older didn’t look at his friend after that, instead staring out the window closest to their makeshift bed. The ocean was as dark as ever during nighttime, barely any of the bioluminescent plants visible from this angle. He knew if he walked up to the window, he could see how bright the reef looks at night. And somewhere out there were Foolish and Roier, huddled together for the night, keeping them safe. “Techno?” Something warm brushed against his side, before Tubbo settled beside him, shoulders pressed together. “Just… a nightmare. I’ll be fine in a minute.”

The teen hummed, looking out the window as well. “Do you want to talk about it?” He shook his head, the black spots in his vision still visible. He’d rather not explain, Tubbo will think he is going crazy. Besides, it was gone now… maybe he was just hallucinating. Or getting sick… this is an alien ecosystem. “Okay… you don’t have to talk if you don’t want to.” It was odd, hearing those words spoken back to him. Words he had so often offered Tubbo when he was having a bad day on the ship.

Neither know for how long they sat there, side by side. Despite obviously being tired, Tubbo did not lay back down, not until he was sure that Techno was feeling better. Every now and again he would start small conversations, rants about old projects he had wanted to finish, how Pac’s prosthetic leg was coming along, how he loved the idea of Techno making a new garden for himself with all these water plants. The constant chatter was nice, distracting him from his own thoughts.

Eventually he does tire himself out and starts to doze off. Techno carefully moved him to lay down, laying down himself too to assure Tubbo he will try and sleep now as well. And while the younger did fall asleep, Techno did not. He continued to stare at the ceiling, now left without any distractions again, until the sun started to rise, and their little base started to fill with more light.

Cellbit was the first to wake up, yawning and stretching as he sat up, hair wild from sleep. “Morning…” Techno waved from his new spot by the window, quietly chewing his breakfast. After another yawn and long stretch, Cellbit got up and grabbed some breakfast himself, joining the other by the window. “You look tired.” Will everyone comment on that now? This is going to be a long day if that’s the case. “Bad night. I’ve survived with less sleep.”

The other just nodded, watching as Foolish started his morning round while Roier lazily stretched on the sandy floor, blinking at the bright sunlight. Now that his father was back in good health, his nervous pacing had stopped and made him return to his usual self. Which included late mornings.

“Tubbo told me Pac’s leg is coming along well?” “Yes, it’s looking decent for only using scraps. We thought we could use wiring and make it move like Fit’s arm, but we got a bit worried and decided against it. None of us are medical professionals, so we don’t know if we can attach everything properly without hurting Pac. The wiring is there in case we do find a surviving doctor or expert for prosthetics, but for now we won’t attach it. The leg can still move and bends using gravity, but that’s about it.”

Said man stirred in his sleep, groaning and turning on his side, away from light pouring in through the windows. Techno snorted at the way Pac instantly sought out comfort from Fit, cuddling closer to him with a content sigh. Cellbit seemed just as amused, shaking his head in disbelief. “They are both so dense…” “You tell me. I’ve known Fit for a while and have never seen him act this way with any past crushes.” “The fact that neither of them has made a move yet…”

Techno just shrugged, shoving the rest of his breakfast into his mouth. There was plenty to do, resources to collect, survivors to look for. He’ll probably set out with Foolish once he’s back from his territory patrol or whatever he does when he swims off somewhere. “I think we should head south today. We haven’t gotten far in that direction. With any luck we might find some lifepods there. We launched so many, there is no way our three pods are the only ones around here.” Cellbit stayed quiet, keeping the more… depressing thoughts to himself. “It’s worth a try I guess.”

“Can you two talk any louder?” They turned to see Tubbo, sleepily glaring at them. Fit was also yawning, but didn’t make any motion to get up or even move, content with letting Pac sleep a little longer. “Sorry, we tried to stay quiet.” Tubbo just grumbled, combing his hand through his hair. “But hey, since you are awake, you can join me and Foolish in exploring the reef more. Take a break from the prosthetic, I’m sure Pac won’t mind.” The teens eyes lit up at the suggestion and he quickly climbed out of the bed to grab himself some breakfast. It has been a few days since he actively left the base.

Eventually Pac and Fit got up as well, ignoring the teasing comments from Tubbo or the knowing looks both from Techno and Cellbit. Well, they tried to at least, there was still an obvious increase in colour on their cheeks. “So the plan for today is exploring?” Techno nodded, already busy checking his equipment for the trip. “You don’t have to come along if you don’t want to, Pac is making good progress with the exercise you two have been doing.” Fit hummed, looking back to where Cellbit and Tubbo were showing Pac the almost finished prosthetic. Tubbo already wore all his gear and is ready to join Techno in exploring the area, but was helping Cellbit work a little more until they left. “Maybe I could-“

A beeping noise from the radio made them all stop whatever they were doing, staring at the innocent grey box with wide eyes. This was the first time it has made noise since receiving Cellbit’s broadcast and they had continuously sent out their own broadcast to see if anyone would answer. It was honestly embarrassing how long it took them to react to the signal. But when they did, Tubbo was first to reach the radio, pressing the button below the blinking lamp.

“Playing pre-recorded distress call...

This is Captain Underscore in Lifepod 19-

He knew this voice...

-The pod has sustained heavy damage but remains functional for the time being. Scanners have identified dry land near my pod, one and a half kilometers south-west of the crash site-

How was he here? He was so far away from the pods…

-If all goes well, the coordinates are attached. I will make my way there and scout it out, see if I find a safe place for a camp. We will regroup there and wait for the rescue team to come pick us up-

Why was this happening?

-Stay together, and good luck. This message will now repeat.

This... This couldn't be real.

Rendezvous coordinates corrupted. Transmission origin coordinates downloaded.”

Tubbo was shaking, stepping back from the radio. That was his father… alive. He’s alive and found dry land… and a rescue crew is coming? Is that a fact or just hope? Had he received their broadcast or was it just his own finally reaching them? Did he know Tubbo was alive? Does he care if his son is still alive or not? Does Tubbo care?

Did he suddenly matter? Or was it just another mission? Just some more work to do? That voice... He hadn't heard it in such a long while, even before the crash. His days were spent around Techno and occasionally Cellbit, the only times he saw his dad was in passing or heard his voice over the speakers. Maybe Tubbo did care, and far too much. He could feel his fingertips burning where he pressed the button.

There were warm arms around him. Something solid covering his face. Why did everything suddenly sound so muted? “Tubbo? Can you hear me?” He blinked, only now realizing how his eyes were burning with tears, throat aching from silent sobs. He tried responding, but it was almost like drowning. His lungs felt too heavy to scream, too full to speak.

All those long nights of waiting for his father to come eat dinner with him. All those projects ignored. Why was he here? He had just accepted he was gone…

"Please, talk to me," the person holding him said. Tubbo shut his eyes, the lights in the corners of his eyes overwhelming his brain. There was some talking behind him too, but he couldn't make out words. Just this racing feeling in his head that wasn't going away. Even with his eyes closed it felt like everything was spinning.

He heard footsteps, he could not tell if they were coming closer or if they were going further away. The others were moving around their base, but he couldn’t see or guess what they were doing. "Tubbo?" they asked again, patting his back. He tried focusing on it, the steady pat, pat, pat on his back. This had to have been Techno. It’s always Techno. "Breathe with me."

The solid- Techno’s chest- moved up and down with more force. Tubbo tried to breathe with him, pressing closer to try and drown out all other overwhelming senses right now. He could feel his heartbeat, hear it thumb in a steady, calm rhythm. “That’s it… you’re doing great. Just keep breathing, I got you.” He whimpered, so quiet and weak… weak, that’s what you are, you have a lot more left to learn if you want to take over later. There was a hand in his hair, trying to untangle the mess it had become. He leaned up into it like a sunflower towards the sun.

Techno wasn’t sure what to do. He has seen the teen upset before, especially when it comes to his father. But this is the first time he has witnessed a breakdown like this before… at least from an outside perspective. For now, he kept trying to make Tubbo’s breathing even out, assure him he’s there and won’t let anything happen to him.

While he did that, the others had watched helplessly for a little while. They don’t want to overwhelm him with too many touches and voices, plus their relationship with Tubbo wasn’t as close as Techno’s. Even if Pac really was the only one who hasn’t had any contact with the teen before the crash.

The confusion and helplessness filled the base to a painfully obvious level. They should be happy that there are more survivors, especially the captain. And they have a meetup point with other survivors with possible rescue coming. These are great news. Amazing news! But Tubbo didn’t seem to happy. What was happening wasn’t happiness and excitement of his father being alive. This was something else. The way he pressed close to Techno, hiding away in his arms… it almost looks like fear.

Fit eventually made his way over to the pair, offering Techno’s old jacket to him for their young friend. He took it and wrapped it around Tubbo’s shoulders, hopefully as an extra layer of comfort. The movement did make him finally lift his face from Techno’s chest, showing the silent tear tracks and red eyes he had been hiding. Fit felt his heart ache at the sight. “We got you Tubbo… we care.” The teen gave him a small smile in return.

“So… are we going there?” The question came from Cellbit, who looked very uneasy at changing the topic like that. But they had just received coordinates for a possible rescue and escape from this planet. Tubbo took a deep, shaky breath and pulled himself from the hug. “We have to. All survivors are going there… I do feel bad for Foolish and Roier… we just became friends.”

Right, that was a thing. How would they even communicate something like that to the two creatures? They were so protective over them. What would they think if they saw them enter the ship and just… lift off? Leave and never come back? Fuck, now he did kind of feel bad. But what other option did they have? Staying here is out of the question. They don’t belong here, they don’t fit on a water planet, no matter how hard they try. “They lived just fine before us, and they’ll be fine after we leave. We will miss each other, but you know we can’t stay here forever.”

Tubbo’s shoulders sagged as he looked at the floor, pulling the jacket more around himself. “I know… I’ll miss them.” Techno wrapped an arm around his shoulder, at least trying to comfort him a little. “I’m sorry Tubbo.”

“It’ll just be worse because they have to bring us there! They have to watch us leave!”

“I know.”

“They won’t understand we won’t come back!”

“Tubbo…”

“It’s just… unfair! They love us! They accepted us into their family! Doing this to them is cruel!”

“Do we have a choice?”

Tubbo clicked his jaw shut, not saying any more. No, they don’t have a choice. And it fucking hurts. He has to leave his friends behind and live with his dad again. Everyone can understand how upset that makes him. Techno felt so bad for pushing him to keep going anyways. “Let’s just get this over with. Stalling will make it worse.” “Yeah I know…”

And so, with a lot of glancing at the window and a surprisingly heavy heart, they got ready to leave.

Chapter Text

The travel to the retrieved coordinates was silent and tense. They had divided themselves into two groups again, this time Fit and Pac riding with Roier while the rest stayed with Foolish. Tubbo didn’t even really want to look at either of the creatures, which made Foolish seemingly more worried. Or upset, Techno wasn’t sure. But he definitely wasn’t fond of the fact that Tubbo was avoiding him, when usually the teen would chat and move his hands or even try and touch him in an attempt to hug him (even though the massive size difference does not allow it in the slightest). Now he was just… silent. Staring off into the distance.

Not that any of the other humans were acting any different. There was hope, of course, to finally get home after weeks of being stuck. Deep down they were excited to return home, to their families and the life they once knew. Most of them were at least, others would just return to work for the Federation and probably sent out with the next mission again. Not everyone had a good life back home… but it was home. It was safe. Not… stranded on an alien planet.

But they were upset about leaving their new friends behind. They had a rough start, understandably so, but now they had all grown quite fond of the leviathans. Surprisingly, after Tubbo, Pac seemed the next most upset about it. Swimming helped him feel less handicapped and he did make quick friends with both creatures, once he had been brave enough to get close. Roier seemed especially interested in his missing leg and often created little currents to drag Pac along faster with less difficulty.

And they had to admit, while the lack of more comfortable furniture and different food was a bit annoying, they had grown fond of their base too. It will be odd to not sleep together anymore, to be isolated in tiny quarters with maybe a decent roommate if you’re lucky. It certainly will be nothing like the little nest corner they made for themselves.

On top of that, they will most likely be separated once they return home. After a quarantine period they will be separated into new missions or be forced to return to their homes for a desk job. And they already knew they all lived in different parts of the world. Tubbo may be the only one who could have finances to move somewhere else or travel to visit them, if his father allows it.

It was… depressing. And something Techno does not want to think about. He just wants to see his family again. All of them know what will happen once they get home. It’s not a secret. They’ll stay in touch, maybe spend a vacation together, who knows.

They didn’t have much of a bag or anything to transport valuables, really. They left everything behind in their base apart from their equipment and weapons, the habitat builder, Techno’s jacket and Pac’s almost done prosthetic, just in case. They could always hunt for food and dry land will, most likely, allow them to create a fire for cooking meals. Depending on how long it will take for the apparent rescue crew, they could probably use the habitat builder to make themselves a base. There will most likely be some titanium in the surrounding area.

And hopefully other survivors heard the broadcast as well and would be there. The prospect of them and the captain being the only alive members of the crew… so many families that would never see a loved one again… There have to be others. There is no way only six people survived out of such a massive crew. 

For now, all they can do is hold on to the two leviathans and see what happens. They’ll get answers soon enough, once they are at the rendezvous point.

It was a good sign that neither of the two leviathans seemed to get nervous as they closed in on the coordinates, unlike when they approached the ship. So either they don’t know if another leviathan lives here or they are sure that whatever lives around here is no threat. But if they would have known that those big leviathans live near the ship, would they really take the humans there? They must have sensed it before it attacked.

And now? Now they were calm, peacefully communicating with each other as they followed the instructions of ‘that way please’. It was still such a weird concept that the humans could give them instructions at all. Why would they ever listen to tiny creatures like them? They obviously aren’t baby leviathans, with neither fins nor gills to breathe underwater. So why…

“Almost there. The ground is starting to rise up again.” Techno looked over Foolish’s shoulder to see that yes, the seafloor was rising again. They were close to the coordinates as well, but so far they couldn’t spot anything interesting. Although to be fair, they were given the coordinates of the pod, not the island. Which means they probably should spot it pretty soon. It was only 400m from their current position and they were closing in on it fast.

Pac tried his best to hold on with how fast Roier was going, half clinging to Fit in the process as he tries to see what’s in front of them. “Maybe we can see more on the surface? Even with the masks the water doesn’t let us see pretty far.” That could work, it was a clear day today. No fog over the ocean and no rain. Well, they haven’t really seen it rain at all yet. Techno carefully tugged a little harder at Foolish’s hair, successfully getting his attention and having him slow down in the process.

Since they were swimming pretty close to the surface already, he simply let go of the leviathan’s hair and made his way up. He didn’t get very far by himself, as Foolish seemed curious about what he was doing and followed him up, making him cling back to his hair as the creature swam to the surface and stuck his head out, allowing all of them to see their surroundings. Roier joined him a moment later, having one of his hands hover behind Fit and Pac to make sure they don’t slip and fall down.

The sun was starting to near the horizon, which was a little worrying, but there should be another hour of sunlight, maybe two. As long as they find the dry land and survivors before nightfall, it should be alright. “Guys, look over there!” Cellbit pointed at something slightly to the east, a little distance away from the coordinates they were travelling to.

An island.

With a large mountain in the centre, greenery growing all around it, it looked like a typical island you would find on earth, most likely caused by a volcano. It would fit with the environmental scan suggesting this whole region is a massive volcanic crater. “That must be the dry land the captain suggested!” The two leviathans turned to look towards the island as well, giving a mix of curious noises that the humans have already grown used to. “Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s go!”

It took a simple pointing at the island again to communicate ‘go there please’, which the creatures did instantly. They dove back bellow the surface and made their way towards the new location. With their size and speed, it took mere minutes until the seafloor started coming too close, making them slow down until they were basically laying on the sand with their dorsal fins poking out of the water.

Realizing that their friends couldn’t get them any closer without possibly getting themselves beached, the humans let go of their hair and made their way towards the shore. Tubbo didn’t leave immediately, instead pressing close to Foolish’s cheek in the pretend hug he had used so often. “I’m sorry big guy…” He started rumbling, something so familiar it made the teen tear up. A clawed hand came to hover behind him as the leviathan leaned into the hug, causing an actual sob. “I’ll miss you. So much.”

It’s obvious Foolish doesn’t understand what’s going on. He doesn’t know that they were leaving, that they weren’t going to come back. And it hurt. A lot. The teen couldn’t even properly say goodbye because the other didn’t know it was a goodbye. What would they do once night came and the humans were still gone? Will they even leave, or will they wait for days before realizing they won’t come back? He doesn’t want to think about it…

This is what happened when you love, you have to leave them behind. That's what his father taught him, that's what his life was full of... So how could it not be true? Every friend he ever had, every person he cared about, all eventually leave. Even Techno and Fit will leave once they get back to Earth, return to their home countries or on new missions.

Home. Such a small word. Did he have a home? Somewhere he is desperate to return to, like Techno was with his family back on Earth? Or does he just have a big house with a bed, far too large for just one person, as the other is never there? What made a house a home?

Tubbo gave a shaking sigh, slowly pushing himself away from Foolish. If he stays any longer, he will refuse to leave. But before he could turn and swim to the shore, he saw that the others had followed his example and were quietly saying goodbye to the two leviathans, all with varying levels of tearfulness. They may want to go home, but leaving behind their new friends was still hard, especially now when they were moments away from never seeing them again.

One by one they managed to steel themselves into swimming closer to the shore, some turning their backs so they wouldn’t have to look at their friends’ confused faces. And knowing that Tubbo was the most attached to the creatures, Techno took it on himself to try and give the ‘go home’ command. Making the teen do it would have fully broken him. So, Techno managed to get both the leviathans’ attention and pointed out into the vast sea. “Home. Go home. Please.”

Neither of them moved. Foolish even inched a little closer and lowered his head like he always does when offering them a ride. Techno shook his head and pushed himself further away from the leviathan. “No, we are staying. Go home without us.” He pointed again, but no movement came. “Go home. Home, Foolish. Leave. You can’t stay here.” Foolish only chirped in question, lowering his head once more, only to raise it again and look even more confused when none of the humans came any closer.

Fuck, now he was tearing up as well. “Foolish… please… go home. Back to your nest, with Roier.” When he didn’t move again, Techno gave up and turned to swim to the shore. If they don’t leave now, they’ll have to learn the hard way. Even if it hurts. Eventually the two will realize the humans are gone and return to their territory. He could see Tubbo, his back turned towards them as he was hugging Fit, not wanting to see their friends hesitate in leaving. Pac wasn’t looking either, arms crossed over his chest as he stared at the shore, Cellbit beside him.

Since he was the closest, Techno carefully placed a hand on the black-haired man’s back, gently nudging the Brazilian forward. “Let’s go.” No one looked back, too afraid they would grow too emotional and decide to rather stay with their new friends. They have to get home. They can’t stay.

Stepping onto the shore was… surreal, at first. The sand had the same colour as it does on Earth, the trees were mostly green, some were blue. It looked like any other tropical island you might find… although they weren’t really able to hear any animals over the sound of waves rolling onto the shore. Since Fit had tried to comfort Tubbo a little, Cellbit was the one to support Pac, helping him stand steady and hop further onto dry land.

“It’s… beautiful. Look at all the colours.” Techno removed his mask, breathing in the fresh air and feeling the sun on his face. All he could smell was saltwater, but he was fine with that. “It’s so weird seeing land… we’ve been in the water for so long.” Pac bent down, making Cellbit kneel down into the sand with him, running his hand through the fine grains. “I thought I would never see a beach again…”

Fit looked around at the foliage and vast beach, frowning a little. “How are we supposed to find anyone here? This place is massive.” Cellbit mumbled an agreement, eyeing his friend’s missing leg. Walking all over the island will be hard on him, his prosthetic isn’t fully functional yet. Pac seemed to sense his uneasiness and gently nudged his shoulder. “Surely they sat up camp near the beach, we can walk along the edge and see if we find anything. Or try using the comms inside our masks, maybe they still have theirs and receive our message.”

That’s what they tried first. But even after waiting for a few minutes, repeatedly asking if anyone could hear them through the comms, no one responded. “Alright, so that won’t work. Guess we have to look for them. We know at least the Captain is on the island, so there have to be signs of human life somewhere.” And that’s the Plan. Look for fire, for any signs of human life, anything that might be unusual. Broken twigs, paths, abandoned shelters. Everything here was a search.

That desperation to just go home drove some of them much more than Tubbo could understand, but he could grasp as to why it was happening. He knew that they had reasons to be this excited to find the other survivors. The way Techno clapped his hands together to get everybody's attention, making a plan how to best navigate the island and how they should choose a shelter if the sun goes down before they find the Captain.

Tubbo still doesn’t know what he will do once he sees his father. Run up and hug him, be happy he survived? Just ignore him, acknowledging him as a survivor? All kinds of scenarios ran around in his head, all equally as appealing. It all really depends on how his father will treat him once they meet. If he shows Tubbo no love, gratitude that he had survived, then why should Tubbo do anything different for him?

He followed the others when they began walking along the beach, silently working through his thoughts. Pac, who at first bravely hopped along while having an arm slung over Cellbit’s shoulder, soon was given a piggyback by Fit the moment he noticed that their friend started looking a little exhausted. The teen rolled his eyes at how both of them looked a little flustered at being so close. But before he could tell them to ‘just fuck already’ as he usually does when people are being too stupid, Techno not so gently pinched his side and shook his head no.

He was never allowed to have any fun…

At first they considered shouting for other survivors, see if anyone could hear them. But the fact that this was still an alien planet with massive creatures, the chances of there being massive and deadly land creatures are pretty high. Not to mention that screaming on an island on Earth wasn’t a good idea either, especially one untouched by humans. Who knows what’s lurking in that forest.

After a little while, the teen dared to look towards the ocean. He doesn’t know what he expected, walking this close to the shore obviously meant that the leviathans could still see them. Which, in turn, meant that he should not have been surprised seeing their dorsal fins poke out of the water, obviously following them. The protectiveness of their new friends was equally heartwarming and heartbreaking, knowing it won’t last. But they already tried sending them away and it didn’t work.

“I’m a little worried they’ll beach themselves like this.” Techno had followed his gaze, watching their two friends slowly trail along in the water. Seeing them out in the water like that made him realize how massive their friends actually are, with the distance between the dorsal fin and their tail. “They have arms. I think they could pull themselves back into the water if they got too close.” Fair enough.

“Guys, look over there.” Tubbo and Techno followed the direction Pac was pointing, spotting a thin trail of smoke slowly rising into the sky, deeper in the forest. It doesn’t look like a forest fire and even if it is, something must have started it. “Do you think it could be a campfire?” “There is a chance. Let’s go check it out.”

Leaving the shore was a little unsettling, knowing that they now truly had no protection outside of their own weapons. Pac pressed a little closer to Fit’s back, clutching the spear he had been handed since Fit’s arms were busy carrying him. Cellbit and Tubbo were walking to either side of him, with Techno slightly in front to shield Fit should something jump out at them. With the shore getting further and further away, they could finally hear the clicking and chirping of animals, but never actually spot any.

While the smoke hadn’t looked that far away at first, it took quite a while until they reached the source of it. The sun was now truly starting to set, the sky ablaze with orange and red. The whole way no words were exchanged, solely focused on the sounds around them. And when they pushed some fern aside to finally see the source of the smoke, it was like all sound momentarily stopped.

It was, in fact, a campfire. A small one, mostly smoke and no real flame. Around it a crude attempt at a shelter and some scattered resources, like some scrap and an empty water bottle. The shelter was made of a mix of metal plates and large ferns and vines picked from the surrounding area. None of them imagine it actually protected the resident from any of the elements outside of maybe rain. Which is still better than nothing. But, to their dismay, there was no one around. It didn’t look abandoned…

“We should wait here. Whoever made this might come back.” Fit carefully sat down Pac, making him sit near the campfire, gladly taking the spear being handed back to him. Techno and Cellbit worked on safely making the fire a little bigger, now that light was quickly leaving them. Tubbo inspected all the things left around the shelter, but couldn’t find anything that proofs this belonged to his father. If anything, his father would instantly try and use the habitat builder instead of attempting whatever this is. So this must mean it belongs to another survivor?

“Do you think we should try and get some food from the shore? Maybe Foolish and Roier could get some fish like they always do-“ “No.” The answer was clear and stern, leaving no room for argument. They all stared at Tubbo, who at this point has sat down near the fire too. “Going back and asking them things will only make it harder. I just said goodbye, if I go back into the water with them I might… not want to leave.” Silence followed, but everyone knew he was right. It would be both cruel on their own hearts and to their leviathan friends to keep returning now.

“Alright, so we gather food on the island. The scanner can help identify which things are safe to eat. I think we should-“ “Holy shit!” Techno never turned around faster, quickly spotting a pair of wide eyes staring at him and the others. They had black hair, about the same length him, Tubbo and Cellbit have and wore the same suit they all did. The beginnings of a beard showed on their face as well and a very beaten looking hat tried to hide most of the wild hair beneath. Another survivor… and it wasn’t the Captain.

“Um… hello?” “Oh my god I can’t believe it! More survivors! I thought I was the only one, I’ve been alone for so long! I had hoped more people would get here with the broadcast but its been two weeks and-” “Hold on.” Techno took the stranger’s wildly flaring arms by the wrists and held him still, successfully making him stop in his rambling. His – pretty sure it’s a he - eyes were still wild, a little bloodshot as well. Whatever he has been through since the crash, it made him look incredibly unwell. “Two weeks? We received the broadcast this morning.”

The stranger frowned, finally fully stilling. “No? I heard it two weeks ago. And the Captain said it had been like two days since he sent out the broadcast when I got here.” The group shared a look, all looking rather unsettled by this information. There is no way… “How is that even possible? Did we repair the radio wrong?”

“I don’t think that’s how that works…”

“But I thought we were being rescued, it’s been two weeks and no one has shown up?”

“No, not that I’ve seen-“

“Where is my father?”

The rambling stopped as the group allowed Tubbo to step forward, starring the stranger right in the eyes. “You said the Captain greeted you. You were here with him. Where is he?” Suddenly, the new survivor started looking uneasy, almost afraid. And didn’t that make Tubbo feel something. “Oh… um… I… I don’t…” The teen stepped closer, moments away from just grabbing him. “Where. Is. He?” The stranger flinched back, visibly uncomfortable.

“He… He’s dead.”

You would have been able to hear a pin drop in that moment. Five pairs of wide eyes stare at him like he had grown a second head. Tubbo could not hear anything beside the increasing sound of his own heartbeat. His father… dead? But they had heard his voice, he broadcasted that message, he was safe on the island! He can’t be dead! Not before he gets to talk to him one more time…

“Look… I’m so sorry…” “How?” This time he didn’t hold back, grabbing the stranger by the collar before anyone could stop him. He pulled him down, teeth bared in his frustration and disbelief. “How did he die?! Where did he die?!” The man started to stammer, trying to pull himself away from the angry teen. Whatever he was trying to say was lost in the nervous stuttering. “ANSWER ME!” “Tubbo!”

Techno grabbed him by the shoulder while Fit did his best to loosen the teen’s fists from the survivor’s shoulders, working to get some distance between them. Tubbo was having none of it, fighting them both to try and get back at the black-haired man. “WHAT HAPPENED TO MY FATHER?!” Fit made sure to keep a hold of the teen’s fists, not allowing him to try and hurt the other man. “Tubbo you have to calm down-“ “NOT UNTIL HE TOLD ME WHAT HAPPENED! WHY IS HE DEAD?!”

“The crabs got him!”

The man practically cowered behind a stray piece of scrap, hiding from the raging teen as best as he could. Who wouldn’t, when you are the one having to deliver the news? Tubbo just stared at him, mouth slightly open as he seemingly processed what he just heard, arms going limp by his sides as Fit let him go. It was Cellbit who found his voice first, not as shaken by the news. “What do you mean crabs? What exactly happened?” Just hearing that apparently there were flesh eating crabs on this island made him feel quite uneasy.

It took a moment before the stranger began to speak, nervously glancing between Tubbo and Cellbit. “We were exploring a cove. It’s not too far from here and we thought we could get some fish there. After a while we got separated when we looked inside different little caves that were scattered around. I heard him scream… but when I got there it was too late already. We didn’t have any weapons, I couldn’t do anything to help him…”

“So you just stood there and let him die.”

Tubbo stared at him, eyes cold. Maybe it was shock, maybe it was denial. But oh, did it feel nice to have somebody to blame. If he was being honest, he was starting to care less about the hands on him trying to keep him in place and more about how much he wanted to punch something. Someone.

The man across from him had eyes of pure terror. "I-" he began before getting cut off. Techno stepped in the way, blocking his view towards the other man. "Tubbo, that's enough," someone was starting to sound reprimanding. “This isn’t his fault. Leave him be.” The need to punch something was getting bigger. And it might no longer just be the stranger.

“Not his fault? He watched him die!”

“He had no weapons! He would have died too!”

“At least he would have tried to help!”

“If I was being attacked like that, I would have preferred you not dying to rescue me either!”

“Don’t you dare twist it like that! You know I wouldn’t have just watched you die!”

“I would prefer if you do when you have nothing to defend yourself with!”

Techno’s head snapped back as he staggered backwards, holding a hand over his bleeding nose. Tubbo just glared, hands still clenched into fists. “Don’t you dare try and twist this into some moral shit! My father is dead! And it’s his fault! I have every right to be furious!” “Tubbo!” This time it was Fit who grabbed him, pulling him away from both the stranger and now Techno. The teen tried to rip himself free, but the older won’t let that happen. “Turning on each other won’t solve anything. He is gone. There is nothing we can do.”

Tubbo struggled against his grip, but the angry huffing quickly dissolved into tearful sobs as he slumped against the older. Fit wrapped him in a tight hug, allowing him to scream and sob and let out all the frustration and sorrow that he had bottled up since they received the broadcast. “I’m sorry Tubbo… I’m so sorry…”

Techno watched the two, carefully rubbing his nose. It didn’t feel broken, thank god, and the bleeding had mostly stopped. He wasn’t quite sure what he felt right now. The teen was in the right for being angry and emotional, his father is dead, but was punching him really necessary? “Techno?” He turned to look at Cellbit, who offered him his jacket. “It’s the only thing we have that could soak up the blood. We can just wash-“ “No, I’m fine. Keep it.”

With Tubbo seemingly not on good terms, he focused his attention on something else. The stranger still cowered by the fire, keeping a wary eye on the teen’s mood. While the captain is dead, this guy surely has information. So, he knelt down close to the stranger, gaining his attention. “What’s your name?” He looked unsure at first, but eventually sat up properly and put aside the scrap he had been using as a shield. “Quackity. I’m Quackity.”

“Quackity… We’re glad you’re alive, despite what Tubbo says. I’m Techno, that’s Fit and over there are Cellbit and Pac. We’ve been living together for a little while in a base near the crash site.” The stranger – Quackity – nodded and glanced back at Tubbo and Fit. “I’m sorry, I would have saved him if-“ “It’s fine. You tried your best. The Captain is by far not the only casualty.” He doesn’t even want to think how many hundred people have died in the crash alone, let alone how many have died since arriving on the planet.

“Tell me. Is there a rescue crew coming? Did the captain know something?” Quackity hesitated, fidgeting with a stray piece of wiring. “He didn’t have confirmation, but our ship is still sending a distress call. So someone must pick it up, eventually. He was convinced of that.” So, officially speaking, there is no confirmed rescue coming. That’s just perfect. “Well… at least we found you. Are you sure there are no other survivors on the island?”

He shook his head yes, tossing the twisted piece of wiring aside. “We walked all over the island multiple times. I continued to do it after he died. No one showed up but you. Maybe they just didn’t receive the call, like you guys. But outside of those stupid crabs and some bird things, nothing.” Six survivors. What a terrible fucking quota.

What could they even do now? No rescue was coming, the captain is dead, they don’t have any food and there are man-eating crabs, apparently. At this rate, returning to the ocean might not be that bad of an idea. They aren’t safe here, even with their weapons. It could take weeks, months, before an actual rescue ship shows up. There was no point in staying, at least not with their current resources.

Techno sighed and stood up, brushing the sand and dirt from his legs. “Alright. Guys, there’s two things we can do.” He turned to look at his friends, trying to get a read of their feelings before he continues. Tubbo wasn’t looking at him, the other three looked mostly unsure, confused even. It’s better than fear at least… “We can either stay here and wait for a possible rescue, however long that might take, or we take Quackity and return to our original base. There is no confirmed rescue, only the knowledge that the ship is still sending out a distress call. What should we do?”

Whatever came now has to be a group decision. Both options could impact their further survival and rescue chances.

They shared looks, stared at the campsite, even the sky. Everyone tried sorting their thoughts. What would be the best option now? There was certainly a spot where they felt much safer but… was is smart going back?

Tubbo sniffed, rubbing at his eyes as he separated from Fit. The older lets him, not too worried that he will attack someone again. “I want to go back to Foolish and Roier…” Yeah… he expected that. And he can’t blame the teen for it either. Everything had been fine before they had gone to the island. The leviathans still care for them, probably still waiting by the beach. “I… would also like to go back.” Pac shifted his healthy leg, giving a questioning glance at Fit. “I feel better in the water.” Fit nodded in agreement, offering Pac his hand to pull himself upright. Three people want to go back and honestly, Techno was considering the safety of the base as well.

“Um… sorry to interrupt but. Who is ‘Foolish’? Are there more of you?” Quackity shifted his weight from one foot to the other, becoming incredibly aware of how much he is the outsider right now. Techno felt a little bad for him. “Some friends we made. They are ocean creatures, and we decided to name them Foolish and Roier.” “Ah, so pets?” “Kind of…” Showing him was probably easier, knowing how unbelievable a description of their two friends would sound. Humanoid fish people, yeah right…

“I guess we decided then, unless you want to add something Cellbit?” “No, I’m good with going back. This place is creepy.” Good, then they were all in agreement. Pac found his spot back on Fit’s back, accepting the task of holding the spear again. “We do know which way the shore is… right?” “It should be that-“

A loud call echoed in the relatively quiet night, sounding incredibly familiar, even out of the water. It didn’t sound panicked but still, something seemed… off. “That sounded like Foolish!” “Do you think he is calling for us? Usually that’s the sound he makes to locate Roier…” “Only one way to find out!”

Tubbo quickly went into the direction of the call, not caring for the darkness of the surrounding forest. “Tubbo wait!” They went after him after Techno and Quackity quickly threw as much sand and dirt as possible onto the campfire to extinguish the flame. So much for being careful, every animal on the island will be able to hear them run towards the shore. Hopefully none of those crab things are nearby…

Another call, this time much closer thanks to their running. “We’re coming Foolish!” “Shut up, you’re going to attract every animal on the island!” Tubbo did not care. He just wants to leave this stupid island and never think about any of today’s events again. He had already accepted his father’s death weeks ago, for all he cared he did not survive the crash. Just leave his head, leave his thoughts, never brother him again.

Just don’t think. Only for a little while.

The shore came into view much faster now that they had been running. And just as expected, the massive head of their friend poked out of the water, glowing eyes illuminating a small section of the beach. Roier was right beside him, although he looked a little nervous, his ear fins perking and twitching as his head occasionally turned to look around.

“We’re here Foolish! It’s okay-“ “HOLY SHIT WHAT IS THAT?!”

Quackity stopped the moment he spotted the two leviathans, staring at them with wide eyes. His sudden stop caused Cellbit to run right into him, knocking them both over. “Oi! What the fuck man?!” “What do you mean ‘what the fuck’?! What are those things?!” The Brazilian pushed him away when he tried to grab him, getting back up to brush the sand off his suit. “That would be Foolish and Roier.”

Tubbo reached them first, to no one’s surprise. Foolish lowered his head instantly, allowing the small human to press close to his cheek again as the leviathan rumbled happily, a clawed hand coming up to hold him close. “I’m sorry we were gone so long… We can go home now, this island is stupid.” Fit made his way into the water as well, allowing Pac to slip off his back when it reached up to his chest. Roier gently nudged them both with his hand, as if checking if they were alright. “It’s okay big guy, no one got hurt.”

It was strange, the immediate safety they felt once they were close to the leviathans again. Well, most of them at least.

“Quackity, I swear they are harmless.”

“Hell no! That thing can swallow me whole!”

“We’ve been living with them for weeks.”

“Absolutely not!”

“Look, Tubbo is hugging one. Does it look like Foolish is trying to eat him?”

“I am not going near that thing!”

“Fine then. You can stay here, you’ve already got a shelter anyways.”

“Wait hold on-“

“Oh for fucks sake-“

Cellbit grabbed the other man by the arm and forcefully dragged him towards the shore, closely followed by an amused Techno watching the whole thing. He knew he wasn’t that different when the leviathans first started showing up, but now? Now it was kind of funny. Just a little.

Although when they dragged Quackity into the water to properly meet the leviathans, a new problem made itself known. He did not have any gear to breathe underwater.

“What do you mean you just swam towards the island?” Techno stared at him in disbelief, knowing with how long its been since the crash (far longer than the two weeks Quackity has been on the island), the other most definitely had to go into the water for food. “Listen I was desperate! I didn’t think to check for any extra gear in the pod!” This guy… “You know what? Sure. I won’t question it. Maybe we can ask them to swim at the surface so you can breathe.”

Before Quackity could start another fit about not wanting to ride on their back, a loud, deep tone rang out over the island.

All of them froze, feeling the low note vibrate in their bones.  The two leviathans flinched, hands protectively reaching out to cover the humans. The sound stopped, then started again. Almost sounding like an alarm was going off. A strange, loud alarm.

They looked at each other, all thinking the same thing.

What the fuck is going on? 

Chapter Text

The noise, which they have deemed must be some sort of weird alarm, did not stop for several moments, the deep note resonating out over the endless waters. If you’d look close enough, you could see ripples in the water going away from the island. After a brief moment of shock and confusion, the humans all began to move. Well… almost everyone at least.

Half the group was already climbing on the leviathans’ backs, not really wanting to find out where the sound was coming from. Whatever it was, it can’t be good news. Cellbit helped pulling Pac onto Foolish’s back, leaving Fit and Techno in the water for now, who helped push him up. Tubbo was also on Foolish’s back, holding on tightly to the black hair. Quackity however was just staring into the direction of the noise, eyes wide. “Oi Newbie! Get on, we have to leave!” Fit went to try and grab him, pulling him along a little before he stopped. His gaze followed Quackity’s, spotting something peaking over the trees. “What…?”

“It’s the building… it never did this before…” Foolish raised his head when seeing Quackity point at the weird construction, effectively raising the people who had already climbed on high enough to see it easier. A massive structure of dark metal rose high into the sky, green lights flashing all over the surface. The alarm was coming from the same direction as the building. It would have been hard to spot in the darkness of night, but the red planet in the sky was just behind it, making the outline very clear. It also made the structure look even more menacing.

“What is that thing…?” Tubbo tried climbing a little higher on Foolish’s head to get a better view, swaying dangerously when the leviathan moved his head again. “I don’t care and I don’t want to find out. Let’s just go home.” Cellbit hated the look of it, knowing that going there would only cause more trouble. Especially with Pac here, who still had no real prosthetic.

Down in the water, Techno stepped closer to Quackity, grabbing his shoulder. “You said it’s a building. You went there?” Their newest member just nodded, finally able to tear his eyes away from the sight. “The Captain and I… we found it during our exploration of the island.” “Did you go inside?” He shook his head no, nervously fidgeting with the sleeve of his suit. “There is a forcefield shielding the door, we couldn’t figure out how to go in. It required some weird key we didn’t have. Our scan of the lock said it’s like super advanced alien technology, so we thought it could have some long range communication we may be able to figure out. Never found out if there is any though.”

“Let me get this straight.” Fit crossed his arms, tapping the fingers of his metal prosthetic on his biceps. “You found an alien structure on an alien planet and your first instinct is going inside? With no weapons? Nothing to defend yourself with? Not knowing if any alive, massive alien creatures could be inside that building? And if you go inside, touch random buttons and see what happens? I’m honestly surprised you survived this long.”

Quackity tried to sputter some sort of excuse, but got interrupted by Roier using his hand to splash them with water. “Hey! It’s not my fault they keep asking questions!” The leviathan rumbled, almost exactly like his parent does, lowering his head as he glanced towards the building. It has gotten eerily quiet, the noise having stopped after the latest interval and not started up again. The silence was… creepy.

Fit tugged at Quackity’s arm more gently, trying to pull him towards Roier. “He wants to leave, and so do I. So get on, we’ll be home before the sun rises.” Their newest member still looked uneasy as he was pulled closer towards the massive creature, squirming under the gaze of glowing blue eyes. Techno, however, did not move. Now he was staring towards the building, trying to sort out his thoughts as he processed what Quackity had told him.

This is the first semblance of a lead they had gotten in a while, outside of the broadcast. Every other thing that had given them hope was ripped away from them, they didn't even know if there was a rescue pod coming for them. The nearest gate was far away from this planet, and it could take months before the emergency signal of the Q.S.M.P reaches the nearest outpost. If there was a faster, more advanced communication inside that building…

This could be a stupid fucking idea but… maybe… Fuck. It was dark, they had no lights, this place was massive, just about everything here could kill them. And if they had a single thread of hope... just a single bit… "I think we should figure out how to get inside that building," Techno said, turning towards his friends. The shock and confusion on their faces was expected.

"Excuse me?" Fit demanded, "You want to enter that thing? After everything I just told him? How did you survive this long?" Mostly by luck would be the most honest answer in this case. His pod being intact was luck, his safe landing spot was luck, Fit finding him, the leviathans being friendly… all of it was luck. But now? Now luck can’t help. Now they had to act themselves. There was a chance to speed up the process of going home, and he will take it. Anything to return to his family.

"I might- ...We might get to go home. Doesn't that mean anything to you?"

Oddly enough, Tubbo looked like he wanted to protest that point immediately, but he kept his mouth shut and looked away from the pair. The subject of home will be difficult for a long while after today. But Techno was determined. At least… he thinks he is. "Please. Hiding has gotten us so little, please, can we try this?" Techno asked, almost begged. When was the last time he begged someone for something? Fuck… he missed the air of home, he missed the way that he could sleep soundly at night with no worries of something going wrong in their base. He missed his family, his siblings.

Uncomfortable glances were shared around the group, and they all ended up looking at him. Why were they staring at him like this? Maybe speaking was the wrong thing to do, this time. Maybe they did not care as much as he did, and just maybe... some of them wanted to stay. Tubbo's frown and twitching hands were a good indicator of that. Techno even expected him to be okay with the idea of staying on this planet… but he wasn’t. He wants to go home. Does no one else want to leave? "I mean-" Why was nobody talking? Why was it only him?

All of their faces, all of these souls and their lives; he helped. He could have sworn he helped them at least once, both on the ship and out here. He helped them whenever he could… and now when he wants to do something… was it because it’s dark? It being nighttime shouldn’t be an excuse. They’ve went out in darkness before. Fit had talked him into swimming at night to find Tubbo’s pod. They had risked traveling through darkness to investigate Cellbit’s and Pac’s pod, since it was so far away from theirs.

But the night sky was less of a blanket today, as it usually was. The darkness was hiding unknown creatures in the forest on this island. Techno understood that he was suggesting an incredibly stupid option, but... "I want to go home," his voice cracked, little lines cutting his own heart. A look behind the façade, behind the wall he had built. A look at a man who has been slowly losing his mind through grief and hopelessness and fear, especially after the weird dream that had him question his sanity. "I'm tired and confused- And for some reason I've been in charge lately despite never asking for it. So can we please try looking for answers? If this can help us get home…"

It was a selfish act, perhaps. Tubbo had just found out that his father was dead. And they surely were all tired and needed rest to process today’s events. He wasn't the only one, so why did it feel like he was alone on this? Why does it feel like no one cared?

If he had learned anything while stranded here, it was that he could be… that he is useful. In the way a tool was useful, to get something done and to wait for yet another thing to help with. Useful in a way he hasn’t felt stuck in his garden, his role by far viewed as not as important. When they fell apart after finding Quackity, when Tubbo turned to rage, he tried keeping it together. He did keep it together, mostly. Took charge and led the group to what he thought was the best way to survive further.

A small thought passed him, that maybe they were less used to him like this than he was. Emotional episodes were nothing new to him, questioning his feelings and his decisions. Feeling hopeless and useless. But they weren’t. They had never really seen him this worked up, he mostly kept to himself when everything became too much. It wasn’t fair that he was putting them through this. It wasn’t fair that he was forcing them into something none of them want to do. So, breathe. More determined this time, "I think we should go. It could help us. And if you guys don't want to... then I will go on my own and you can wait here."

There was a moment of tense silence. Then… "I'm sorry? You're tired? Look around, we all are! But throwing ourselves into the first thing we find hasn't worked a single time, and that alarm was so loud! That could have been anything! Are you trying to get yourself killed?!" Tubbo's words were like lava on cold ice, ruining them both. Sure, the kid was dealing with so much right now and was probably still mad from their earlier fight. But at least a little understanding would have been nice. But it seemed like everyone agreed with the teen, as no one objected to his statement.

So, a choice was made. A stupid one for sure, but it was his choice. "Then wait for me. If you care at all, wait for me here and if I'm not back then-" Did he matter, to them? He had hoped he does. Considered them family, for a little while. His eyes met other, wary eyes. "Then don't come looking for me. Go back to the base, because if I don't come back, I'm probably dead and you were right."

Was it wrong to throw those words at him after their fight? Demand that he does not try and rescue him, leave him for dead like he asked him to do earlier? Maybe. And maybe he felt a little bad. But he had made his decision, and he will stick with it. So, onto land he climbed, and started walking without looking back. Straight towards the building, pushing his way past the strange fauna around him, knife clutched in his hand.

It might have been dramatic, or stupid, or any descriptor you could use to call that little outburst. They were not supposed to see that, no. He was just a part in a machine, a tool in a box. He wasn’t supposed to leave that order, that security you have when being part of a team. But here he was, walking away, being alone for the first time in weeks. Three days. Three days he had been by himself before Fit found him. After that he hasn’t been alone again. Not like this at least.

There was some arguing between the crew that he couldn't make out, too far away already. He had hoped they would stay quiet, not attract attention to themselves with all that shouting. Maybe even go back underwater together with the leviathans. He had heard that single cry, that single call Foolish made when walking away, telling him to come back. The same call that had pulled them back to the beach after finding out the Captain is dead. It hurt to ignore it. Maybe this could be training… Foolish will no doubt make that same call when they get on a ship and leave.

What he didn’t quite expect were the few pairs of footsteps following him quickly. Had he not expected it? Why? Wouldn’t it make sense at least one person would try and stop him? Why… had he hoped they wouldn’t care? They were coming closer… but he could hear at least two of them were absent. That hurt, just a little.

The voice that spoke first was so familiar… so teasing yet annoyed. "You're a dumbass, and I will murder you if we survive this." A warm hand was placed on his shoulder for a moment, squeezing for just a second before sliding off. Familiar, grounding… Maybe he needed that, a quiet smile slipping on his face, and he could think clearly again. “At least we’d be even then, with my own threat to kill you after you made me swim at night.” Fit snorted, bumping their shoulders together. Even if he hated the idea, he got Techno’s back. He would walk with confidence towards their goal. Just keep going.

In the end he discovered that Tubbo and Pac had stayed with the leviathans, Pac because of his leg and Tubbo because he didn’t want to go back on the island. At least that’s what they told him. He was pretty sure Tubbo just hated him right now. It was surprising that both Cellbit and Fit came along though, as he expected at least one of them to stay with Pac. Even with the leviathans providing safety, at least one of them usually stays with the Brazilian.

He wanted to thank them, he really did. There was nothing stopping him from saying two little words. But that was already a lot, and he wasn't sure how much more he could take of having his heart on a platter. He had already been emotional enough to the point where he had just turned and walked away. They don’t need to see more of him like this… he has to keep it together. For them.

When they were weaving their way between trees, he almost said it…

The sound of the flora around them made the group walk closely together, occasionally bumping into each other or tripping over unseen obstacles. Once more a familiar, patient hand landed on his shoulder when he almost tripped, keeping him stable until he caught himself. He looked up into the eyes of his dear friend. He should say something. "I- th-" he stopped whatever he was going to say, the words getting stuck in his throat.

His friend noticed, glancing at him with a worried expression that he could barely make out in the dim light. "Are you okay?" Fit asked, the concern clear in his voice. Techno just pats away the dirt that got kicked up, nodding his head. "Better than ever," he gritted out, trying his best to give a convincing smile. For a second it looked like his friend would call him out on the lie, but then decided against it and instead focused on moving forward.

"Okay, we're almost there," he was told, a little hurt sounding. He’ll focus on that later, after the explored the structure. Soon they might have answers, and that calling of home would be satiated. His heart knew the way, and every time he turned away from the direction his home was in, it would sink. Almost like drowning. Like he was guided by something to go the right way. It was both creepy and… reassuring? Why was it reassuring? Why does it feel… right?

Between the plant life of this planet, and the little sounds of small creatures running around, he almost didn't realize when they could see it, green lights flickering over the dark surface. He was too distracted, thoughts switching from his hopes of home to this weird feeling and the strange dream to the conversations with Tubbo he has had so far. Why couldn't Tubbo just understand, for once? They wouldn’t achieve anything if they sit still and ignore every possible way that could speed up their rescue. And staying here is not an option, at least not for him.

Soon enough they cleared the treeline, noticing they were once again on a beach. The massive structure before them extended out into the water, a tower like structure at the side of a more cube shaped building reaching high into the sky. That area was on top of a massive plateau, which judging by the size and lighting was part of the building itself and most likely also contained rooms and long corridors. Exploring this will take hours, if not a whole day.

“I think I see the forcefield you mentioned Quackity.” Cellbit pointed over to where a large glimmering spot was visible, perfectly aligned with the ground. It was big enough to be some sort of doorway, or at least it seemed big enough. Quackity confirmed the suspicion with a nod. “That’s it. The lock is right beside it, on a podium that opens up once you get close.” Well, that should be the best place to start.

The way to the door was lined with infrequent little pillars that gave off a soft, blue glow. It helped them see enough to not trip over the obstacles scattered around on the beach. There were large wires- or maybe tubes?- going in and out of the sand, made from the same material as the structure and the pillars emitting light. At least it looked the same, with the colour and intricate carvings in the material. “Everything is made from metal…” Fit poked at one of those ‘lamps’ with his spear, causing an audible little ’clink’.

"Well, metal looks a little nicer than concrete. Most of our stuff is made out of metal too." Techno gently kicked against the metal cable sticking out of the ground, noting how it did not move an inch from it’s position. Cellbit noticed it as well, kneeling down to touch it. “I mean… It’s difficult to lay out and connect parts if cables are this stiff, but once everything is in place it won’t go anywhere. Could be on purpose.” They had to agree there. Their cables can easily start breaking because of how easy they move around. Fit’s arm was the best example for that.

"Maybe their world is made of metal, who knows? I don’t think these guys are from this planet, it looks too out of place. Like the robots from that old movie you forced me to watch." Fit gave Techno a confused look, before realization flashed across his face. "You did not just compare these cable things to Transformers. How dare you." The other just snickered at how offended his friend looked. Cellbit shook his head as he got up, not understanding how they could argue about a movie in situations like this. He stepped on top of the cable, curious if it was stable enough to withstand pressure. It barely moved under his weight, only making a slight squeaking noise when he first put his weight on it.

“See?! It even sounds like the beeping yellow one!”

“You take that back!”

The Brazilian just sighed as he let the two bicker, instead turning to the fourth person of their current group. Quackity, who had kept his distance for the most part, quietly inspected the lock next to the forcefield. It opened up when he stepped closer, revealing the outline of an object that should be placed inside. The centre held a glowing purple symbol which, in theory, most likely would be on the key as well. “And you haven’t found anything similar looking while exploring the island?” Quackity just shook his head no. So unless they randomly come across it sticking out of the sand, the chances of going inside are almost zero.

Cellbit looked around, eyeing the structure before him. The carvings are pretty deep… that might work. “Are you two done?! If so, we can start looking for the key!” Both Techno and Fit stared at him, having long since stopped bickering and instead had inspected the lamp to see how it was creating light. They joined the other two by the still locked door, waiting for an explanation on what the brunette had in mind. “Quackity, did you ever climb on the platform? Or did you and the Captain just walk around it?”

His eyes widen as he looked up at the edge of the wall, realizing what Cellbit was suggesting. “No, we never explored the top of it.” That settled it, their first search location will be the top of the platform. No one objected to it, deeming it the most useful place to start since Quackity already explored most of the surrounding area near the door. Fit offered to give them all a little boost so they could get good footing, he’ll be able to pull himself up with his arms just fine. Like Cellbit had predicted, the grooves in the metal were deep enough to wedge their feet inside and hold on to, allowing them to successfully climb to the top.

As expected, the top was mostly flat. The metal was a lot smoother, in some places reflecting the light of the red planet and the stars. There weren’t a lot of lights present, leaving the area in front of them mostly indistinguishable from anything important that could be laying on the metal. Techno pulled a slightly panting Quackity up onto the platform as Cellbit slowly walked around with his eyes on the floor, trying to spot anything interesting.

Fit gripped his spear a little tighter, tapping the ground in front of him for a second before starting to walk. They were starting to spread out, more or less, still staying relatively close as they made their way across the area. The oldest was a little unsure how safe it was being so exposed, having no way to find cover quickly should a creature find them. “Are you sure we will find something useful up here? If anything maybe a second locked door, but without a key it won’t really be-“ “Hey I found something!”

Cellbit knelt down to touch the object he found. It was a slab of metal he had accidentally kicked, quickly noticing how it slid across the flat platform. It didn’t shock him or caused any other feeling as he poked at it, so he deemed it safe enough to pick up. When he turned it around, a bright purple symbol greeted him. “I think this could be the key! The symbol matches!”

The group gathered around him, all trying to catch a glimpse at the tablet. Quackity stared at the Brazilian, blinking a few times before he managed to gather his thoughts. “It was up here the whole time?” Techno patted his shoulder. “You clearing the area on the ground helped us figure out that looking up here might be a good option. So… worth it?” The younger did not look convinced in the slightest.

Now with a possible key secured, they walked back to the edge and, much slower, made their way back down to the ground. Since Cellbit found it, he got the honour of trying out if the key would fit. The podium opened up once more when he stepped closer, revealing the matching purple symbol. After a quick glance at his friends, he started lowering the tablet into the lock. Before he could let go, it practically got ripped out of his hand by a sudden force, slamming it into the lock.

All four humans jumped back as the podium closed and lowered itself into the floor, completely disappearing from view. The green forcefield flickered for a moment before fully shutting down, granting access to the interior of the massive structure.

“Sooooo… we’re doing it?” Quackity glanced at his three new friends, noting how they looked a lot more determined than he felt. Techno ended up to be the one responding to the question. “Absolutely. Don’t you want to find out what’s inside?” “I mean, yes. I spent a lot of time with the Captain trying to get in here. It’s just… a little scary.” Fit placed a hand on his shoulder, giving his best attempt at a motivating grin. “We got your back, you’ll be fine.” He slowly nodded, hands shaking a little around the knife Pac had given him, since he wouldn’t need it if he stayed with the leviathans.

So, with a last glance towards each other, they entered the building. 

Chapter Text

“He has a fucking death wish.” Tubbo sat on the beach, back facing the island. He wasn’t too worried about anything attacking him, since Foolish had pulled himself further onto the shore, keeping both him and Pac close while also allowing them to sit on solid ground. He and Roier switched keeping the humans safe, one remaining more in the water and occasionally dipping below the surface, most likely looking out for possible threats from there too. It made sense, they had to keep their scales wet. Whales and Dolphins can only stay in dry air for so long before their bodies start suffering from it.

"What's wrong with him? I don’t understand what has gotten into him", he whispered to the leviathan, who had his head laid down in the sand. A low rumble was the answer, green eyes illuminating the area around him. The teen was absentmindedly fiddling with his hair, braiding and detangling the same three strands as he rambled to his alien friend. "Does he even care about you guys? He was so eager to just leave you behind…" Techno wants to go home, Tubbo understands that. But he can’t just ignore everything else, every creature they befriend.

The man not too far from him did not look pleased by his comments but said nothing of it. Instead, he tugged at where his suit was tied into a knot over his stump, silently waiting for the others to return.

Right. Tubbo was obviously alone with his current mindset. Nobody cared for him or his opinion when it came to the important decisions... Not any of the crew, not that Quackity. Only Roier and Foolish. Maybe... maybe he could just stay here. There was nothing for him at that so called home, no one was waiting for him to return. These people here weren't his friends, no matter how much he had believed they were. If they were his friends, they wouldn’t be mad that he wanted to stay a little longer. They wouldn’t be mad that he got upset about his father. They wouldn’t be mad that he’s tired.

He could survive here... Yeah. He would still have the base and the resources they will gather until they get rescued. Foolish and Roier would keep him safe. He’ll learn how to hunt food and how to grow edible plants. This will be great! 

“Do you really want that?” Tubbo frowned, turning to look at Pac. “Do I want what?” The Brazilian looked sad, shuffling a little so he could sit right in front of him. Foolish moved his hand a little closer, following Pac to make sure he keeps his back covered. Even now, this close, the massive claws of the leviathan felt only reassuring. Safe. “Stay here. Not go back home. Do you really want that?” Oh… Right. He hasn’t really been the most subtle about that.

“Yes. I do want to stay.”

“Why?”

Always with the why. Questioning his reason behind it. It was getting annoying. Sure, Pac may have no idea about his home life, but it should have gotten pretty obvious over the past 24 hours. “I don’t have anything to go home for. My father is dead, my mother hasn’t spoken to me in years, I have no siblings and no real friends. What is on Earth that I can’t have here? Because here seems pretty great so far.” Not counting the giant crashed ship… or his burns… He got the leviathans! They are awesome!

Pac picked at the sand bellow him, flicking it away. “Well… there are more people. Maybe a future girlfriend, or a boyfriend.” The teen snorted, leaning back on his hands. “Like you and Fit? Worked out well without Earth.” Within seconds the other’s face was bright red, stammering on a wild mix between English and Portuguese. Tubbo couldn’t help but laugh. “You two are not subtle at all! Just kiss him already and get it over with! It’s honestly painful to watch you two dance around actually confessing.”

“We haven’t…  I don’t…”

“People start dating with less time together than you two.”

There was protest, barely understandable for him with all the stammering, but it ended with Pac turning his face away to pout at the water. “Don’t change the subject! This is about you!” The teen’s laughter died down, staring up at the night sky. “I meant that you’ll be able to have a partner on Earth. Maybe a family, sometime later. You won’t have that here like me and Fit, I don’t think. We all see you like a little brother, not a maybe partner.” That stung, just a little. He did see quite a few of them as older siblings, someone he had been able to trust and cling to. Even a father figure…

Not anymore though. Not after how he’s been treated since they arrived on the island.

“And what if I don’t want that?” What if he was terrified of it? Of a partner, a child, of the expectations and the arguments and the pain- “That’s fine, I guess. There’s a lot of people who don’t want a romantic partner. Or children.” Tubbo looked at him, pushing down the thoughts he has had for years. Why, for a second, did it seem like he understood? He can’t understand, he doesn’t know what Tubbo went through. No one truly does, not even Techno.

Pac stared at his hands, eyes almost seeming distant. Seeing something that wasn’t there. “We certainly didn’t want any, but life has a funny way of working and putting things in your way. And once it does, sometimes, you forgot why you were against the idea in the first place.” That gave him an opening. Either work on his own thoughts, or… get a different view. A distraction. “What do you mean by ‘you didn’t want any’?”

It took a moment before the other answered, silently staring at his hands until he had gathered the right words. “I have a son, back home.”

That… was unexpected. Pac had a child. Why was he here if he has a child to take care of? Did he leave his partner behind to take care of it by themself? Was he just as passionate about his work as Tubbo’s father had been? His eyes widened. Why was he flirting with Fit if he- “He’s nine and loves to play soccer. He’s really good at it too, despite his prosthetic, and he wants to become a star player.” There was something soft in his eyes, so much softer than when he looks at Fit. His father never looked at him like that. “His name is Richarlyson.”

“Why…” The question died on his tongue. Why did you abandon him if you love him so much? Why are you here? Why are you with Fit if you have a family back home? Pac shifted a little, pulling his healthy leg up so he can lean his head on it. “It’s a long story. Besides, I wanted to help you talk about your thoughts, not rant about my own life-“ Tubbo doesn’t want to talk about his feelings or his thoughts. It never helped; he’ll only get punished for it later. They’ll use it against him. They’ll leave him. “No, tell me! I want to hear it!”

Pac blinked, staring at him for a few moments. Okay, maybe that had been a bit too eager. As usual. He needs to learn how to keep his mouth shut, like his father had always told him. Be quiet, pretend you are not there, just listen. Listening gives you ammunition. Why do you think I am at the top Toby- “Are you sure? You need it more than-“ Tubbo shook his head, scooting a little closer, doing his best to fake genuine interest. “No, it’s okay. Talk.”

He hesitated for a moment, but eventually sighed and focused back on the water.

“This whole thing wasn’t really… willingly. Taking the job was a last resort. Back on Earth, I lived together with four other guys, so we could afford the rent in Brazil. It had gotten really bad over the past few years, with less and less living space. With five people working and getting a decent income each, we were able to get a place where we didn’t have to share rooms. Me and Mike did anyways so we can have a free space as an office for whoever needed it. Usually it ended up being us if we took work home or Cellbit if he decided to work later shifts-“

“You and Cellbit lived together? He never told me that.”

Pac just nodded, eyes trailing over Roier’s dorsal fins poking out from the water where he was swimming in slow circles.

“It was me, Cellbit, Mike, Felps and… a fifth guy.” The pain in his eyes was obvious. Something happened to that guy, and it wasn’t something the Brazilian wanted to talk about. “It was fine for a while. We had our home, even savings to treat ourselves for birthday celebrations or should something expensive break. I wouldn’t have minded staying like that forever. None of us had partners or families, it was just us against the world. Then… came our little Richas.

Felps brought him home. Found him at work. He had been seeking shelter there at night for weeks, but they never really managed to catch him. Why he had never told any of us is beyond me, but he worked for days to slowly gain his trust with food and water, even sneaking one of our spare blankets in for him to use. Orphans aren’t uncommon and with the foster system overflowing already, no one really cared for any of them. It started years ago, but no one has found a solution yet. They don’t even know where all these kids keep coming from.

And while he was dirty and shy and didn’t want to be close to anyone but Felps… he stole our hearts anyways. His leg had been infected, some deep gash that never got treated. It nearly killed all of our savings, but we managed to get him the treatment he needed, which ended up being an amputation and prosthetic. We also managed to get him official papers and adopted him, mostly because we had a friend who worked in that field and could help us get legal custody of him.

From then on, we were six.

The office got turned into a bedroom, we got him into school, took extra shifts to make sure we can provide everything. Once that initial phase of settling in was over, the costs were manageable again. We were able to take him on little trips, get him presents… he was so happy. And he made us happy.

But then we… lost our fifth member. It was a hard hit. Cellbit took it the worst and got fired from his job because of it, not able to focus anymore. We nearly lost our home because of it, now down to three incomes. It was a mess.

Then the offer came. The Federation pays extremely well if you agree to join off world projects. And if two of us would join such a project, then the others would be completely fine and take care of Richas. Cellbit and I matched the requirements the best, so we decided to take the hit and join the program. We had two years of training where we were able to prepare Richas, Felps and Mike for when we will leave. I felt terrible, Richas was crying so much when he had to say goodbye.

And… well… you know the rest. Cellbit and I stuck together a lot during the travel, then we crashed, were trapped, I lost my leg, then you guys rescued us.” Pac looked at his stump, smiling a little. “We’re matching now… I’ll let him paint my prosthetic in his colour.”

Tubbo stared ahead towards the ocean, letting his thoughts run wild. Pac had a family he wants to return to. Cellbit is part of that family. This information shouldn’t be surprising. Well, it is, considering Cellbit never mentioned his child either, but maybe it was just a sensitive topic. Hearing Pac talk so highly of his friends and his son only made Tubbo feel worse, but he did ask for it. He asked Pac to tell him his story, so he has no right to show he is upset that his life held so much more love than his own.

Of course he would return to Earth if he had that waiting for him. Techno too, with his loving parents and his siblings. Fit will definitely go wherever Pac goes, that should be obvious. That leaves Tubbo by himself. And that Quackity. He doesn’t quite like him yet. Hates him, actually.

It was almost as if Tubbo couldn't speak anymore. As though talking might make his world collapse and all his feelings and thoughts would spill. He can’t risk that, not now. Not when Pac was reliving happy memories of his son. And with him just sitting and listening, the man beside him carried on telling short stories of back home, thinking that was what Tubbo wanted.

And Tubbo? He was drowning. The more and more Pac spoke, he was suffocating on this jealousy. This… resentment, that his life had been so much better than his own. Why was he reacting like this? He knew everyone most likely had it better when it came to family. He shouldn’t… his jealously is wrong. Such a horrible reaction to someone's happy memories...

"Hey, are you-" Pac noticed that he wasn’t paying attention anymore. He shook his head, inching a little closer to Tubbo as he gave him a small smile. "Enough about me. What was earth like for you? I know your family was a little… odd. But you never talk much about your past." Maybe he was asking for good memories too, or maybe he just didn't understand how bad it usually was. Tubbo already admitted he has no family anymore, Pac knows his dad was shit, why would he…

Tubbo shut his eyes, so he wouldn't have to see the expression of the other change. "Pointless... There-" he laughed, bitter and sad. "There was not a lot for me to do. No friends, hardly a family... I just got awards and titles when I created things. So that's what I did," he said. What a way to bring down the mood. But there was no point in lying. There never was. His life had been awful. Not in materialistic ways, but in emotional ones.

Pac hesitated, watching Tubbo as he drew his knees in close to hug them. He was making himself smaller. He was trying to hide and be forgotten. Just how much has this boy been through? How can he fix this?

"Good things will come, if you look for them," Pac said, trying to help. Trying to ignite a spark that long since has died. You can find happiness if you look for it. Keep looking Tubbo. Keep fighting.

But… he would be searching for ages for a fleeting moment of joy. He already knows it, has tried it so often back on Earth. Here, he had it, had that joy. It was so short, but he had it within arm’s reach. Tubbo wanted to erase his brain, create new memories. Just start over. Forget everything in the past. The past was not worth remembering. It wasn’t worth the pain.

He sighed. "I have no more reason to keep trying. Everything I've ever known, everybody I looked up to has died in one way or another." He hated it. Being consumed by his own thoughts. At least if there were more people, it would be easier to divert the attention. That would be very helpful right now. But with the two of them alone, Pac’s attention was entirely on him. "We both got second chances Tubbo. We are so lucky to be alive. I know its hard, giving up seems so much easier than fighting. I should know, I accepted my death in the pod long before you rescued us.”

But Tubbo didn't want to keep fighting. He just wants to stay here and live out this second chance with his new alien friends, far away from his past. "I don't know," he said, trying to flick away the thoughts like bugs. Like the sand between his fingers. Pac moved even closer, almost pressing shoulder to shoulder with him, and he could feel just a little bit of warmth radiating from the man. "What do you mean, you don't know? Is this not what you want? Having a second chance?"

Tubbo squeezed his eyes shut, not wanting to accidentally see that face. He knew he wouldn't be able to survive that expression. He shook his head, rather than saying it out loud. It was already bad enough for himself that he had considered such thoughts before, telling them to Pac… someone who had been ready to lay down and give up…

No, Tubbo had been in the exact same position. He didn't think he would have lived this long. The only reason he survived at all was because he was rescued. Because they found him before he slipped off the debris and drowned while unconscious. And even while he was trapped in his pod, messing with the wires to try and get the life support back online… he had accepted he won’t survive this. Maybe even welcomed it, he wasn’t sure.

Pac spoke again, small and soft. "Did you not want to be saved?"

Was it wrong that he wasn’t sure how to answer that question?

“I… I don’t know. I mean, I am happy I am here. And I was happy to live with Techno and Fit and you and Cellbit… And if I were dead, then I would have never met Foolish and Roier. But sometimes, I don’t know, sometimes you just think about the what if’s.” Pac slowly nodded, most likely reliving his own dark thoughts again. It’s not like any of them were short on traumatic experience.

And… what if Tubbo hadn't been saved? Would he be suffering here on his own, stranded and hurt? Would he have washed onto the island, maybe the ship’s wreckage? What if death was kinder than this fate, kinder than whatever horrors this planet can throw at them? Would he know his father died? And if he didn’t get rescued and died, could he tell him all the things he never previously would?

Sometimes the idea of that dark, oblivion... Was nice. It was comforting, no matter what outcome. Was it strange to think about death that way? To be… less afraid than he should be? He’s always been curious, even before the crash. Lately, he wondered if he would be able to think, feel or exist in any form. Maybe he preferred to not think about that right now... "I-" he began, trying to find the words. "I liked you guys a lot." Look for the positives, it's the one thing people like him for. Be happy. Bring energy.

“Why did you say ‘liked’?” Tubbo froze. Shit… he hadn’t meant to say that out loud. Not yet at least. The other looked hurt, like he had just spoken the greatest insult. “Are you that mad at Techno? You know he didn’t mean to hurt-“ “Save it.” He turned away from Pac, instead watching as Foolish pushed himself back into the water and Roier came to take his place in guarding them. Had it been that long that they need to switch again? “I don’t like it when people think they can just talk for someone else. Especially if they are just lying.”

“Lying? Why would I- Do you think I would just lie to you? What reason would I have for that?”

“People don’t need reasons to lie.”

“What would I even lie about? That we care about you?”

“Pac just leave me alone-“

“That I hate seeing you sad?”

“Just shut up-“

“That you are part of my family and I want to keep you safe?”

“STOP LYING!”

“I’M NOT LYING TUBBO! YOU ARE MY FAMILY AND I CARE!”

Tubbo snapped his jaw shut, biting his tongue. He stared at Pac, who had tears prick at the corners of his eyes. “I know you are upset! You have a right to be! You just learned your dad is dead! But why are you pushing us away because of it?” He looked near ready to cry, looking as torn as the teen felt. “We only have each other. We have to stick together. All this talk about death and staying behind… You were fine yesterday. You didn’t hate us, you didn’t want to be left behind. What changed?”

He didn’t get an answer for a long time. Not from the teen at least. But Roier gave a curious chirr and nudged Pac, making him glance away from Tubbo for just a second. Something like worry edged into his face, although there was no way of knowing if that expression had the same meaning as it did for the humans. The Brazilian just leaned into the contact, letting him press a hand to his back. His eyes didn’t leave Tubbo though. “Why are you suddenly so mad at us? We are family. We have each other’s back, we protect, we-“

“You will leave me behind once I am on Earth. I will be by myself in a world that hates me.” Tubbo’s glare could have killed a man. “You keep saying we have to go back, pressure me into following you, just so I can be abandoned. So, I can just stay here and be abandoned the same way, at least here I’ll have some friends that will keep me company.” For a moment, Pac was too stunned to respond. He looked genuinely shocked, as if this were news he hadn’t already been aware of. As if their separation wasn’t already planned.

The younger looked away, crossing his arms over his knees. He doesn’t want to keep talking about this. Hear Pac guilt trip him into going home anyways. Staying here will be just fine for him. Even if he’ll die by some predator or sickness, it’s better than die lonely and isolated in some tiny house on Earth or wherever he goes after leaving this planet. There are a handful of planets with colonies and even more spacecrafts and stations.

“Who told you that would happen?” Fuck, Pac sounded so hurt. “Who said you would be alone?” At this point he couldn’t even tell if the other was lying or if he really had no idea. “I think that’s pretty obvious.” “No?” He almost sounded offended at the suggestion. But Tubbo didn’t get a chance to question him, instead the Brazilian rambled on. “I want to introduce you to Richarlyson. And meet Mike and Felps. Mike is an inventor as well, you two would get along great! Fit and Techno would come along too, obviously. It could be a big vacation! We’ll show you the nicer parts around where we live, like the beach. And then we can come over and meet with Techno’s family too. None of us have ever been to America for vacation, it’ll be fun! And if you want, you can show us where you grew up too. Make some happy memories.”

He sounded so sure… so full of hope. Was that really their plan? He had assumed they would split up once they get home, stay in contact over calls maybe, even with the time zones separating them. “Really?” “Of course! And I doubt after everything we’ve been through, Techno would just let you go by yourself once we are back. He’s so protective of you, even if you can’t see it.” No, right now he only sees disappointment and hate. He’d punched him too, that probably made him more mad. “He’s not-“ “Of course he is.”

Pac gently nudged his head up, making him look into his eyes. “I may not have seen your relationship on the ship, or for the first days we’ve been stranded. But from the moment I became part of this group, I saw how he kept you close. His first instinct is always looking for you. Check that you are okay. When you panicked from the broadcast, Techno didn’t hesitate a second to try and comfort you. He doesn’t think you can’t protect yourself, he wants to keep you safe because he cares about you. He doesn’t want to lose you, none of us do. Because you are part of our family. Our strange, puzzled together, traumatized family.”

It sounded too good to be true. Being wanted… being claimed as a valuable part of a family. A happy family, even with all their scars. "You... Want all that?" Pac nodded at Tubbo's question. Wanting that? It’s such a nice thought. Maybe he just hadn't realized how they cared. Techno, protective? It made sense, maybe that's why, not too long ago, he almost seemed like a dad. One that cared, that wanted him around. Having that kind of happiness, that kind of trust… He wants that. He wants it so badly it hurt. "I'm- I'm sorry."

Arms circled around him as he was pulled into a hug, only now realizing how much he was shaking. He clung to his friend, burying his face in the other’s chest. “Don’t apologize… we’ll work through this. Everything will be fine. We won’t leave you.”

Please… let it not be a lie.

~ * ~

The hallway they entered was dimly lit, the glowing lines and symbols along the wall offering minimal light. There were brighter lamps in regular intervals, sharing their design with the ones they had found outside. And yet, they still had to take each step carefully as to not trip on some wire or hidden ledge. An eerie silence filled the hall, making their footsteps sound impossibly loud.

Weapons remained tightly clutched as they made their way through the alien structure, moving in a tight knot so none of them will get lost or jumped by themselves. So far, no one has said a word since they entered, not daring to break the silence and possibly alarm any creatures that might still be here. Occasionally they could hear the faint creak of metal or little clicks of metal on metal, but no creature or high-tech alien had made itself known yet.

After a little while, they came to a large room with ramps leading both up and down. Still, no signs of life. It was starting to become rather creepy. “I think it’s abandoned…” Cellbit peered over the railings to see how high the ceiling extended, still not seeing anyone walk around the massive room. “There is absolutely no one here.” So either this is some long abandoned station from an unknown alien race, or something killed whatever made these buildings. Which wouldn’t be surprising with the kind of creatures in the water.

Although… with how large the doorways and hallways were, the beings who built this could have put up a good fight.

“So… do we go up?” Quackity leaned over the side of the ramp to see what was below them, revealing that there wasn’t much except for more walkable space. Weird, why would they have made something go down if there wasn’t anything there? Now that someone has broken the silence, the willingness to talk slowly came back. “I guess, up seems the most logical.” Techno took the lead on slowly making his way up, eyes trailing over all the intricate carvings and details etched into every surface. He would have loved to know if it had a purpose or was just for decoration.

Once they reached the top of the ramp, it simply led down another hallway. “This is getting ridiculous. There hasn’t been a single useful room in here. What kind of building is this?” Cellbit nudged a loose cable with his foot, cringing when it squeaked loudly. He probably hated this trip the most, he hadn’t exactly been fond of the idea of exploring this building. But oh well, they couldn’t let Techno leave by himself, what kind of friend would he be if he did that?

Fit tapped a lamp with his spear, watching it glow a little brighter for just a second. “Maybe this was some sort of storage? Or a temporary shelter? Once they were done here they took everything with them.” “First of all”, Techno glanced over his shoulder at his friend “if this is temporary shelter these guys are pretentious as fuck. Look at this place. And storage only makes sense if you have rooms to put stuff in, otherwise it would be blocking the walkways.”

“So you have a better idea for what this is?”

“Nope. Just stating observation. Maybe this is guarding something? Some sort of elaborate safe? Enough space for plenty of guards and time to catch whoever got in here.”

That was… kind of terrifying. If this was a safe of some sort, then maybe it’s still guarded. Or filled with traps. Although they probably would have triggered one of those by now. Unless they were too small to trigger it, which would also be fine.

More walking… walking… walking and silently admiring the architecture around them. The green and soft blue almost made it look too cliché, too much like Earth movies on alien structures. Now it only needs some disgusting looking, slimy alien to match the look. Or a big, advanced robot. Would fit with the whole ‘everything being metal’ aesthetic. A highly advanced robot species would probably be less inclined to kill them on sight…

When they turned around the next corner, the hallway abruptly ended. There was another archway and what seems to be a tiny room behind it, but no other way to walk or climb. No communication system, no fancy technology, only a dead end. Techno’s shoulders sagged in disappointment. Fit gently patted his back, looking a little sad as well. “You know what? Maybe your safe theory wasn’t so wrong. An empty room at the end of a way too long hallway, probably held something important once.”

That doesn’t help them now though. Now, they wasted time for nothing.

He made Tubbo mad for nothing… now there is no way the teen will even look into his direction with anything but indifference. Maybe a ‘I told you so’ on not going to the structure. While it hadn’t been dangerous, it hadn’t been helpful either. A complete waste of time. “Let’s go back, Techno. Tubbo and Pac are waiting for us.” He just nodded, turning away from the archway.

Quackity stepped forward curiously, peeking into the small room. There had to be some sort of clue what had been in here- “Hey guys! There is no floooaaahhhhhhhhhh!” The turned to see their newest friend stumble into the room and start to… float? Flashes of green light slip past his body, going down. “What are you staring at?! Help me!”

Fit jumped forward first, reaching a hand out to try and grab one of Quackity’s flailing arms. But before his hand could close around the other’s wrist, his body was dragged downwards by an invisible force, disappearing into the depths of what now has been identified as some sort of elevator shaft, not an empty room. His screams quickly faded with increasing distance, echoing on the metal walls around them. The momentum of the force had dragged Fit further into the space as well, trapping him in the same floating state as Quackity just moments prior.

“Fit!” Techno attempted to reach for his friend, but he was dragged downwards before his hand even passed the archway. “This must be some sort of elevator…” Cellbit carefully glanced down the hole in the floor, trying to keep his body as far away from the faint stream of green light inside the room. Techno didn’t know if he should be unnerved by how calm the Brazilian was. “I don’t care what this is. Guys! Can you hear me?!” His voice echoed for a few moments, but there was no answer. Shit…

“Techno? Are you there?” Fit’s voice crackled out of the little mic inside the mask around his neck. He had never scrambled to put it on faster.

“Fit? Are you guys okay?”

“Yeah, we’re fine. It’s like a fancy elevator. There are more hallways down here, wires and tubes too.”

“Nothing hurts?”

“Nope. You might get a bit dizzy, but it feels harmless.”

“Alright, give us a second.”

He glanced at Cellbit, who eyed the elevator wearily. Even if they just saw two of their friends being transported just fine, the concept was still terrifying. “You want me to go first?” The Brazilian took a deep breath, squeezed his eyes shut and stepped through the archway. His body started to float immediately and, after a second, he too got dragged to the lower level. Techno sighed and waited for a few moments, not wanting to land on someone’s head. With a bit more hesitation than he liked to admit, he stepped into the elevator as well.

At first, it felt almost like floating in water. The weightlessness was a little disorientating, but manageable. Then the drag came, forcefully pulling him downwards, making his head spin and his heart leap from the vertigo. He may have yelped too, just a bit.

It felt like the travel lasted several minutes, despite it being maybe 15 seconds. Much like a regular elevator, the sensation of stopping made him suddenly feel a lot heavier. He stumbled a little when he was finally freed, right into Fit’s arms, who steadied him until the dizziness faded. “Everything alright?” “Yes… I’m fine.”

The hallway they were in now looked almost identical to the one above, if a bit more brightly lit. Still, there were no sounds or signs of anything alive within the building. “This is starting to get kind of worrying. This thing still has power, but no one is here…” “Maybe it’s self-sustaining? And whoever made it never bothered to turn it off before they left?” Techno really hoped that the aliens who built this just left the planet. The other option of being killed off by something else… not pleasant.

The hallway continued into more empty rooms, using ramps to reach different floors. No stairs, although that might be for convenience. Maybe the aliens didn’t have legs. And finally, after more walking, they found a room that’s a bit more… interesting.

“A moon pool?” Fit knelt down at the edge of the pool, trying to get a good look at the dark square on one side. The whole room was massive, Roier might be able to fit inside the pool if he made himself small enough. “That’s an exit to the outside. I see some Peepers swimming around.” So this place has a water entrance and a surface entrance. Interesting… maybe used for transportation. An aquatic vehicle could easily use this as a docking station. Or as an entry for aquatic animals… like the leviathans.

“The hallways keep going that way.” Cellbit pointed at another doorway on the other side of the pool. Fit pushed himself back up with a grunt. “There better be something really good at the end of this, or I will riot.” Yes, that was what all of them were hoping for. This building has to have some sort of purpose.

The moon pool led to another large room with ramps, leading further up. Why there were so many ramps when they had just used an elevator to go down, no one really understood. But finally, after walking and exploring for what felt like an hour, they reached what seemed like the real end of this mess of hallways.

They stepped into a large room, which had multiple wide walkways going different directions. Following the main one in the middle seemed like the best option so far. At the back of the room, following that main walkway towards the centre of the wall, stood a massive pillar of the same metal the whole building was made out of. The middle of it was made of a streak of bright green light, connecting the top and bottom part. In front of it was another, smaller pedestal, holding a button with a green outline.

For a moment, they glanced at each other, confused on what they should do. This whole massive structure led to this single button. There was no way of knowing what it does and no hints in the room itself as well. No, everything was empty and dead, the four humans the only alive beings around.

“So… do we push the big shiny button or no?” Cellbit stared at the button, head tilted slightly in curiosity. He made no move to push it without confirmation from the others, but the idea was clearly there. “We don’t know what it does…” That seemed to not deter Cellbit or now Fit as well from wanting to find out what it does. “Well, it is the only interesting thing in this whole building. There is literally nothing else. Aren’t you a little curious?” Fit was going to be the death of him…

Techno groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose. “And you questioned my survival skills because I wanted to go in here. Wasn’t the idea of pressing random buttons exactly what you scolded Quackity for?” “Yes it was! Bastard!” Fit just shrugged. “Got a better idea?” The only other option was to turn around and go back to the shore. That would be much safer, even if he had to tell Tubbo that they returned empty handed. Was it wrong he didn’t want to do that?

“If this kills us, I will rip your ghost to shreds.”

“Fair enough.”

Cellbit took that as a sign that the button press was agreed on. He reached out to touch it, only hesitating for a second before his fingers pressed against the smooth surface. Almost instantly, two small poles shot up on either side of his wrist, trapping it in a faint green forcefield. The Brazilian yelped in surprise and tried to yank his hand back, but it wouldn’t budge. “What’s going on?!” Both Techno and Fit tried to help him tug his arm free, but it was fully stuck.

From above the button, a circular shape emerged, connected to a metallic wire. It moved from left to right, keeping the black dot in it’s centre focused on Cellbit. Like it was looking at him… “Um… Ola?” Suddenly, a long needle emerged from the black spot, quickly turning downwards to aim at his arm. “Nonono!” Quackity grabbed the wire, trying his hardest to pull it away from Cellbit as the others kept trying to free his arm.

The needle arm ripped itself free from Quackity’s grip with surprising force, making the man stumble backwards when he was forced to let go. Before either Techno or Fit could stop it, the needle rammed itself into Cellbit’s arm, making the Brazilian scream. Blood trickled down his arm, staining the white of his suit a deep red. But before anyone could try and pull it out, it retracted on it’s own, pulling the needle back into the little black dot as the whole arm returned into the pedestal.

Cellbit’s hand was released, allowing him to pull his arm away and cradle it close, hissing at the cold air hitting the wound. Blood was still trickling from the wound, but the puncture was small enough that he shouldn’t bleed out as long as they put pressure on it. Which was exactly what they did, with Techno pulling the suit’s glove off his hand and laying it over the wound. “Keep it covered until it either stops or we can bandage it.” Cellbit nodded, pressing his hand over the glove. “Fuck that hurt…”

A sudden, loud noise echoed around them. Then a bunch of crackling warbles, echoing from what most likely is some sort of speaker system. It sounded like a language, like someone was speaking, but none of them could understand what was being said. “Is this a good or a bad sign?” “I hope being alive is a good sign…” A beeping noise came from the PDA, which Techno honestly had forgotten they took with them. When he opened it, a short text message greeted him.

“Alien broadcast recorded. Language cannot be found in system. Translation provided by cross-reference of all languages in current system. There may be mistakes. Some sections remain unknown.

Broadcast: [redacted]. Infection detected. [redacted]. Infected organisms are prohibited from deactivating the weapon. [redacted]. Warpers are [redacted]. Genetic Code implemented.”

Painful silence filled the room, letting the words fully sink in. Infection? Cellbit was infected? He seemed fine and the animals they had hunted and eaten seemed fine too. And what was that about a weapon? They haven’t seen anything resemble a weapon in here, let alone outside.

“I’m… infected? With what?” Fit wrapped an arm around his shoulder when he stumbled back from the pedestal, hand still clutching the glove over his wound. There was raw panic in his eyes as his eyes darted from his friends down to his arm and back. His blood had looked normal and there was nothing visible on him. Then again, not all infections are something visible. Quite a few start without any symptoms at all.

“Hey, we’ll figure this out. You’re fine… you’ll be fine.” A dark thought tugged at the back of his mind. If the infection is caused by the fish they ate or the water… then all of them had it. And if this thing was designed to detect infection before being allowed a deactivation… it could explain why the building was empty.

Quackity eyed the PDA, brows drawn together in thought. “What does it mean by weapon? There is no-“ A sudden noise from their masks made all of them freeze. Techno could easily hear it from where it sat around his neck, the little mic crackled for a second before a voice spoke. A voice none of them recognized, carrying a heavy Spanish accent.

“Q.S.M.P do you read me? Can any survivors hear me? This is Captain Maximus of the S.O.F.I.A, we have received your distress call.”

Everyone’s eyes widened as they stared at the mask that hung innocently from Techno’s neck. The same voice came from Cellbit’s and Fit’s masks as well. Not just another survivor. No… a rescue team. They were being rescued! “We hear you!” Fit practically screamed into the little mic. There was no immediate reaction. “Hello? Can you hear us?” Cellbit’s question remained unanswered. Were their signals too weak? But if that is the case, why can they hear the ship?

“(Quietly) Are you getting something?”

“No, I can’t hear anything. The ship is a mess… How many… […] Survivors, if you can hear this message, we have identified a dry landmass near the ship and will attempt a landing. Once we landed, we’ll wait a few days to get to the island, if you are in a pod out in the water. There is a clear patch near a beach next to some big building, we will use that as our rendezvous point.”

“(Voice grows quiet as he turns away from mic) Pierre, 15 minutes until landing. Tell Spreen to check the weapons in case there are animals on that island.”

“(Quiet background noise) Got it.”

The line went silent, most likely disconnected. They stared at each other for a moment, as if checking that all of them hear it. That this wasn’t an illusion. Quackity was the first to react, a wide grin spreading over his face. “That sounded like our island! They will land right next to us!” A rescue team was coming for them… “We have to go meet them! It will take us like 15 minutes to get out of here!”

The button and infection were quickly forgotten as the four began to race back towards the entrance of the building. Their legs burned when they reached the elevator again, not used to running after weeks of swimming everywhere they needed to go. The running continued once they reached the top, following the endless hallways all the way back to the original entryway.

Quackity nearly collapsed right by the doorway, gasping for breath as he leaned against the wall. Techno immediately turned to look at the sky, trying to spot the ship anywhere. But it was still dark, stars littering the sky. No sign of a ship yet.

“Guys!” He turned to look towards the ocean, spotting both Foolish and Roier slowly pulling themselves closer to the shore, Pac and Tubbo waving from Foolish’s head. “You heard the message too right?! We started heading over as soon as they mentioned the building!” Fit went over to the water immediately, helping Pac down and letting him lean on him. The Brazilian was grinning, excited about their rescue. Cellbit joined them, gently bumping his and Pac’s shoulders together.

Tubbo seemed… less excited. He glanced at Techno, just for a moment, before leaning back against Foolish. While it still hurt, there hadn’t been any hatred in his eyes, which made Techno feel a little better. Maybe once they were on the ship, they can have a conversation about what happened. Salvage what they can, hopefully repair their friendship, even if less strong than before.

They stared up at the night skies, searching for any star that seemed out of place. Surely they can at least spot the boosters move, their glow should be obvious. Techno was desperate to find it, to go home. Nothing mattered anymore, nothing but this moment. His family would not have to mourn him, he would be able to hug them and tell them how much he missed and loves them.

A loud roar of wind whipping past metal, a rushing of air... They could see it. A handful of glowing spots moving among the stars, growing bigger as the ship approached. He couldn't stop the smile from showing on his face, or the sudden exhaustion finally setting in. He could sleep… finally a real restful sleep with no fear for survival. They were free...

Until more noise came, from a different direction now. From the building...

Both humans and leviathans turned to look at the building, watching as the tower structure rose up higher, metal creaking loudly as it moved. The loud, deep note rang out again, the alarm blaring over the island once more. Then the building moved. The tower tilted forwards, the cube shaped building it was attached to rotating, until the tip of the tower was facing out into the night sky.

Towards the approaching ship.

Techno’s blood froze, sudden realization dawning on him. An empty building with seemingly no purpose… only a single button by a massive energy source. He looked at Fit, who noticed his stare immediately, looking more than confused. “Infected organisms are prohibited from deactivating the weapon…”  His face immediately dropped in horror, head snapping back to stare at the building and the approaching ship. Cellbit and Quackity must have come to the same conclusion, their faces matching Fit’s.

“Guys what’s going on-“ “It’s a gun! It’s going to shoot down the ship!”

Before either of them could respond, the mics in their masks crackle to life again.

“Survivors! We see you! I hope those big guys with you are friendly, we are coming in for a landing.”

“Turn around! Do you hear me?! Turn around! The building is a gun, it will shoot down the ship!” Techno screamed into the mic, desperation and panic making his voice crack a little. There was no response. Please be in reach, please…

“Pierre! Reverse the boosters! Get us out of reach of the weapon!”

For a second he felt relief, watching the ship slow down, then rise up again. But then the building started to glow, energy and electricity crackling around them. The light gathered at the tip of the tower, growing into a bright green sphere.

“Pierre we have to move faster!”

“I’m trying!”

The glow brightened, then was released in a single, bright green laser shooting towards the ship.

They had to watch their only hope torn to pieces, burning debris raining from the sky.

And all they did, was scream.

Chapter Text

Techno was dazed, confused, lost.

His thoughts wild and uncoordinated as he stared out at the dark waters, at where the burning remains of their rescue had disappeared. Shot out of the sky, ripped into a thousand pieces before it could escape the weapon. More lives falling victim to this godforsaken planet at the edge of the galaxy. Why did this have to keep happening? Why do they have to keep suffering like this? What had they done to deserve this torture?

His throat hurts from screaming, his eyes sting, exhaustion and numbness pulling at his limbs. His ears were still ringing, muffling all other sound that was trying to reach him. He can still hear it… still see bright green and feel electricity in the air. 

How long has it been? The horizon was starting to light up…

The water seemed cold now, lazy waves pushing against his torso where he had fallen to his knees in the shallows. Waves so small and calm, giving no hint at what had just happened. At what they were hiding beneath the innocent blue. Monsters five times as big as the largest animals on earth, wreckages of ships that had done nothing but fly a little too close.

What will they do now… knowing they can’t escape. There will be no rescue, they will all be shot down. And escaping without a functioning ship won’t be possible either. Even if they built one, that ship will be shot down as well. Infected organisms are prohibited from deactivating the weapon…  

They are stuck… hopeless, alone, infected and cut off from any communication outside this planet. He won’t even be able to say goodbye to his family…

Someone was tugging at his arm, trying to pull him up. They had to leave now. Return to the safety of their base, away from the island and it’s dangers. But what’s the point? They can’t escape. They won’t get home. They’ll die here- “Techno, come on. We have to go.” He blinked, suddenly aware of how dry his eyes were. Tubbo?

The teen knelt in front of him now, water up to his chest. There were still holes in it, they never made him a new one. His skin is so scarred, he has suffered so much, he doesn’t deserve this, he will die here. Both of Tubbo’s hands were on Techno’s shoulders, holding tight, but not shaking. Steadying. Grounding. Helping. “We have to go back. It’s not safe here. Please.” Techno didn’t have the energy to protest, or even answer. He just let himself be guided along as Tubbo tugged him up and towards Foolish. He didn’t even look at the others, not wanting to see their faces of pain and hopelessness. It’s worse enough he is trapped… but there are others he had so foolishly given hope, only to destroy it again.

What will they do now…?

Foolish didn’t make any noise either, sensing the distress of the humans and choosing to stay quiet. Whatever the bright light and loud noises had meant, it clearly upset the small creatures he had taken in. They weren’t even talking to each other anymore. Roier did try, nudging Pac and Cellbit with his hand, since they were closest to him. And while Pac did lean into the contact a little, he didn’t speak. Or looked at the leviathan. Neither did Cellbit. None of them did, really. After a questioning look towards his father, he silently allowed the humans to climb on. The best option was taking them back to the nest. Back to where it was safe.

There were distant roars in the water, they need to get away from here… too close, too loud.

Techno silently stared ahead, eyes focusing on nothing as they made their way back to their base, away from the island. The sun rose higher and higher, painting the sky in colours he would call beautiful, if the circumstances were different. Now it only reminded him of fire.

It took a second for all of them to remember that Quackity had no mask of his own. Only when he sputtered, and seconds later hurriedly swam to the surface, were they reminded that they needed to watch out for him. So now they were swimming along the surface so Quackity could breathe, giving them full view of the burning wreckage of the Q.S.M.P the entire way. Just another cruel reminder of their situation.

Cruel seems like a good word for a lot of things that have happened the past few days…

He didn’t even realize they made it back until there was persistent tugging at his arm. It was Tubbo again, trying to get him to put his mask on so they could dive down. While he didn’t say anything this time, he did stay by Techno’s side until he was sure he had put his mask on properly and was ready for the dive.

Everything was passing by in such a blur, simultaneously moving too fast and too slow.

Quackity did get pushed into the airlock first, getting him inside the base as quickly as possible. No one was keen in testing out just how long the newest member of their team can hold his breath. Techno entered the base last, idly floating by the airlock as he stared off into nothingness, his thoughts a jumbled mess. He could still see it, has seen it the entire travel here, the bright green light tearing apart the ship, hear the screams of the crew cut to static…

As conversations flooded in like water, quiet and unsure, Techno tried walking. It failed, miserably. His legs felt like lead, dragging beneath him impossibly slow when he stepped out of the airlock. He stayed sitting by the entrance, trying to get a hold of any thought. There were too many, a mess of images and voices and sound. It wasn't like this was the first time something awful happened, far from it in fact. He has witnessed so many deaths… bloody accidents, cover-ups by the Federation, explosions and airlock fails… Why did this have to be the thing to break him down? Now, when a level head was needed the most, his sanity crumbles away between his fingers.

Tubbo was quietly, and awkwardly, going around the group and asking everyone if they needed anything. He looked tense, back a little too straight, legs a little too shaky. Why was he doing this? Being a little helper, for some odd reason, as if he wasn't just pissed at them five minutes ago. As if he hadn’t looked at Techno with hatred. And while Techno wasn’t complaining about the teen seemingly not being mad at him anymore, they can’t just pretend that nothing happened. That conversation has to wait though, until both of them are a bit more… pulled together.

When Tubbo asked him and received no answer, he didn’t walk away like Techno had hoped he would. No, instead he knelt down again and held him by the shoulders, studying his face. He didn’t say anything, just stared at him as his eyes trailed over the deep bags under Techno’s eyes. The older wasn’t really in the mood to get some sort of lecture. But it seemed like neither was Tubbo. Techno got pulled up (gently, he might add) and led towards their usual sleeping corner. Once again, he did not have the energy to protest any of it, accepting his fate as he was forced to lay down.

Sure. Rest couldn't be worse... he was already seeing all the accidents and explosions play on repeat, it didn’t matter if he was sitting or laying down. Maybe sleep will be kind enough to him this time and silence the screams. If he can even manage to fall asleep.

He turned on his side, staring blankly at the wall. Behind him were footsteps, every now and again walking around the room. But no one else laid down, not that he knew at least. There was a conversation, but the quiet whispers were drowned out by the blood rushing in his ears and the screeching sounds of explosions and static.

‘Pierre we need to move faster!’

‘I’m trying!’

Techno curled in on himself a little more, picking at the dried vines serving as their bed. He knows he’ll see it over and over again for weeks. Just like how he still sees the crash of the Q.S.M.P., hears the screams, sees the flames climbing higher and higher. He can’t breathe, smoke in his lungs, burning his eyes, why was this happening?

Fuck, he was so tired…

He could feel it pull at the edge of his mind. The soft, insistent pull of sleep. But there were so many thoughts in the way, so many images… it will take hours until he has them silenced enough to pass out. But… this time, the pull was stronger than his restless mind. It pushed aside each memory, each sound and vision of pain and death, one by one removed from his mind, until there was blissful silence.

He was floating in the void, nothing but darkness on all sides. It was quiet, peaceful. His body felt light, no aches, no exhaustion. Just blissful, quiet existence. It was the most at ease he has felt in weeks. Why can’t it always be like that?

Every now and again, a little glowing dot would appear in the darkness. A second one would always join, twin lights of brilliant blue moving through the void, circling around him, then disappearing. Always the same distance apart, like suns stuck in each other’s orbit. Like bright boosters at the back of a ship, their blue glow piercing through the darkness of space.

They were pretty, these two lights. He liked looking at them, trailing their slow movement with his eyes.

Soon enough, more glowing spots appear. Small, pale blue lights in the same shade as the big ones, scattered about in the vast darkness. They were all around him, like stars in the sky, circling him like he was the centre of the universe, a black hole in the middle of a galaxy. It almost seemed like he could touch them… 

There was… rumbling? A low, steady note, vibrating through his body, echoing in his skull. It was… calming. Relaxing. It felt like safety and security. Like warmth and comfort. It was so nice…

The twin stars were back, larger now, leading the glittering stars around him in lazy circles. It looked so pretty… like glitter in the trails of comets, like stardust. He felt warm… so warm… so safe…

Then the stars disappear, their blue glow retreating further into the void, until only the two blue lights remain as pale spots observing him from afar. A shame, he wanted to watch them for longer. Maybe try and see if he could make little constellations from them. He loved doing it as a child.

Not long after, a new glow broke through the endless darkness.

Another twin pair of lights, this time of large golden suns, emerging right in front of him. They were surrounded by a breathtaking expense of night sky. Stars and nebulas ebb and flow around the two suns, like waves in the ocean. He couldn’t help but stare, despite their blinding light. It was like he could watch the entire universe…

Soft whispers broke through the silence, a chorus of mumbling voices, their words just faint enough for Techno to not understand them. And despite their sudden appearance, they didn’t disturb the calm of the void. Their volume started rising the longer he stared at the twin suns in front of him.

Until they unite into one, familiar, voice.

“Where are you?”

Techno blinked, confusion filling his mind. It only now occurred to him that these lights, instead of suns, could be eyes. As much as he should be panicked about what seems to be some sort of god staring at him, with suns for eyes and galaxies for hair, he didn’t feel anything but calming relaxation filter through his body, still feeling the soft rumbling vibrate through the void. That, and confusion. “What?” 

The two suns tilt to the side, their head tilting maybe? “Curious… so small…” The suns… eyes?... came closer, burning into his very soul, covering his body in golden light. Despite their bright glow, nothing else of the face was revealed. Did it even have a face? And if that is a face, then were those two bright blue spots from earlier also one?

“Where are you, little creature? I am waiting for you.”

“I- I don’t understand…”

Techno felt his body shake with the vibration of the rumbling around him. It sounded so familiar, like when Foolish… His eyes widen as he felt something cool press against his cheek, golden eyes burning brighter. “Come here… to me.”

Now his confusion was starting to turn into fear, icy cold replacing the warmth from before. He doesn’t understand what’s going on. Those eyes bore through him, staring unblinking. Techno whimpered, growing uncomfortable. “I don’t- What is happening?“ “Down.” The voice drowned out his own, echoing inside his own head. “Travel down. He will guide you to me.”

The eyes pulled back, slowly putting more and more distance between them. Everything was starting to move away from him, like he was being dragged away.

“Find me, Techno.”

He woke with a startled gasp, eyes wide as his hands blindly tried to find something to hold on to. It’s so bright, he can’t see. Everything was so loud.

“Techno! Hey Techno, it’s okay!” His hands made contact with something soft and he clung to it, blinking to try and get his vision to focus. Something was covering the bright light… “Can you hear me? Techno you have to breathe. Breathe.” Suddenly he got pulled up, his face pushed into something warm and solid, blocking out the annoying light. A steady thumping, a slow rise and fall moving his head… “Breathe. Like you taught me. In… 1… 2… Out… 1… 2…” Techno tried, he really did. Squeezing his eyes shut as he took a shaking breath, trying his best to keep it in for two seconds.

Hands were in his hair, trying to ground him. Tubbo… Tubbo was mirroring him. Doing what usually was Techno’s strategy in calming him down. Tubbo was being kind to him again.

The ringing in his ears finally stopped, fully replaced by a steady heartbeat and Tubbo’s voice murmuring about whatever he could think of. Anything but let silence distract him from coming back to reality. He could also hear steady rumbles vibrate through their base, feel the ground shake ever so slightly. Foolish… Or was he still feeling the dream? “Techno? Are you back? Your breathing calmed down.” Techno took a deep breath before slowly pushing himself away from the teen. “I’m here… I’m fine.”

When he looked at Tubbo, all he could see was concern. No hatred, no disappointment. As if their fight truly never happened. Maybe not talking about it will be fine. He doesn’t want to lose this again. “What was that? What happened?” He blinked. Twin suns of brilliant gold, an echoing voice, stars circling around him… “Nothing. Just a dream. I’m sorry if I-” “Don’t lie to us.”

He looked to the side, spotting the other members of their team sitting and standing together. Why were they looking so nervous? Fit had his arms crossed, leaning against the wall with his shoulder. “I usually wouldn’t push you, especially after what happened today. You know that. But whatever just happened to you? That’s not ‘nothing’.” He pointed to the window opposite of where they were all grouped together. Two large eyes were staring through it, one blue, one green. Both Roier and Foolish were pressing together so they could see inside the base, steady rumbling vibrating through the structure.

“They started doing this as soon as you started to twitch and whine in your sleep. The exact same second. Either this is some creepy coincidence, or something else is happening.” It felt like ice trickling down his spine. Their eyes… they looked so similar to… Techno shook his head, hands kneading together nervously. “I… it was just a dream. There’s nothing-“ “Techno.” He clicked his jaw shut, looking down at his hands. He doesn’t want to talk about it, he doesn’t- they’ll think he has gone insane. Fucking hell, he thinks he has gone insane. It has to be a coincidence, they probably heard him whine and got worried. It can’t be connected… it just can’t.

There were hands on his, holding them gently, stopping him from starting to pick at his nails. When had he started shaking? “It’s okay… everything is okay. You’re fine.” Techno squeezed Tubbo’s hands back, not looking up. He could feel how the younger turned to stare at their friend. “Leave him alone Fit. You’re pushing too hard.” “Tubbo this is-“ “No. Look at him. He’ll talk when he’s ready. Leave him be.”  He could hear the older sigh, but didn’t make any further complaints.

How would he even start explaining it? If he started now, he’ll have to talk about the other dream too. They’ll realize that he has absolutely lost it, hallucinating voices and void gods and feeling everything vibrate… He heard little grunts accompanied by a single louder step every few moments. When he looked up, he saw Pac hopping over to him holding a water bottle. Judging the fact that Fit and Cellbit looked like kicked puppies, the Brazilian most likely insisted on moving completely by himself.

Techno moved to give him some space, watching as Pac lowered himself into the nest of vines and kelp, holding the bottle out for him. “Sorry… we thought it would be easiest if Fit asked you what’s going on. We didn’t mean to push too much.” He took the water bottle, slowly turning it in his hands. “I… it’s not… you’ll think I’m insane.” The Brazilian only shook his head, leaning back on his hands. “After everything that’s been happening, dream visions wouldn’t be the craziest. And if there is like… what’s the word… mind reading? That could help us talk to them!”

That… would be helpful. But he doubts that whatever is happening to him will magically allow him to talk to the leviathans. It was probably only the one, since it was the same voice twice. Although the first time, when he had his first vision, her eyes hadn’t been golden. The galaxy filled hair was the same too, just the eyes changed. Then again, magic dreams don’t have to make sense.

“I don’t think I can talk to all of them suddenly… just the one…” He swore he saw Pac’s eyes light up as he leaned forward, giving him his full attention. “So a leviathan talked to you in your dream?” Somehow, just seeing the excitement of his friend made him a little less nervous. There wasn’t any pity or confusion, no sign that Pac thought he was going insane. And Tubbo still sat beside him too, a hand on his shoulder squeezing gently when he wasn’t sure how to respond.

They were here for him… they are his friends. He… he can talk to them. They’ll care.

He’s safe with them.

“I… I don’t know if it’s a leviathan. I could only see the eyes. They were massive, far bigger than Foolish’s, and they were golden. And hair that looked like space, with stars and nebulas in it. I think it was hair at least, it kind of moved around like hair underwater.” Pac nodded, still giving him all his attention. “The angry one by the ship was bigger than Foolish too, so that’s nothing crazy. What did it say to you?” He began fiddling with a dried leaf from the kelp, letting the dream rerun through his mind. It was odd, really. Usually dreams don’t stick around for long, there are only a handful of dreams he can still vaguely remember the content of. But the past two dreams including that… creature? They were still there, clear as day.

“It… She is waiting for… us? Me? She said I have to come to her. Dive down deeper and find her, someone is waiting to guide us once we are deep enough. She even called me by name before I woke up.” He chewed on the inside of his cheek, returning to staring at his hands instead of his friends. “This is the second time I’ve seen her. The first time she asked me what I am. It was her only question back then because I woke up almost immediately.”

Now that everything was said, there was a long moment of silence as everyone processed the information. Which made sense. It either meant that there is some god like being that for some reason wants them to do something for it, or Techno was going absolutely mental. Both options weren’t exactly good news. He wasn’t sure which one he preferred.

“So we have to deal with even more massive intelligent fish that won’t leave us alone, great.” Quackity was sitting on the ground, turned away from the window where two big eyes were still staring at them. “We didn’t have enough of those already.” Techno couldn’t help the laugh that escape his throat. That was one way to describe their situation. “That is your first comment? I’m probably just going insane and there aren’t any more of them.” The younger shrugged. “I mean you are ins-“ “Quackity I will end you if you finish that sentence.”

Tubbo gave his best attempt at a death glare, pointing a finger at him. “You are on thin ice. Watch it.” Their new team member raised his hands defensively, looking just a tiny bit scared. “Listen I was just agreeing with him. It does sound insane. Some giant fish god talking to him in his dreams? Any normal person would not believe that.”

Having it worded like that did make it seem even less believable. He wasn’t lying, the dream did happen. The question was if it was just a dream, or if it was some kind of vision.

Fit took a deep breath, sighing heavy as he pushed himself away from the wall. “Alright. Did that… god… give you any directions? Or just down?” Techno could only stare at him, taking a second to process what he just asked. So did everyone else. “You can’t be serious Fit.” He held his hand up, effectively making Quackity snap his jaw shut. “I am serious. I’ve known Techno for a while, and he never had vivid dreams before. And we can’t ignore the fact that both Foolish and Roier reacted to his dream. This is fucking insane, I know. But what else is there to do for us? We can’t be rescued or escape ourselves, that gun will shoot us down. We can’t deactivate it if we are infected, which apparently, we are. This… mission… at this point it’s the only hint we have. Maybe this god will do is a favour if we do whatever it is she needs Techno for.”

That was something he hadn’t considered. She wants something from him, maybe they will get something in return. It could help them escape. “I don’t see why not. It could be fun. And it’s better than sitting in here and going insane. Keep working towards a goal remember? It could be our new goal to figure this out.” Pac looked between everyone currently not within their nest arrangement. Cellbit shrugged and nodded, figuring that there really wasn’t anything else to do besides waiting for this infection to probably kill them all. Quackity was not happy at all, but accepted the fact he is clearly outvoted here.

“Techno?” He turned to look at Tubbo. “Did she give you directions?” He shook his head, now feeling a little useless after they hyped themselves up to complete this elaborate hide and seek. “She only said to go down. And someone would guide me once I get close enough. I think.” It didn’t give them a lot of options, but it was something. Tubbo seemed optimistic enough about it. “Alright. We know that the areas outside the reef go deeper down. There is either a sudden drop or a cave system that will lead down further. We just have to find it. Exploring will be fast with Foolish and Roier, so is running away if we find more aggressive leviathans.”

“We will get a problem with diving depth though.” Cellbit messed with the glove in his hand, now that they bandaged his little stab wound from the gun building. “Human bodies aren’t made to be that deep and we only have our simple suits. We’ll get crushed before we even find a deeper cave.” Fit nodded, glancing back at the window. The leviathans have calmed down again, going back to doing whatever it is they do when not actively watching over them. “Then we have to get us a vehicle. I know there are blueprints for water vehicles, we just need to get access…”

Oh Techno knows where this is going…

“Fit the ship has that monster patrolling around. We can’t risk getting Foolish or Roier killed.” The older shook his head, scratching at the stubble on his chin. “Maybe we don’t need to go to the ship. There are large wrecks in other spots, parts of the ship that we lost during the crash. I saw one when we went towards the island. There could be blueprints there. Or weapons. And if there are weapons, long range ones, we can help fight that leviathan and get access to the ship.”

It… was a plan. One that hopefully didn’t endanger their alien friends too much, if it works in the way they hoped. “Alright. It’s worth a shot.” Fit grinned, now walking over to plop down in the sleeping spot as well. “Good. We sleep and rest up properly, then we start exploring. That includes you, you haven’t slept for more than three hours in days.” Going to sleep seemed like it was impossible, after the vision. But he was still exhausted, and he will get himself injured if he does something dangerous while this tired. Maybe he will get another vision, one that helps a little more.

Before he could answer, Tubbo dragged him to lay down again, laughing when Techno tried to swat at him. “Sleep you idiot. We can prepare a few days if it takes a while to catch up on rest. Gives me time to finish the prosthetic.” If only it was that easy. He wished he could just have one true, restful sleep. Maybe the vision being will relax him again. That would be nice…

Chapter Text

Sleep found him easier this time. No nightmares or dreams, no visions, only blissful quiet as he rested. It was the best sleep he had since the crash, hell since the mission started two years ago. Only at the start of the last vision had he felt more relaxed, when that odd rumbling had started. If he tried hard enough, he could still recall how it felt.

How odd, that his best sleep was after watching their rescue ship get shot down. Before the dream he had struggled to fall asleep, explosions and screams ringing in his ears. But afterwards? Total silence.

It was weird…

When he did wake again, it was dim inside the base, light turned low and the outside of the window almost too dark to see. He couldn't tell if it was early morning or late evening, not that it mattered too much. He turned on his back, blinking sleep out of his eyes before slowly looking around the sleeping area. Pac and Fit were both asleep to his left, the later snoring softly from his spot right beside the Brazilian, who was practically curled up against his chest. Quackity was also in the nest, curled up in the furthest corner like a cat, seemingly asleep as well.

Techno pushed himself up into a sitting position, hiding a yawn behind his hand out of muscle memory alone. With the way the reef outside was lighting up, it was most likely sunset rather than sunrise. There were fewer fish swimming by the window and a soft, steady rumble echoed through the base, showing that Foolish and Roier were settled down somewhere nearby instead of swimming morning patrols. Had he really slept through the whole day? He’s usually not a deep sleeper, there is no way the others moving around the base hadn’t woken him up at all.

Soft clicking of metal drew his attention from the window over to a different corner of their base. He could spot both Tubbo and Cellbit sitting side by side, their backs turned towards the sleeping area. Screws and plates were scattered about around them, all of them they had gathered from the pod. It helped them create more flexible parts for the prosthetic, as their stash of screws and bolts was pathetically small, especially since the fabricator can’t make them. And it’s not like they needed it anymore anyways, salvaging parts from the pod was far more useful than just letting it float above.

It seemed like that’s what the two were doing now too. Bent over the prosthetic, murmuring to each other as they worked. There was a half empty water bottle as well as leftover bits from fried fish sitting next to them, so he at least knows they have both eaten dinner. He could go back to sleep… but he didn’t really feel tired anymore. So, he carefully climbed out of the nest, letting the others keep sleeping, and slowly made his way over to the two.

Cellbit noticed him before he had a chance to speak, giving him a nod before focusing back on his work, sealing the knee joint of the prosthetic properly. The prosthetic itself looked almost complete now, most of the wiring and inner workings hidden by plates currently being welded into place by the repair tool. It looked a lot more finished than when they had returned from the island… they must have worked on it all day. The whole thing was grey-white, which was to be expected considering the materials they had to use.  Maybe they can paint it if Pac is bothered by the colour.

Techno just watched for a moment, not sure how to start the conversation. He doesn’t really want to disturb them, but he is kind of bored. “And the wires are for when we get home? So he can use it like a normal leg?” Tubbo nodded, still squinting at the plating as he finished welding it in place. They didn’t have protective goggles… “It has to be enough for now. It locks at the knee so it won’t bend forward, like a real leg. But the rest is gravity. It will take him a while to get used to it, but it’s better than nothing.” Yes, their options were very limited. This will have to do until they can either get him a professional prosthetic or access to better tools and materials.

Once the plating was secure, Tubbo placed the tool aside and looked up at Techno. He didn’t like how he stared at him for a long few moments, brows drawn together. When had Tubbo become the one that silently tries to analyse someone? “You still look tired. You should go back to bed.” Ah, that’s what he’s doing. He was still worried about Techno. Which was sweet, really, but he’s fine. Hasn’t felt this rested in a while. So, the older just shook his head, moving his weight from one foot to the other. “I’m not really tired. Slept pretty well actually.” That gaze never left him, grew ever more concerned and... upset? Why was he upset now? Hadn’t they just moved past that?

The staring continued, maybe for a bit too long, filled with awkward silence. Tubbo eventually broke eye contact, focusing back on the prosthetic. “Fine. If you’re sure.” Cellbit gently patted his shoulder. “He’s been sleeping since yesterday. He’ll be fine.” Techno frowned. Since yesterday? He’s been asleep for more than a day? The Brazilian noticed his confusion and grinned, sweeping some of his long hair out of his face. The white section at the front was really starting to grow out now, a good chunk of it back to the natural brown. “You were knocked out cold after you managed to fall asleep again. Didn’t even stir when Foolish was screeching at some Stalkers that ventured too far from the kelp forest. I think your body finally caught up on all that sleep you missed.”

That makes sense. He’s surprised he hasn’t crashed much sooner, to be honest. “Sorry if I-“ “Nah it’s fine. We’re glad you slept that much. You’re probably hungry right? Haven’t eaten in almost two days.” He was pretty hungry actually. And thirsty… he hadn’t even noticed it until now. So he nodded, looking over to where they usually gathered their food. Outside of a half empty water bottle, there was nothing there. Which is fair, everyone had already eaten dinner. Cellbit noticed it too. “Ah, right. I can catch you some while you stay here with Tubbo, I know you don’t like swimming in the dark much-“ Before Cellbit could finish that sentence, Tubbo had already jumped up to grab his gear.

There was a brief mumble of “I’ll do it” before the teen disappeared into the airlock, not giving Techno a single glance.

And once more, awkward silence filled the room. Techno, for the most part, was just confused on what had suddenly gotten into him again. He had thought they were on better terms now, with how Tubbo treated him after the vision. "What was that?", Cellbit asked, looking just as baffled about the teen’s sudden departure. "Are you two still fighting?" The other shrugged, not knowing the answer. Not anymore at least. Tubbo had been so protective of him after the dream… and now he wasn’t anymore.

Techno felt like he was in a daze, thoughts racing again. Nothing truly seemed real, there, and present, anymore. Most likely just lasting effects of that dream, hopefully it goes away soon. Tubbo’s odd mood switches didn’t help either. Yeah, they had a new goal, something to keep them hopeful and focused, but damn he could not pull himself back together. Not yet at least. Weird gods in his sleep, everything and everyone dying around him. It was getting hard to tell what’s real and what are distant memories and nightmares.

The sound of the fabricator was one of the only thing keeping him from fully disappearing into the recesses of his own mind. That, and Cellbit talking while he worked with said fabricator, trying to fill the silence between them. "That's okay. It will get better with him, trust me. It just takes time, he just needs to figure out his feelings. And! We made good progress on the prosthetic. We got this, okay?"

He listened as his friend rambled on about all the intricate little wirings they might add, listened as he shared his hopes for their new goal, the weapons and extra technology they might find. He seemed oddly talkative after the last few hours of odd silence and silent brooding in the corner. And all Techno could really do was listen. Even as Tubbo returned with more fish for them to cook, still avoiding eye contact. It would likely still be a while before the others would wake up, if any of them wake up before the next morning.

Finally, he got taken out of his daze when Tubbo looked him in the eye, and handed him a piece of coral. No words spoken, just shoved into his hands. Techno blinked and took in the pink chunk of coral that looked like a tree branch. It had an odd texture to it as well, rough in some spots and squishy in others. "It will probably die in a few hours, but... There wasn't a lot else out there that I could find."

That familiar wave of confusion washed over him once more. It seemed he could never escape the feeling, when it came to Tubbo. When had their friendship turned so strange? "Why?" He wanted to ask more, but words failed him. They usually do in situations like this one. Tubbo had an expectant look on his face, fidgeting with his hands a little. "Cause I wanted to give you something," he said, slightly uncertain. "Because-" His eyes had flickered to their sleeping nest. "Because you've been nice to me."

Techno felt even more confused now. “I… I thought you are mad at me?” Tubbo frowned, fidgeting with the sleeve of his suit. “I… No. I’m not, I think. I was, on the island. But when you guys left for the building, Pac and I talked. And now, I’m not really mad anymore. Maybe a little, you should have let me punch him. But not as much.” For a moment, he just stared at the teen again. This conversation was quickly losing what bits of normalcy it had left.

This very well may be one of the few times he lacked understanding for his friend entirely.  And he had used to be quite good at reading Tubbo’s mood or thoughts. "Then why-" He may not be tired physically, not anymore, but gods did exhaustion seep into his voice. Mental exhaustion of dealing with all of it. Tubbo’s behaviour, their current situation, some sort of divine visions he didn’t quite believe yet. But it looked like neither did their youngest team member, looking as lost as Techno felt.

"I don’t know, okay?! I don't know why I'm bad at this!", Tubbo cried back, tears pricking at the corner of his eyes. “I have never done any of this! I’ve never been so mad and then felt so bad about it and I want to say sorry but it’s hard and you are just-“ He groaned, throwing his arms out. “I’ve been an ass to you and you don’t even care!”

In truth, Techno didn’t feel like he hadn’t showed he cared. Honestly, there hasn’t been much time for caring about the argument, since everything had happened so fast. If anything, this was the first time they had the quiet for a conversation. With how this conversation was going, this might become loud enough to wake the others. It was honestly a miracle they haven’t woken up already. "I do care. Just tell me what I can do to fix this, Tubbo..." Maybe he really should be asking for an apology, but it was his first instinct to take the blame. It always was, take the blame to keep the peace.

The teen stared at him, eyes wide. “To fix… why are you asking to fix it? I’m the one that punched you! I’m the one that ignored you! I should have followed you to the building but didn’t!” Techno was starting to think they are walking around in circles. This wasn’t going anywhere. So instead, he pulled Tubbo in by the shoulders and hugged him. Cradled him close like he had done so many times before. Tubbo hesitated for a second before returning the hug, pressing his face into Techno’s shoulder. “I just want things to go back to normal. I don’t want to fight.”

Tubbo clung to him a little tighter. “Go back to normal? Just like that?” Techno nodded, his head leaned against his friend’s. “Yes. I want my friend back. If you want to talk about it it’s fine, we can do that. But I’m not mad at you. Never really was.” He could practically hear the gears turning in Tubbo’s head. Always thinking. Overthinking, usually. But that’s just how he is, his brain always running on overdrive. It was both a blessing and a curse. “I… I’d love that. Going back to how it was before.” Tubbo pulled away, laughing a little as he rubbed at his eyes. “When did we become so sappy?”

A good question, one he didn’t have the answer to. Not entirely. “Thank you for the gift. Even if it won’t last long. Maybe leave the reef alone from now on, I feel bad having the coral die now.” Tubbo nodded, stretching his arms towards the ceiling and yawning. Techno grinned, ruffling his hair. “It’s late. You should go to bed. The last bits of prosthetic can wait until tomorrow-“ “Actually…” The two turned to Cellbit, who sat beside said prosthetic, putting their tools away. “I just finished the past piece. Pac can try it out tomorrow.” The teen’s face turned red, immediately avoiding eye contact as he stammered a quiet ‘alright’. Not that Techno could blame him, he too forgot Cellbit had been there and listening the whole time.

“Good. Then you two head to bed. I’ll check on my little garden outside real quick.” Tubbo frowned, grabbing his wrist when he tried to walk past. “You hate swimming in the dark though. Even with the light of the base…” Techno smiled, gently patting him on the back. “I need to stretch my legs, I’m really feeling those 24 hours of sleep. Foolish and Roier are there to keep me safe.” The younger hummed, looking at the handful of fish he had brought back from his trip outside. “I’ll eat when I come back inside. Promise.”  Cellbit gently nudged him towards the sleeping area, making Tubbo sigh. “Okay. That fish better be eaten in the morning. And you better be at least dozing in bed when I wake up, don’t you dare stay up all night-“

Techno laughed, helping Cellbit shuffle the teen towards the nest. “I promise. Now go sleep. I’ll be there in like 30 minutes.” The look he got in return almost seemed suspicious, but he met it with a raised brow. He had nothing to hide, he wasn’t lying that he just wants to stretch his legs. Well… the garden might be a cover up for what he actually wants to do, but he will still stay close to the base, most definitely within sight and protection of the two leviathans.

Once Tubbo was settled and had a mask nearby so he could always hear if Techno needed anything (his one condition for going outside alone, as if the teen hadn’t just left by himself to catch fish), the older grabbed his equipment and headed into the airlock. His nerves were already acting up because yes, he hates swimming at night. The ocean was already scary, but at night it becomes a void filled with unknown monsters. And the alien version of that is ten times worse. But, he has two massive guard leviathans on his side, which makes this a little easier. He took one last, deep breath, before strapping on the mask and starting the cycle. He had made sure the comms were shut off, so no one would get woken up by potential loud noises that will come through the little mic. Not that Tubbo needed to know that.

The outside was almost pitch black, like he had expected. The bioluminescence of the reef helped him not becoming disorientated, still able to tell which way was which thanks to the plants around him. He stayed close to the base, swimming along it’s wall until he came to the garden setup right below one of their two windows. To his luck, this side of the base is also where the leviathans usually settle down for the night. Both Foolish and Roier were curled together nearby, both still awake, their eyes illuminating the dark around them. Foolish noticed his presence almost immediately, lifting his head with a curious chirp. None of the humans usually come out this late and Tubbo had already been a surprise.

“Hey big guy… sorry to annoy you this late.” Foolish rumbled, tilting his head ever so slightly when Techno gently patted his cheek. It was still fascinating how such a massive creature could ever take a liking to tiny things like them. What had they done to make Foolish so incredibly protective of them? Maybe he had known, about this mission. This… weird god like leviathan granting visions. Techno sighs, leaning against the leviathan, feeling the warmth emitting from his scales. This would be so much easier if they could talk. All his questions, his thoughts about the visions… so much would be solved if they could just ask the leviathans about it. They reacted to his dream, he has seen them stare at him through the window. Whatever was happening, it was connected to them. All of them, most likely.

A clawed hand came up behind him, simply holding him as Techno tried to sort through his messy thoughts. The action made him laugh, pressing his forehead against golden scales. Not even three weeks ago he would have probably died of a heart attack, being this close to a leviathan. He would still be mad at Tubbo for trying to swim near the giant fish he had named Blorp. And now? Now he was looking for answers, for comfort even, from that same leviathan. Ironic, how life works sometimes.

He sighed, pushing himself away a little so he could look at the leviathan’s face. “I’ll be honest… I’m scared. I don’t know what’s happening to me. Why me of all people, all creatures on this stupid planet. I doubt I will be of much use to whatever leviathan queen or goddess this thing is.” He isn’t sure what he expected. That they suddenly would be able to have a conversation? That Foolish would even be able to understand him? No, he got nothing like that. Just little chirrs and rumbles as the leviathan simply stared, allowing him to talk.

Techno swallowed around the lump in his throat, feeling the tears sting at the corners of his eyes. Maybe that is exactly something he needs. Someone that just listens and doesn’t ask questions. He lets his head fall forward again, the glass of his mask making contact with Foolish’s scales once more as he took a shaky breath. “I just want to go home… that’s all I’ve wanted this whole time. Not to keep a group of survivors alive, or serve some god, or fight off giant creatures. I just want to go home.” And he sobbed, squeezing his eyes shut. “I’m scared Foolish… I’m scared I’ll die here and never see them again.”

At this point the leviathan had caught on to the fact that his human was in distress, cooing softly as he cradled the tiny creature closer. Roier too grew more concerned, joining his father in trying to comfort their friend. It wasn’t a conversation, no spoken words, but they understood he was sad and that was something. Letting it all out felt good, easing the tightness in his chest that has been building for so long.

And so he cried and screamed and shook as he was cradled in the leviathan’s palm. And it felt so good.

It took definitely more than the promised 30 minutes for him to calm down again, exhaustion pulling at his limbs again despite being so well rested already. Foolish’s rumbling persisted through it all, gentle and caring as a single clawed finger rubbed along his spine. Techno heaved a sigh, but then couldn’t help the teary laugh bubbling from his throat. “I must look like such a mess… Looking for comfort from the creatures I mistrusted for so long.” He reached up to wipe at his tears, and then laughed again when his hand made contact with the glass of his mask. “Fucking hell… what is this planet doing to me…”

With a steading breath, he pushed himself up, floating out of Foolish’s hold. The leviathan let him go, but he didn’t look any less concerned. “Sorry I kept you awake. You’re probably tired as well.” Techno gently patted his cheek one last time, smiling. “I’ll try and not do that again. It’s not fair I make you this worried when you can’t understand what’s going on.” Foolish cooed again, face scrunching up in a very human look of worry. Concern.

And at that moment, Techno was overcome with an intense feeling of confusion, his chest tight with worry. What… what in the world? Where did that come from? He wasn’t… why was he…? Then the feeling changed, replaced by awe. At what, he wasn’t sure. Just… awe? And then Foolish was reaching for him with a chirp, glowing eyes just a little brighter than before.

Looking at him in awe…

Tubbo picked at the singed edges of his suit, eyes heavy as he fought off sleep. He refused to lay down until Techno got back, even if the older will just sit down with food somewhere. As long as he gets safely inside again, it doesn’t matter what he does afterwards. The comms of the mask were silent, had been the whole time since Techno left. Either he turned them off or he was just quiet. Both wouldn’t be surprising.

It was far past the 30 minutes he had promised, but the teen had expected him to be outside longer. But now it was starting to get ridiculous. His garden was tiny still, he shouldn’t spend that much time checking it over. Fit even checked on it for him when Techno was asleep, making sure the plants were alright. Not that much could go wrong in a day, but Tubbo had insisted, knowing how much the small patch of greenery meant to Techno. A piece of his old life that needs to be protected as much as they could.

After another ten minutes of waiting, Tubbo had enough. He needs to at least check that the other hadn’t drowned. With the mask in hand just in case, he climbed out of the nest and shuffled over to the window right above the garden. Foolish and Roier were still steadily rumbling away, so he knows Techno most likely hasn’t gone far and they could still see him. Neither of the leviathans would have allowed him to leave by himself.

The outside was almost pitch black now, the reef glowing softly around their base. Most nights it was a really pretty sight, other times it can be scary that they see so little. Having their leviathan friends with them makes it a little easier though. The two were curled together in their usual spot, glowing eyes illuminating the small figure right in front of them. Ah, so that’s what Techno’s doing. Still, couldn’t conversations wait until the morning? Foolish and Roier are probably tired as well.

He already lifted the mask to his face so he could call Techno back inside, but hesitated when he noticed the look on Foolish’s face. The leviathan looked worried, one hand lifted to hover behind Techno. What in the world… Did something happen? Another vision? Maybe Foolish was just worried that he wasn’t sleeping yet.

“Techno? You’ve been outside long enough, you should-“

Tubbo’s words halted the moment Techno jerked up at the sudden noise from his mask, Foolish making an equally startled face as he lifted his eyes to look at the window Tubbo was standing at. Wait… how had Foolish heard him? Or realized he was by the window looking at them? But before he could ask another question, his friend turned as well, staring at him.

Tubbo’s heart stopped.

Techno’s eyes were glowing with a matching shade of green to Foolish’s.

Chapter Text

Tubbo stared at his friend, eyes wide. Bright green illuminating the room, rivalling regular sunlight with how close the leviathan was to the glass.

Neither Techno nor Foolish moved, holding his stare, their glowing eyes surely leaving spots in his vision the moment he turns away.  He tried swallowing around the lump in his throat, ignoring the prickling shivers running down his spine at the familiar feeling of being stared at and studied far too closely. Unwelcomed memories of his father and his life back home. No. Focus Tubbo. There is no time to be miserable about his father again.

He has to focus on this. And this… this is fine. It’s alright. Something like this was bound to happen with how strange Techno has been acting pretty much since the island. And while it seemed so crazy and unlikely, Tubbo does fully believe him when he says he had weird fucking visions with some deity. None of this was normal or makes sense. Just stay calm… don’t panic… breathe…

“Techno?”

The man tilted his head to the side, Foolish behind him copying the movement. Hair swaying softly in the current of the ocean, looking fully at ease, as if he belonged there. Even his shoulders were relaxed, something Techno rarely did nowadays. So, they were connected, in some way… Moving together like two pieces of a hivemind. Tubbo wasn’t sure to what extend this connection went. Did Techno still understand him? Or was his language skills now the same as the leviathan? Did Foolish now understand English? Was Techno even conscious right now, or just a puppet controlled by magic?

“You… you should come inside. Please.” The other did not move, didn’t even make a sound or gave a response. The leviathan on the other hand chirped, a quiet, curious noise, leaning in closer to Techno and the window Tubbo was standing at. His rumbling had quieted down, replaced by what seems like bright and burning curiosity instead.

That caught his interest. Foolish was reacting when he’s speaking to Techno, which means he can hear his voice through Techno. So maybe… “Can you understand me? Make a noise if you can understand me. Any noise.” There was no reaction in terms of noise or acknowledgment that he did understand him. But his eyes did widen, leaning slightly closer again, Techno still hovering in front of him. Almost like a ghost, a communication device. Not really there…

Okay, so there was still a language barrier. Maybe he just understands him clearer now? Or he does understand him now but can’t respond, Tubbo hadn’t actually considered that option. Probably doesn’t have the vocal cords to form words or the knowledge how to, just because a mind connection makes him understand. Wait, he had asked for a noise, not a word-

“What the fuck are you doing?” Tubbo nearly cracked his neck with how fast he turned, heart jumping into his throat. But, to his credit, he did not scream. Quackity was staring at him from the sleeping area, his hair wild and eyes squinted as he blinked Tubbo into focus. “Fucking hell man, don’t scare me like that!”, the teen hissed back, a hand over his heart. “Gonna have a heart attack…”

Quackity pushed himself up, grumbling something Tubbo didn’t understand. For just a second, they both waited to see if any of the others woke up from the noise, but no one even stirred. “Who are you talking to. The big fish guy? You can talk to that thing in the morn-“ Tubbo shook his head, trying his best to sort out his thoughts. And there were a lot of thoughts. And a lot more questions.

“No. Well, yes. I don’t… I don’t know who I am talking to right now, actually.” Quackity frowned, mouth hanging slightly open as he tried his best to process what he just heard. “You… huh?” Tubbo made a helpless noise as he tried to figure out how to say what he was thinking, waving his hands towards the window, a very obvious green glow indicating Foolish was looking through it.

Within moments he was out of the nest and by Tubbo’s side, only to stagger back a few steps the moment he saw the scene outside the window. “What in the world-?” “I don’t know. I was checking on him and saw this. I’m trying to figure out what’s going on but I just… I don’t understand.” For the first time since their meeting on that wretched island, Tubbo and Quackity were on equal footing in this situation. Neither of them knew what in the hell was going on, least of all why to Techno specifically. There had been no signs of something being different or wrong before the vision happened.

"He's barely responding to me, but I know he can hear," Tubbo explained. Quite frankly, it felt a bit strange to be civil with Quackity, with everything that happened and the lack of actual conversation between them. It was unreasonable to blame him for his father’s death, Tubbo understands that, but he needed something to believe, something to bring justice to. And the man had been right there and it was so easy to just let his anger and frustration out on him.

Quackity once again peered through the window, brows drawn together in thought. "Okay... This can't be as crazy as swimming with the things in the first place," he began, not reacting to Tubbo’s offended noise, "all I'm saying is, I'm not going out to get him though. We don’t know if whatever is happening to him can happen to us too. And I’d like my sanity to stay mostly intact.” 

Tubbo huffed, rolling his eyes. Sure, Quackity was still relatively new to the group, but his fear of the leviathans was bound to go away soon. Unless he stays as stubborn as Techno, he didn’t trust Foolish for weeks. And while Tubbo didn't think of their leviathan friends as a threat, necessarily, there was an all-consuming guilt that he needed to fix. Just because Techno forgave him doesn’t mean he felt any better about what he had done. And Quackity’s behaviour wasn’t exactly helping him in controlling his emotions. "I'll go get him then," he hissed, his anger towards their new member beginning to return. Coward, he added in thought.

As Tubbo was going to enter the airlock, Quackity stopped him, grabbing him by the arm. "Listen, this just doesn't seem safe. This might be the infection, or.. something? He might be long gon-" The teen ripped his arm free, nearly spinning around to slap him. He stops himself though. "I'm not going to sit here and watch, if that's the case," Tubbo spat. "Unlike you."

‘It’s not fair’ the tiny voice at the back of his mind whispered. ‘He’s scared, he doesn’t know you guys that well. It’s not unreasonable that he wants to stay inside.’ But the quiet voice got drowned out by the many more louder ones, all in different stages of anger. They were on friendly-ish terms previously, but the events of the island were bubbling again, boiling beneath his skin. "I get you're upset but- just let him come back on his own. If he does, then good. If not, it may have been too dangerous for us anyway."

Tubbo shook his head no and strapped on his mask. “I left him before. I won’t do it again. Not this time.” The other looked at him helplessly, but stepped back, letting Tubbo close the hatch to the airlock. At least he had enough sense not to stop him anymore. The teen sighed, shifting his weight from one foot to the other until the pressure cycle had completed and allowed him to leave.

Darkness enveloped him instantly, barely broken through by the bioluminescence of the reef around them. He kept one hand against the wall of their base as he made his way around the structure and towards where his friend was still peacefully floating by the leviathan’s face. Tubbo would be a liar if he claimed his heart wasn’t racing, his spine prickling with nervous energy.

Foolish turned to look at him once he got close, Techno doing much the same. Roier, who had remained laying on the ground and observing the odd behaviour of both his father and the tiny human, gave a small noise of greeting as Tubbo approached the trio. Tubbo had honestly forgotten that the younger leviathan was even there, more focused on his father and Techno having somehow connected to each other. Which was still his main objective. Figure out what was happening or wake his friend from this trance.

So, he placed himself right in front of Techno, only shrinking back slightly when bright green eyes stare right at him. Unlike before, it now feels like Techno was actually seeing him instead of staring through him, acting as a puppet for Foolish. “Hey boss man… You’re starting to worry me.” His friend’s head tilted slightly, something almost like a hum filtering through the mic. So he can hear… “Please Techno. It’s time to go back inside. You need more sleep.”

Tubbo carefully placed both his hands on each side of Techno’s head, just beside where the mask ended. He could see his eyes flicker for a moment, eyelids fluttering as he made a quiet, confused noise. “Come back to us…” Foolish behind him huffed, blinking a few times before shaking his head, a hand coming up to rub at his eyes. Techno did not move to copy the movement. That should be a good sign… right?

The green glow started to fade slowly as Techno too started to blink, another uncertain noise leaving his throat. Tubbo didn’t move his hands, holding steady until he could see familiar red starting to reappear. “There you go… can you hear me? You with me again?” There was a shuddering exhale, a full body shiver running along his friend’s body as his eyes finally focused on the teen. They had a faint glow to them now, although now it was matching his normal eye colour instead of the bright green of Foolish. “Tubbo?”

“I’m here, you’re okay.” Another fully body shiver ran through him, making the teen a little worried. “How are you feeling?” Techno didn’t answer for a good while. He did hold on to Tubbo though, shaking hands wrapping around a biceps each as Tubbo’s hands drop down to rub along the other’s shoulders. “Confused… a little… disorientated… what happened?” For a moment he considered only telling him parts of the truth, maybe downplay what happened so he wouldn’t cause possible panic. Techno was already trying to figure out what was happening to him, he’s under enough stress already.

But… keeping it a secret was not only unfair, but also possibly dangerous.

So the teen began to recite all the details he could think off, the glowing eyes, the behaviour, the lack of language communication. Techno’s confusion only deepened and, to Tubbo’s horror, with each further detail he began to look more scared. Fear clearly starting to replace many of the other emotions that are surely swirling around his mind. “What the fuck is happening to me…?” Tubbo hated the way his voice cracked at the end. He squeezed his shoulders, making sure he had his friend’s full attention.

“Listen. It’s going to be fine. We’ll figure this out. I swear we will. You’re not alone, we got your back.” Techno’s mouth opened and closed, but no words left his lips. He didn’t know how to respond, how to voice his worries and not cause the teen to be scared as well. The whiplash of going from fighting and Tubbo giving him the cold shoulder to now having him basically declare loyalty was making his head spin.

When he continued to not respond for a while, Tubbo gently started to nudge and pull him back to the entrance of their base. Getting him back inside seemed like the most logical thing to do right now. He murmured a ‘good night’ towards Foolish and Roier, who have curled together again after Foolish recovered from the mind connection as well. They rumbled in answer as they watched Tubbo guide Techno to the hatch, who still wasn’t talking.

The airlock cycle felt impossibly long, the water moving far too slowly. When they were finally allowed to open the hatch, Tubbo was surprised to find Quackity waiting on the other side, holding a water bottle and looking more than worried. “Are you doing okay? What was that?” Techno slowly nodded, fingers trembling a bit as he removed his gear, betraying the strong façade he put up the moment they entered the base again. “I’m fine.”

Tubbo bit the inside of his cheek, keeping his comment to himself. They’ll work this out, make Techno learn he doesn’t have to be strong and pretend to be the leader. Have a talk with the whole group, get this sorted. Lack of communication was what caused their fight, he can’t risk it causing Techno to fully break. Not now, when everything seemed to come crashing down around them already.

Quackity handed Techno the water bottle once he had everything set aside. He took it eagerly, almost emptying the entire bottle at once. Anything to distract himself, pretend that everything was fine until he believed it himself. “Do you want some food? I noticed fresh fish by the fabricator and I don’t know if you have eaten yet.” He nodded slowly, now reminded of his aching stomach that complained about being empty for two days. Tubbo nudged him to sit down while glaring at the newest member out of the corner of his eye. First he wants to leave Techno to fend for himself and now he acts all caring and loyal. He’ll show him how to be loyal…

He felt a little bad leaving Techno sitting by the window, but he was more distracted with silently staring out towards the two now sleeping leviathans anyways. So he went up to Quackity, standing by his side with his arms crossed, watching the lasers do their work. “You don’t have to pretend to care now.” The other froze halfway between changing the fish for another raw one, glancing at him for just a second. “What?” “You wanted to leave him outside. You tried to stop me from helping him. And now you play worried friend taking care of him.”

The teen glared at him, now turning his head more to meet his eyes. Quackity, to his credit, looked a little guilty. “I am worried about him. But when he was out there, all glowly and silent, I wasn’t sure he wouldn’t start attacking you. I didn’t want you to get hurt.” Any other time, he might have believed that. Believed that this guy, who they have known for three days, cares enough about any of them to feel some sort of protectiveness. But, right now, he was angry and his emotions were still all over the place.

“Listen here, Quackity.” And he spit his name like a bitter poison, keeping his voice just low enough to hopefully not be heard by anyone but the man across from him. “You aren’t my friend, or anyone’s friend here. You are not part of this group. We have survived together, went through hell together. We are loyal to each other, even if it means death. So you keep your opinions to yourself and don’t get in the way. When we make decisions, you keep your mouth shut and accept it. Understood?”

Quackity just stared at him, mouth slightly open. And in retrospect, it might have been too cruel in it’s wording. Might have created a rift between this poor guy and the rest of his group, just because he hadn’t been with them during the initial crash and first week of survival. But Tubbo was just so angry and hurt and it was so easy to blame Quackity for all of it. For his fight with Techno, for his father’s death, now this. It was so easy…

But then he jumped as a hand settled on his shoulder, for a second fearing the firm grip was his father pulling him back for another lecture on behaviour… Instead, he saw Techno looking at him. And his brows were drawn together in disappointment. It made his stomach drop, fear and guilt swirling in his chest. “Apologize.” He stammered for a second, the image of his father weirdly merging with Techno. “What?” “I want you to apologize to Quackity. That was out of line and you know it.”

Tubbo blinks, his brain needing a second to process what just happened. Yes, his wording may have been a bit harsh, but he hasn’t lied! Quackity should not have such a huge impact on decisions because he is the new guy! And he is pretending like he cares! “But-“ “No Tubbo. No buts.” The teen shrunk back a bit at how stern the older sounded. “Quackity is part of our group now. He is one of us. And if we want to survive this, we have to stick together. That includes him. Now apologize, and I better not hear you say shit like that again.”

The whiplash between how Techno had acted five minutes ago to now was driving him insane. And after they had just made up! Was he trying to cause another problem on purpose?! Beside him, Quackity awkwardly clears his throat. “I can just go lay down again. I don’t want to cause trouble-“ “No. You’re staying until Tubbo apologizes.” The man nodded, lowering his head as if the floor was the most interesting thing in the universe. And the expectant, disappointed look currently pointed at Tubbo started to make his blood boil.

“Okay what the fuck is your problem? I am allowed to state my opinion!”

“Not when you start insulting other members of the group. We don’t need that right now.”

“Says who? You? You clearly stated you don’t want to be leader, so how about you fucking stop acting like you are in charge and have any rights to order us around!”

“Tubbo, you know this isn’t-“

Tubbo clenched his fists, just barely restraining himself from making the same mistake again and just punching Techno in the face. Instead, he tried sticking to verbally defending himself. “And stop that too! Saying my name all disappointed! You’re not my dad! We talked about this!”

“I’m not trying to be! But maybe you need someone to call out your shit and be strict! Because how you are acting right now is not acceptable! You can’t go around and threaten people, no one here has done it to you! Why do you feel the need to do it to other people?!”

“Because you keep trying to control me!”

“How is that a good reason?!”

“All these arguments have started after we met him! It’s his fault! And you are acting like he is a saint that needs protection at all cost!”

“Well obviously he does because you keep attacking him!”

And then…

“I am not the reason your father is dead. He would have died no matter what happened. The only difference is I would have died with him.”

The room went dead silent. Quackity was still staring at the floor and fidgeting with his hands, but his voice had been surprisingly steady. Neither of the two knew how to respond for a good while. Because he was right, none of this was Quackity’s fault and it was insane for Tubbo to blame it all on him. Their arguments had nothing to do with Quackity himself, but usually how Tubbo reacted towards him. And that is something the man has no control over. Not really. 

But Tubbo was so set on it all being his fault, for him to be the target of his anger, he can’t just… he can’t just act like he is completely innocent! “Well maybe you should have. We wouldn’t have to worry about keeping your ass safe on top of what we already have to-” “THAT’S ENOUGH!” 

Techno threw the water bottle in his hand down, the plastic crumbling and breaking as it slammed into the ground. The teen flinched at the loud crack it made, only to nearly jump out of his skin when Techno grabbed him by the arm and pulled, dragging as much distance between him and Quackity as possible. When he finally let go, Tubbo staggered backwards, clutching a hand over where he had been held. 

“You stop this right now! Whatever emotional bullshit you have brewing in your head, you better get fucking rid of it! Quackity is not at fault for your mood swings and sudden aggression towards me! He is not at fault for the captain’s death! And you have no right to insult him, separate him from the group and make him feel like less! And you especially have no right to tell him he should be dead! I’m sick of your constant accusations and your fights! You will leave him alone and you will not utter a single bad word or threat in his direction! Did I make myself clear?!” 

The teen stared up at him, eyes wide and face pale, mouth hanging open in either disbelief or shock. If you’d look close enough, you could see him starting to shake. But Techno was so tired of this constant back and forth, of this walking on eggshells to try and not upset the teen any further. He may value their friendship and even now would die to keep his friend safe, he was acting absolutely ridiculous. And someone had to finally say it to his face for him to understand. 

Tubbo did not respond. “I asked you a question! Do you understand?!” He nodded frantically, pressing back further into the wall behind him. Techno’s shoulders drop as he sighs, turning away from Tubbo to walk back towards the fabricator. “Good. That’s settled then.”

If he had stayed a second longer, watched his friend a little closer, he would have seen the tears starting to prick at the corner of the teen’s eyes, seen the now more obvious shaking in his shoulders. But he didn’t, and neither did he see how quickly he turned and ran to their nest setup, hiding away behind the rest of the group that had woken up and quietly watched it all unfold. He would see Pac quietly rubbing along Tubbo’s back as the teen just curled up and tried to hide away, buried underneath a charred red jacket. See Fit and Cellbit share concerned glances, not sure what to do. 

No, he didn’t see any of that. All he did was grab one of the cooked fish, patting Quackity on the shoulder before settling down by one of the windows, purposefully turned away from where he assumed Tubbo had moved to. They don’t have the luxury of multiple rooms, of privacy and locked doors and space to get away from each other after such fights. So this is the best they can do. 

And just like that, the freshly healed wound had been ripped open further than ever before. 

This time, no one was quite sure if it can be fixed so easily.

Chapter Text

Techno had exactly 10 minutes to himself, quietly chewing away at his cooked fish, before he got nudged up and dragged to the furthest possible corner by Fit. Much like before, there weren't many options for a truly private conversation, so the older simply tried to keep his voice as low as possible. “What was that about?” He didn’t immediately know how to answer that. Explaining the situation would include explaining what had happened with Foolish, and Techno wasn’t sure if he was ready for that step yet. 

Fit gently nudged his shoulder, leaning a little closer for any possible chance that their conversation couldn’t be fully overheard by the others. “Please. You are starting to worry me. You’re not okay, haven’t been since the island. But I can only help if you talk to me.” And Techno sighs, glancing off to the side, just trying to collect his thoughts. How would he even start to explain this? Explain how fucking helpless and scared he was, not just because of their situation. This whole possession and visions and seemingly greater purpose was messing with his head so badly… 

But Fit wasn’t backing down this time, nor had anyone stopping him from interrogating his friend. He wasn’t giving him space to distract and stay silent either. “Techno, this isn’t healthy. Based on what we heard when we woke up, this was an argument about working together as a team. So you better stay true to your own word and work with me here. We have to stick together. That includes you.” It was not the first time Fit used his own words against him. Not that these type of comments weren’t normal between them already, with the handful of unhealthy habits Techno and Fit both already had. But hearing it this directly in this situation… it switched something within his brain. 

He nearly broke down right then and there. Just let it all spill, let himself bleed, not hold it together for the sake of everyone around him. Stop doing the thing he had learned throughout his career within the Federation. Fit would understand, he would pick up the pieces and help him build himself up again. He always does… 

“I… something happened to me. Something… leviathan related, again.” He took a steadying breath, leaning into the hand now resting on his shoulder, using it to ground himself. “Tubbo immediately came to my side and tried to help me, Quackity apparently had been a little scared and worried I might attack someone while I was out of it. When Tubbo got me back inside and managed to wake me up again, Quackity helped by bringing water and making food, asking if I’m okay. Tubbo didn’t like that and started arguing with him, saying he shouldn’t pretend to care now and that he isn’t part of the team. I tried to intervene, but I think I only made it worse now. He told Quackity he should have died, Fit. I couldn’t just ignore it.”

Fit listened to him quietly, letting him get all his thoughts out before speaking up again. When he reached the point of Tubbo’s behaviour, his brows drew together, clearly confused and shocked that their friend would say something so cruel. “And I know I shouldn’t have yelled, maybe that was a bad move, but I am just so fucking stressed and this vision shit is getting to my head and Tubbo is acting so out of pocket…” He just nodded, squeezing his friend’s shoulder until his ranting stopped. And to the others’ credit, they seemed to busy themselves as much as possible to try and not eavesdrop on their conversation. They deserve so much better than a maybe leader questioning his own sanity and breaking down every day.

“Okay… I understand why you were so angry now.” Fit glanced over at the nest, where Pac is still mostly blocking Tubbo from view while holding a quiet conversation with Cellbit. “This… obviously needs to be talked out. Again.” And he took a deep breath, squaring his shoulders a little. “But that can wait until both of you have cooled off a little. Until then, we have to move forward. We discussed our plan yesterday and we will go through with it like we agreed on.” He moved to squeeze Techno’s hand now. “And, just for today, I want you to step back a little. Let me handle leading. You need a break and you need to learn that you don’t have to be in charge. We’re a team.” 

It sounded so nice, so reassuring and comforting to hear someone say it. Hear him promise to give Techno a break, to take away the responsibility and pressure on his shoulders. He wants to accept it so badly. Go against the training and the voices telling him he needs to stay in charge, it’s his duty to lead and protect. “Please Techno. Let us- let me- take care of you.” His hands were still trembling a little, emotions and thoughts like a whirlpool, dragging him down the longer he tried to argue. Fit’s right. He needs this. Needs a day where he just doesn’t have to think. 

“Okay.” There could be better, more grateful sounding answers, but his friend didn’t seem to care much. Instead, he received a smile, the one he always got when he finally opens up when the pressure got too much. “Thank you. Just let me handle everything.” Techno just nods again, squeezing his hands back. “There are still a few hours until sunrise. Try and rest. There will be a lot of swimming once we go out.” And this finally got a reaction out of him, muffling a snort behind his hand. “As if we don’t swim a lot every day.” Fit just grinned. “Got you laughing anyways.” And that was true, wasn’t it? Somehow, in some way, Fit always manages to break down his walls just a little. Make him laugh when it felt impossible.

So, for his sake, he tried to follow the advice and go back to sleep.

Settling back into the nest was awkward, with Techno and Tubbo having as much distance as possible, but it could be worse. Has been worse, back when they still shared the pod. They really need to start adding more space to this base… Get some more rooms so they can get a break from each other. Even the closest friends will break apart at being stuck together this closely over such a long period of time.

Despite his best efforts, Techno did not sleep much for the rest of the night. He dozed every now and again, but woke every time someone shifted or made a noise. It wasn’t that much of a loss, considering his apparent 24 hour sleep the day before. He can deal with this. He’s survived on far less sleep. The fact that he is still here, still standing, showed much of his resilience already.

When the first rays of sunlight filter in through the windows, the active planning phase began. The leviathans happily went about their morning routine as the humans ate their food and discussed the plan once more, with noticeable silence from both Techno and Tubbo. “We should leave for the wreck as soon as possible, save as much daylight as we can. Whatever useful things we find, even if it is just scrap we can turn into titanium, we take it with us. Foolish and Roier can carry enough weight.” Most of this had already been decided yesterday, so there wasn’t much protest or extra suggestions.

There was also no discussion about Fit calling the shots today, but one look in Techno’s direction was reason enough to accept that this might be a good idea, for a while. The notable distance between him and Tubbo only solidified that. If someone has to be the leader, it should be someone that is on the good side of everyone in the team. So, they followed Fit’s suggestions, checked their gear for fully filled oxygen tanks and weapons before leaving their base.

Another thing they did before actually leaving for the wreck, was finally giving Pac his freshly finished prosthetic.

The giddy excitement over it was contagious, even both of the moody team members smiling as Pac reached for Fit’s hands to help him up once the prosthetic had been attached. He was a little wobbly as he finally stood on both legs, clinging to his friend’s arm for support. Fit didn’t move from his side for even a second, keeping a strong hold on both of his arms. “Baby steps, you will need a while to find your balance. Swimming will be a little easier.” That didn’t seem to discourage him in the slightest. As soon as he was somewhat stable on both his legs, he nudged Fit to let go of him.

For a moment he just stood still, looking down at his new leg, shifting his weight from one foot to the other to test the stability of the prosthetic. Then, he looked at Cellbit with a grin and took his first step towards him. It was very reminiscent of a toddler taking it’s first steps towards it’s parent. And the joy was very much the same. They were both laughing as Pac stumbled into his arms after a few steps, hugging each other tightly. “I’m walking again!” “You are!”

They took a few minutes to let Pac wander about the base, someone always right beside him in case he stumbled (which really was mostly Fit and Cellbit). And once he had gotten a little more steady, they started filtering out of the base to start their scavenging mission. While learning how to fully walk again will take him days, if not weeks, swimming should come to him far easier.

Foolish and Roier were already waiting, sprawled out in the sandy dunes and chirping at each other. It was honestly surprising just how much of the leviathans’ routine now involved being around the human base constantly. They never disappear for hours, they never ignore any of them… the theory that perhaps they see the humans as tiny hatchlings doesn’t seem that far off. That Foolish had simply moved his territory a little and is now practically nesting around them, Roier having followed his parent to wherever he decided to move their nest to.

As soon as they noticed all of the humans leaving their base, both leviathans got up and swam closer, rumbling in greeting. Pac excitedly showed Roier his new leg, who chirped and lifted his hand to poke a clawed finger against the metal. “I can swim faster now! You don’t have to keep making little currents for me!” Techno smiled, watching his friend show off his prosthetic like a child with a new toy. Who knows if the leviathans understand the concept of a fake limb, but they do understand that Pac now had the same limbs as all the other humans. Perhaps they think he grew it back, who knows.

They separated onto both leviathans again, with Techno and Quackity traveling with Roier and the rest staying with Foolish. Fit had been the one that spotted the wreckage in the first place, so he took it on himself to guide them into the right direction. The leviathans happily complied and allowed them to reach the wreck within an hour. It was a sizable part of the ship, bigger than Foolish with large pieces of scrap metal and dented crates scattered about the area. If they are lucky, this will give them blueprints and materials for many needed tools. Perhaps even weapons. 

The leviathans swam around the area once all five of them had chosen a spot to start their scavenging, guarding them from possible threats. While the kelp forest and therefore the Stalkers were far away, there could always be other aggressive creatures trying to turn the humans into their next meal. “Should we try the inside first before we go through all the crates?” Cellbit had found a hole leading into an old hallway, giving them easy access to the rooms and possible tools hidden within. There also seemed to be no power source within the wreck, all exposed cables and machinery turned off. At least one positive already, they won’t be electrocuted. Hopefully. 

Fit hummed and swam over, inspecting the half-crushed hallway. “Yeah, that’s a good idea. If our oxygen starts to get low it’s safer for us to be outside with the crates, not stuck in there. It shouldn’t, but you never know.” Techno winced, but didn’t say anything. He probably wouldn’t have made a comment about getting stuck in there, no need to heighten already existing fears. But he had agreed to this. Let Fit handle the mission. They’ll be fine. 

Not everyone seemed to be on board with that idea though, especially a certain teen. To his credit though, he at least tried to hide it. “Should we all go in together or should we split? The hallway doesn’t exactly look very spacious. And we can cover more ground if we do.” Tubbo was floating next to a pile of crates, not interested in the slightest in going into that wreck. Techno couldn’t blame him for that, many people don’t like small spaces and he had never been too fond of the ship in general. Besides, he is making some good points. And their argument shouldn’t stop them from trying their best from keeping everyone alive. 

“I agree with Tubbo. Maybe three of us can go in there and the other three stay out here? And maybe one of the ones staying out here should be Pac…” Okay, maybe he was doing a bit more than just letting Fit lead, but he was just giving suggestions! Nothing wrong with that! And mentioned Brazilian just shrugged, taking no offense to Techno’s suggestion either. “Sure. Probably better until I have more practice with the leg.” 

Fit nodded along, crossing his arms as he let his eyes wander over the group. “Anyone else volunteering to stay out? Foolish and Roier can keep Pac safe just fine, but an even split is probably better.” Techno was very much relieved when Tubbo raised his hand, even if he hesitated a little. He and Pac get along well, they can chat while opening all the crates. What he wasn’t happy with though was that Quackity also did not want to go inside the wreck. 

Techno could clearly see Tubbo’s jaw clenching, but he made no comment or objection. This can only end two ways. They ignore each other completely while the other three go into the wreck, or there will be another fight caused by unnecessary comments. Really, couldn’t Quackity read the room? Realize that maybe staying out with Tubbo wasn’t a good idea right now? Then again, it would be unfair to force him into the wreck if he too does not like tight spaces. 

“Then that’s settled. You three see what you can find out here. We’ll tell you if we find anything inside. We will take the scanner too, in case there are valuable things we can’t carry with us but can acquire the blueprints. Anything else we should discuss before we go inside?” No one responded to Fit’s question, which he took as the signal to turn and start heading into the wreck, Cellbit following close behind. Techno looked back to the other three one last time, seeing them already splitting off to each inspect a different crate. The leviathans were both within view, guarding the area. Everyone is safe…

He followed behind Fit and Cellbit, entering the wreck. 

Light quickly disappeared the further they swam down the hallway, forcing them close together as Fit lights the way with the built-in flashlight of the scanner. Occasionally one of the smaller fish swam past them, but outside of those they didn’t encounter any creatures. Seeing the hallways that had been their home for two years was… something. Everything was scorched, dented, broken… almost unrecognizable with the pristine ship they had travelled with for so long. The ship that was supposed to bring them home and reunite them with their families. 

It took what felt like an hour until they reached the first actual room that wasn’t fully blocked off or destroyed. The door was bent halfway into the room, allowing them fairly easy access. There wasn’t much, most of the sparse furniture half crushed and sunken to the bottom in a pile. Half a bed stuck out from said pile, which sadly meant they couldn’t use it for a blueprint. This section of the wreck was most likely part of the crew quarters, judging by the size of the room. If that was true, then there weren’t that many useful things to find outside of possible beds and shelves.

Fit nudged them to keep going, lighting their way through multiple other rooms that brought the same results. No useful materials, almost all of them destroyed by water damage or scorching. Which also caused them to have no blueprints either. This hopeful mission was really turning out to be a bust. Techno really doesn’t want to go back to the main wreck for useful tools and blueprints. One encounter with that aggressive leviathan was more than enough.

When they entered the next room, Fit suddenly stopped, effectively blocking Techno and Cellbit from entering. Techno tried to peer over his shoulder, but his friend gently pushed him off. “What’s wrong?” His voice seemed awfully loud in the silence of the wreck. His friend just stayed silent, motioning for them to move on to the next room. “You don’t want to see that. Let’s just go. Nothing valuable in here.” Techno and Cellbit shared a look, an uneasy feeling settling in their chests. If this was something Fit out of all people was uncomfortable with, then it must be bad. 

And Techno had a slight idea what it could be. His stomach twists as the screams start anew, flames dancing in his vision, cries for help echoing in his ears. And he had just started to get better… “How many?” Fit looked uneasy as their eyes met, searching for something in Techno’s gaze. “Just one. Still don’t think you want to see it.” No, he doesn’t. Not really. It would make everything so much more real, all these lives lost so much harder. Honestly it was a miracle they hadn’t encountered any remains before now. 

“You swear there is nothing useful in there? Not a single blueprint?” Fit hesitated before looking back into the room, eyes roaming all over the place. While going into the room and looking at a corpse was not something any of them want to do, they can’t afford to leave useful loot behind. Not unless absolutely necessary. “I mean, I don’t think so. The locker seems mostly intact but there are dents in it, so the blueprint might not work.” And after a moment, he quietly added “there is an almost fully intact bed.”

A bed would be amazing. They have grown used to their weird vine and kelp nest, but a real bed? He kind of missed having that comfort. That piece of normality. Maybe after the mission they could also start expanding the base for some proper rooms. Get some doors. Fit must have seen the hopeful tint in his eyes, as he sighed and turned back to the room. “Give me a second, I’ll be right back.”

Darkness enveloped them the moment Fit disappeared through the door, taking their only source of light with him. They pressed together, shoulder to shoulder, Techno keeping one hand against the wall and his eyes focused on the barely illuminated doorway. Don’t lose orientation, keep steady on something unmoving, stay still until Fit gets back. Easy enough, even with the growing unease at being surrounded by nothing but void. Cellbit’s grip on his arm started to turn painful the longer Fit took scanning whatever objects he found.

He was taking an awful long time… “Fit? Are you alright?” There was no immediate answer, making his heart race. Only a soft crackle that told of a received signal. Slowly, he pushed himself up to the doorway, keeping one hand against the wall at all times. Cellbit followed close behind, staying completely silent, never letting go of his arm. “Fit?” Techno peeked over the edge, quickly finding his friend illuminated with the weak light of the scanner.

His stomach gave an uneasy churn when he saw what exactly the other was staring at.

Despite his seeming bravery and more… calm reaction to the corpse earlier, he now hovered in frozen shock. Or perhaps it was grief, the same pain Techno felt every day since the crash. Survivors guilt, many people call it. And that pain, that guilt and horrid feeling every time he thought about the crash and all the people lost to the fires or drowning… that pain was growing tenfold when now, for the first time, he was confronted with the remains of one of those people.

Their suit was charred and ripped apart in a lot of places, multiple holes ripped into the fabric that weren’t caused by the crash. Most of the flesh was gone, likely eaten by the creatures that have made their way into the wreck, exposing the bone beneath. Some bones and a whole arm were missing, either taken as food or shattered in the crash.

For a moment, Techno was just as frozen as his friend, near ready to double over and throw up into his mask. Then something covered his vision, causing him to blink in confusion and focus back on his surroundings. “You with me?” Cellbit had put himself between Techno and the corpse, seeming scarily calm for this situation compared to his absolute terror while they had waited in the dark. ‘We found him and Pac covered in blood, one leg completely missing… He might have more experience with this than we thought.’ “Yeah. I’m here.”

Cellbit nodded, visibly relaxing a little. He began nudging Techno’s shoulder, turning him until he was looking at the doorway again. “Stay like this. I’ll go fetch Fit.” Dark shadows shift outside the room, the dim light barely bright enough to chase away the void within this room already. But darkness was currently much more preferred than this. Although darkness allowed his mind to easily replay what he just saw, displaying the gore covered skull in great detail…

Techno frowned at a little blue spot appearing in the darkness, dancing around in the shadows. It was tiny, barely illuminating more than an inch of the creature it belonged to. He slowly swam towards the door, holding on to the frame once he reached it. Quietly both Cellbit’s and Fit’s voices drift out of the little mic, but Techno was entirely focused on this little blue spot. He didn’t dare leave the room with their only light source, clinging to the doorframe as his eyes track the slow, almost lazy movement.

Why did it… look familiar?

With one hand still pressed against the wall, he reached out to try and touch it, feeling a weak tug within his chest, pulling him out towards this little dot. Almost… only a bit further- “Techno?” He jerked back as if he got burned, half colliding with the person behind him. Hands immediately settle on his shoulder and back, keeping him steady. “Are you alright? What happened?” It was Fit who had caught him, looking a lot paler than he did a few minutes ago.

“I… I saw something. Right there-“ As he turned around to point at the little blue light, it had already disappeared. Whatever creature it belonged to, it must have gotten scared off by the sudden movements. Or he had just imagined it. “Maybe this was a bad idea… I don’t like this. It’s too dark.” Fit was gripping at his arm, the scanner and light now in Cellbit’s hand instead.

“Listen. I know this is fucking terrifying. These are things none of us want to see. But do you really think the main wreck will be any different? Or the other chunks of the ship we will find scattered around? As horrible as this sound, this will not be the last time we see a corpse. And every other site we investigate will also be this dark. This is the only way we will get blueprints and more advanced technology. We can get you guys outside if it’s too much right now, and I’ll keep going with the scanner. Take a break, see if the others found something useful. I’ll be fine in here-“

“No.” The answer came immediately, surprising even himself with how steady his voice sounded. But if there was one thing he refuses to do, it’s leaving Cellbit in here alone, completely by himself. “I won’t leave you. What if you get attacked? Or stuck? You’ll have the only light source and we won’t be able to get to you. If you want to continue this, I’m coming with you.” The worst thing one of them could do right now was going somewhere by themselves. He didn’t care about letting Fit call the shots today. Cellbit is handling this situation the best, but he will absolutely not explore the rest by himself.

The Brazilian smiled a little, then turned his head to Fit. “Do you want to-“ “No. I’m fine.” He gripped his spear a little tighter, still pale. Clearly, he was not fine and too proud to admit it. Not that Techno is any better with these things. “Listen, it’s okay if you want to leave. This is fucking terrifying.” Fit just shook his head, staring straight out the doorway. “Let’s just keep going while we have oxygen. Please.”

They hesitated for a moment, but decided to heed the oxygen advice and keep going. Cellbit now led the way, Techno and Fit sticking close to either side. After checking their little PDA screen, they saw that Fit did manage to get a bed blueprint, but the locker had been too damaged. Which, in terms of added comfort, was already a lot. But they would prefer something closer to advanced weapons or even armour. Something to protect themselves with.

The next three rooms had doors too damaged to open. They did scan one of the seemingly intact but locked doors, adding that to their existing blueprints. Every now and again, Techno could have sworn he saw the little blue light out of the corner of his eye, but every time he turned to look, it was gone again. It was making him feel watched, more so than he already did, with the amount of little fish that zip in and out of rooms the entire time.

At the end of the hallway, the door laid crushed on the floor, allowing them easy access to the final room. Apparently they had managed to only get access to a section of the wreck, the rest completely blocked off. Unless they manage to cut and bend their way through metal, this will be the end of their exploring for now. The room was larger than the others, maybe one of the few common rooms they had at each level of crew quarters. Some couches and lockers, crushed tables, even some of the vending machines were here. There was also a swarm of fish that were swimming around, their glowing spots creating the illusion of a much larger creature unless you directly aim a light at them.

They did manage to scan one of the chairs and a locker, but that was about everything. The lockers that they did manage to open had nothing useful in them that they could take with them. Mostly plastic wrappers, ruined food and busted water bottles. With their oxygen dropping below half full, they decided to actually leave now and see what the others have found. Cellbit led the way again, tracing their steps back to not get lost.

Out of the corner of his eye, Techno saw the blue light again, flickering in the darkness of a doorway. This time, when he turned his head, it remained there, staying unmoving in the same spot. “Cellbit…” It came out in a harsh whisper, but it got his attention anyways. “What?” He nudged against his shoulder, pointing into the darkness. “Do you see the light?” He hummed, leaning back a little to see over Techno’s shoulder.

For a moment the other stared, then slowly moved to point the light of their scanner at the glowing dot. Staring back at them was a black creature, roughly the size of Techno’s forearm. It looked mostly like a normal fish, aside from unnaturally still it hovered in the water. The blue light turned out to be it’s eye, of which it only had one. The eye on the other side covered by what looked like scarring. “Why is it so still…?”

Techno barely heard the question, feeling the strange tug he had sensed earlier, focusing all his attention on the strange fish. Why does it feel like he has seen that eye before…? The colour, the odd brightness. Where had he seen- “Techno?” His whole body flinched when Cellbit gently nudged his shoulder, ripping his focus back into the present. He blinked, shaking his head when a strange fuzziness began settling in his brain. What the fuck…

“Are you alright? You zoned out again.” Techno just nodded, noting that when he turned back to the doorway, the fish was gone. “Let’s just leave. This place is starting to really freak me out.” Cellbit and Fit shared a look, both looking incredibly worried, but decided to let him be for now. Instead, they moved on, swimming along the rest of the hallway. When they turned the corner, light greeted them, finally allowing their hearts to calm down a little bit.

Although when the left the wreck and came back out into open waters, they weren’t exactly greeted by peace and safety.

“Oh you are such a piece of shit Quackity!”

Chapter Text

Glowing green eyes track the movements of his tiny wards, keeping regular counts on all three of them as they move about. They were spreading out quite far, putting unusual distance between each other. Perhaps the unease his eldest hatchling had felt was caused by a quarrel between them all. It wasn’t uncommon for hatchlings to start testing each other at a certain age, establishing a ranking usually determined by strength or size. Hopefully it won’t take them long, he had been quite proud of how closely they had worked together. Up until this point they had never really shown any signs of the rivalry about to start.

Occasionally, his eyes would wander towards the strange structure three of his children had vanished into, not happy about the fact that neither him or his son could follow them inside for protection. The stone it was made from felt odd, far too smooth compared to everything else around them. It did have the same colour as the nest his new hatchlings have built for themselves, which he was very proud of. They were so young but already managed to build their first nest themselves, even if it was from that weird white stone.

He wasn’t stupid, he knew that his newest hatchlings originated from this structure, or at least the giant one they tried to visit a while ago. So really, he shouldn’t be too worried about them exploring their birthplace. But they were so small and fragile compared to every other creature roaming around… newborns should never be by themselves for long. Their claws haven’t even grown in yet!

A frustrated cry pulled all his attention back to the hatchlings outside that he was supposed to be watching, specifically the youngest one of the clutch, that had split a little further from the group. He rumbled in answer immediately and moved over with a single flick of his tail, trying to see what could have distraught his hatchling. His son was watching closely over the other two, giving him the chance to fully focus on their smallest pod member.

~

Tubbo pulled and pulled on the crate half buried in the sand, but it refused to budge. With an annoyed and angry cry, he rammed the blade of his knife into the small opening of the lid, trying to pry it open instead. This was the fourth crate he had found with the launch-bay identification code on it, and the fourth one that he hadn’t been able to open. This was absolute bullshit. Why was everything against him lately?!

The soft, familiar rumble behind him drew his attention away from the crate. Foolish settled in the sand just behind him, lying flat with his chin half buried as well, just to be somewhat on eye level with Tubbo. A small chunk of his annoyance faded as he gave the leviathan a little smile. “I’m alright. Sorry if I scared you.” Foolish only rumbled louder, a clawed hand reaching out to just barely brush the tip of a finger over his head. The teen couldn’t help but laugh. At least someone was still on his side. Shame it was the only person that couldn’t talk.

But as he leaned up into the touch, an amazing idea popped into his head. “Actually, since you’re here. Maybe you can help me open this.” He demonstrated how he was trying to open the crate, pulling and prying with his knife. Foolish watched him curiously, making a little clicking sound as Tubbo lost his grip and cursed under his breath. Then, he slowly began tapping at the crate with a single claw, trying to figure out how to help. It wasn’t doing too much at first, only scratching most of the paint off. The leviathan’s eyes narrowed as he pressed his claw harder onto the surface, making it creak and bend, before finally giving way.

“That’s enough! Thank you!” Foolish chirred as Tubbo tried to shove his claw away from the crate, lifting his hand so the human could get a better look at it. The hole that he created was large enough for Tubbo’s arm to pass through without a problem, should there be anything valuable inside. Which might not be the case, as the crate was now flooded and any electronics unusable. Pressing his face as close as he could to the opening without damaging the glass, he tried making out what kind of materials were now in their possession.

He nearly choked on his own spit when he saw the pile of tools, most of which were actually waterproof. “Pac! Pac come look at this!” Within moments the Brazilian appeared by his side, eyes widening with each drill and wrench he pulled out of the crate. “This is amazing!” Welding tools, screwdrivers, hammers, wrenches, even a laser cutter found it’s way into their hands. “Even if the water broke some of these, we can scan them, salvage what we can and make new ones! This is huge!” Tubbo’s eyes were practically sparkling with excitement.

Pac examined a drill, turning it over in his hands. It was one of the smaller ones, used in the more delicate workings of wires and plates. Perfect for possible improvements on his prosthetic. “We should keep it all in the crate and take the whole thing back to base. Easier for transport that way.” The teen nodded, already starting to pile everything back inside. Foolish can break open the other crates for them, and once he did, they will pile everything by the entrance of the wreck and wait for Techno and the others. This trip was going surprisingly well all things con-

“I think this crate has food inside!” Tubbo’s mood immediately dropped as he spotted Quackity half rolling a crate towards them, grinning from ear to ear. “It has the identification code for consumables at least. It could just be snacks for restocking the vending machines, but if some of them are still good it could be a nice change from fried fish.” Pac was instantly drawn by the promise of new food, examining the crate to see if there were any holes indicating water damage. “I hope this has those spicy sticks that were on our floor, they were so good. Cellbit and I practically lived off those things between meals.”

Quackity nodded eagerly, already looking like he was dreaming about tonight’s meal. “I know it has absolutely gone bad by now, but I would kill for some cheese. Any kind at this point.” The Brazilian laughed, gently shoving the other by the shoulder. Tubbo silently glared at Quackity, fingers digging into the crate he had been holding on to. Such an unnecessary conversation, they have more than enough food, the leviathans provide well for them.

“Any snacks you really want? Maybe you’ll get lucky, you did manage to find a whole tool crate.” The teen just clenched his jaw, pointedly ignoring the question as he pretended to shift things around inside the crate. Apparently Quackity didn’t get the message though, leaning over the crate a little. “Tubbo?” He very nearly snapped his teeth at the other, but managed to contain himself. ‘You will leave him alone and you will not utter a single bad word or threat in his direction! Did I make myself clear?!’ Yes, he understood perfectly. Be quiet, follow orders. Be easy for once in your life. “Leave me alone.”

Before Quackity could open his mouth again, Foolish lifted his head, cooing as Roier swam over with part of a stalker hanging out of his mouth. Hadn’t he just been here? Where did he get that Stalker from? He offered the remaining part to his father, who quickly accepted the food with a happy coo. Quackity of all people noticed it as well, frowning a little. “That’s weird… they usually don’t leave the kelp area.” Tubbo had to agree there, Stalkers were a rare sight outside the kelp forest. They blend in well and have plenty of hiding spots to ambush prey. “Maybe Roier just left to hunt them both a snack? Foolish was here, we were protected enough.” Well that doesn’t make sense, both leviathans were dead set on keeping them safe. “Or one of them just swam out the forest? It’s not like they are bound there by chains.”

Tubbo decided to mostly block out the conversation from that point on, instead focusing on the last few bits of the Stalker that Foolish hadn’t eaten yet. It looked… odd. There were little green spots on it’s body, glowing slightly despite the rather bright light from the sun above. That didn’t look good at all. But before he could get the others to look at it as well, Foolish tipped his head back and ate the rest, rumbling something at Roier afterwards.

For a moment Tubbo just stared, brows drawn together as he considered what this could mean, or if this was even important at all. It’s not like they hadn’t seen bioluminescence before, a lot of creatures they had encountered so far glow once it gets slightly darker. But Stalkers don’t glow… and those green spots looked like overgrown pimples, not something natural they should have. Maybe it was just sick, some skin irritation or something. Or an infection…

Didn’t Techno mention something about an infection? When the ship had been shot down? It hadn’t really come up again afterwards, with the argument and all. He opened his mouth again to ask what Pac knew about this, then remembered that him and Pac had been the only ones who hadn’t entered the building, as he had still been angry with Techno from their first argument. Meaning the only person he could ask… Tubbo groaned, near ready to slam his head against the nearest crate.

But with communication to Techno and the others cut off, he really didn’t have a choice. And he has never been the most patient person.

“Quackity?” The Mexican turned to him immediately, humming in acknowledgement. “When you came back from the building on the island, Techno mentioned something about an infection and the weapon. What was that about?”  He blinked, processing the question for a moment longer than necessary. That, or the fact Tubbo was even asking him a normal question. Pac decided to fill the silence, perking up as he heard Tubbo mention the island again. “Oh yeah, you guys did mention something. What happened in there?”

Settling against the crate, Quackity squinted a little as he tried to recall everything as best as he could. “There was this… needle thing that stabbed Cellbit in the arm. It was connected to a button, which we think was supposed to turn off the gun. But the button disappeared after Cellbit pressed it and a broadcast in the building said that infected individuals weren’t allowed to deactivate the weapon. That’s it really. We don’t know what kind of infection it is, Cellbit seems fine so far. And it’s not like we can do much, our medical supplies is mostly bandages and the healing paste the leviathans bring us.”

Well that was reassuring. They didn’t just know about some sort of infection, Cellbit actually had it. And if Cellbit had it, there was a high chance all of them did. Eating the same food, drinking the same water… Before Tubbo could start to yell at him over why the fuck none of them had thought mentioning a potentially lethal infection, he continued to speak. “Why are you asking? Are you feeling sick? Did you see something?” Tubbo shook his head no, glancing back at Foolish. “I’m fine. But the Stalker that Roier and Foolish just ate had glowing spots. It looked… sick? Definitely not normal.” The other two humans looked at the leviathans as well, starting to get a little worried. 

It was one thing if they were infected with something… but the leviathans? That was a whole different story. Not only were they the only real protection the humans had and they were their friends, but if an infection can harm or even kill massive leviathan creatures, what chance would they have of surviving it? Calm down Tubbo… no one is dying… deep breath… focus on what Quackity is telling you.

“You found out about the infection from the weapon?” Quackity nodded, fingers now nervously playing with the jagged edges of the broken open crate. Tubbo began to ponder that, if only to try and distract himself from the thoughts about the leviathans dying. A giant weapon shooting ships out of the sky… that detects if something is infected… Logically, the existence of something like that could only mean one thing. Two maybe, but one of the theories is definitely more likely than the other.

“If that weapon was programmed to detect an infection before being shut off and Cellbit has that infection… not to mention maybe the leviathans and all the other creatures as well… that could mean this whole planet might be under quarantine.” Tubbo scratched at the back of his head, since he was unable to touch his face right now like he usually would, thoughts starting to run wild with possible ideas. “That could mean this is bad. Like really bad. That we all might just fucking die to this sickness before we even have a chance to escape. And if we escape, we will just get shot down again.” 

A heavy silence filled the space between them as everyone processed that information. There was no way to confirm it yet, unless they find actual proof. Maybe use the scanner to figure something out, or another facility that contains information. If there was a planet wide epidemic, someone must have been working on a cure. Someone must have left something behind. Tubbo sighed, massaging his temples a little. This was something for Cellbit, he was always far better with sorting information and keeping track of everything. He was the ship’s Archivist for a reason, tracking every report and protocol.

The leviathans were oblivious to the humans’ existential crisis, happily cooing and clicking at each other. Quackity was observing them closely, as if trying to spot any hints of infection on their friends. Which was a reasonable fear to have, as they had just seen Foolish eat an infected Stalker and assumed Roier did as well. There was not much they could do about it now, which is the most terrifying thought of them all. They were aware of the danger, of their most likely infection induced death they will all face, and couldn’t do anything. 

“Guys? I just had a random thought.” Tubbo rolled his eyes dramatically, ready to call Quackity out for making a dumb joke in a time like this, but he couldn’t bring himself to actually do it. The fire in his chest had died down during their conversation, and now he couldn’t really be bothered to be mad at him for anything. Being mad at him seemed like such a useless thing now compared to the severity of the situation. “What is it?” Quackity turned to the two, face completely serious. “What if this infection… this planetary threat even… is what is causing the changes in Techno?” 

That… could actually explain some things. A lot of things actually. It would be a completely reasonable way to explain the visions as simple hallucinations. But there was one problem with that logic… “If the infection is giving him hallucinations and stuff, that does not explain what we saw happen with Foolish last night. That wasn’t an infection, you know it wasn’t. Plus, if Techno is having all those symptoms, why aren’t we having any? Especially Cellbit, who we know is infected.” Quackity hummed, nodding along. 

“Good points. For the symptoms? Everyone can react to sickness different, there is no ‘one way’ a person can react to it. But you are right, the whole glowing eyes thing with Foolish doesn’t really seem like an infection symptom.” Pac was already opening his mouth, most likely wanting to ask what glowing eyes event they were talking about, but Quackity just kept going. “But, hear me out, it’s not the infection itself doing this to Techno. I meant this infection, this threat, making this dream leviathan reach out for help to try and solve it? Since we come from off world, maybe they are hoping we know a way to make a cure? Or they need us because we can actually go on land and access the building?”

Tubbo’s eyes went wide, mouth actually hanging open. Silently staring at Quackity for a solid minute, which made the other start to squirm uncomfortably. “Okay I know it’s stupid, but you don’t have to stare at me like-“ “Oh you are such a piece of shit, Quackity!” And then he laughed, genuinely laughed, and went to hug him. The older just made a confused noise, arms staying limp by his side. “Why didn’t you tell us sooner you’re a fucking genius?!” “I… am?”

“What’s going on here? Why are you yelling at him again?” Techno’s voice jolted them all out of the moment, turning to see him and the others swim towards them. It wasn’t angry or accusatory, just curious, maybe a little worried. Tubbo grinned and waved, finally letting go of a still very much confused Quackity. “We were discussing the infection you guys discovered at the big gun! And Quackity just had a genius idea about what is happening to you!”

Techno blinked, looking between the two, now seeming just as confused as Quackity. Not only was the teen happy and excited, which does not match his earlier mood at all, but he was talking normal to Techno and actually worked with Quackity? "And what would that be?" Tubbo grinned and pulled Quackity forward by the arm, clapping him on the shoulder. "Go on, tell them! I think especially Cellbit will be interested in this." Mentioned Brazilian raised an eyebrow, arms crossed over his chest as he floated beside Techno.

Quackity cleared his throat, now looking a lot more unsure about his theory than he had been a minute ago. "Well, we just figured that with the gun programmed to detect an infection to be shut off or not, this planet might be under quarantine. And if this is true, then this infection might be a planetary threat and in turn the intelligent creatures here would try and cure themselves or find help. That dream leviathan you have been seeing? Maybe she wants our help to make a cure or something?"

Just like before, silence hung between them for a good minute or two. Much like Tubbo had done earlier, Techno opened and closed his mouth wordlessly, trying to find a reasonable response. Cellbit, as expected, took immediate interest in the subject. "That could explain so much... An intelligent species made that building, yet we have encountered nothing that smart outside the leviathans. If that virus is here and they were trying to cure it..." He kept mumbling to himself, brows drawn together in thought.

Tubbo watched as Techno withdrew into himself, eyes flitting about in the usual way they do when someone began recounting memories, trying to figure something out. “I… she never asked for help… just to find her.” He swam closer, completely ignoring all previous feelings and arguments as he took Techno by the shoulders. “Maybe she wants to ask you in person. And you can’t exactly make cures inside your head. It is a reasonable explanation, you have to admit that!”

The way Techno looked at him made him immediately pull back his hands. Confused… hurt. Although Tubbo wasn’t sure if it was his fears again or Tubbo himself that was causing it. It was about time to get rid of one of these issues. “Look I… back at the base…” The words got stuck in his throat, unsure how to keep going from there. They both fucked up. He shouldn’t have been this cruel to Quackity, Techno shouldn’t have screamed at him… it felt like they were dancing around in circles.

Every few days they argue and fight, ignore each other for a bit and then apologize and promise it won’t happen again. Even he knew it was exhausting, that their arguments, deep down, were pointless. They can’t afford this kind of rift between them, not with all of their lives on the line. And especially not if their theory is correct and they are about to take part in a planet wide rescue mission.

But none of the things he wanted to say sounded right, and he was painfully aware of the multiple sets of eyes on both of them, their mics broadcasting every word they said. Techno seemed to realize it as well and awkwardly cleared his throat. “We can do this… later, back at the base. One of the new blueprints we have is a door, and beds. Once we expand the base and get some more rooms for us to spread out, we can talk in private. Okay?” Tubbo just nodded, agreeing that whatever they need to say should be discussed in private.

Mercifully, Pac decided this was the perfect time to show off their finds. “A lot of decently intact metal plating, which we can probably salvage into materials for the habitat builder. Four crates with tools and more electronics, two with food. Tubbo has opened one crate and it was filled with screwdrivers, laser cutters and wrenches, all very useful! So I’d say today was a pretty good scavenger hunt, yes?” Fit and Cellbit immediately agreed, both swimming over to the crate to get a good look at the tools.

Techno hesitated for only a moment, giving a weary glance back at the wreck. What happened in there that had him so worried? “We should head back to base. We got what we came for, still have enough daylight left to make some improvements to our base and gather possible materials for the blueprints we found.” Everyone quickly agreed and began to gather their new loot, catching the attention of the leviathans as they both settle in the sand to help carry everything back home. Tubbo looked back at the wreck, frowning a little. Did Techno and the others get scared by something? Maybe, there are probably a lot of animals in there that settled into the flooded rooms.

He squinted a little as he spotted a small blue light dancing in the shadows of the entrance into the wreck. What was that..? “Tubbo!” The teen turned around, spotting everyone already split off on the leviathans, ready to travel. “Coming!” A quick glance back revealed the light had disappeared again. Strange… probably just a fish or something. He swam over and settled next to Cellbit, grabbing on tight to Foolish’s hair. “Let’s go home.”

~

Fit groaned as he lifted the last crate into place, all six now standing against one wall in their base. While they wanted to expand the base as soon as possible, they decided to have a short lunch break of sorts, sharing cooked fish and water between them. The food crates will remain closed until they can fully settle down for dinner and sleep. Tubbo watched in mild amusement as Fit plopped down beside Pac, who offered him a bright smile and half of his fish. It wasn’t necessary, they had enough for everyone, but it seemed like they wanted to be overly cheesy today. Fit took it with only slightly pink cheeks, gently bumping their shoulders together as he took a bite. Tubbo would have said something immediately if it wasn’t for Techno giving him a warning look.

“Alright. With a rough guess from the pile of scrap we can salvage and our current titanium stash, we should be able to create three more rooms. If all goes well, we have enough to equip each of them with a door. Now we have to decide if all three of them are going to be bedrooms or if we use them for something else. We probably can’t fully move into those today, since I’m sure we don’t have the materials to make six whole beds, so that decision doesn’t actually have to be made right now.” Tubbo watched with only mild concern how easily Techno slipped back into the leader role, when it had seemed like they had agreed to let Fit call the shots.

No one else seemed to really notice though, instead quietly discussing how they should use the rooms. “I mean, once we move the nest this room is perfect for storage and group space, so we could work on bedrooms for now. That would mean we either have to split into pairs for each room or have some arrangements with a trio and single room. Depends what everyone wants.” That got the teen thinking. In his opinion, it seemed like Fit and Pac might share and no one wants to trio up with the lovebirds. While he doesn’t necessarily hate Quackity right now, sharing a room is out of the question. Which meant that he would either room with Cellbit or Techno.

It was… surprising, how hard that decision was. Because on one hand, Cellbit and Quackity have been discussing theories together the entire trip back and seemed to be getting along quite well. And it’s not like Tubbo hasn’t practically lived in Techno’s quarters and personal space during the whole journey and the crash. On the other hand… with their habit of arguing and mood swings, getting a break from each other through separated rooms might not be that bad of an idea. Quackity could just hang out in Cellbit’s room when they want to discuss the infection. And if it works out later, they can just switch rooms. So… he should share with Cellbit, right?

“Tubbo? Hello?” He blinked, shaking his head a little. Fit was standing, looking at him expectantly. “Uh… can you repeat that?” “I asked if you wanted to help me with building the rooms. We’ll need Foolish to help us and he listens to you the best.” Tubbo was on his feet in an instant, shoving the rest of his food into his mouth as he went to grab his gear. There was a fond laugh behind him, but he was a little too distracted to know who it came from.  The oxygen tanks weren’t fully refilled, but had more than enough for a quick trip outside.

Everyone else decided to stay inside while Fit and Tubbo planned out where to add the rooms. They only had one habitat builder, there was no reason for all of them to go outside. “We do have to mind the windows… so there are only two spots we can actually connect things to.” Fit pointed to the side facing away from the main wreck, where the terrain gets a little rocky. “The leviathans usually lay down to sleep on the other side, so we should be able to expand here without a problem.”

Tubbo shrugged, honestly not really caring where exactly they put the new rooms, just that they have them. But there was just one small problem. “If we only expand to this side, then we have to walk through bedrooms to get to the main area. That doesn’t really scream ‘privacy’.” The older hummed, scanning through the different options they had with their limited supplies. Having to walk through one bedroom to get to the next wasn’t exactly appealing to anyone. “What if we build a little hallway, two units should be enough, and then we can attach a room on each side. Left, right and front. We share the hallway connecting us to the main area, but no room crossing to get somewhere.”

That could work. It was the optimal setup they could do right now without creating weird hallway mazes. “Let’s get to work then.” Foolish lifted the first piece of scrap, holding it steady as the habitat builder slowly dissolved it and used the material to build the hallway compartment. He gave a curious coo, flexing his fingers once the piece was fully gone. Tubbo couldn’t help but laugh, patting his hand against where he was sitting on Foolish’s shoulder. “Don’t worry big guy, you don’t have to understand how it works. It’s just for us and we don’t fully get it either.”

The leviathan lifted another scrap piece and stared in awe as it slowly disappeared, being shaped into another part of their new building. “I think we are blowing his mind right now.” Fit just laughed, glancing at them over his shoulder. “I think technology in general blows their mind. Apart from the island building we haven’t really seen organized civilization.” That’s true. Even if you count Foolish and Roier as fully intelligent, with their own language and problem solving, they live out in the open, having nest structures at most. And so far they seem like solidary creatures, no other adults visible anywhere. Just Foolish and his child.

“I wonder how rare leviathans actually are. We saw that one by the ship, but it wasn’t humanoid like these two. They do need a lot of food, so they have big territories, not too many in one place…” But Roier must have come from somewhere, and Foolish was obviously not the biological parent. That was still something he was curious about. What had happened to Roier’s original parents? Is it simply a case of abandoned egg or hatchling? Are they dead? Did he get lost? Just another reason why he really wanted to figure out a way to communicate with them.

When Tubbo’s focus finally snapped back, two rooms had already been added. In addition to that, there was extra plating on the outside of each room. “What are those? I didn’t pay attention.” Fit looked over to where the teen was pointing. “Oh those are reinforcements. To keep the overall hull strength up, since this many attached compartments can mess with the pressure difference between inside and outside.” Ah… that makes sense. He’d assumed that, so far, the pressure wouldn’t be a big issue, since they are pretty close to the surface.

“Do we even have enough titanium left to make doors?” Fit shrugged, not able to move much until the final room had finished construction. “If we don’t we have to find more. There are a lot of scrap pieces scattered about we could salvage.” Once the room was finally finished, they had half of the last scrap piece left. It was still fairly large, but Tubbo wasn’t convinced that this piece and their small titanium ore stash was enough for creating three, possibly four doors. With a quick change of the builders setting, the last piece of scrap was turned into an armful of titanium pieces to take inside.

The moment the two re-entered the base, they were greeted by excited chatter echoing down the new hallway. Everyone was exploring the empty rooms, despite them being fully identical to the already existing main area. “We have so much space now! We could have done this so much sooner!” Pac bounced over to Fit and pulled him along by the arm. “Which one do you want?” Tubbo just watched them, amused at how Fit stumbled for a second before regaining his balance. Seemed like he was right in assuming that they would share. Hopefully Cellbit won’t be too upset that Pac won’t share with him.

Then a hand settled on his shoulder, a little hesitant at first. Tubbo already knew who it was before he turned his head. Techno smiled a little, but it didn’t reach his eyes. He looked… sad. And the teen knew exactly why. “We have enough for at least one door. Once we made that we can… talk.” Even though he really doesn’t want to. Probably never, realistically. But it has to happen, they both know it. Hopefully for the final time, not that separate rooms allows them to get breaks from each other when needed.

Tubbo stepped away, towards the room he saw the others disappear into. “Fit! Can we make the doors before you go off making out with Pac?!” There was a loud cough and quick, embarrassed babble of Portuguese and English before Fit emerged from the room, red faced and shoving against Tubbo’s shoulder. “Stop doing that.” The teen just grinned, completely unapologetic about his comments. “Doors. Then I can’t bother you.” He just grumbles and takes the titanium still cradled in Tubbo’s arms.

It took three titanium pieces and some rubber they had made recently to replace Tubbo’s suit and make diving equipment for Pac. Which meant they only had two doors for now, but it was better than nothing. Besides, they can’t sleep in them yet, they still need to get the materials for beds. “This is all we can do for now. Unless someone wants to go out for another supply run, its barely halfway through the day.” Pac instantly lifted his hand, which caused Fit to immediately start laughing. “What? I’m bored!”

That ended up being a fantastic idea. Fit and Pac left the base together with Foolish, leaving Roier to actually protect their nest. Cellbit and Quackity decided to sit together with the PDA, starting to read through scans and make notes on their theories, trying to see what they could figure out about the infection in general. And Tubbo? Tubbo hesitantly followed Techno into one of the new rooms, nervously messing with his fingers. The moment the door closed behind them, there was an awkward silence filling the room.

Starting the conversation was always the hardest part. Where would you even start? Which issue to address first? Tubbo once again opened and closed his mouth uselessly, again, trying to figure out what to say. But then Techno chuckled, quiet and soft, and simply patted the spot beside him on the floor. It felt so painfully familiar to how things felt back on the ship. “Sit down first. Knowing us, this will probably take a little while."

Tubbo sighed and sat down beside Techno, back pressed against the wall as he drew his knees in close. "I don't really... know where to start." Techno hummed, leaning his head back against the wall. "Then let me." The teen looked up at him, a little confused. Wasn't the argument mostly his fault, not Techno's?

"I'm sorry. For yelling at you, for snapping and basically threatening you. While you were being infuriatingly difficult, I'll just have to admit that, I could have gone over it differently. More careful. The last few days have been a mess, and through all of it and my own problems, I forgot you are literally dealing with your father's death. While it doesn't excuse how you treated Quackity, grief does influence behaviour a lot. Makes you lash out. God knows I've been there."

Tubbo stares at him with wide eyes. No, this was wrong. Why was Techno apologizing for his mistakes, justifying his behaviour? He was making himself the punching bag again. Taking the blame for the sake of having peace. Apologizing for the yelling was okay. But not excusing Tubbo’s behaviour. This can't happen again, he always does this.

"No." Techno blinked in confusion, turning to look at the other. "Stop apologizing. I caused this fight. Just like the last one. I insulted Quackity, I hurt you, I basically dared you to yell at me. Stop trying to take the blame for everything." Tears prick at the corner of his eyes and he wasn’t quite sure if it was anger or hurt. “You always do this! Something goes wrong or I mess something up and you try and fix it! Even if it’s not your fault!”

He tried to get up and walk around, let this frustration out in any other way than shouting with no filter. God knows that is exactly how they got into this mess in the first place. Him getting frustrated and having no other way to let it out beside insults. But Techno kept him down with a firm hand on his shoulder. “Tubbo, I need you to calm down. Breathe.” The teen huffed, looking anywhere but at Techno, fists clenching and fingers digging into the fabric of his suit. “I don’t think breathing exercises will do much here. You’re just trying to distract me.” There was a small pause, then Techno’s hand moved from his shoulder to just lay on his arm, squeezing gently. “Is it working?”

The absurdity of the situation just made him laugh. A little bitter, definitely not happy, but a laugh regardless. “You’re such an idiot.” And that’s when Techno visibly relaxed, shoulders slumping as a soft smile settled on his lips. “Yeah. I know.” He leaned back against the wall, staring up at the ceiling. “So are you.” They both really were idiots, weren’t they? All of this mess… this walking in circles… The silence that followed was a little more bearable, a little less tense. Just them quietly gathering their thoughts.

“Why is this so difficult…?”  

Techno didn’t answer right away. The silence stretched, not heavy, just thoughtful. It helped Tubbo to sort his own thoughts a little, finally calming down from the frustration he had felt before. They were both a mess… not just him. “Because we care too much,” he finally said, voice barely above a whisper. “And we’re both scared of what happens if we mess this up. Again.”

Tubbo’s throat tightened, feeling near ready to cry. He didn’t know how to respond to that, so he didn’t, in fear of saying the wrong thing, breaking the vulnerable moment they had. So he just nodded, slowly, eyes still fixed on the floor. And Techno didn’t push. He just sat there with him, close enough to anchor, far enough not to crowd.

“I miss you… I miss how things were on the ship. Easier. Safer.” The older sighed, heavy and full with grief. They all missed the ship, no matter how miserable their lives were. Working for the Federation was still better than surviving out here. “I don’t think we can go back to how it was then. Even if we make up and move forward as friends again, things have changed. And I think that’s the problem. We try so hard to keep everything like we used to know it and this planet tears us down again.” He reached over the gap between then, taking his hand. “Survival is nothing but stressful. And we have to adapt to it. Emotions will run high for our entire stay here, we’ll just have to live with it. We will argue and then two hours later our lives depend on each other again. As long as we are okay with that, then we should be fine.”

They'll be fine.  One of Techno’s favourite lines to say. But despite how often he used it, it seemed more genuine now. Like he actually meant it this time. "I never really mean any of it..." he offered, voice small. Techno himself said they could be fine. That things between them would always be okay despite the fights. Tubbo stared at the hand holding his, reassuring and grounding. A promise to be there, no matter how many times he fucks up. “I know you don’t. Nice to hear you say it though.” He smiled, squeezing his hand. “We’re okay. I do want you to apologize to Quackity. Please.”

Tubbo nodded, knowing he’ll have to do that sooner or later. An official apology, for everything he has said and done since they first found Quackity on the island. Tell him he is part of the team. “I will. Tomorrow.” And that seemed to be good enough for Techno. “Thank you.”

They’re okay. And as long as they stick together, it will stay like that.

Chapter Text

Techno stood in the doorway of one of the rooms, arms crossed as he leaned with his shoulder against the doorframe. “This will be… weird.” Two beds stood in the room, one on each side, facing towards the middle of the room. Fully grey, a single thin pillow, no blanket. Although temperature isn’t a problem for them, as it was quite warm in the base and surrounding reef, but it still would have been nice to have that extra comfort. A little childish, understandably, but the comfort of a blanket would have eased all their unease, if just a little. Cellbit beside him nodded, still holding the PDA he and Quackity had been using for their discussions. “Seeing a bed after so long is kind of weird honestly, you’re right. It’s too normal.” Too normal is one way to describe it.

They had all slept side by side pretty much since the start. Him, Tubbo and Fit already squeezed together in the pod while caring for the youngest’s injuries, then Cellbit and Pac joining the already crammed space. Even when they had first created the base and had much more room, they all decided to huddle together every night and made a nest structure for them to lay down in. Having each other’s comfort had been so reassuring, a constant reminder that at least they weren’t alone. That someone was there to share the fear of the unknown just outside these walls. Having a whole bed for each of them now is… odd. It feels like separation, at least to Techno.

The Brazilian seemed to sense his hesitance and nudged his shoulder, smiling. Looking at him with such care despite only knowing each other for such a short time. Relationships and trust can grow fast in situations like these, Techno was well aware. They were dependent on each other, they had to trust that when it came down to it, each and every one of them would try their damn hardest to protect each other. “If this turns out to be too much or uncomfortable as hell, we can always go back to the nest. No need to get rid of it yet.” Techno hummed in agreement. It could remain as a comfort thing, if one of them felt like shit or nightmares start plaguing them once more. At least until they needed the space for something else.

Then again, was getting used to group sleeping even a good idea? They had to separate eventually after all, once they get home.

There was laughter from the other room, where Fit was helping set up the other beds and Tubbo was having too much fun messing with him. Despite how shaken they both had been after their talk, the teen was now obviously in a much better mood than before. Which was a change greatly appreciated. “Hey, if you need to talk about what happened in the wreck…” “I’m fine.” He was most definitely not fine, the sight of the dead body still replayed in his mind, but he really does not want to talk about it. Not now at least. The others weren’t aware of the corpse and Techno would like to keep it that way. Still, the offer managed to make him feel a little better, knowing someone was here that was willing to help. “Thank you though, for offering.” Cellbit hummed, just staring ahead into the room. “I know this is a lot. Many things we can’t even begin to understand. But no matter what happens, we have each other, okay? The visions, the creatures, the weapon and infection, we’ll figure it out.”

As long as they manage not to tear each other’s throat out on the way there. It’s unlikely him and Tubbo will be the only ones that argue. But that can be dealt with when they get there. For now, everything was good between them all. Hopefully that will last for a good while this time, since they need to start exploring further and going deeper soon. Possibly another trip to the Q.S.M.P, as they physically can’t go that deep without some form of transportation or enhanced suits. He knows there are reinforced diving suits somewhere, but the most likely place to find them was once again the main wreck. And that was guarded by that aggressive leviathan. Foolish will hate them for going near there again.

But that was also something he can worry about later. Something like that needs to be a group discussion. Instead, he decides to focus on something else first that was more fitting to the current conversation. “Can I ask you something?” Cellbit hummed once again, turning his head to look at him. His hair had gotten so wild over the past weeks… maybe they should see if they could cut it as well. Worked out fine for Techno, even if he still missed his braid sometimes. Focus Techno, don’t get sidetracked. “You were really calm when we found the body. Handled it well, got me and Fit out of there. It’s fine if it’s too personal but, any reason for that?” Cellbit stiffened up immediately, looking almost panicked for a second before calming back down. “Hey, it’s okay if you don’t want to talk about it-“ “No, it’s fine.”

The Brazilian looked over his shoulder, noting that everyone else was still busy messing around with the habitat builder in the other rooms. Techno was about to offer that they could close the door if it was something private, but the other began speaking before he even had the chance to open his mouth. “I… I went to prison. Once.” Techno blinked, dumbfounded, honestly not sure how to process that information. Prison? Cellbit? It was hard to imagine him committing any sort of crime that would put him in jail. He’s been so protective over Pac, so kind to Tubbo… He could have gone to prison before ever suspecting that Cellbit should.

The other seemed to notice his confusion, relieved to not be immediately met with hostility at the confession. Still, he began to fidget with the PDA in his hands, not meeting Techno’s eyes as he continued talking. “Not because I killed anyone or anything. It was a very small thing, really, a private investigation that went wrong and we got sued over it. Only served a few weeks before they let me out again. The judge revoked my sentence when presented with new evidence.”

That… certainly was something. And not a crime that Techno would connect to prison time. People can be put into prison for private investigation? Aren’t there investigators you can legally and specifically hire for that kind of job? “You got put in prison over a private investigation? I expected a money sentence, you know, like a settlement or damages, maybe even community service. Not prison.” The Brazilian shook his head, looking ashamed now. Which honestly was just more confusing. If it was his job to be a private investigator, then there was no shame in it, even with a job that turned into being sued. “Not if it’s a massive cooperation you are spying on. I was 19, stupid enough to believe we were doing something good and that people would be on our side. Didn’t realize how much money can talk and buy until we got caught.”

Cellbit sighed, running a hand through his hair, wincing as it caught a knot. “Most blame got put on me, thanks to my kind associates. And while I didn’t do anything horrible, prison doesn’t really care about that. You get thrown into the same building as suspected murderers and terrorists. You see and hear things that just… change you.” Techno doesn’t really want to imagine what kind of things Cellbit saw that would make him this numb to seeing a half rotting corpse. While prisons were supposed to keep them all locked up and secured, gangs and violence were common in all of them. There were many stories of deaths and mutilations inside prisons. And he was convinced that wasn’t just an American thing.

“So, when I saw you and Fit both frozen, I just acted. Not that the body didn’t bother me too but, it also wasn’t my first time. And when I was in your position, I had no one to keep me grounded. Figured I’d at least make sure you guys have better support than me.” The mental image of a terrified 19 year old staring at a dead body, completely alone and abandoned… didn’t sit right with him. It only made him feel worse, honestly. But he wasn’t sure if a hug was appropriate, or any contact really. In the end he settled for gently squeezing his shoulder instead.

“I… I’m sorry you went through that. Must have been terrifying, especially at 19 years old.” It sounded a lot more awkward than he had hoped, but he was just at a loss on what to say or how to comfort his friend. Cellbit didn’t seem to mind though, just nodding. “I’m fine now, really. Pac and the others helped me through it, got me therapy, a new job far away from investigations. I’ve been doing fine until I joined the Federation for the phase gate project.” His gaze shifted then, looking almost hateful. Not that it was unjustified, the Federation was corrupt and straight up evil in some cases. But they pay good money, and many people need the money.

“I don’t trust them. Every old Investigator instinct was telling me they were bad news. But we needed the money so bad and that was everything that mattered in the moment. Their files are so… polished. So secretive and selective in what they put inside. Even the simple status reports I handled almost sounded rehearsed when I checked them over. It’s like I am investigating the old corporation again.” That wasn’t entirely news to him. Something has always felt off about how management treated them. How closely supervised they were. And there have been many deaths and disappeared ships, but that was the case for a lot of space programs. Money talks and buys…

“We’ll probably get an NDA once we get off this stupid planet. Knowing them, they don’t want anyone to hear any of this. Not even the survival part, just how they treated us on the ship.” Techno hummed, fully agreeing with Cellbit there. He honestly doesn’t want to imagine the kind of interrogation they will go through once they get home. Not because they did something bad, quite far from it really, but because they would want to know every little detail from the crash to how they managed to survive for so long to the possible resources and technology they have discovered through their stay on the planet. And like hell Techno will tell them anything about both the weapon and the leviathans. Who knows what the Federation will do with that information.

But for now, they had more important things to figure out. Dealing with the Federation can wait until they get home. The noises from the other room had stopped at some point during their conversation, making Techno glance over his shoulder to check on the others. Tubbo was sprawled out on a bed, eyes closed but clearly not asleep. He couldn’t spot the other three anywhere in his current field of vision. “All done with the rooms?” Tubbo lifted his arm to give a thumbs up, then immediately drops it again. Portraying the perfect exhausted teammate and not an eavesdropping little gremlin. The older turned back to his friend, a little grin on his face as he lowered his voice. “Looks like that’s your room then, if he claimed that bed as his.”

Cellbit laughed, shaking his head. “I don’t care what room I have, they are all the same.” Tubbo gasped, immediately sitting up and pointing at Cellbit in mock annoyance. “How dare you! This is the prime spot for a room! It has the perfect angle to the main area and is closest to Foolish and Roier!” He just got another shake of his head in return, the laughter continuing. Techno on the other hand couldn’t let the opportunity go to waste. “So, if you heard that comment, I’m assuming you listened to our conversation.” The teen’s face went from mock annoyance to embarrassment in two seconds, cheeks going red. “I… just the last bit of it, really.” He raised an eyebrow, clearly amused that the teen seemed incredibly embarrassed about being caught. Not that he was even mad about being listened too, Federation conversations aren’t forbidden or secret. The prison one however… “What are your thoughts then?”

Tubbo crossed his legs as he properly sat upright, looking thoughtful. Cellbit fully turned to look at him as well, arms crossed. “Well, I never liked them either. My father only really became an asshole after he started working for them as Captain. He was shit before then, but it got bad once he got that promotion and his shiny new office. And he would keep all his documents and files secret too, like you said. His office was always locked, he got mad when I even glanced at his laptop when I walked past it. Never really thought about it much until now, just tried to avoid having something thrown at me.” So, they were trying to actively hide things. That’s not surprising.

“I’m assuming you never caught any interesting things then, if your father was so protective over his files?” Tubbo shook his head no. “Nope, I got nothing. Just that they are stuck up assholes that try and hide pretty much everything they do. Probably illegal shit to do with lots of money. Even their dress codes and machine colour palette were annoyingly strict. Talk about micromanagement…” Which honestly made it more surprising that Tubbo’s father allowed him to make the ship’s name orange. He had told Techno all about that day, how happy he had been that his father seemed to finally care about him, only to be immediately met with cold eyes the next day again. Sometimes he wished that the Captain did survive the island, just so he could punch him at least once. Especially with how casually Tubbo brought up having things thrown at him if he doesn’t behave.

“You know, we will have to go back to the ship for blueprints at some point. There is no way around it really, if we want to go deeper down and find that vision leviathan. If we have the time for it, we could see what intact files we could find. If that is something that interests you?” Cellbit’s eyes lit up immediately, very reminiscent of a child seeing presents under the Christmas tree. Seemed like a fair comparison, with how much he must have enjoyed investigations before prison. “Oh absolutely! Having dirt on them could be so useful once we get home!” And it was probably the safest way for him to actually investigate the Federation without putting himself in danger. Scratch that itch of wanting to figure out what they were hiding.

Almost immediately, Pac’s head pops around the corner from the main area. So that’s where him and the others went. “Who is getting dirt? Are we making more crop fields outside? I thought we had enough.” It took near everything in Techno to keep himself from bursting into laughter. “No, Cellbit wants to get dirt on the Federation. Secrets and blackmail, you know?” Pac made a little ‘oh’ sound, nodding as he glanced at his friend. Cellbit just shrugged in return, grinning, completely unapologetic. “That does sound like something you would do.” “Hey, at least this time I can’t get caught. Probably.” Tubbo snorted as the other Brazilian sighed in mock annoyance and disappeared back into the main area. “Not saving your ass this time!” 

Now seemed like a good time to plan ahead for the next few days. Everyone was in a pretty good mood, they had a semi successful scavenger run and even Fit seemed to be doing a little better, not as pale as he was back in the ship. Pac might be the biggest reason for that, keeping his mind occupied and distracted enough to not think about what they had seen inside. Techno felt bad about the fact that they might need to head back there for more, as Tubbo had told them he had found a laser-cutter in one of the crates. Sending in Cellbit by himself was not an option, so it was very likely any of them would have an… extreme reaction seeing another corpse somewhere else in the wreck.

“You know, if you guys are done having your therapy talks, we could use some help going through the crates!” Perfect, a chance to have everyone together and talk. Cellbit snorted out a laugh at the impatient tone in Quackity’s voice, but followed it anyways. Techno too walked into the main room, seeing that Fit and Quackity were already sitting on the floor, emptying out the different tool crates they had. The ones that were damaged were scanned and turned into blueprints, hopefully able to be reconstructed with materials they can gather outside.

Judging by the different piles scattered around, they had some sort of system in sorting everything. "How is the payout so far?" Pac settled back down by one of the piles with a grin, spreading the tools out in front of him. "These are all the ones that are fully functional. Three drills, one laser cutter, two more repair tools, four scanners, one welding tool used for high pressure plating and even a fire extinguisher. Obviously we also have all the normal tools that can't be broken by water, like all these wrenches and screwdrivers over there. And we aren't even done with emptying the crates." That was a lot already, evidentially a payout that made the mechanics and engineers in the room very happy.

"I mean, don't get me wrong, anything helping us survive is valuable. But do we really need all of these?" Even if they store them in the crates, it will take up a lot of space within their base. Maybe if they can get lockers, they can sort these things better, but they don’t have that right now. Although pretty much everyone in the base immediately disagreed with silent stares alone, stares that scream ‘you could never have enough tools’. Apparently, that's what he gets for being the only one here with no experience as a mechanic or engineer. So, he just lifted his hands in silent surrender, letting them go back to sorting and discussing each new tool.

“While you do that, we should plan what we do tomorrow. Or just what we do next in general.” They all shared questioning looks, unsure where to even start. There were a lot of things that needed to be done, but all of those seem impossible right now with the equipment they currently have. “Well, I think your earlier idea is probably the best”, Cellbit mentioned, taking his spot next to Quackity on the floor to help with the sorting. “We have to get blueprints or a working vehicle to go deeper. No matter what weapons or tools we get, it won’t be of any use if we can’t even physically reach wherever that leviathan is. So that is a good place to start I guess. Either the main wreck or that section we got the crates from, now that we have a laser cutter.”

Techno already opened his mouth to agree, when Tubbo jumped in, looking a bit panicked. “No, we can’t go back to the main wreck! Foolish almost died last time we went there, we can’t do this to him again!” Fit, as the current closest sitting person to Tubbo, quickly placed a hand on his shoulder to stop him from jumping up and possibly messing up their sorted piles. “Calm down, we are not purposefully endangering Foolish. He’s our friend, there is no way we go near that wreck unless we absolutely have to.” Tubbo’s shoulders slumped a little again as he glanced out the window. None of them could see the leviathans currently, but the steady rumble still faintly vibrating through the base told them Foolish was nearby.

“We can’t make them keep paying for our mistakes and recklessness. They don’t deserve that. If the main wreck is the only place to get vehicles, then fuck it. We’re smart, we can come up with our own things without using the Federation blueprints. I am not getting Foolish or Roier killed because we thought a blueprint was more important than their life.” Fundamentally, Techno fully agreed with Tubbo. They shouldn’t risk their friend’s safety for machinery or blueprints. Although he wasn’t quite sure how… safe it would be to create their own vehicles. Then again, they could probably just have the leviathans take empty prototypes into deeper water and test if the pressure holds. That way no one gets endangered. Not more than usual at least.

Techno sighed, leaning his head on his hand. This would all be so much easier if they could just talk to the leviathans. He had never imagined a language barrier with a giant fish becoming such a problem. “A large part of the wreck we explored is sealed off, so cutting it open with a laser cutter can already get us a lot more things. If that ends up being useless, we find other pieces of the ship to scavenge. We are not going near the main ship until we can somehow communicate better with the leviathans and ask for permission. However that would work. And if we do go to the main wreck, at least this time we are prepared for the leviathan being there.” Agreeing murmurs came from the others, although Quackity was looking at him with furrowed brows, eyes slightly squinted.

He waited patiently for him to speak up, but after another five minutes of just being stared at while everyone went back to work, his patience ran out. “Okay spill it. Did I say something wrong? Why are you looking at me like that?” Quackity blinked, as if he hadn’t even realized that he had been staring at Techno in the first place. Which probably meant it wasn’t actually something insulting he had said on accident. Good to know he wasn’t the only person who could easily zone out and stare at people without meaning to. “Well… you mentioned talking to the leviathans. And I figured with what we saw you do… it’s not actually that impossible.”

Well that certainly got everyone’s attention on him, even if half the group already knew about it. “Wait, what did Techno do? Did I miss something?” Cellbit looked between the two, genuinely confused on what event they were talking about. His dreams wouldn’t really count towards communicating with Foolish or Roier, obviously. Techno fumbled for the right words, especially because he doesn’t remember much of what had actually happened that night. Thankfully, there were two people who had witnessed the event and could explain it much better than he could. “Well, Tubbo and I saw Techno having this weird mind connection to Foolish? He had glowing green eyes and didn’t react to anything we did, just copied all of Foolish’s movements despite having his back turned to him. It was really creepy, as if Techno was like… a puppet? Or a mimic?”

Techno bit the inside of his cheek when all eyes turned on him again, not at all liking the different emotions he saw on each face. “So, you discovered a new ability connected to the leviathans. And you didn’t tell us any of that because?” Heat rose to his cheeks, although he wasn’t even sure himself if it was out of embarrassment or shame. All of his preachings about team work, just to keep secrets like that. “I told Fit. Kind of. It was part of the reason Tubbo and I fought, I guess. Not specifically the ability, but the action right after.” The group shared silent looks between them, making him nervously fidget with his hands. Why was this making him nervous? It’s not like that was the first weird thing happening to him. He knows they have his back, he shouldn’t be scared of their reactions. Not like this at least.

Thankfully, Cellbit’s investigation mind immediately went into research mode and distracted him from getting lost in his own mind. “Okay. What exactly happened between Foolish and you? Could you talk to him or read his mind or..?” He shook his head no, much to Tubbo’s disappointment, who had perked up at the question as well. What actually happened never came up in conversation, since their fight took place right after the teen had pulled him back into the base. Sure, Techno had admitted he didn’t remember anything that happened, but there was always the hope some sort of memory would return later on. “Honestly, nothing really happened at all. Not that I remember. Everything just went kind of… fuzzy? Like when you are about to fall asleep. That’s all I can remember at least.” 

"Well, that's reassuring," Cellbit muttered, gaze travelling to the window in search for their leviathan friends. Roier was visible now, lazily drifting in view if the window with another Stalker hanging out of his mouth. Seems like its dinner time for the leviathans as well. His brows were furrowed, looking like he was deep in thought. His investigation brain working full force, most likely. "Do you think you could do it again? That connection with Foolish?" Techno shrugged, honestly not sure if he could. He didn't even know if it was him or Foolish that initiated that connection in the first place. "I wouldn't know where to start. Don't remember how it started last time." 

"But you are willing to try?" He wasn't sure if Cellbit's enthusiasm should be worrying or admired. Sure, Techno himself would love nothing more than to know everything that could happen to him, everything the leviathans are capable of doing. But the fact alone that this connection is possible terrified him to no end. Scared him into all kinds of scenarios where he could become some mindless husk or mind controlled puppet. Especially because he does not remember anything that happened while in that connection.

The only one who seemed to really notice his fear seemed to be Pac, of all people. "Leave him be Cellbit. Being mind controlled isn't fun." The Brazilian turned to his friend, his hands already slightly raised in surrender. "No one said anything about mind control. But if this could be a way to talk to the leviathans, it's worth trying. It would definitely make things a lot easier." Pac shook his head, now actively looking disappointed. "And you are not thinking about Techno in this. Look at him, he's scared. I'd be too, if I were suddenly receiving strange dreams and have mind links with massive alien fish."

The way they talked about him as if he wasn't standing right there made his skin crawl. Like he was some experimental subject for a greater purpose. Not his own person that was, as Pac said, fucking terrified of everything that was happening right now. He wrapped his arms around himself, gripping his bicep hard as the two went back and forth, while the rest watched. No one was really sure what to say or do, as both made good points. They need everything they can get to survive and gain an advantage. But Techno wasn't just an object or machine to use.

The room started to fade away as his ears rang, trying to block out the argument happening right in front of him. He doesn't want this. Any of it. He just wants to go home and have his life back, no visions or abilities or massive fish trying to use him for god knows what. His whole body felt like it was vibrating with the low rumble Foolish sent through the whole base. It seemed louder now, maybe he had laid down near the base again. Or greeting Roier, he always gets so loud when saying hello to his child. Both were very possible.

"Techno?" He snapped back to the present as a hand carefully shook his shoulder, shaking of the odd fuzziness that had started to take over his mind. Tubbo was staring at him, looking worried. He blinked, only now realizing how dry his eyes were. Had he been asked a question? "Uh... can you repeat that?" The teen frowned, now actively grasping both of his shoulders. "You can hear me, right? See me?" Now it was his turn to frown. Of course he can, why wouldn't he? He’s obviously talking to the teen right now. "Yes? What's going on?" Tubbo turned and grabbed the first reflective surface he could find, which ended up being one of their oxygen tanks. And when it got put right in front of his face, his heart nearly stopped. Warped through the bent surface, he could see two glowing eyes staring back at him. Not fully glowing like Foolish's eyes, nor were they green. His own red eyes held a faint glow to them now, although far stronger than it had been after the first connection.

"It happened again. You zoned out and then your eyes started to glow. Foolish was by the window and looked at you." He immediately turned his head to see out the window, spotting Foolish staring right back at him instantly. He wasn't pressed up against the glass like last time, but a fair distance away. Still, he was looking right at Techno, unmoving, although with his head tilted in curiosity. "Do you remember anything? Hear something?" His mouth opened and closed uselessly for a moment, trying to recall literally anything that happened the last five minutes. But he came up blank, only recalling feeling scared and... worried? He doesn't even remember why he felt worried, outside of the little argument there was nothing around that could make him worry.

"No. Sorry. I... don't remember anything. Just feeling a bit worried and my head being all fuzzy again. That's it." The teen nodded, as if he had expected the answer from the start. "No idea how it started?" He shook his head, already starting to fidget with his sleeve again out of habit. Yeah, strange abilities that just suddenly appear fill him with a lot of confidence in his own sanity. “I just spaced out when Cellbit and Pac started arguing.” Said Brazilians looked a little guilty, having now realized that perhaps discussing Techno’s abilities without actually asking him had been a little disrespectful.

Although, it was strange that he seemingly managed to do it again the moment it got mentioned, despite it not being on purpose. And Cellbit wasn’t wrong, if spacing out meant it was easy for him to connect to Foolish, possibly other leviathans, maybe it was something he could train. He wasn’t sure how useful this actually was, if he doesn’t remember anything that happened. “You said you felt worried? And don’t remember why?” Techno nodded. Cellbit’s fingers were drumming along the edge of a crate he was leaning on, clearly thinking over multiple different theories already. “You were not worried before spacing out?” Again, he shook his head.

“Alright. I got a theory. What if this connection doesn’t necessarily allow you to speak to them, but it does transfer emotions? The worry you felt wasn’t yours, it was Foolish’s. And he was worried because he felt that you weren’t doing good. It probably goes both ways.” That… could actually make sense. It’s why he doesn’t remember anything exchanged during the connection. There was nothing, no conversation or even mental images or memories. Just feelings. And the last time, or first time really, both had been pretty calm when it happened. So nothing felt out of place back then.

Foolish was still looking at him, head tilted ever so slightly. Techno lifted his hand to wave, despite knowing that the leviathan would not understand the gesture in the slightest. Still, it seemed enough to calm them both down a little, Foolish finally moving again to return to whatever he and Roier had been doing. Before he could even voice a response, the Brazilian was already going again, sounding very excited despite the terrifying implications behind actual mind links. “This is incredible! Having even the ability to do this not just with each other, but other species! I wonder if it is entirely biology or something else. Do you guys think it’s only Techno that can receive this? Why is it only you? Or have any of you experienced something similar and just haven’t said anything?”

They all shook their heads, which did raise a lot more questions on why it was only Techno. But the fact that Cellbit was so energetic and positive about it and Tubbo’s presence remained by his side, it helped Techno feel a little better about it. Still scared and confused on why it has to be him of all people, but feeling lighter. Maybe this won’t be as scary as he imagined. “I could try and do it again, but I can’t promise anything.” Tubbo’s hand gently squeezed his arm. “Don’t force yourself if you aren’t ready. We kind of have more than enough time to figure this out.” That did get a laugh out of him, albeit a quiet one. “Thanks Tubs.”

Now that the atmosphere wasn’t as suffocating as it had been a few moments ago, it was time to get back to planning. Fit decided to finally speak up, having stayed silent for most of the conversation so far. “We should head back tomorrow. Cut our way into the sealed parts and see what else is in there. Everyone will take a light, we can split up a bit better and look through more rooms in shorter time. Anyone absolutely against going inside the wreck? I know Tubbo, you said you didn’t want to go inside?” The teen nodded, now moving to put the oxygen tank back that he had picked up as an impromptu mirror. “I don’t do well with tight, dark places. I’m sorry.” “That’s okay, don’t apologize. What do you want to do while we check out the wreck?”

He shrugged, finally sitting down back in his spot once Techno too had fully settled down again. “I can scavenge around with the leviathans, maybe I can find more crates. Or just take care of collecting all the fish for water and dinner.” Fit nodded, pushing the now finally empty crate back against the wall. “That works. And everyone else is fine going inside? I know we left Pac outside today but if you have someone with you it shouldn’t be that bad.” There were agreeing comments from everyone, with Pac playfully bumping their shoulders together. “We can team up, I’m sure you’ll keep me safe.”

Fit’s face went through about ten different shades of red while Tubbo burst into laughter, Cellbit offering a not so helpful whistle at the comment. Quackity too snorted at the comment, raising an eyebrow. “Smooth.” He was met with a glare instantly. “Shut it, all of you.”