Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

As soon as they saw him, they knew he was the omega they had been looking for. While it is not unheard of for two alphas or two omegas to be together, it was extremely hard for those couples to conceive naturally. It took years for Essence to get pregnant. And that was WITH medical and magical help.

Once they saw the small blue troll they were immediately intrigued and to come to learn this was in fact the Branch that helped their son out through the years just solidified their decision. Branch already had maternal and protective instincts, so he would be a great addition to their family. Of course that’s not the only reason they wanted him. They had been searching for an Omega to add to their relationship for quite awhile and had almost given up, they wanted a sweet caring omega, which has shown by how well Darnell got along with him already, they also needed one who was able to stand up for himself (can’t have a weak monarch controlling the kingdom). Quincy and Essence knew that they also needed an omega that was strong and brave enough to handle the responsibilities of being in the royal family and helping guide their people. They had heard of the way Branch handled the tough situations in the past, from Cooper, so they knew Branch was the one.

One of the biggest reasons though was that they wanted an omega to spoil with love, affection and gifts. And not that Quincy and Essence liked to brag but as king and queen they could definitely provide all of those things better than mostly anyone else.

They just needed a way to keep him there. Sure they could court him until he is interested and It is very unlike them to be this forceful or impatient about something but after a 18 year long search for an omega, Quincy and Essence did not want to wait any longer.

So, when Poppy asked for help stopping Barbs world domination, they took the chance.

They sent Cooper and Darnell out of the room with a gentle nudge and a knowing smile. The air grew thick with the anticipation of the unspoken proposal, and the gravity of the situation weighed heavily on the remaining three. Essence and Quincy looked down at Branch, their expressions a mix of hope and determination.

"Branch," Essence began, her voice velvety and persuasive, "you have proven yourself to be a valuable ally and friend to our son, Cooper. We appreciate your bravery and resourcefulness. In light of the grave situation we face with Queen Barb, we have something to ask of you."

Branch looked up at the towering alphas, his eyes wide with curiosity. Quincy stepped closer, placing a comforting hand on Branch's shoulder. "We understand that your assistance is crucial in this matter. However, we believe that your potential extends far beyond just this battle. Our kingdom, Vibe City, and our family need a strong, capable omega to balance our union and continue our legacy."

Poppy, who had been quietly observing from the side, gasped. She had seen how composed Essence and Quincy were, and were very formal with her up until this point, but she had never expected them to act so assertively about their personal lives. But here they were, laying their hearts and desires on the line for a troll they had just met.

Quincy smiled at branch while Essence stood by him supportively. “We will help you stop Queen Barb but only if you agree to be our omega.”

Branch felt a sudden jolt of shock run through his system. The gravity of their words hit him like a ton of bricks. He stared at them, his heart racing. The silence in the room was palpable, and his mind stopped for a few moments. He had never thought about being in a relationship with anyone, let alone two Royal alphas.

"Your...omega?" he finally managed to stutter out, his voice barely above a whisper.

Essence nodded solemnly, her eyes never leaving Branch's. "You would agree to be ours, to share our lives, our power, and our love, in exchange for our resources to help in stopping Queen Barb”

Poppy watched the exchange with a mix of shock and concern. "Branch, you don't have to do this," she interjected, but Branch held up a hand to silence her.

He took a deep breath, contemplating the weight of the alphas' proposal. They were asking him to be their omega, to join their family in the most intimate way possible. His thoughts raced, trying to grasp the implications of such a decision. Yet, as he gazed into their earnest expressions, something within him stirred. The desire to protect his friends and the Troll community from Barbs' tyranny was stronger than his fear of the unknown.

"I...I'll do it," Branch murmured, his voice shaking slightly. "If it means we can stop Barb, I'll be your omega."

The room remained still for a moment before Essence and Quincy's faces lit up with joy. Essence was the first to react, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to Branch's forehead. "Thank you," she whispered. "You have made us very happy."

Quincy's gaze softened as he squeezed Branch's shoulder. "We understand that this is a significant commitment," he said, his deep voice rumbling with sincerity. "But we promise to treat you with the utmost respect and care. You will be more than just our omega; you will be our equal, our partner in all things."

Branch nodded, his heart still racing. "But... when do we have to... you know," he mumbled, his cheeks flushing a dark shade of blue-grey.

The funk trolls were able to help fend off the Rock apocalypse as long as they could (they did not let them get to the ships power source this time) Poppy has her epiphany about listening to others during the battle and is able to destroy the strings during the battle. They all sang to get their colors back and made peace. But branch goes back to vibe city afterwards —————————————————————————————

Branch couldn't shake off the feeling of Poppy's concern as he pondered the monumental decision he had just made. Her voice echoed in his mind, filled with worry for his well-being and the potential consequences of his agreement. Despite her protests, he knew that he had made the right choice. The thought of standing alongside Essence and Quincy, of contributing to their union and family, filled him with an unexpected warmth.

Plus in Pop village he had always felt like an outsider, even after he helped save them numerous times, but with tge funk family, he sensed a belonging from that he hadn't experienced before and that was from just a few days of being with them.

Poppy looked at him with a mix of emotions, her eyes filled with a blend of shock, concern, and understanding. She knew Branch had agreed for the greater good, but she couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness at the thought of her friend making such a significant life change under such intense circumstances.

As they made their way back to the Funk Trolls' royal suite, the gravity of the situation began to sink in deeper. The corridors of Vibe City were bustling with activity, yet the moment they stepped into the private quarters, the chaos of the outside world melted away. Essence led Branch into their opulent bedroom, the walls adorned with vibrant lights and funky patterns that danced and shifted with the music that seemed to be the lifeblood of the city. The door slid closed with a soft click, and the air grew thick with anticipation.

The room was a symphony of purples and blues, reflecting the royal couple's vibrant personalities. The bed, large enough to fit 6 funk trolls, was piled high with pillows that smelled faintly of Essence and Quincy's unique scents. Branch suddenly started wondering if it would be a good place to build his nest but decided to worry about that later. He thought they wouldn’t want him building his nest on their bed anyway.

Quincy's strong arms wrapped around Branch from behind, pulling him closer. Essence stepped forward, her gaze lingering on Branch's neck, where his scent glands pulsed with anticipation. She leaned in, her nose brushing against the soft fur there, inhaling deeply. The scent of fear and uncertainty mingled with a burgeoning arousal. She looked into his eyes, and her own eyes glowed with reassurance. "You're safe here," she whispered, her breath warm against his skin.

The alphas guided Branch to the center of the bed, his legs trembling as he sat on his knees. They took a moment to remove his vest and shorts, revealing his lithe body. His fur was a stark contrast to their vibrant hues, but it was his scent that truly set him apart – a sweet, earthy aroma that seemed to resonate with their very cores. They could feel their own desire growing as they took in his features.

Branch felt the warmth of Quincy's hand on his shoulder, turning him to face the larger troll. The king's eyes searched his own, looking for any sign of doubt or fear. "We'll go slow," Quincy promised, his voice a soothing rumble. "We'll make sure you're ready." Essence nodded in agreement, her own hand reaching out to stroke Branch's cheek gently.

The omega's thoughts swirled like a tornado. He was about to become a part of a bond that was both thrilling and terrifying. He had always been a solitary creature, but the warmth and belonging he felt in the presence of Essence and Quincy was undeniable. The weight of his decision settled in his chest, but the resolve to help stop Queen Barb remained steadfast. He took a deep breath and nodded, trying to compose himself.

Essence took the lead, her cool demeanor gently guiding Branch through the initial steps of their bonding. She began by scenting him, her lips kissing against the soft fur of his neck and wrists. The action was tender and comforting, and Branch felt his muscles relax slightly. Quincy, ever the observant one, noticed the tension in Branch's shoulders and took it upon himself to massage them, his strong fingers working out the knots with surprising skill.

The room grew warmer as their scents mingled, the air thick with the promise of a bond that would soon be formed. Essence stepped back, allowing Quincy to take over. He leaned in, his nose tracing a line down Branch's neck to his chest, where he took a deep inhale. "You smell incredible," he murmured, his breath sending shivers down Branch's spine.

The omega's cheeks grew even darker as he felt the alpha's warmth against him. His body was responding in ways he had never experienced before, and he found himself leaning into the touch. Quincy chuckled softly, a sound that was both comforting and thrilling. He pressed his scent glands against Branch's neck, marking him as theirs. The scent was potent, a mix of Essences calming cinnamon scent along with, Quincy’s sweet citrus orange aroma that seemed to fill every inch of Branch's being.

Essence watched with a knowing smile as her husband worked their soon-to-be omega. She knew that this was a crucial moment in their bonding process. The scenting was more than just a physical act; it was a declaration of protection and ownership, one that would be recognized by every troll. Once Branch was thoroughly marked, there would be no question as to who he belonged to.

Quincy's hand traveled down Branch's chest, his fingers skimming over the omega's thin but soft stomach, (Quincy made a mental note to get his omega on a consistent food schedule). Branch's breath hitched as he felt the alpha's touch, his body responding instinctively. Essence stepped closer, her own desire clear in her eyes. They had been waiting for this moment for so long, and now it was finally within their grasp.

They took turns scenting him, their hands roaming over his body, mapping out every curve and plane. Each touch sent a jolt of electricity through Branch, his body awakening to their alpha senses in a way he had never experienced before. He felt a strange mix of vulnerability and power, knowing that he was about to become the center of their world.

Essence reached out, her hand wrapping around Branch's neck. She pulled him closer, her lips meeting his in a gentle kiss. The omega's eyes fluttered shut as he felt the warmth of her scent fill his lungs. Quincy's hands found their way to Branch's hips, his thumbs tracing circles on the sensitive skin. The touch was tender yet firm, grounding Branch in the reality of the moment.

The kiss grew deeper, more urgent, as Essence's tongue slipped into his mouth. Branch melted into the embrace, his body responding to the alpha's touch. Quincy's hands moved to Branch's chest, teasing his nipples until they peaked with excitement. The omega gasped, his body trembling with each stroke. He had never felt so desired, so cherished.

The alphas stepped back, their own clothing disappearing piece by piece. Quincy's broad chest was adorned with glittering chains and piercings that matched his regal attire, while Essence's voluptuous form was revealed beneath her gown, leaving Branch speechless. They were both so much more than he had ever imagined, and the sight of them, stripped bare before him, was overwhelming. He watched as they undressed each other, their movements filled with a love and passion that was palpable.

Essence looked into Branch's eyes, her gaze never wavering. "You ready baby?" she asked, her voice gentle. Branch nodded, his heart racing with a mix of excitement and fear. Essence gave him a warm smile, their omega was so precious. She then turned to Quincy "Let's show him how much we care," she said, her voice a seductive purr.

Quincy nodded, his eyes alight with love and desire. They positioned Branch on his back, his legs spread wide, exposing his most intimate parts. His clit located directly under his tiny omega cock glistened. His length standing at full attention. Essence and quincy couldn’t help but stare in awe at his beauty.

Branch felt their gazes and his cheeks burned. He hadn’t had any experience with romance, and the intense scrutiny was making him self-conscious. He looked away, his eyes darting around the room and started slowly closing his legs.

Quincy quickly grab both his thighs and held him there spread wide open so he couldn’t close them. Essence leaned down, her mouth closing around the tip of his cock. Branch's eyes shot back to hers, wide with surprise. Her tongue swirled around him, licking and teasing, as she took him deeper into her mouth. His body responded instinctively, his hips bucking upward as she worked her magic, he moaned beautifully . Quincy watched, his own arousal growing as he saw the pleasure on Branch's face.

Her hands caressed his thighs, her nails lightly scraping against his skin.

The sensation was like nothing Branch had ever felt before. His body responded eagerly, his hips bucking up to meet her. Essence's grip tightened, holding him in place as she explored him further, her teeth grazing his sensitive flesh. Quincy watched, his own arousal growing as he took in the sight of his wife claiming their new omega so thoroughly.

Branch's breaths grew ragged, and he found himself panting, his body writhing under Essence's skilled ministrations. The pleasure was intense, almost painful in its intensity, and his hands shot up to push her away. He couldn't take it anymore. It was too much.

Quincy, ever the observant alpha, noticed Branch's distress and swiftly stepped in letting go of his legs leaving Essence to hold them. Quincy sat above his omegas head and gently but firmly held down Branch's wrists, keeping them pinned to the bed. "Easy," he murmured, his voice a soothing bass. "Let it happen, Branch. We're here for you."

Essence didn't stop her ministrations, instead, she increased her pace, her tongue swirling around Branch's tip as his body arched off the bed. Quincy leaned in, his nose nuzzling against Branch's neck as he inhaled deeply, marking him further with his own scent. "You're doing so well," he praised, his voice a warm rumble in Branch's ear.

Quincy's words brought a fresh wave of arousal crashing over Branch, and he found himself moaning in response. He had never felt so desired, so cherished. The pressure was building within him, his body coiling tighter and tighter. He knew he was close, but something held him back, a final shred of uncertainty.

Quincy leaned in, his warm breath tickling Branch's ear as he whispered, "You know, Essence here has a magic mouth." Branch's eyes widened at the implication, and he could feel his cheeks growing even hotter under his fur. "It's true," he said, as smug smile played on Essences lips as she pulled away from his cock, her lips glistening with his precum. "She can make me see stars with just her tongue."

Essence gave a playful wink before she resumed her attentions, her mouth moving faster and faster. Branch felt himself getting closer to the edge, his body shaking with the effort to hold back. But Quincy was there, his strong hands anchoring him to the bed, his warm breath against his skin, reassuring him that he was safe, that this was right.

And then Essence's fingers found his clit, teasing it with a gentle touch that sent shockwaves through his body. Branch had never felt anything like it. It was as if she had found the exact spot that made him feel like he was floating, like all his worries were melting away. Her touch grew firmer, more insistent, and he couldn't help but let out a low moan, his body begging for more.

Her tongue danced around the tip of his cock, flicking and teasing, as her fingers worked their magic. She applied just the right amount of pressure, and Branch felt himself getting closer to the edge. He could feel his muscles tightening, his body preparing for the inevitable release. Quincy watched, his own arousal growing as he saw the effect Essence was having on their new omega.

With a knowing smile, Essence inserted one, then two fingers into Branch's clit, her movements slow and deliberate. Branch's eyes rolled back in his head, his mouth forming a silent scream as she hit just the right spot. The omega's body was a symphony of sensations, each touch from the alpha's fingers sending him spiraling closer to climax. Essence's eyes never left Branch's face, reading his every reaction, making sure she was giving him exactly what he needed.

Quincy watched, his own cock straining against his boxers. He reached over, stroking Branch's cheek with his thumb, his eyes filled with admiration and desire. "You're so beautiful," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. "Let go for us, Branch can you do that baby? Do you want to be our good boy?."

The omega's eyes snapped open, meeting Quincy's gaze. He nodded, his breaths coming in short gasps. He could feel it, the feeling of pleasure building within him, threatening to shatter him into a million pieces. Essence's mouth was relentless, her fingers working in tandem to drive him to the brink. And then, with one curl of her fingers, Branch was lost.

His body convulsed as he came, his cock pulsing with hot seed that Essence eagerly swallowed. She didn't stop until he was spent, his body lying limp and trembling on the bed. Quincy released Branch's wrists, his eyes never leaving the omega's face. He leaned in, his own scent mixing with Essence's as he kissed Branch deeply, sharing in the taste of his release.

Essence lets up on his length kissed the tip and sat back, wiping her mouth with her finger , a satisfied smirk playing on her lips. "You taste like blueberries," she teased, making Branch blush even more. Quincy chuckled, his own arousal palpable as he leaned in to kiss his wife. Their lips met, and Branch watched, fascinated by the love and passion that was so openly displayed between the two alphas.

Essence pulled away from the kiss, looking down at Branch with a glint in her eye. "Would you like to go first, my love?" she asked Quincy, her voice a low purr.

Quincy chuckled, his own desire evident in the way his chest heaved. "Ladies first," he murmured, gesturing for Essence to take the lead. She smirked, knowing full well that her husband was eager to watch her claim their new omega.

Essences hand slid down to her crotch, and with a smooth motion, she pulled down the fabric of her underwear, revealing her retractable cock where her pussy usually was. It was a deep shade of purple, a stark contrast against her blue skin, and it was already hard with anticipation. Branch's eyes widened, his gaze locked on the impressive length as it grew before his eyes.

"Flip him," she ordered Quincy, her voice filled with a mix of command and lust. Quincy was more than happy to oblige, his own cock tenting his briefs as he gently but firmly flipped Branch onto his hands and knees. The omega's breath caught in his throat, his body trembling with anticipation and nerves.

Essence positioned herself behind Branch, her cock fully erect and gleaming with lubricant. She took a moment to admire his round, plump ass, feeling her own desire spike at the sight of him so open and vulnerable. She leaned in, pressing her cock against his cunt, feeling him tense up. "Relax," she murmured, her voice soothing and commanding at the same time. "Let us in."

Branch took a deep breath, his eyes squeezed shut as he nodded. He felt the head of Essence's cock push against him, the pressure building until he could feel himself stretching to accommodate her. It burned, but he knew it would only get better. With a gentle push, Essence slid inside him, filling him completely.

Branch let out a low moan, his body shaking with the sensation. Quincy leaned over, his warm hand resting on Branch's shoulder as he whispered, "You're doing so good, baby." His voice was a comforting balm, and Branch felt his muscles relax a little. Essence took her time, moving in and out slowly, giving Branch's body time to adjust.

The omega's breaths grew shallow, his eyes fluttering closed as Essence picked up the pace. Quincy watched, his own arousal growing with every stroke. He could see the way Branch's body was responding to Essence, the way he was taking her in, and it was making him ache to join them. But he knew this was about Branch, about making him feel loved and accepted.

Quincy leaned in, his nose brushing against Branch's neck as he inhaled the sweet scent of their new omega. He let out a low growl, his teeth grazing Branch's neck gently. The omega's eyes snapped open, meeting Quincy's as he moaned, his body jerking forward with every thrust Essence delivered. Quincy couldn't resist any longer; he reached down, his hand wrapping around Branch's cock.

He stroked him in time with Essence's movements, his grip firm and sure. Branch's eyes rolled back, his mouth open in a silent scream of pleasure as the two alphas claimed him. Essence's hips snapped against his, the sound echoing through the room. Branch felt so full, so alive, with Essence's cock moving inside him and Quincy's hand on his own.

The tension grew, a tight coil in Branch's belly. He could feel it building, the same pressure that had been there before, but this time it was different. It was stronger, more intense. He was aware of every inch of Essence's cock, every stroke sending shockwaves through his body. He was theirs, and the thought sent a thrill through him that was as terrifying as it was exhilarating.

Quincy's hand worked him in time with Essence's thrusts, their rhythm synchronized to perfection. The touch was almost too much, too intense, but Branch didn't want it to stop. He could feel himself getting closer, his body begging for release. He reached back, his hand finding Essence's hip, urging her deeper, faster.

The room was filled with the sounds of passion - the slap of skin on skin, the wet sounds of Essence's cock moving in and out of him, their mingled gasps and moans. The scent of arousal and desire was thick in the air, making Branch's head spin. He was lost in the sensations, his mind a haze of pleasure.

Quincy's hand tightened around his cock, his strokes matching Essence's deep, powerful thrusts. Branch's eyes rolled back in his head, his body trembling with the effort to hold on. And then, Essence reached around, her hand coming to rest on the side of his face, and she gently pushed him down. His cheek hit the cool fabric of the bed, and he gasped as the angle changed, her cock hitting deeper, more intensely.

Quincy leaned in, his breath hot against Branch's ear. "Come for us, baby," he murmured, his voice a low rumble. "Let us feel how much you want this." And with that, Branch lost all control. He came hard, his body spasming as he was filled with Essence's warmth. She groaned, her grip on his hip tightening as his body tightened around her length as her knot formed, locking them together.

Essence leaned over, her chest pressing against Branch's back as she whispered sweet nothings into his ear. "You're ours now," she murmured, her voice a seductive purr. "Our little omega, to love and protect." Her words sent a shiver down Branch's spine, and he found himself nodding, desperate to please her.

They sat there for sometime until Essences knot deflated and stopped shooting warm cum. And with pop trolls being slightly smaller than funk trolls, the amount of cum distended his stomach slightly.

Quincy watched the intimate moment unfold, his own arousal reaching new heights. He knew it was time to join them fully. He removed his underwear, revealing his thick, maroon cock. It stood proudly, a clear indication of his desire for Branch. He knelt beside his wife, their eyes meeting in silent understanding.

Together, they carefully sat Branch up on his knees, his legs spread wide, his back leaning against Essence's chest. She wrapped her arms around him, her cock still buried deep inside, holding him firmly in place. Branch's eyes were glazed over with pleasure, his chest heaving with each shallow breath he took. Quincy took a moment to admire their new omega, his excited but exhausted expression, the way his body responded to their touch.

With a gentle touch, Quincy positioned his cock at Branch's entrance, giving him a moment to adjust to the feeling of being filled by two alphas at once. Branch took a deep breath, his body trembling with anticipation. Essence leaned in to kiss him, her tongue dancing with his as Quincy began to push inside.

After practically bending Branch in half by putting his legs over Quincy’s shoulders, Quincy's cock slid in fully alongside Essence's, the two of them filling him completely. Branch whimpered into Essence's mouth, his body adjusting to the new sensation. The alphas paused, giving him a moment to breathe, before they began to move again. Their thrusts grew stronger, faster, and Branch's moans grew louder.

The three of them moved together in a dance of passion, their bodies entwined as one. Essence's hand found its way to Branch's chest, playing with his nipples, sending jolts of pleasure through his body. Quincy's hand rested on Branch's thigh, his grip firm and reassuring. The omega could feel himself building up to another climax, his body tightening around the alphas' cocks as he bounced up and down between them.

The room was a symphony of sounds - the slap of flesh, the grunts of effort, the sweet whispers of love and encouragement. Essence's fingers danced over Branch's skin, leaving a trail of goosebumps wherever they touched. Her thumb traced the line of his jaw, tilting his head back so she could kiss him deeply, her tongue exploring his mouth as if it were a secret treasure.

Branch's tongue slipped out, panting for air, as the two alphas filled him completely. They couldn't help but smile at the sight of their omega's adorable expression, his cheeks flushed and eyes glazed with pleasure. Essence's hand stilled on his chest, her gaze flicking up to meet her husband's, and they shared a knowing look. This was the moment they had dreamed of, the moment where their new family felt truly complete.

Quincy leaned in, his mouth capturing Branch's again, his tongue slipping into the omega's mouth as he began to thrust in earnest. The sound of their hips slapping against Branch's ass grew louder, echoing through the chamber. Branch's body rocked back and forth between them, their combined weight pressing him into the soft, plush bed.

The omega's moans grew more desperate, his body tightening around their cocks. Essence could feel her own climax approaching, her hips bucking harder with each passing second. She knew Branch was close too, his body quivering with the effort to hold on. She whispered sweet nothings into his ear, her breath hot and ragged. "You're doing so good, baby. Cum for you alphas."

Quincy's strokes grew more urgent, his hips slapping against Branch's ass with every thrust. The omega's cries grew louder, his body shaking as he approached the edge. The alphas watched him, their eyes filled with love and hunger, their breaths matching his rhythm. They could feel his muscles clenching around them, his body begging for release.

And then, it hit. Branch's third climax washed over him like a tidal wave, his body convulsing as he came.

The feeling was too much, too intense, and he screamed into Quincy’s shoulder as he squirting on their cocks. Essence and Quincy didn't stop, their thrusts unrelenting, pushing him higher and higher. The sensation was overwhelming, a mix of pleasure and pain that sent his mind reeling.

But as Branch's climax subsided, he felt something else building within him - a warmth, a sense of belonging that filled the emptiness he had felt for so long. He realized that he had never truly been complete before this moment, never truly understood what it meant to be loved and cherished by someone.

The alphas didn't stop, their movements growing more fervent as they approached their own climaxes. Essence's nails dug into his skin, leaving little half-moons on his hips. Quincy's grip on his thigh was like iron, his strokes deep and punishing. And yet, Branch didn't want them to stop. He reveled in the pain, in the feeling of being claimed by these two powerful beings as they stretched him with both their knots.

With a snarl, Essence bit down on the side of Branch's neck, marking him as hers. Branch's eyes rolled back in his head, his body spasming around her cock. The pain was sharp, but it only served to amplify the pleasure. He could feel her hot seed filling him, her hips jerking as she came deep inside him.

Quincy's teeth followed suit, sinking into Branch's shoulder. The pain was intense, but it was nothing compared to the euphoria that flooded Branch's body. The alphas' bites were a declaration of ownership, a brand that marked him as their omega. It was a moment of pure, primal connection, and Branch felt his soul entwine with theirs.

The alphas stilled, their knots pulsing inside him, filling him with their seed. Branch's body went limp, boneless with pleasure and exhaustion. After about 20 minutes of light touches and sweet words of comfort, Essence and Quincy withdrew slowly, their eyes never leaving Branch's. They could see the trust and adoration in his gaze, and it filled them with pride.

They pulled him into their embrace, cradling him between them. Essence nuzzled his neck, her tongue lapping at the mark she had left. "You did so well," she whispered, her voice full of love and satisfaction. Quincy kissed his forehead, his hand stroking Branch's hair gently. "Such a good little omega," he murmured, his voice deep and possessive.

Branch felt a sudden urge to reciprocate the marking. He leaned up, pressing his own lips to Essence's neck next to Quincy’s mating mark, finding the tender spot he knew would be just right. His teeth grazed her skin, and she gasped, holding him closer. He bit down, feeling the rush of power as he claimed her in return. Quincy watched with a proud smile, his own need growing. He offered his neck, and Branch didn't hesitate. He marked him as well, leaving a matching set of bruises on both his alphas.

They managed to stand, their legs wobbly. Essence scooped Branch into her arms, his body light as a feather to her. Quincy followed close behind as she headed towards the bathroom.

The shower was an extravagant, with multiple showerheads and lights that changed color with the beat of music. They stepped inside, the warm water cascading over their bodies, washing away the sweat and cum. Essence held Branch tightly, her arms around his waist, supporting him as his legs dangled. Quincy grabbed a bottle of shower gel, the scent of their combined pheromones already heavy in the air.

He squeezed a generous amount into his palm and began to lather Branch up, his strong hands moving in firm circles across his fur. Branch's eyes fluttered closed, his head lolling back onto Essence's shoulder as he enjoyed the feeling of being cared for. The alphas' gentle ministrations were a stark contrast to the intense lovemaking they had just shared, but it was no less intimate.

Quincy's hands moved down to Branch's ass, his fingers delving into the crevice to clean away any remaining traces of their union. He was thorough, his touch tender and loving, ensuring that Branch was clean and cared for. Essence watched them, her own hands running through Branch's hair, her eyes filled with a warmth that Branch had never seen before.

The omega felt a sense of peace wash over him, the warm water and gentle touches soothing his overstimulated body. The bond between them was palpable, a living, breathing entity that grew stronger with every beat of their hearts. Essence and Quincy had become his world, his protectors, his lovers. He knew that he would do anything for them, that he would lay down his life without hesitation if it meant keeping them safe.

As they bathed him, their touches grew more intimate, their hands exploring every inch of his body. Essence's fingers traced the lines of his abs, her eyes never leaving his face, while Quincy's thumbs circled his sensitive cunt, making him whimper and arch his back. The alphas shared a knowing smile, their gazes locking over Branch's head. They knew what he needed, what he craved, and they were more than happy to give it to him.

They rinsed off the soap, and Essence lifted Branch up, placing him on his feet onto the bath rug. His legs were shaky, but he managed to stand, leaning heavily against her. Quincy grabbed a towel, wrapping it around Branch's waist, and then one around his own waist. Essence picked up another towel and began to dry Branch off, her movements slow and deliberate.

The omega's eyes remained closed, his breathing still heavy from the intense experience. He could feel the warmth of their love and protection enveloping him, making him feel safe in a way he had never felt before. The alphas' gentle care was a stark contrast to the fierce passion they had just shared, but it was equally as powerful in reinforcing their bond.

Once Branch was clean and dry, Essence picked him up again, cradling him in her arms as they made their way back to the bedroom. The warmth of the fluffy bed engulfed him as they laid him down, his body feeling like it was made of gelatin. Quincy pulled the covers over them, and they nestled in close, their combined scents mixing and mingling. With Essence in front of him and Quincy hugging him from behind.

Branch's eyes grew heavy with sleep, but he didn't want to miss a moment of this newfound bliss. He looked up at Essence and Quincy, their faces filled with love and satisfaction. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. Essence leaned down and kissed his forehead, her eyes shining with affection.

"No need to thank us, sweetie," she said softly. "You're ours now. We're just taking care of our cute little omega."

Branch felt a warmth spread through his chest at her words. He had never felt so wanted, so cherished. "What happens now?" he asked, his voice still a little shaky from the aftershocks of pleasure.

Essence looked down at him, a soft smile playing on her lips. "Now, we make it official," she said, her voice filled with excitement. "We'll have a wedding, where we exchange vows and formally declare our love and protection for each other."

Branch's heart skipped a beat at the mention of a wedding. It was a concept that was both foreign and thrilling to him. He had never imagined that he would be the center of such an event, that he would be the one to be cherished and protected by two such powerful and beautiful alphas.

“After that there’s a celebration that lasts three days for a royal wedding,” Quincy explained, his deep voice rumbling with excitement. Branch’s eyes widened in shock. A three-day celebration? He had never even been to a regular Troll wedding, let alone a royal one. The thought of being the center of attention for so long was both thrilling and terrifying.

But as Essence and Quincy spoke, his fears began to melt away. They described a beautiful ceremony where he would be crowned as their King Consort, an equal to them in every way. He would have his own crown, a symbol of their union and the protection he would now enjoy as part of the Funk Troll Royal Family.

"As our King Consort," Essence began, her voice as smooth as velvet, "you will have responsibilities, Branch. You will stand by our side, helping us lead our people, making decisions that affect our kingdom. You will be the face of love and unity between our Trolls."

Quincy nodded in agreement, his eyes gleaming with pride. "And you're perfect for the role," he said, his deep voice soothing. "You have a way with words, and you're smart. Plus, we've noticed that you get along with most of the other tribes. You have a knack for understanding and connecting with others, which is crucial for maintaining peace and harmony among the Trolls."

The gravity of their words settled over Branch, and he felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. Being a part of the Funk Troll Royal Family meant that his life would change drastically, but he knew he could handle it. He had always been one to adapt, and the thought of working alongside Essence and Quincy to bring happiness and unity to the Trolls filled him with a newfound purpose.

"We know this is a lot to take in," Essence said, her eyes never leaving Branch's. "But we believe in you, and we know that you'll be amazing."

Branch felt a warmth spread through him, filling him with a newfound confidence. "Thank you," he whispered, leaning into Essence's embrace.

Suddenly, Quincy's teeth grazed his ear, eliciting a sharp gasp from Branch. The alpha's grin was playful yet possessive as he whispered, "We know you're sensitive here, don't we?" Branch's cheeks flushed a deeper shade of blue as Quincy's teeth closed around the sensitive flesh of his earlobe, giving it a gentle tug. The sensation shot straight to his core, making his cunt throb with need once again.

Suddenly branch got a nervous thought “wait what will the other funk trolls think, I mean other tribes still don’t like pop trolls that much.” Branch did not want to live around people who did not like him for his looks and history he couldnt control. He already lived through that before.

Essence chuckled at his reaction, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "The Funk Trolls love you, darling," she assured him. "You're already a hero to them for saving our music, and once they see how much you mean to us, they'll accept you as one of their own if they haven’t already." Her and Quincy had already gotten many congratulations from their closest friends upon learning of the couples new omega. The royal couple could even say that some were envious of them when other trolls even from other tribes, started noticing how desirable Branch was. That gave both of them a mixed sense of pride and possessiveness knowing that they have what many other trolls want.

Quincy nodded in agreement. "And if anyone doesn't," he said with a growl that sent a thrill down Branch's spine, "they'll have us to answer to."

The omega felt a warmth spread through him at their protective words. He knew that as long as he was with Essence and Quincy, he would be safe. His fears began to dissipate, replaced by a warm, fuzzy feeling of belonging. With a yawn, he snuggled deeper into their embrace, feeling the weight of the day's events finally catching up to him.

Essence stroked his cheek with her thumb, her eyes soft. "Rest now, Branch," she whispered. "We will discuss everything more tomorrow"

The warmth of the alphas' bodies lulled Branch into a deep sleep, their combined scents and the safety of their embrace wrapping around him like a cocoon. As he drifted off, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for what the future held.

Essence and Quincy remained silent for a moment, watching Branch drift off to sleep, their hearts swelling with love and pride. Then, they turned to each other, their expressions serious as they began to discuss their new family dynamic.

"He's perfect," Essence murmured, her eyes shining with happiness. "I can't believe he's ours."

Quincy nodded, his strong arms pulling both Essence and Branch closer to his broad chest. The omega snuggled in between them, his body fitting perfectly against theirs. The warmth of their embrace was like a balm to his soul, erasing any lingering doubts or fears. "We're going to take such good care of him," he said, his voice low and filled with determination.

Essence sighed contentedly, her hand resting on Branch's chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. "He's going to need it," she said, her tone more serious now. "I've noticed the way some of the Pop Trolls look at him, even after everything he's done for them."

Quincy's expression grew darker, his protective instincts flaring up. "They'd better keep their distance," he growled. "If any of them dare to disrespect him, they'll answer to us."

Essence nodded in agreement, her eyes flashing with a hint of warning. "Our little omega is more than capable of holding his own, but we won't let anyone hurt him. I don’t understand how his own kind could be so blind, I’ve noticed the way trolls from the other genres have stared at him desirably, even the rock trolls!”

The alphas shared a knowing look, their bond as strong as ever. They had made a promise to each other and to Branch, and they would do whatever it took to keep him safe and happy. With that in mind, Quincy spoke up, his voice firm and resolute.

"We'll need to establish our bond with him in front of the tribe," he said, stroking Branch's hair. "Let them see that he's ours, that he's under our protection."

Essence nodded thoughtfully. "We should start with a public claiming," she suggested. "Let everyone see us together, see that he's happy and loved. It'll set the tone for the rest of our reign."

Quincy's eyes lit up with the idea. "A public bonding," he murmured, his hand trailing down Branch's side. "It'll be a powerful statement."

Essence nodded, a sly smile playing on her lips. "But not just yet," she said, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "First, we need to make sure he understands his role, and the consequences of not following our rules."

They had discussed this many times before even finding their own omega. But now that they had him it was time to go into more specifics of it to accommodate Branch personality.

Quincy leaned in, his voice dropping to a low purr. "We'll have to establish some boundaries," he said, his eyes flicking to Branch's sleeping form. "And if he crosses them, he'll need to be disciplined."

Essence's smile grew sly. "We'll have to be creative with his punishments," she mused. "Something that will keep him in line but also remind him that he’s loved."

Quincy's eyes lit up with mischief as he thought of various ways to keep Branch in check. "How about a time-out in his nest?" he suggested. "It'll be a place for him to reflect on his actions and remember that we're his alphas."

Essence considered this, her expression thoughtful. "Yes, that could work," she agreed. "But we'll also need something more... immediate. Something that'll make him think twice before doing anything reckless."

Quincy's hand stilled on Branch's side, his gaze distant as he pondered the matter. "How about a spanking?" he suggested, his tone gentle yet firm. "It's a quick way to get the message across, and it's a punishment that omegas tend to respond well to."

Essence's eyes narrowed in thought. "A spanking could be effective," she agreed. "But we must be careful not to overdo it. We want him to understand that we care about his safety, not to fear us."

Quincy nodded solemnly. "Of course. We'll start with gentle reminders, and if he continues to push his boundaries, we'll escalate accordingly."

Essence leaned down and placed a soft kiss on Branch's forehead. "Our little omega will learn to trust us completely," she murmured. "And when he does, he'll understand that we only want what's best for him."

Quincy nodded, his gaze drifting to the far corner of the room. "Speaking of which," he said, his tone shifting to one of curiosity, "when do you think he'll start building his nest?"

Essence followed his gaze, a soft smile playing on her lips. "It could be any time now," she murmured. "The instincts are strong in him. He'll need a place to retreat to, especially during his heats."

Quincy nodded thoughtfully. "We'll need to prepare for that," he said. "Make sure he has everything he needs to be comfortable. We should get one of the special nest bed frames like we got for Cooper" (these were specifically made for omegas, the bed frame looked normal except it had short barriers going along the sides so an omega could position pillows and other nesting materials around the edges

Essence leaned back against Quincy, her hand still resting on Branch's chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his breathing. "And we need to ask him when they usually occur, how long they last, what he needs during that time."

Quincy nodded, his mind racing with the logistics of integrating Branch's heats into their lives. "We'll need to make sure we're available to help him through it," he said. "It's a big responsibility."

Essence sighed, her gaze lingering on Branch's peaceful face. "Maybe we should have asked him to be our omega without the condition of helping us stop Queen Barb," she said, her voice filled with doubt. "We were too eager to have him by our side, if we had just waited and courted him like normal mates..."

Quincy tightened his embrace around both of them. "Don't second guess us, Essence," he said firmly. "We know our needs, and we wouldn't have been able to wait that long. Being around him, his scent, his energy—it's intoxicating. We needed him."

With that, Quincy began to shift his weight, his excitement growing as he felt Branch's small frame nestled between them. His cock, which had begun to soften, grew hard again as he thought about their future together. He couldn't resist the urge to press his growing length against Branch's ass, feeling the omega's cheeks warm against him.

Branch stirred slightly in his sleep, the sensation of Quincy's erection pressing into him making his cunt clench with anticipation. Despite his fears and uncertainties, the omega couldn't deny the comfort and safety he felt with these two powerful alphas. Their scents surrounded him, filling his nose and making his chest swell with contentment.

"He's going to be so beautiful," Essence whispered, her hand moving down to gently cup Branch's mound. "And his heats... oh, Quincy, imagine the sounds he'll make, the way he'll writhe for us."

Quincy groaned softly, his own arousal spiking at the thought. "We'll need to be prepared," he said, his voice strained. "For when he goes into heat, we'll have to be... thorough."

Essence's hand traveled further down, her fingers brushing against Branch's entrance, making him whimper in his sleep. "Thorough?" she repeated, her voice a seductive purr. "I like the sound of that."

Quincy chuckled, his own hand moving to Branch's chest, his thumb brushing over one of his sensitive nipples. "Indeed," he murmured. "But we'll have to be careful. We don't want to overwhelm him."

Essence's eyes flicked to Quincy's, her own desire evident. "We'll make sure he's ready," she assured her husband. "But we do need to talk to him about trollings. We've always wanted more, I wonder how many he wants."

Quincy nodded, his hand now moving in gentle circles around Branch's navel. "We're not getting any younger," he agreed, his voice thick with want. "And the thought of filling our nest with more little ones..."

Essence's eyes darkened with lust, her own hand joining Quincy's, their fingers intertwining as they touched their new omega. "We've never been more ready," she breathed. "But we must be patient, let him settle into his role first."

Quincy nodded, his gaze never leaving Branch's peaceful form. The thought of the omega swollen with their young, his body ripe with fertility, was almost too much to bear. He couldn't wait to claim him fully, to feel Branch's warmth and tightness around his cock as he filled him with his seed. The image of Branch's belly round with eggs, their offspring growing within him, was more than just a desire—it was a driving force that consumed him.

With a gentle but firm grip, Quincy spread Branch's folds, exposing his cunt to the cool air of the room. The omega's scent grew stronger, a sweet and musky aroma that made the alpha's cock throb with need. The head of his cock was slick with pre-cum, eager to breach the entrance to Branch's body and claim him once more.

Essence watched with a mix of hunger and affection, her own hand moving down to stroke her own clit in anticipation.

Quincy took a deep breath, savoring the moment before he pressed the head of his cock against Branch's tight entrance. The omega stirred, his body instinctively pushing back against the alpha's touch, begging for more. Quincy's grip on Branch's hips tightened, his thumbs digging into the soft flesh as he began to push in, inch by inch.

Branch's eyes fluttered open, a soft gasp escaping his lips as he felt the alpha's length penetrating him his slick making it easy for Quincy to fit inside without prep. He looked up at Essence, whose eyes were locked on the intimate scene before her, her hand still playing with her own sex. The sight of her pleasure fueled Branch's own, and he couldn't help but push back, eager to be filled completely.

Quincy's thrusts grew deeper and more deliberate, his cock stretching Branch's tight opening. Essence leaned in closer, her hand reaching out to trace Branch's cheek with her thumb. "You're doing so well, my love," she cooed, her voice soothing and full of praise. "Your submission is so beautiful."

Branch's eyes fluttered shut as he moaned, his body responding to the dual sensations of Quincy's cock filling him and Essence's gentle touch. He felt his walls relaxing, allowing Quincy to sink in further, the fullness bringing him a sense of belonging and contentment that was unrivaled by anything he had ever felt before.

With a firm yet gentle push, Quincy rolled Branch onto his back, his knees bent and pressed up against his chest, exposing the pinkness of his entrance. The omega's breath hitched as he felt himself being opened up even more, vulnerable and at the mercy of his alphas. Essence watched with rapt attention, her hand still playing with her clit as she bit her lower lip, the sight of Branch's submission driving her own desire to new heights.

Essence straddled Branch's face, her gleaming pussy hovering just above his mouth. The scent of her arousal filled the air, and Branch could feel his own need growing stronger. He knew what was expected of him, his instincts taking over as he reached up to support her hips. He took a deep breath and tentatively stuck out his tongue, tasting her for the first time. Essence moaned, the sound vibrating through her body and sending shockwaves down to her core and sat on his face..

Her juices coated his mouth and nose as he eagerly licked and kissed her folds, her taste as addictive as honey. Quincy watched, his own cock still buried deep inside Branch, his thrusts slowing to allow the omega to focus on their queen. He could feel the walls of Branch's cunt contracting around him, the young Troll's pleasure spiking with every touch of Essence's sweetness.

"Faster, Quincy," Essence urged, her voice strained with desire. "I want to feel his moans against me."

Quincy obeyed without hesitation, his hips pumping more vigorously as he drove into Branch. The omega's muffled cries grew louder, his body writhing beneath them as he tried to find the perfect rhythm between his own pleasure and serving his alphas. Essence leaned forward, her clit brushing against Branch's nose as she began to rock her hips in time with Quincy's thrusts. Each moan that vibrated against her pussy sent shockwaves through her body, making her core tighten around Quincy's cock.

Their movements grew more frantic, the room filling with the sounds of wet flesh slapping against flesh and the muffled groans of passion. Essence's hands buried into his hair, pulling gently as she ground herself against his face, her own climax approaching. Branch's tongue danced around her clit, flicking and swirling as he took in her sweetness, the taste driving him wild.

Quincy's hand moved down to stroke Branch's cock, his thumb brushing against the sensitive slit at the top. The omega's body arched off the bed, his own need building to a fever pitch. He could feel Quincy's knot beginning to swell, the promise of a full mating again making his stomach flip with excitement and a hint of fear. But Essence's voice, filled with encouragement and praise, soothed him, reminding him that he was loved and protected.

As Essence's cries grew louder, so did Branch's own. The alpha's hand worked him faster, the slickness of his precum easing the way for Quincy's grip. The pressure grew, the room spinning with the intensity of his arousal. Essence's thighs tightened around his head, her body quivering as she reached her peak. Branch felt the warmth of her release flood his mouth, and he swallowed greedily, the taste of her adding to his own building climax.

Essence's hand gripped the back of Branch's neck, holding him in place as she rode out her orgasm. Her juices coated his face, her scent marking him as theirs. With a final, deep moan, she slid off his face, panting heavily as she watched Quincy's powerful strokes.

Branch's head lolled to the side, and Essence took pity on him, gently placing his head on her lap. She stroked his hair, her touch calming, as she felt his breaths even out. The omega's eyes remained closed, his face flushed with the aftermath of pleasure and submission. Essence felt a warmth spread through her chest, a mix of satisfaction and affection for their new family member.

Quincy, still deep inside Branch, looked down at the exhausted omega with a fierce love. "You did so well, my love," he murmured, his voice gruff with his own barely-contained arousal. "You took such good care of Essence." He reached down to cup Branch's cheek, his thumb brushing over the soft fur.

Essence took Branch's knees in her strong hands and gently pulled them up to his head, his body folding in a way that made Quincy's cock sink even deeper inside him. The new angle allowed Quincy to hit Branch's sweet spot with every thrust, the omega's eyes rolling back in his head with the intensity of the sensation. Essence leaned down to whisper in Branch's ear, her breath hot and sweet. "Look how well you take him. He loves your tight little hole.”

Branch whimpered in response, his body shaking with the effort to hold the position. Yet, the pleasure that shot through him with each thrust was undeniable, making his own cock throb with the need for release. Quincy's knot grew larger, filling Branch completely, the pressure inside him building with every stroke. The room was thick with the scent of their desire, the air heavy with the promise of the bond that was growing stronger with each passing moment.

With a final, powerful thrust, Quincy reached his climax, his knot swelling to lock them together. Branch felt the alpha's hot seed fill him, a sense of fullness and belonging that was overwhelming. His own orgasm followed, his cock pulsing with pleasure as he spilled his essence onto the bed beneath him. Essence watched, her eyes glowing with satisfaction as she stroked Branch's hair, her other hand resting gently on Quincy's shoulder, feeling the power of his release.

The three of them remained entwined for several moments, their breaths syncing as they came down from the peak of their passion. Finally, Quincy's knot began to shrink, allowing him to pull out with a wet pop. Essence took the opportunity to clean Branch gently with a warm cloth, her touch tender and loving. The omega's body was still quivering, sensitive from the intense experience.

As Branch lay there, his cheeks flushed and his eyes glazed over with pleasure, Quincy couldn't help but admire their new omega. He reached out and gave Branch's ass a firm slap, watching the way it jiggledslightly. The sound echoed through the room, and Branch jumped, a yelp escaping his lips.

"Good boy," Essence murmured, her voice like a warm blanket, wrapping around Branch and enveloping him in comfort. She stroked his back, her long fingers tracing soothing patterns over his skin. "You took us both so beautifully."

Quincy leaned down to press a gentle kiss to Branch's forehead, his fur sticky with sweat and Essence's scent. "You're going to be such a good omega for us," he said, his voice filled with pride.

Essence nodded in agreement, her eyes shining with affection. "You truly are," she whispered, her hand still lingering on Branch's back.

Chapter Text

Quincy and Essence escorted Branch to the Funk Troll medical bay, a place where the most advanced troll technology met the wisdom of ancient healing practices. The amount of advanced technology compared to the ones of pop trolls made Branch slightly nervous but extremely interested as well.

The room was a symphony of neon lights and chrome surfaces, with medical instruments that looked like they were pulled straight from a sci-fi fantasy. The doctors, a trio of Funk Trolls with hair in bold geometric shapes and long white jackets, greeted them with a mix of professionalism but groovy enthusiasm. They had been briefed on Branch's unique situation and were eager to ensure his well-being as the new omega of the royal family.

"Welcome, Branch!" exclaimed Dr. Funkwave, the lead medic, a tall maroon funk troll with hair a series of red spirals that was in a low ponytail. "We’re here to make sure you're all set for your new life with the king and queen! Now just put this on and I’ll be back in a few minutes.” She proceeded to hand him a folded piece of fabric before she swiftly left the room to give him some privacy.

Branch, feeling a bit self-conscious, looked down at the peculiar garment he had been given. It was a hospital gown, something he had never encountered before in the simple world of the Pop Trolls. The material was lightweight and almost transparent, leaving little to the imagination, with strings that tied at the back. The gown's design was unlike anything he had seen.

Essence and Quincy, noticing his uncertainty, stepped closer, their gentle hands helping him out of his tattered vest and shorts. Their touch was warm and sure, their gazes filled with a mix of hunger and care that made Branch's cheeks burn, his tail swishing nervously behind him.

Once he was dressed, Dr. Funkwave and two other medical staff came in and guided him to the exam table. It was unlike anything he had ever seen—a sleek, chrome surface that hummed with a gentle vibration.

"Don't worry, Branch," Essence said, her voice a soothing melody that seemed to resonate with the very air around them. "This is just to make sure you’re healthy."

Branch nodded, his eyes wide as he took in the gleaming chrome and neon lights of the medical bay. The gown felt like it was made of feathers against his skin, and he couldn't help but feel a bit of nervous as he laid down on the exam table. The Funk Troll doctors buzzed around him, messing with various buttons.

"First things first," Dr. Funkwave said, her voice soothing . "Let's get your vitals, darling."

The two other medics, Dr. Groove and Dr. Beats, flanked Branch, their hair spinning in synchronized patterns as they began to attach various sensors to his body.

"This won't hurt a bit," Dr. Groove assured him, his green dreads bouncing as he looked around

Branch felt a flurry of sensations as the medical team went to work, their skilled hands moving with the gave. Sensors were placed on his chest, his stomach, and even on his arms. The instruments beeped and whirred, casting a symphony of lights across his body that seemed to sync with the rhythm of his heart. The cold metal of the table was a stark contrast to the warmth of the Funk Trolls' touch, and he couldn't help but feel a little overwhelmed.

But his mates, Quincy and Essence, stood steadfast near his head, their towering figures a comforting presence in the alien environment. They watched the procedures with a mix of fascination and concern, their height giving them a clear view of everything happening. Essence leaned in, whispering words of encouragement, her breath warm against Branch's ear. "You're doing great," she assured him, her voice a gentle melody that helped to ease his nerves.

The medical trolls, moved with a synchronized finality that seemed almost choreographed. They were a blur of activity, their hair bobbing with each new reading. The instruments they used were unlike anything Branch had seen in the Pop Troll village, a dazzling array of lights and sounds that seemed to dance around his body. Yet, despite the alienness of it all, the sensors and probes proved surprisingly gentle, their cold touch a stark contrast to the warmth of the Funk Trolls' hands.

"Everything is looking good!" Dr. Funkwave announced after a series of beeps and flashes. "Your vitals are in great shape! Strong heartbeat, excellent oxygen level!"

Branch's eyes darted around the room, watching the colorful hair of the medical staff bob and weave in time with their movements. He felt a gentle pat on his hand and looked up to see Essence smiling down at him.

"Now, Branch, we're just going to need you to lie very still," Dr. Funkwave said, she said soothingly. "This table is going to estimate your weight, and it's important that you don't move so we can get an accurate reading."

Branch nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. The idea of a table that could somehow weigh him was both fascinating and a little unnerving. He took a deep breath and tried to relax as he felt the chrome surface of the exam table mold around him, like a second skin. It was as if the table itself was alive, sensing his presence and preparing to do its job.

As the table began to glow with a soft, pulsing light, the room grew quiet. The whirl of activity from the medical staff halted, and even the usual background hum of the medical bay's technology faded into the background. The glow grew brighter, enveloping Branch in a warm embrace that seemed to lift him slightly. His stomach lurched, and he swallowed hard, trying not to think about what they were discussing with each other silently.

The quietness was broken by a series of concerned beeps from the table's console. Dr. Funkwave's hair spun into a worried pattern of reds and oranges as she studied the readings. "Hmm," she murmured, tapping a few buttons. "It seems you're a bit underweight, Branch."

Quincy's eyebrows furrowed, his pink and blue dreadlocks bobbing slightly. "How underweight?" he asked, his voice laced with concern as Essence's eyes narrowed.

Dr. Beats's green eyes blinker nervously as he checked the readings again. "It's not just a little, Your Highnesses," he said. "Branch here is significantly underweight for a Troll his age."

The room grew tense, the only sound the persistent beeping of the console. The gravity of the situation was palpable, hanging in the air like a heavy bass drop. Quincy and Essence exchanged a concerned glance, their towering figures leaning in closer to the exam table.

"What does that mean?" Branch squeaked, his voice shaking like a leaf in the wind.

Dr. Funkwave's eyes shifted for a moment, trying to think of the right words to explain it to her patient. "It's not uncommon for Trolls to lose weight during periods of stress or when their diet isn't quite right," she explained gently. "But your readings indicate that you haven't had a proper meal in years, your highnesses."

Essence's eyes widened. "What could have caused this?" she asked, her voice filled with concern. “Branch sweetie, who was in charge of looking after you?”

Branch shifted uncomfortably on the exam table, feeling the weight of their gazes on him. "Well, I kind of took care of myself," he admitted, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "Back in the forest, I had to hunt and gather my own food. It was just part of being a loner."

Essence's expression softened, then turned to confusion. "You mean to say that no one from your village looked after you?" she asked, her voice filled with a mix of disbelief and pity.

Branch nodded, his eyes dropping to the floor. "After I turned grey, they thought I was... contagious," he murmured. "They didn't want the bad luck to spread. So, I had to keep to myself, live on the outskirts."

Essence and Quincy shared a look of shock and dismay. "How could they be so cruel?" Essence whispered, her hair swirling with a mix of sadness and anger. Quincy's fur bristled, his own hair shifting to a darker purple. "That's no way to treat an omega," he growled, his protective instincts flaring up.

"It's all right," Branch said, trying to reassure them with a weak smile. "I've learned to take care of myself."

But the doctors weren't satisfied with his answer. Dr. Groove leaned in closer, his hair swaying. "Turning grey is a sign of stress or depression, it’s not some sort off…infectious disease " he said, his eyes filled with concern. "It's quite unusual for a troll so young to experience this. What do the Pop Trolls know about the grey condition?"

Quincy's eyes narrowed, his hair standing up in a display of protective aggression. "They know enough how to ostracize one of their own for it," he grunted. "But clearly not enough to understand or help."

Essence's hair swirled with a mix of anger and sadness. "How long have you been like this, Branch?" she asked gently, stroking his fuzzy cheek with a hand. "When did you first turn grey?"

Branch swallowed hard, his throat tight with emotion. "It was right before we escaped the Bergens," he murmured. "I lost m-my grandmother. And then, when I came back to the village, everyone just... avoided me. Then after we escaped I tried to go into the marketplace but they were afraid I would make the food go bad"

Essence and Quincy's expressions grew darker, their hair changing to a fiery mix of reds and oranges. "Bergens?" Dr. Beats echoed, his hair standing on end. "What are Bergens?"

Branch's eyes widened with surprise. "You don't know about Bergens?" he asked, his voice shaking slightly. "They're... they're these giant creatures that used to eat us. They're the reason we lived in hidden places, at least until Poppy was able to make peace with them."

The medical staff looked at each other, their hair swirling with curiosity and concern. "Eaten?" Dr. Groove whispered, his eyes going wide. "But how could such a thing happen?"

Branch took a deep breath, his chest tight with the memory of those dark days. "The Bergens used to eat Trolls for their happiness," he explained, his voice barely above a whisper. "They thought it was the only way to feel joy. And when I was four, I watched as they took my grandmother... after that, I guess I just couldn't feel the same way anymore."

Quincy's eyes filled with a fiery rage, his fur bristling. "Four years old?" he bellowed, his voice echoing through the medical bay. "How could anyone let a child suffer like that?".

"It's not their fault," Branch said quickly, his eyes pleading. "They didn't know how to help."

Essence's emotions shifted between anger towards the pop trolls and concerns towards her omega. "We do, though," she murmured, leaning in to kiss his forehead. "We're going to make sure you're never hungry or alone again."

Quincy nodded, his fur smoothing out as he regained his composure. "We'll get you on a proper diet," he said firmly. "And we'll make sure you're pampered and cared for, just like any omega should be."

Branch looked up at them, his eyes shining with unshed tears. "Thank you," he whispered. "It's just... it's been 18 years since I turned grey. I didn't think I'd ever feel... normal again."

The room fell silent, the neon lights flickering as if in mourning for the lost years of his vibrant youth. The Funk Trolls, known for their flamboyant hair and exuberant spirits, couldn't fathom the depth of Branch's solitude. When a trolls turns grey they are helped by the tribe not…turned against for losing hope.

Essence's eyes sparkled with a mix of anger and compassion, her hair cascading into a waterfall of fiery reds and oranges. "Eighteen years?" she whispered, her voice a soft crescendo of disbelief. "Eighteen years of being shunned and neglected?"

Quincy's fur ruffled, his own rage simmering below the surface again. "No more," he vowed, his voice a solemn bass note while he hugged branch tightly. "You're part of our tribe now, Branch. We won't let anyone treat you like that ever again."

Dr. Funkwave cleared her throat, her voice shaken slightly as she tried to break the tension. "Well, we've finished up here," she announced, her eyes flicking over the console's readings one last time. “We need to get you on a strict dietary regimen, Branch."

Quincy and Essence exchanged a look of determination. The Funk Trolls, ever the protectors, knew that this was the first step to reclaiming the life that had been stolen from their new omega. "We'll give you some guidebooks for Trolls in your situation," Dr. Beats said, his hair glowing a warm, comforting yellow. "They're full of recipes and meal plans that will help you pack on the pounds to get you to a healthy weight.”

"But that's not all," he added, his voice a smooth melody of conviction. "We believe in treating the soul as well as the body. We've got some of the best therapists in all of Trollkind here in Vibe City. They'll help you work through any traumas or stress that might be holding you back."

The word "therapist" hit Branch like a discordant note in a perfect harmony. He tilted his head, his blue tail swishing with confusion. "Therapist ?" he echoed. "What's that?" Looking up at his alphas with curiosity.

Essence and Quincy exchanged a knowing look, their faces swirling with a mix of sadness and resolve. "They're like healers for the mind," Essence explained, her eyes never leaving Branch's. "They'll help you talk through your feelings, help you understand why you turned grey and why you've felt the way you have for so long and help you through it.”

Branch's eyes searched theirs, a hint of skepticism in his gaze. "But... I'm fine," he protested weakly. "I've been managing on my own for so long."

"Just because you've learned to survive doesn't mean you should have to," Essence said firmly, her hand lightly brushing against his curly hair. "You deserve to thrive, and we're going to make sure you do."

The doctors, noticing Branch's discomfort, decided to move on to the next point of his health. Dr. Beats cleared his throat. "So, Branch, as an omega, we're going to need to talk about your heat cycles."

This makes branch flush, feeling like he's been put on the spot in a way he never has before. "W-why do you need to know about that?” He asked defensively.

Quincy noticing the omega getting hostile, started to rub his back gently. "Branch, they just want to make sure you're healthy and taken care of properly," he reassured.

Essence's eyes filled with warmth which made him feel a little better. "We understand if it's a sensitive topic, but we need to know how often you go into heat," she said softly. "It's important for your well-being and so we can help you."

The doctors, watched him with professional interest, their heads bobbing in sync with their shared concern.

"Don't worry, Branch," Dr. Funkwave said, her voice morphing into a reassuring time. "We're here to help you through this. It's nothing to be embarrassed about."

Branch took a deep breath, his cheeks still flushed. "Okay," he murmured. "I go into heat... randomly I guess. They’re not really consistent so sometimes it’s hard to keep track.”

The doctors shared a concerned glance. "That's not typical," Dr. Funkwave said. "Most omegas have a consistent cycle, but with your unique situation, it seems like stress has thrown it off. We'll need to monitor your health closely during these times," she said. "And we'll provide you with everything you need to make the experience as comfortable as possible."

"But what about..." Branch trailed off, his eyes darting to the floor. "What if it happens when I'm not expecting it?"

Essence stepped closer, her hand coming to rest on Branch's shoulder. "That's why we're here," she said firmly. "We'll make sure you're never alone during your heats. We'll help you through them, and we'll be there to protect you."

Branch felt a warmth spread through him, a sensation that was foreign yet oddly comforting. He had never had anyone offer to take care of him like this before, especially not in such an intimate way. It was both terrifying and…comforting.

"But, I can't just rely on you guys all the time," Branch protested, his voice laced with a mix of gratitude and fear of dependency.

Quincy's hand squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. "Branch, it's our duty as your alphas to care for you," he said with a gentle smile. "You're our omega now. It's what we do." While his wife nodded assuringly next to him.

The doctors looked at each other, and Dr. Beats spoke up. "If I may, Your Highnesses, there's something we'd like to discuss with you in private," he said, gesturing towards the hallway.

Essence nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Of course," she said and turned to Quincy “go talk with them Ill stay with Branch,

Quincy, understanding his wife’s hesitance to leave their omega alone with all these different emotions, left with the doctors to the hall. The door sliding closed behind them automatically.

Essence looked at Branch with gentle eyes, she knew that change was hard but she was determined to make it as easy as possible for him. "Come," she said, her voice a soothing bass line. "Let's get you into your new clothes. They're tailored just for you."

Branch allowed himself to be led to a changing room, feeling a mix of excitement and hesitation. The loose golden pants fit perfectly, hugging his thighs and revealing the light muscles he'd honed over years of living in the forest. The light blue vest was adorned with glittering sequins that shimmered like the stars in the night sky. The vest was unlike anything he'd ever worn before, reaching down to his knees. The silver sandals were surprisingly comfortable.

Essence looked at him with a proud smile, her eyes sparkling with joy. "You look absolutely stunning," she said, her voice a warm bass that resonated within him. "We’ve had some similar styles made for you, but if you don’t like something let us know.”

Branch couldn’t help but feel a bit overwhelmed. He glanced down at the outfit, his mind racing with thoughts of his old life and his new one. "Thank you," he murmured, fidgeting with the hem of the vest. "But... can I keep my old clothes? Like in your room, my- someone gave me that vest"

Essence nodded, her expression understanding. "Of course, Branch," she said, her voice a gentle melody. "Your old clothes are a part of your history, and we want you to feel at home here. They'll be kept safe in your personal space in our room."

When Quincy came back in, they led Branch out of the medical bay and into the bustling streets of Vibe City. The gravity bubbles floated by, their neon lights casting an ever-changing kaleidoscope of colors across the metallic surfaces. The air was filled with the electric buzz of funky beats and the laughter of Trolls going about their day.

They ascended in a gravity pod to the top of the ship, where their royal home was situated. It is a long corridor going around the top with many door that Branch hasn’t seen most of. So far he knows which one leads to their bedroom with Darnell and Coopers bedrooms a few doors down. There was also many large windows to see outside of the ship and on the other side to see the inside the ship.

But today, they stopped at a set of ornate doors with a neon light that read "The Royal Study" in shining letters. Quincy placed his hand on the scanner, and the doors hissed open to reveal a room that was a stark contrast to the vibrant chaos of the city outside. The walls were lined with holographic bookshelves, displaying texts of all shapes and sizes, their spines flickering with the glow of neon lights. A large, round table dominated the center of the room, surrounded by comfortable chairs that looked like they'd been sculpted from clouds. The floor was a deep, velvety blue that matched the plush carpeting.

"Here we are," Quincy said, gesturing to the table. "The doctors gave me these guidebooks for Pop Trolls and omegas." He laid out several bound volumes, their covers shimmering with holographic images of happy, healthy Trolls. "Unfortunately us funk trolls don’t have a lot of knowledge of some other tribes due to the isolation but the doctors tried gathering enough facts to help us.”

Branch approached the table tentatively, his eyes scanning the books. Each one had a different title, ranging from "The Omega's Guide to Nutrition" to "Understanding Your Heat Cycles." He picked up the latter, feeling his cheeks flush at the thought of reading about something so personal…then again he has already mated with them so he doesn’t understand why he’s still so embarrassed.

Quincy noticed his discomfort and placed a firm, yet gentle hand on his shoulder. "We're here to help you, Branch," he said, his deep voice rumbling reassurance. "We want you to be happy and healthy."

Essence picked up one of the books titled "Guide to Omega Health and Wellness." She flipped through the pages, her eyes scanning the vividly illustrated content. "This one looks like it's got some good information," she said, holding it out to Branch. "It'll help you understand what to expect during your heats, and how we can help you through them."

Branch took the book with a small nod, his hands trembling slightly. "Thanks," he murmured, He didn't know why he was so nervous; it wasn't like he hadn't discussed personal things with them before. But something about this felt different—more intimate, more vulnerable.

"Let's start with the diet," he suggested, his eyes darting between Quincy and Essence. "I... I want to know what I’m not eating correctly."

Quincy nodded, his expression a mix of concern and determination. "We'll go through it together, Branch," he said, taking a seat beside him. "We'll find the right foods to help you gain weight."

Essence perched herself on the edge of the table, her long legs crossing elegantly. "We have a vast variety of cuisines here in Vibe City," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "From the sweet symphonies of Sugar Puff Rings to the savory rhythms of Tofu Trombones. We're sure you'll find something that suits your taste buds."

Quincy pulled up a holographic menu that floated above the table, the images of food twirling and dancing to the beat of the background music. "Here, take a look," he encouraged, tapping a few images to make them pulse with light. "You can try whatever you like, and we'll make sure it's packed with all the nutrients you need."

Branch's gaze flitted over the unfamiliar dishes, feeling a pang of nostalgia for the simple foods of the Pop Troll village. He cleared his throat, his thoughts drifting to Cooper. "What about Cooper?" he asked, his voice tinged with concern. "Has he been eating okay?"

Essence and Quincy exchanged knowing smiles. The protectiveness in Branch's voice didn't go unnoticed, and it warmed their hearts. "Don't worry Branch" Essence said, her voice lilting with affection. "Cooper says he’s been enjoying the food here just as much as the ones in Pop village. We've had to keep an eye on him, though, to make sure he doesn't overdo it. Maybe he can show you some foods he seems to enjoy here.”

Branch visibly relaxed, his shoulders dropping slightly. "That's good to hear," he murmured, finally allowing himself to lean into Quincy's side. "I just want him to be happy."

"And he is," Essence assured him, her hand reaching out to squeeze his knee. "You, cooper and Darnell are our priorities."

Branch couldn't help but feel a warm glow spread through him at her words. He looked up at Essence and Quincy, the love in their eyes was palpable. They saw him not just as an omega, but as part of their pack, their family. It was a feeling he had never truly experienced before, and it was overwhelming in the best way possible.

Chapter Text

The next day, Essence and Quincy decided it was time to formally introduce Branch to their Funk Troll culture and the intricacies of their technologically advanced lifestyle. Prince D and Cooper tagged along since Cooper was curious as well. They began with a tour of the ship's control center, where the heart of Vibe City's gravity-defying capabilities pulsed in time with the city's rhythmic vibe.

The room was a cacophony of lights and sounds, with a symphony of panels and buttons that controlled the ship's movement, the gravity bubbles, and the myriad of neon lights that illuminated the cityscape.

Essence, her hair swirling in a majestic display of pride, took Branch's hand and led him through the labyrinth of wires and screens. "Our ancestors discovered the power of funk, which is essentially the rhythm of the universe," she explained, her voice resonating with reverence. "It's what gives us our strength, our technology, and our way of life. As our king consort, you must understand our history."

Quincy, his fur glowing a soft purple, picked up the narrative. "The ship we live on is a testament to our mastery of this power," he said, gesturing to the vast array of monitors and panels. "It's not just a home; it's an extension of us, a living being that responds to our music and moods. The gravity bubbles are the most crucial part of our technology. They allow us to live in the sky, unbounded by the limitations of the earth."

Branch listened intently, his eyes wide with wonder as he tried to take in the sheer scale of the operation. He had always known the Funk Trolls were advanced, but seeing it firsthand was another experience entirely. "So, how do you...?" he began, his voice trailing off as he looked at the intimidating array of controls.

"Fear not, my love," Essence said with a knowing smile, her hand on his shoulder. "We'll teach you everything you need to know. It's like playing an instrument; it just takes practice and feeling the rhythm."

"These are our Funky Pilots who are in charge of directed the ship and keeping it going." Quincy gestured to a group of Trolls nearby, who nodded in his direction, their dreadlocks bobbing in time with the music playing above as they messed with the controls. "But as king, you should understand the principles behind it all."

The tour continued, and Branch found himself getting lost in the symphony of sounds and lights, his mind racing with the implications of such power. The Funk Trolls had truly harnessed something special. As they moved through the ship, Essence took the time to explain the different aspects of Funk Troll history, the origins of their technology, and the significance of the various instruments and symbols scattered throughout.

Cooper, ever the curious one, bombarded his parents with questions about the gravity bubbles. "How come there’s so many lights?

Quincy chuckled, ruffling his son's hair. "The lights represent the different vibes of our city, Cooper," he said, pointing to a bank of screens displaying a rainbow of hues. "Each color corresponds to a different emotion or genre of music. When we're all happy and grooving, the lights synchronize to create a beautiful display."

They made their way down the corridor till they got to a secure door that slid open after Essence scanned her paw. Once inside branch looked around the room to see a bunch of panels and lining the colorful glowing walls. It looked like they were surrounded by a giant lava lamp. On the very back wall there was a giant plug in the center with a chain around it preventing it from being unplugged.

Essence walked over to it and gestered to the lock “During Queen Barbs world tour, the rock trolls had tried to get to this plug which used to be in vibe city. It connects the power to the whole ship. Luckily we were able to stop them but we decided to move it down here to a more secure location.” She added with a serious look.

Branch nodded, still taking everything in. The responsibility was heavy, but he felt a strange thrill knowing that he was going to be part of such a powerful and advanced society. "So, what happens if the plug is ever pulled?" he asked, his curiosity getting the better of him.

Quincy's smile faltered for a moment, and Essence's eyes grew serious. "It's not just a plug," she said, her voice low and solemn. "It's the life force of our city. Without it, everything would stop—the gravity bubbles, the lights, the music... everything."

Branch swallowed hard, his gaze fixed on the glowing plug. "Why was it so accessible before?" he asked, unable to shake the image of the Rock Trolls so close to causing havoc. He tried to imagine who was oblivious enough to put the main power source of an entire ship in such an vulnerable place.

Essence sighed, a rare flicker of regret crossing her features. "It was a symbol of our trust in the world," she said. "We believed that our music, our funk, was enough to keep us safe. But we've learned that not all creatures share our peaceful intentions."

Quincy nodded in agreement. "We've become more cautious since then," he said, his voice carrying the weight of hard-learned lessons. "But we won't let fear rule us. We'll continue to share our funk with others, but we'll also be ready to protect what's ours."

The tour continued, each new room revealing another facet of the Funk Trolls' incredible way of life. They visited the music halls, where the walls reverberated with the echoes of a thousand different beats. Cooper danced alongside them, his eyes gleaming with excitement as he pointed out the instruments he wanted to try.

Darnell, ever the cool and collected one, hovered in the background, his eyes taking in every detail with a sharp intelligence that surprised Branch. Despite his nonchalant demeanor, it was clear that he took his role as a future king very seriously.

As they moved through the ship, Essence paused at various points to introduce Branch to members of the Funk Troll council and other notable figures. Each Troll they met regarded him with a mix of curiosity and respect, their greetings warm and inviting. It was clear that the news of Branch's arrival had spread quickly, and the Funk Trolls were eager to meet their new king consort.

In the bustling heart of Vibe City, they stumbled upon a bustling marketplace where many Trolls bartered and chatted, their laughter bouncing off the mirrored surfaces and creating a symphony of joy. Essence led Branch through the aisles, pointing out the exotic wares and introducing him to the various merchants. The scent of spicy noodles and sweet confectionery filled the air, making his stomach growl with hunger.

They stopped at a stall selling a rainbow of fruit, each one more vibrant and tantalizing than the last. "Here," Essence said, handing him a fruit that looked like a cross between an apple and a starburst. "This is a Cosmic Melody. It's packed with vitamins that are perfect for omegas."

Branch took a tentative bite, the flavor exploding in his mouth with a symphony of sweetness. The fruit's juice painted his cheeks, and he couldn't help but laugh at the sheer delight of it. The merchants and passersby chuckled good-naturedly at his reaction, and he felt a little more at ease in this new environment.

"You should try one too, Cooper," Branch said, holding out the fruit with a smile. Cooper's eyes lit up, and he eagerly ate one However, in his excitement, a rogue drop of juice escaped and landed on Cooper's cheek, leaving a red streak of color.

Without missing a beat, Branch's omega instincts kicked in. He reached up with his thumb, wiping the drop away with a gentle touch. It was a simple act of care, but one that spoke volumes to Essence and Quincy. They watched with proud smiles as Branch took on the nurturing role towards their sons that came so naturally to their omega.

As the tour concluded, Essence suggested they retreat to their study in the royal hall. "You must be tired from all the walking," she said, noticing Branch's slightly flushed cheeks. "Let's rest and discuss the matters of the kingdom in a more comfortable setting." bodies upon sitting.

The study was a testament to the Funk Trolls' love of music and technology, with instruments lining the walls and screens displaying data and charts that danced in time with the background tunes. Quincy settled into his throne-like chair at the end of the long round table in the center of the room, his cape flaring dramatically, while Essence perched on similar chair to his right, her eyes on Branch with a gentle curiosity as he sat in the seat right across from her. Cooper and Prince D sprawled out on the couch in the corner, already engrossed in a holographic game that projected a 3D light show of colors and shapes.

"Now, Branch," Essence began, her voice smooth as silk. "We've talked about our city and our ways, but we haven't yet discussed what your role as our king consort will entail."

Branch nodded, feeling a twinge of nervousness. "I'm here to support you both, of course," he said, his eyes flicking between Essence and Quincy. "But what specific duties will I have?"

Essence leaned forward, her hands clasped in front of her. "You'll attend council meetings, help us make decisions that affect the tribe, and represent us at gatherings with the other Tribes."

Quincy nodded in agreement. "And of course," he added with a twinkle in his eye, "you'll join us in jam sessions. Music is in our blood, and we know our little omega shares that passion with us as well."

Branch's eyes lit up at the mention of jam sessions. He had always felt a kinship with music, despite his Pop Troll roots, and the idea of creating funk music alongside Essence and Quincy filled him with excitement. He had noticed during the world tour that the funky beats resonated with him in a way that the sugary pop of his own tribe didn't.

"I'd be honored to join you," Branch said, his voice earnest. "I've always admired your music, and I've learned so much from the other Tribes during me and Poppys travels."

Essence and Quincy exchanged a knowing look. They had heard talk of Branch's unique ability to adapt to any genre of music, and they were able to witness it for themselves during the concert that brought the Troll Tribes together. His versatility and openness to new sounds was a trait that they knew would serve him well in their now diverse kingdom.

"Very good," Quincy said, his smile widening. "But remember, my Branch, it's not just about playing. It's about feeling the funk, letting it flow through you." He leaned back in his chair, his eyes distant, as if lost in a memory. "When we create music, we're not just entertaining—we're keeping our city alive, our people happy, and our culture strong. It's a big responsibility, but one I know you're ready for."

Essence nodded, her expression more serious. "And there are other duties, of course," she said, her eyes focusing on Branch. "You'll be a peace maker of sorts, helping us build bridges with the other Tribes. After the events of the world tour, we need to ensure that our alliances are solid. You will also be working with our Ambassador, Lownote sometimes too. You will be meeting him soon.”

"But your role as an omega is equally important," she continued, her voice taking on a softer tone. "Our city thrives on harmony and balance, and as an omega, you have a unique ability to soothe and heal. We'll need you to mediate disputes, comfort those in distress, and generally keep the vibe of the kingdom positive and vibrant."

Branch felt the weight of their words, but the warmth in their voices filled him with a sense of belonging. He knew he had a lot to learn, but he was ready to take on the challenge. "I'll do my best," he promised, his voice steady despite his nerves.

Essence reached out and took his hand in hers, her touch sending a calming wave through him. "Don't worry," she said with a gentle squeeze. "You won't be alone in this. Quincy and I will be by your side almost all the time. You're part of our family now, and we're in this together."

Quincy had started to pull up a hologram from a small device when a sudden beep echoed through the study. He sighed, looking away from the floating projection. "Looks like we're needed elsewhere for a moment," he said, standing up from his chair. The hologram flickered and disappeared as Essence rose gracefully to her feet.

"Darnell," she called, turning to her son. "Could you take go over some protocols with your brother and Branch? They're going to need to understand regulations and expectations for their new roles."

Prince D nodded, his expression serious as he set aside the game controller. "Sure, mom." He and Cooper made room for Branch between them on the couch, the plush cushions conforming to their forms as they patted the space for him to sit.

Essence guided branch with a her hand on the small of his back to sit between Cooper and Darnell. She looked at them with a warm smile, her eyes glittering with joy. She couldn’t help but lean down and kiss Branch's cheek, leaving a shimmering trail of glitter. She then turned her affection to her sons, kissing Cooper's forehead and Darnell's cheek in turn. "Be good boys, we will back shortly," she said before leaving the room with Quincy.

Once the door closed, Prince D pulled out his holographic phone. "Ok, let's get down to business," he said, his voice taking on a playful authoritative tone. He tapped a few buttons on the screen, and a 3D model of the ship appeared, floating above. "First, we gotta cover the ship's protocols. Safety is key, especially with our new guests coming in."

The hologram shifted to display different parts of the ship, highlighting emergency exits and gravity zones. Branch leaned in, studying the intricate details with a keen eye. Cooper, on the other hand, couldn't help but poke at the floating images with his finger, sending them bobbing away. Darnell chuckled, swatting his twin's hand away. "Focus, Coop. This is important."

Darnell began to explain the various protocols with the same enthusiasm he had for his music. "So, as you can see," he said, pointing to a pulsing blue area on the hologram, "these are the main power hubs. They're off-limits to everyone except for the royal family and authorized personnel. No funny business, got it?"

Cooper nodded, his eyes wide with a mix of excitement and trepidation. "But what if someone does mess with them?" he asked, bouncing slightly on the couch. "How do we stop them?"

Darnell smirked, his eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. "That's where the emergency lockdown buttons come in," he said, leaning closer to the hologram. "They're hidden all over the ship, and only members of the royal family and the council know where they are." He tapped a button on his phone, and small red dots began to blink all around the holographic cityscape. "If someone tries to mess with the funk, we hit one of these, and everything goes on lockdown. The gravity bubbles tighten, the doors seal, and the culprits are trapped until we can deal with them."

Branch's eyes widened in amazement as he took in the advanced technology that surrounded him. The Pop Trolls had nothing quite like this back in Troll Village. Their way of life was simple and organic, a stark contrast to the gleaming futurism of the Funk Troll ship. He had been the only one to be concerned about safety until he got some of his colors back. Poppy implemented some safety protocols as well but he was still one of the only ones who cared. So to hear that the Funk Trolls had not only thought of these things but had them integrated into their daily lives made branch feel so much safer.

As Prince D went on, explaining the ship's security systems and the role that each member of the royal family played in maintaining the city's peace, Branch felt his confidence growing. He was no stranger to taking on responsibility, but the scale of this was unlike anything he had ever imagined. Yet, as he sat between the young princes, he felt a strange sense of belonging, as if he had always been meant to be part of this vibrant world.

When they had finished with the protocols, Darnell leaned back against the couch, his arms folded behind his head. "So, what do you think, Branch?" he asked, his voice holding a hint of challenge. "Think you can handle being part of the funkiest Troll Tribe around?"

Branch nodded, feeling a grin spread across his face. "I'm ready to give it my all," he said, his eyes sparkling with determination. Cooper bounced up and down next to him, his excitement contagious.

"Awesome!" Cooper exclaimed, hugging branch. "We're gonna have so much fun together!"

The three of them chatted and laughed. Branch found himself drawn into their banter and the carefree nature of the Funk Trolls. It was a stark contrast to his more serious demeanor, but he couldn't help but feel lighter, like he was floating on a cloud of good vibes.

As they talked, Branch's gaze drifted to Darnell's hair. The young alpha's dreads were sticking out at odd angles, likely from the day's excitement. His omega instincts began to stir wanting to groom the young alpha he now sees as his pup but a gentle nudge in the back of his mind to smooth out the tangles and restore order. He reached out tentatively, his fingers hovering over the colorful locks. "Your dreads are a bit... messy," he said, his voice trailing off.

Darnell's eyes narrowed playfully. "You gonna do something about it?" he challenged, noticing Branch's nervous posture.

Branch blushed slightly, his omega instincts flaring up. He nodded, his hands moving to gently tug at the strands of hair. "If you'd let me," he murmured, his voice filled with a soft yearning to care for the funk troll.

Darnell grinned, his posture relaxing as he leaned back, allowing his head to rest on Branch's lap. The smaller troll's hands began to work their magic, carefully separating the tangles and smoothing down the locks. His movements were precise and delicate, a clear sign of his care and affection for the young prince. Cooper watched with a mix of curiosity and envy, his own hair maintaining its neat waves so he did not need to get his fixed.

"So, what do we call you ?" Cooper asked, peering up at Branch with innocent curiosity. "Since you're going to be our other parent now."

Branch paused in his gentle grooming of Darnell's hair, looking thoughtful. "Well," he said, his voice a little shaky with nerves, "I guess it's up to you two. What feels right? You can just refer to me as branch if you wanted”

But Cooper and Darnell weren't content with just calling him "Branch." They knew he was more than that now—he was part of their family, and another parental figure they could lean on. They sat in silence for a moment, contemplating the right name that would encapsulate his new role. Darnell's eyes lit up with an idea, his smile growing wider. "How about...Maman?” he suggested, using the term of endearment that Trolls reserved for someone who was a beloved caregiver.

Cooper nodded in agreement, his own smile mirroring his brother's. "Yeah, that's cool," he said. "Maman Branch has a nice ring to it."

Branch's heart swelled at the thought of being accepted so wholeheartedly. He had always felt like an outsider in Troll Village, even after helping make peace with the bergens and Barbs world tour. But here, with Essence, Quincy, and their sons, he felt like he truly belonged. He swallowed hard, trying to keep his emotions in check. "Maman Branch," he murmured, testing the words on his tongue. It felt strange, but also...right.

Darnell's eyes closed in pleasure as Branch's nimble fingers worked through his hair. The omega's touch was soothing, and the alpha could feel the tension in his body melting away. He had never experienced such gentle care from anyone outside of his immediate family before, and it made him feel vulnerable in a way that was both comforting and exhilarating. He hadn't realized how much he had craved this kind of attention until it was being given to him so freely.

"Thanks, Branch," Darnell said lazily, his eyes half-closed in pleasure as Branch worked his way through the knots. "You're pretty good at this."

Branch felt a warmth spread through his chest at the praise. He had always enjoyed taking care of others, and it seemed his new family was more than happy to let him express his omega instincts.

"You're welcome, Darnell," he replied, his voice low and soothing. As he worked, he began to hum a soft melody under his breath. It was an old Pop Troll lullaby that his grandmother had sung to him when he was young. The rhythm was slow and steady, the notes floating through the air like a gentle breeze.

Before long, Darnell's breathing grew deep and even, his head lolling against Branch's stomach. Cooper, feeling the comforting vibrations from Branch's humming, had leaned into his side and was now dozing off with his head resting on Branch's shoulder. Branch felt a warmth spread through him, his chest swelling with affection for his new family.

Carefully, he continued to work on Darnell's hair, placing the dread rings back in place with a gentle touch.

The three of them sat there for what felt like hours, the soft humming filling the room with a serene calm. The stress of the day's events, the gravity of their new responsibilities, and the excitement of their evolving relationship all melted away under Branch's soothing ministrations. The gentle strokes of his fingers against Darnell's scalp lulled the young alpha into a deep slumber, his head now resting heavily on Branch's thighs. Cooper, drawn in by the warmth and comfort of the other omega, had his head leaning against Branch's shoulder, his breathing deep and even as he dozed off as well.

Branch looked down at the two sleeping figures before him, feeling a profound sense of peace wash over him. He had never felt such a strong connection to anyone outside of Poppy, and even that bond was different. This was familial, a bond that was both new and ancient, a bond that was growing stronger by the minute. He knew he would protect them with everything he had.

As the last of the tangles disappeared from Darnell's hair, Branch's eyes grew heavy with sleep. The rhythmic sounds of Cooper's and Darnell's breathing combined with the gentle rocking of the ship lulled him into a tranquil state. He leaned back into the couch, his head tilting slightly as his eyelids grew heavier and heavier. The warmth from the sleeping trolls beside him was comforting, and he felt safe and loved for the first time in a long while.

An hour later, the door to the study slid open, revealing Essence and Quincy's majestic figures as they stepped back into the room. The lights from the hallway cast an ethereal glow around them, highlighting the glitter in Essence's hair.

Essence's eyes widened when she saw the trio on the couch, all three of them fast asleep. Quincy chuckled softly, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Looks like they've all had quite the day," he whispered, his voice filled with affection.

Essence nodded, a gentle smile gracing her lips. She reached into her pocket and pulled out her holographic phone, the device emitting a soft glow. "Let's capture this moment," she suggested, her voice barely above a whisper. Quincy nodded, pulling out his own phone. They both snapped a few pictures of their sons and omega, the light from their devices casting a soft halo around the sleeping figures.

The images captured the intimate scene, the love and comfort that radiated between Branch and their sons. The two alphas couldn't help but feel a sense of happiness seeing how much their children had grown to care for the omega as a parental figure. They had been worried about the boys, especially Darnell, who was still young and had never known the gentle touch of an omega family member before. But now, seeing them all together, their fears dissipated.

They watched as Branch's hand continued to stroke Darnell's hair, his humming never ceasing. It was clear that the bond between them was stronger than they had anticipated. Essence leaned into Quincy, her eyes misting over with joy. "He's perfect for them," she murmured. Quincy wrapped his arm around her waist, his eyes never leaving the sight of their sleeping family.

"Yes," he agreed softly. "And for us, as well." He leaned down to kiss her forehead. "We should wake them to bed, but we need to talk to Branch after. Make sure he understands what this means for all of us."

With a nod, Essence stood up, and the two of them moved to gently rouse their sleeping sons. Cooper stirred first, his eyes blinking open sleepily. "Mom?" he mumbled, rubbing his eyes with the back of his hand. Essence chuckled and helped him sit up.

"Come on, my little star," she said, her voice warm and affectionate. "It's time to go to bed." She took his hand, and Cooper leaned into her, his body still relaxed from the comfort Branch had provided.

Darnell was next, his eyes slowly fluttering open as his mother's gentle touch roused him from his peaceful slumber. He slowly got up and started following his dad and twin towards the door.

Essence knelt down beside Branch, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Hey," she whispered softly. "It's time to go to our room."

Branch's eyes snapped open, the sight of Essence's smiling face above him bringing him out of his doze. He sat up, his cheeks flushing with a mix of sleepiness and embarrassment. "Sorry," he mumbled, not quite meeting her gaze.

"No need to apologize, my love," Essence said warmly, reaching out to cup his cheek. "You've had a long day. Let's get you to our room."

Branch nodded, his eyes still a bit dazed as he looked at the twins. Cooper yawned widely, his cheeks pink from his nap. "Goodnight, Maman," he said, giving Branch a sleepy smile before leaning in for a quick hug. Darnell, ever the cool one, offered a nod. "Night, Maman," he murmured, his voice a little gruff.

The endearment from the twins didn't go unnoticed by Essence and Quincy. They shared a look of surprise before Quincy spoke up. "Looks like you've got yourself a new title," he said, his voice filled with amusement.

Branch couldn't help but feel a warmth spread through him at the affectionate names. He had never anticipated this level of acceptance, especially from Darnell, who has only known him for week. But as the young alpha had entrusted his hair into Branch's care, and even fallen asleep in his lap, he realized that maybe he had been wrong.

As Essence led him down the corridor, Quincy took Cooper and Darnell by the hands and led them to their respective rooms. "Goodnight, my little funksters," he said with a laugh, ruffling their hair before giving them a gentle nudge into their bedrooms. "Rest well, we have much to discuss and celebrate tomorrow."

When they entered their bedroom, Branch's eyes widened in surprise at the new bedframe.

It was unlike anything he had ever seen in Troll Village, with its curving, sleek lines and shimmering chrome accents. The bed itself looked normal at first glance, but upon closer inspection, he noticed that it had short barriers going along the sides. Essence noticed his curiosity and stepped closer to him, her hand still resting on his shoulder. "It's a special bed," she explained with a knowing smile. "Funk Trolls have a tradition of creating these nest beds for their omegas. It's a symbol of protection and comfort."

The realization dawned on Branch, and his heart fluttered with excitement. He had been feeling a strong urge to build a nest, especially during moments of stress or when he was feeling particularly emotional but wasnt sure if his alphas would mind but this gesture solidified their need to make him happy.

As Essence and Quincy watched, Branch stepped closer to them, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. He wrapped his arms around Essence first, pulling her into a tight hug. "Thank you," he murmured into her fur. "For everything." Essence returned the embrace, her arms strong and comforting around him.

When he pulled back, he turned to Quincy, his eyes flicking up to meet the alpha's. Without a word, the two men shared a knowing look before Branch stepped into the embrace of his other alpha. The warmth and safety he felt was overwhelming, and he couldn't help but nuzzle into the crook of Quincy's neck, inhaling the scent that was already becoming so familiar to him.

"You're welcome, Branch," Essence said, her voice warm and affectionate as she led him to the bed. "Now, let's get comfortable for the night."

Essence gracefully changed into a regal night gown that hugged her curves in all the right places. Her hair fell down her back in a cascade of blue and purple waves, and she looked like a queen ready to retire for the evening. Quincy, on the other hand, went for a more casual look, changing into a pair of sweatpants.

When Branch turned to go to his own dresser to pick out pajamas, Quincy stepped forward with a knowing smile. "Let me help you with that," he offered, his eyes sparkling with mischief. Branch blushed, feeling both shy and excited at the prospect of being dressed by his new alpha. Quincy rummaged through the grand dresser, pulling out a matching set for Branch. The fabric was soft and silky, with a pattern that mirrored Essence's nightgown. The pajamas were a perfect fit, tailored to his slender frame.

With Quincy's assistance, Branch slipped out of his clothes and into the pajamas, his skin tingling with the intimate contact. As Quincy helped him button up the top, his large hands gentle and warm, Branch couldn't help but feel a rush of nervousness even though he had already mated with the king. Quincy noticed his reaction and leaned in, his breath hot against Branch's ear. "You look beautiful, my love," he whispered, his voice a low rumble that sent a shiver down Branch's spine.

Without warning, Quincy turned Branch around and nibbled on his sensitive earlobe, his teeth grazing the sensitive skin lightly. Branch gasped, his knees buckling slightly at the sudden burst of pleasure. Essence, who had been watching from the bed with a knowing smile, slid off the covers and approached them, her eyes gleaming with desire.

Before Branch could react, Essence claimed his mouth in a passionate kiss, her tongue delving into his mouth as she pulled him closer to her. The kiss was deep and soulful, a declaration of their love and commitment. Quincy's arms wrapped around Branch's waist, his hands moving up to cup his ass, pulling him tightly against his chest. The three of them stood there, entwined in a dance of desire, the room spinning with the intensity of their connection.

Breaking away, Essence took Branch's hand and led him to the bed, her eyes never leaving his. Quincy followed, his own need evident in his gaze. They had something important to discuss, but the pull of their bond was too strong to ignore. They lay down on the soft mattress, Branch nestled between his two alphas. Essence's hand found its way to Branch's chest, her thumb tracing slow circles over his heart as she spoke. "Branch, we need to talk about what this all means," she said, her voice a gentle purr.

Quincy nodded in agreement, his hand sliding down Branch's back to rest on his hip. "You're not just our omega; you're our third, the one who completes our family," he said, his eyes searching Branch's. "You're an integral part of us now, and we need to make sure you understand what that entails."

Branch felt his cheeks heat up as he looked between them. The love and acceptance in their eyes was almost too much to bear. He swallowed hard, trying to find the right words to express his own feelings. "I know," he whispered. "And I'll do anything to make sure our family is happy and safe."

Essence leaned in to kiss him softly, her breath warm and sweet. "We know you will," she said, her voice filled with certainty. "And we're here to support you every step of the way."

Quincy ran his hand through Branch's hair, his touch firm but gentle. "We've noticed how quickly Cooper and Darnell have taken to calling you ‘Maman'," he said with a smile. "It's a term of endearment and respect, and we're so happy to see them bonding with you."

Essence nodded in agreement. "Darnells never had an omega in his personal life before, so this is all new to him. But you've made it so natural and easy for him."

The conversation grew more serious as Quincy cleared his throat. "Branch, there's something we've been thinking about," he began, his hand sliding up to cup Branch's cheek. "We know it's early, but we want to know your thoughts on continuing out family. How many pups do you think you'd like to have?"

Branch's eyes widened at the question, his heart racing. He had always wanted children, but the thought of carrying Quincy and Essence's pups was both thrilling and terrifying. "I... I don't know," he stuttered, his gaze flicking between them. "I've never really thought about a specific number."

Essence leaned in closer, her eyes filled with understanding. "Take your time," she assured him. "We know it's a big decision, and we're not rushing you. But we wanted to know if it's something you're open to."

Branch took a deep breath, his mind racing with the possibility. "Three," he finally said, his voice firm. "I think I'd like to have three pups."

Quincy's eyes lit up, while Essence's smile grew even wider. "Three is a lucky number for Funk Trolls," she said, her voice a purr. "We're thrilled to hear that."

They lay there for a few moments, the three of them lost in their own thoughts about the future. Branch felt the gentle pressure of Essence's hand on his stomach, and the thought of carrying their pups made him feel full and warm. Quincy leaned in to kiss Branch's forehead, his expression filled with affection. "We'll take it one step at a time," he said, his voice a soothing rumble. "we're looking forward to seeing you swollen with our eggs."

The words sent a thrill through Branch's body, and he couldn't help but imagine what it would be like to carry the life of their love inside him. He knew it would be a while before he went into heat again, but the anticipation was already building. "I want that, too," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "More than anything."

Essence's hand stroked his cheek, her eyes filled with a gentle warmth. "We'll make sure you're ready," she said, her thumb brushing away a stray tear. "We're going to take care of you, Branch."

Quincy nodded solemnly. "We don't want to rush you," he agreed. "We know that your health and well-being are the most important things. We'll wait until your heats are regular and you're at a healthier weight before we start trying."

Since Branch's medical exam, Quincy and Essence had been on a mission to ensure that their new omega was pampered and well-fed. They had noticed that his frame was a bit too slender for their liking and knew that carrying pups would require a certain level of physical strength and nourishment. Each meal was a feast, with dishes ranging from sweet berry pastries to rich, protein-filled stews. Essence had even hired a personal chef who specialized in omega diets to ensure that Branch's meals were tailored to his needs.

Branch had been overwhelmed by the attention, but he couldn't deny the way his stomach rumbled with excitement every time he saw the elaborate spreads laid out for him. He had never experienced such luxury in his life, and despite his initial hesitation, he found himself eagerly indulging in the mouthwatering creations. His appetite grew with each passing day, and he started to notice changes in his body. His cheeks filled out, and his hips began to curve more noticeably. The royal couple beamed with pride every time they saw him tuck into his food, knowing that they were providing him with everything he needed to thrive.

After their heartfelt conversation, the three of them grew quiet, their bond humming with a gentle warmth. They shifted closer on the bed, their bodies fitting together like puzzle pieces. Essence pulled Branch into her embrace, his head resting on her shoulder, while Quincy spooned him from behind. The rhythmic beat of their hearts and the soft hum of their breathing lulled Branch into a peaceful sleep. He had never felt so safe or loved in his life.

Chapter Text

Branch’s outfit inspired by this image by GummyGoatGalaxy on Deviant art

https://www.deviantart.com/gummygoatgalaxy/art/Funk-King-Branch-au-1063858143

The morning after while Essence did her hair she noticed branch kept moving around on the bed in the reflection of her mirror so she turned around to a strange scene.

He had made the bed which is usual for the last partner who woke up to do but even though it was already perfect, branch kept rearranging the pillows in a robotic way almost as if he was in a trance. It took her a few moments to come to the wonderful realization that he was making a nest. It brought a warm smile to her face, she knew that was a sign of him settling in and feeling at home.

She wanted to let him continue without disturbance, as it was something that omegas needed to do when they felt safe and loved. But she noticed he needed more pillows blankets to fill the extra space surrounding the wall of the bed. Luckily her and Quincy thought ahead for this and stored extra bins full of them in their closet.

With a knowing smile, she turned to her husband who was tying his cape not having noticed the scene yet. "Quincy, can you help me bring some extra pillows and blankets for Branch's nest?"

Quincy looked over, understanding immediately. "Of course, my love," he said, his voice filled with excitement as he followed her into the walk-in closet. Together, they pulled out armfuls of soft, plush pillows and colorful blankets that matched the vibrant theme of the room. Carefully, they approached the bed, laying the extra cushions and fabrics within Branch's reach without disturbing his trancelike state. They watched him for a moment, his hands moving almost on their own as he added to the pile, creating a cozy sanctuary .

Nests are a place that all omegas build, it’s where omegas could retreat to when they needed to feel secure and comforted. It was a clear sign that Branch was beginning to truly see vibe city as his home. Essence's heart swelled with joy as she observed the care and attention to detail that Branch put into his creation. The way he tucked the blankets around the edges, ensuring no cold spots, and arranged the pillows into a fortress of comfort spoke volumes about his need to be loved and cherished.

Quincy watched his husband and omega with a warm smile, feeling a sense of pride swell within him. The sight of Branch building a nest was a testament to the bond that had formed between them all, and it was clear that their little family was growing stronger every day. He knew that this was a significant moment for Branch, and he didn't want to interrupt the process. Instead, he leaned in and whispered in Essence's ear, "Why don't we let him add some of our clothes to the nest, too? It'll make him feel even more connected to us."

Essence nodded in agreement, her eyes sparkling with the same love and understanding. They quietly picked out a few articles of clothing that had a lingering scent of themselves, items they knew Branch would cherish. They placed them carefully among the pillows and blankets, making sure to leave enough space for him to continue building.

As Branch worked, he seemed to be in a world of his own, his eyes glazed over and his movements methodical. He picked up each item with care, holding it to his nose to inhale deeply before placing it in the growing pile. Some of the pillows and fabrics he discarded, not quite right for his nest. But the ones that passed his scrutiny were arranged with precision, each layer building upon the last to create a cocoon.

Finally, the nest was complete, and Branch sat back, his chest heaving with exertion. He looked up at Essence and Quincy with a hopeful expression, his eyes pleading. "Would you both sit with me?" he asked, his voice small and shy. "And maybe... scent some of the pillows?"

Essence leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on Branch's forehead, her breath hot against his skin. "Of course, baby," she murmured, her voice filled with reassurance. His alphas sat in the bed against the railing, each picking up a handful of pillows. They looked at each other, their smiles filled with warmth and affection.

Quincy took the lead, holding up a pillow to his chest and rubbing it against the fabric of his shirt, imbuing it with his scent. He passed it to Branch, who took it eagerly and buried his face into the softness, inhaling deeply. The scent of his alphas filled him with comfort, and he placed it at the top of the pile, right where his head would rest. Essence followed suit, her own pillow now infused with the sweet perfume of her body. She watched as Branch arranged it, his movements slower and more deliberate now that the task was almost complete.

As they handed him each pillow, they took the opportunity to stroke his hair, kiss his cheeks, and whisper sweet nothings into his ears. The gentle caresses and tender words filled Branch with warmth, his body relaxing into the knowledge that he was truly home. With the last pillow in place, Branch looked up at them with a content smile, his eyes shining with gratitude and his tail swaying back and forth happily.

Quincy opened his arms and Branch eagerly climbed into his lap, nestling against the alpha's broad chest. Essence joined them, wrapping her arms around both of them and completing their little family unit. "You've done such a wonderful job, omega," she praised, her voice a sweet melody in his ear. "Your nest is perfect."

Branch felt a surge of happiness at her words, his cheeks flushing a soft shade of pink. He leaned into their embrace, feeling their warmth and love surrounding him like a blanket.

After a little while longer they decided it was time to finish getting ready for the day, once done they sat Branch on the futon at the end of their bed.

"Branch, we have something for you," Essence said, her voice filled with excitement. Quincy nodded in agreement, his eyes shining with anticipation. They had been planning this since he agreed to be their mate, knowing that the omega deserved something special to celebrate their union.

Essence reached into the drawer of her vanity and pulled out a small velvet box. Opening it, she revealed two golden star earrings, silver studs to go with each of them the center. "These are for you," she said, her voice tender as she held them out to him. "They are wedding gifts that I wanted to give early."

Branch's eyes widened in surprise, and he took the earrings from her gently. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. He looked up at them both, his eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I don't know what to say."

Quincy chuckled and leaned in to kiss Branch's forehead. "You don't have to say anything, baby," he said. "We just want you to know how much you mean to us."

Essence nodded in agreement. "We're going to take you to one of the best piercer in Vibe City later," she informed him, her tone excited. "They're going to make sure you're comfortable and that the experience is as painless as possible."

Essence puts the earrings back in the box and puts them in her gown pocket as Quincy handed him a blue jewelry box . Inside, there were two golden chains lined with tiny diamonds. "These chains are for you," Quincy said, his voice filled with love and pride.

Branch took the chains in his trembling hands, his eyes wide with amazement. One was slightly shorter than the other so they didn’t overlap. The longest one had a tiny music note at the end of it.

Quincy took his hand and guided him to the full-length mirror that stood against the wall. "Let's get these on you," he said, his voice gentle and sure. Branch nodded, his heart racing with excitement.

As Quincy helped him to fasten the chains around his neck, Branch couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging wash over him. The cool metal was a stark contrast to the warmth of his skin, but it felt right, like a symbol of their love and commitment. He watched in the mirror as the longer chain with the delicate music note rested right above his heart, the shorter one lying gracefully against his collarbone. The diamonds sparkled in the light, casting little rainbows across the room.

“They're beautiful, thank you" Branch whispered, his voice filled with awe. He had never owned anything so precious before, and the thought that they were a symbol of his bond with Essence and Quincy made them all the more special. He knew that in Troll society, omegas often received jewelry to signify their bond with their alphas, but never thought of how it would feel to receive any.

They had decided to get his ears pierced right away. The piercer was a well-respected Funk Troll named Glitz who had a reputation for making the experience as comfortable and painless as possible. his home was a shimmering, gravity-defying masterpiece that looked like a disco ball had exploded inside. The walls were lined with clean glittering surfaces.

Glitz, a friendly and professional troll with a gentle touch, greeted them warmly. He had a vast array of earrings displayed on the walls of his shop, ranging from simple studs to elaborate dangling jewels. Branch felt his heart flutter with nerves as he sat in the chair. Essence and Quincy stood by his side, holding his hands tightly and whispering reassurances.

"Just breathe, my dear," Essence said softly, her eyes full of warmth and encouragement.

The moment the first stud was pushed through Branch's ear, he felt a sharp pinch followed by a strange sense of release. The pain was brief, and the coolness of the metal soothed the small wound almost instantly. Glitz was true to his reputation; the process was swift and painless. With each earring that was inserted, Branch felt more and more connected to Essence and Quincy. The studs gleaming in his ears were a physical reminder of their union, a declaration to the world that he was theirs and they were his.

Once the earrings were in place, Essence stepped forward with the gold star earrings. She took one look at Branch's reflection in the mirror, her eyes shimmering with happiness. "You look absolutely stunning," she said, her voice filled with affection.

With the same gentle care, Glitz took the gold star earrings from Essence and carefully placed them into Branch's now-pierced ears. The moment the second earring was secure, Branch felt a warmth spread through him. The stars sparkled in the light, drawing attention to his newly pierced lobes. He couldn't help but admire the way they complemented his new studs.

Once the piercing was done, Essence and Quincy couldn't resist the urge to lean in and kiss him, one on each cheek. "You look absolutely adorable," Quincy said, his eyes sparkling with affection. "Now, let's go celebrate with lunch.”

They left Glitz's piercing shop, the jingle of the bell above the door echoing in their ears as they stepped out into the bustling streets of Vibe City. The air was alive with the pulsating rhythm of funky beats, the vibrant lights and neon colors of the Funk Troll architecture painting the sky in a kaleidoscope of hues. As they walked, the three of them couldn't help but draw the attention of the Funk Trolls around them. The sight of an omega wearing the royal colors and adorned with the king's and queen's personal jewelry was not an everyday occurrence, and whispers began to spread among the crowd.

The restaurant they chose was a popular hangout among the Funk Trolls, known for its gourmet cuisine that fused traditional Troll fare with futuristic twists. The moment they entered, the host recognized them and immediately ushered them to a private booth that overlooked the dance floor. The walls of the restaurant were covered in shimmering tapestries made it more hidden from the rest of the tables, and the tables themselves were made of chrome and glass, giving the place an elegant yet funky vibe.

As they sat down, Quincy took a moment to study Branch's new adornments. The earrings and necklace looked stunning on him, and Quincy couldn't resist the urge to lean in and whisper, "You look so beautiful, my love." Essence nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with love and admiration.

Branch blushed under their praise, feeling more and more comfortable with each passing moment. He had always been a bit self-conscious about his appearance, especially compared to the vibrant Pop Trolls, but with Essence and Quincy by his side, he felt beautiful.

As they were being seated, Quincy playfully picked Branch up and sat him on his lap. Branch yelped in surprise but quickly melted into the alpha's embrace, his legs dangling over the side of Quincy’s. He felt small and safe in his alphas arms, his head resting comfortably against the alpha's broad chest. Essence slid into the chair beside them, her eyes dancing with mischief. But then he blushes because he remembers their in a public area.

"Don't worry, love," she whispered in Branch's ear. "No one can see us over here."

They turned their attention to the menu, which was projected on the tables tablet. Most of the dishes looked a little complicated, and Branch found himself overwhelmed by the choices. Essence and Quincy noticed his indecision and decided to take the lead.

"Why don't you try the 'Shrimp tempura'?" Essence suggests. "It's a classic fish roll."

Branch nods eagerly, his eyes wide as the thought of trying something so new and exotic sends a thrill through him. "Okay, I'll have that," he says, pointing at the menu. Quincy, however, looks a bit concerned.

"Are you sure he'll be okay with that, dear?" Quincy asks, his brow furrowed in worry. "Sushi can be a bit...different for those not used to it."

Essence laughs lightly, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "Relax, Q," she says, patting his hand. "It's a cooked roll. He'll love it." She turns to Branch with a knowing smile. "Sushi is seafood with rice, this one has cooked shrimp in it.” Branch didn’t really know much about seafood but was a bit too embarrassed to ask.

Once they’ve ordered their food they start a much needed conversation with branch.

"Branch," Essence began, her voice serious but her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Quincy and I have been talking, and we think it's time for us to have a public bonding ceremony."

Branch's heart skipped a beat. He knew this was coming, but the reality of it was still a shock. "Ok, what usually happens during that for funk trolls?” he asked, his voice a bit shaky.

Quincy smiled warmly at him. "It's a celebration of our union," he explained. "We'll stand before the Funk Trolls and declare our bond to each other. Then, we'll bite down on your mating marks together, solidifying our connection."

"But what do Pop Trolls do during their bonding ceremonies?" Essence asked, her voice filled with genuine curiosity. "We want to make sure you feel comfortable and that your heritage is represented as well."

Branch took a deep breath, trying to remember the details of the Pop Troll bonding ceremonies he had witnessed. "Well," he began, "Pop Troll couples usually sing together. It's a sort of declaration of their love and unity. And then, they bite each other's neck to leave mating marks."

Essence's eyes lit up with inspiration. "That's perfect!" she exclaimed. "We're actually scheduled to have a concert in the central concert hall in two hours. Why don't you join us on stage and sing with us, Branch? Then we can have the ceremony right after"

Branch felt his heart race at the thought of singing in front of everyone with the people he loved, but he knew that this was his chance to truly become part of their family. He took a deep breath and nodded. "Okay," he said, trying to sound more confident than he felt. "I'll do it."

Essence beamed at him, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Wonderful," she said, leaning in to give him a quick kiss. "We'll have to pick the perfect song."

Their food arrived, a feast of vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas that made Branch's mouth water. The 'Shrimp tempura' rolls looked delicious, and he was eager to try them. As they dug in, Essence began to outline their wedding plans.

"The ceremony will be held in the heart of Vibe City," she said, her voice filled with excitement. "We'll have a stage set up. Lots of music and dancing.

"But, before we get ahead of ourselves," Quincy interrupted, his expression becoming more serious, "we need to talk about the actual ceremony. For Funk Troll, we usually tie a ribbon around each others wrist to each other and then say our vows sealing it with a kiss. What is usually done in pop troll ceremonies?”

Branch explains, "In Pop Troll ceremonies, we exchange bracelets then say our vows then kiss so it sounds very similar to funk troll ceremonies."

Essence nods thoughtfully. "Then we shall incorporate both traditions," she decides. "We'll start with the ribbon tying, as is customary for us, and then exchange bracelets to represent your traditions also."

They spend the rest of the meal discussing the details of the ceremony. They decide to hold it the following week, giving them enough time to prepare. They talk about who they'll invite; of course, all the Funk Trolls of Vibe City would be invited, as well as the other Troll Tribes. Essence is particularly excited about inviting Queen Poppy and her friends from the Pop Trolls.

"It'll be a chance for everyone to see how much we've all grown and changed," she says, her eyes shining with excitement. "And to show them that we're all one big, happy Troll family now."

The idea of standing before so many Trolls was both thrilling and terrifying for Branch, but he knew it was a significant step in his life. The food in front of him was a delightful distraction, and he took a bite of his sushi roll, savoring the crispy texture of the shrimp. It was unlike anything he'd ever tasted before.

"Mmm, it's delicious!" he exclaimed, and Essence and Quincy shared a proud look. They had picked well, ensuring that Branch felt at home while still being introduced to the exotic foods.

The conversation turned to the impending bonding ceremony. Quincy announced. "The day after our wedding, you will be officially crowned as our King Consort and a member of the royal family," Essence added with a warm smile.

Branch's eyes get a curious look in them. "By the way, What is the difference between a king and king consort?"

Essence took another sip of her drink before explaining, "A king consort is a title given to the partner of a reigning king and/or queen. It means you'll stand beside me and Quincy, as an equal in the eyes of our people, but you won't have to bear the same responsibilities that come with being a king. You'll support us in ruling and represent our union to the Funk Trolls and the other Tribes."

Branch nodded thoughtfully, understanding the weight of the title. The three of them finished their meal, the anticipation of the concert and the bonding ceremony growing stronger with every passing moment.

they headed back to their bedroom, eager to prepare for the concert. As they entered, the room was bathed in a soft, warm glow from the neon lights that lined the walls. Essence couldn't resist the urge to convince her omega to let her put makeup on him. His alpha females eyes twinkling with mischief. "Trust me, you'll look absolutely radiant."

With steady hands, Essence began to apply the gold eyeshadow, her gentle touch sending shivers down Branch's spine. She was surprisingly delicate for an alpha, her fingers tracing the contours of his eyes with the precision of a master artist. As she worked, she hummed a soft, funky tune that seemed to resonate with the very air around them. Quincy watched with a smile, his large frame relaxing into the plush couch as he took in the intimate scene unfolding before him.

Once the gold eyeshadow was applied, she carefully painted wings on the outer corners of Branch's eyes, extending them outward to give him an ethereal look. The silver glitter sparkled in the light, making his eyes pop with a mesmerizing effect, Essence stepped back to admire her work. "Now for the finishing touch," she said, her voice low and sultry. Quincy watched as Essence pulled out a spool of tinsel from her vanity drawer, the metallic strands unfurling with a gentle rustle. "This tinsel," she explained, holding it up for Branch to see, "is a symbol of our royal Funk Troll family." With a twirl of her fingers, she began to weave the tinsel into Branch's curly hair, looping it around and through the strands until he was crowned in a halo of silver sparkles.

Branch felt a mix of excitement and nerves as he gazed at his reflection in the mirror. The gold eyeshadow and silver tinsel created an unexpectedly regal look that made him feel both beautiful and powerful. He had noticed before that the members of the Funk Troll family often wore tinsel in some form, be it in their hair, as necklaces, or even wound around their arms. It was a subtle but significant marker of their heritage and status, and now, as it adorned his own head, he couldn't help but feel a part of their legacy.

He looked like a Funk Troll, but at the same time, he felt like the most beautiful Pop Troll in the world. He turned to Essence and Quincy, his eyes wide with amazement. "I can't believe it," he breathed.

Essence stepped behind him, her hands on his shoulders as she admired her handiwork. "You're going to steal the show tonight," she said, her voice filled with love and pride. Quincy nodded in agreement, his own eyes filled with admiration for the omega who had stolen their hearts.

The three of them made their way to the central concert hall, the buzz of excitement palpable in the air. The hall was a masterpiece of Funk Troll architecture, with lights that pulsed in time with the music and a stage that looked like it was floating on a sea of disco balls.

After making sure their sons were standing right in front of the crowd. they took their places on stage, Essence looked over at Branch and gave him an encouraging wink. Quincy took his place, while Essence picked up a shimmering guitar with Branch standing next to her with his own mic.

The music started, a funky beat that made everyone's feet tap. Essence began to sing, her powerful voice filling the hall. Quincy joined in, his voice blending seamlessly with hers. Then, it was Branch's turn. He took a deep breath and let the music wash over him. The words came naturally, and he sang with all his heart, the lyrics telling the story a story of love and unity.

As the music ended, Essence took Branch's hand and led him to the center of the stage. Quincy followed, a look of pride and love on his face. The three of them stood in a circle, the lights dimming around them. Essence took the microphone from Branch and began to speak.

"Funk Trolls," she announced, her voice resonating through the hall. "Tonight, we are not just celebrating our love for music and each other. We are also celebrating the bond that has formed between our family and Branch, the bravest Troll we know."

The audience cheered, and Branch felt his cheeks flush with a mix of embarrassment and happiness. He had never felt so accepted and loved before.

"Now," Essence continued, "it is time for us to perform the bonding ceremony."

With a nod from Quincy, she and Branch stepped closer together, their hands intertwined. The crowd hushed as Quincy stepped in front of his omega. "Branch," he began, his voice deep and steady, "Do you accept us, King Quincy and Queen Essence as your alphas?"

Branch looked into the eyes of his mates, feeling a warmth spread through his chest that was more than just nerves. "Yes," he said, his voice clear and strong. "I accept you both as my alphas."

The crowd erupted into cheers as Essence took the microphone again. "And now," she announced, "Branch will declare his place in our family."

With a deep breath, Branch stepped forward, his eyes shining with determination. "I, Branch, declare myself as your devoted omega," he shouted over the applause, his voice clear and strong. "I pledge my love and loyalty to King Quincy and Queen Essence, and to the Funk Troll Tribe."

The crowd roared with approval as Essence stepped closer to Branch, her gleaming white teeth bared in a fierce yet loving smile. She leaned in and gently bit into the soft flesh of his neck, on his mating mark she previously placed.

Quincy followed suit, his teeth sinking into Branch's shoulder where his own mark was located. Branch felt a sharp sting, but the pain quickly gave way to a warmth that spread through his body, a bond stronger than any he'd ever felt. Without hesitation, he reached up and bit both of his alphas back, his teeth finding their mating marks with surprising ease. The connection was instant and profound, a declaration of unity that resonated deep within their very souls.

The crowd watched in awe as the three of them stood there, bound together by love and tradition. It was a moment that would go down in Troll history, a symbol of the bridges that were being built between the once divided Tribes.

As they pulled away from their bites, Essence and Quincy shared a warm smile before turning back to Branch. They hugged him tightly, their arms enveloping him in a warm embrace. The crowd erupted into a symphony of cheers and applause, their hearts swelling with joy at the sight of such a beautiful union.

The three of them stepped closer together, their bodies pressed against each other, as if they were one being. Quincy leaned down to whisper something in Branch's ear, making him laugh, while Essence brushed a lock of hair out of his face with tender affection. They pulled Cooper and Darnell into the hug as well. The love between them was palpable, a tangible force that filled the entire concert hall.

The Funk Trolls celebrated for hours, dancing and singing to the beat of the music that was now a part of all of them. Quincy and Essence took Branch's hand and led him to their closest friends and court.

Their friends,, showered Branch with congratulations and well wishes. The warmth of their embraces was like a gentle reminder that he was no longer an outsider looking in, but a cherished member of the family. Branch was also happy to make some friends with a few omegas of the group.

While Branch was busy speaking with a few of the friends he made, Quincy and Essences friends spoke with them.

"Congratulations, Quincy, Essence," said one of the trolls, a female with a sleek pink mohawk . "Branch is a catch! I've never seen an omega as brave and selfless as he is."

Quincy beamed with pride, placing an arm around Essence's waist. "Thank you," he said. "We feel incredibly blessed to have found him."

Essence nodded in agreement, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "He truly is special," she said, watching Branch laugh at something one of their friends had said. "We never thought we'd find someone who could complete our family so perfectly."

Their friends nodded, smiling widely as they reminisced about their own bonding ceremonies and the journeys that had led them to their omegas. They spoke of the challenges they had faced and the joy that had come from overcoming them together.

“Yo king Quincy! Since when do you have an omega?” A deep voice was heard right behind them followed by a firm heavy pat on Quincy’s shoulder by an orange hand. It was none other then the ambassador and Quincy’s younger brother Lownote.

Along with missions traveling the galaxy, Lownotes job was to keep peace between the Troll Tribes and represent the Funk Trolls wherever he was sent.

Quincy turned to face his brother, a wide smile spreading across his face. "Lownote!" he exclaimed, his deep voice booming over the music. "You're just in time for the after-party!"

Essence joined in the greeting, throwing her arms around Lownote's neck. "We've missed you so much," she said, her eyes shining with affection. "How was your mission?"

Lownote's grin was as wide as ever. "It was... interesting," he said, his eyes flicking to Branch with a knowing glint. "But nothing compared to what you've got going on here."

Essence and Quincy both chuckled, sharing a knowing look. They called Branch over from his conversation with the other omegas, eager to introduce him to Lownote.

Branch made his way over, his heart racing with excitement and a hint of nervousness. He knew Lownote was Quincy's brother and a highly respected figure among the Funk Trolls. As he approached, Lownote's gaze swept over him, taking in the pop trolls appearance.

Quincy took Branch's hand and pulled him closer. "Lownote, this is Branch, our omega," he said, her voice filled with pride. "Branch, this is my brother, Lownote. He's the ambassador for our Tribe, a true peacemaker, we feel you and Branch have a lot in common."

Lownote's grin grew wider as he extended his hand to Branch. "Welcome to the family," he said, his deep voice resonating with sincerity.

Branch took the alphas hand, "Thank you," he said, his own smile matching the enthusiasm of the room. "I'm so happy to be here."

Lownote leaned in closer, his gaze assessing Branch in a way that made him feel both scrutinized and appreciated. "You know," he said, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "you're just the kind of omega Essence and Quincy need. Soft and sweet, yet fiercely loyal. You'll fit right in with us Funk Trolls."

Branch's cheeks flushed at the compliment, and he felt a newfound sense of belonging wash over him. He had always felt like an outsider among the Pop Trolls, but here, with his new alphas and their friends, he felt like he had found his place. The three of them chatted for a while, sharing stories and getting to know each other better. Lownote had seen so much of the Troll world, and his tales of adventure and diplomacy were fascinating.

After a while, Quincy leaned in and whispered something in Essence's ear, making her giggle. She looked over at Branch with a mischievous smile. "I think it's time we retire to our chambers," she said, her eyes sparkling with a hint of something more.

After making sure Cooper and Prince D got back to their rooms knowing how late it was. The trio made their way through the crowded hall, the music and lights of the party fading into the background as they went up the elevator to the royal hall.

After the door slid closed to their bedroom, Quincy immediately had his hands on Branch’s hips and pulled him into a deep kiss.

Essence watched with a smoldering gaze before she began to gently strip Branch of his clothes. Each layer revealed more of his blue, smooth skin. As the garments fell away, Branch felt his inhibitions melt with them. He had never felt so exposed, yet so accepted in his life.

Quincy, noticing his mate's nervousness, stepped in and began to help Essence, his large, gentle hands moving with surprising grace. He started stripping them as well, his movements methodical and purposeful. The three of them stood in the dimly lit room, their breathing growing heavier with each piece of clothing that hit the floor.

Once they were all naked, Quincy took Branch's hand and led him to the large, plush nest that was the centerpiece of their bedroom. Essence followed closely behind, her eyes never leaving Branch as they stepped into the warm embrace of the nest.

With a gentle push from Essence, Branch found himself lying back among the cushions, Quincy hovering above him with a look of pure hunger in his eyes. Quincy's purple fur stood out starkly against Branch's paler blue as he began to explore his new omega with his hands and mouth. Branch's body quivered with anticipation as he felt Quincy's hot breath against his skin.

Essence watched with a knowing smile, her own hands wandering over her own body as she took in the erotic sight before her.

Quincy's skilled fingers moved to Branch's chest, tracing the lines of his muscles before making their way down to his stomach. He took his time, enjoying the feel of Branch's skin under his touch. When he reached Branch's hips, he paused for a moment, his eyes meeting Branch's before he moved further down. He parted Branch's legs, exposing his swollen clit to the cool air of the room.

With a gentle touch, Quincy began to stroke it, watching as Branch's eyes rolled back in pleasure. His movements grew more confident as he listened to Branch's gasps and moans, his body responding to the alpha's every caress. Essence watched with rapt attention, her own arousal building as she saw the effect she and her mate were having on their new omega.

Quincy grabbed some lube from the nightstand and coated his fingers in it before slowly adding one inside of branch.

Branch let out a sharp intake of breath as Quincy's finger slid into him, his body tightening around the intrusion before relaxing with a moan. Essence watched intently, her own arousal growing as she saw the way Branch's body reacted to her mate's touch. She leaned in and whispered into Branch's ear, her breath hot and tickling his skin. "You're doing so well, sapphire," she purred, her hand sliding up to cup his cheek and turn his face towards hers for a kiss.

Encouraged by Essence's words, Branch focused on the sensations building within him, the pressure and the pleasure that grew with every stroke of Quincy's fingers. When Quincy finally deemed him ready, he slid in a second and then a third, stretching him gently but insistently. The alpha's skilled touch had him panting and squirming, eager for more.

Quincy noticed the change in Branch's breathing, the way his body arched upward, begging for something deeper. He leaned in and kissed Branch tenderly, whispering, "You're so beautiful like this."

With a final, lingering kiss, Quincy pulled away and positioned himself between Branch's legs. His own arousal was palpable, his cock thick and heavy with need. He applied more lube, coating it liberally before aligning it with Branch's tight opening. Branch looked up at him with a mix of trust and desire, his eyes filled with the hope that this would be everything he ever dreamed of.

Quincy pushed in slowly, giving Branch's body time to adjust to the sensation. Branch's eyes widened briefly as he felt himself being filled, but quickly adjusted to the warmth and fullness that spread through him. Essence watched the intimate moment unfold, her hand sliding down to her own clit.

Essence began to rub herself in a matching rhythm as she watched Quincy make love to Branch. She could see the deep connection between them, the way Branch's eyes never left Quincy's, the way he clung to his alpha as if he was the only thing keeping him tethered to reality. Her own desire grew as she saw how much pleasure Branch was receiving, and while she knew that she wanted to be a part of this moment, too she also loved seeing her two partners together and decided to wait.

Quincy's movements remained slow and loving, his gaze never straying from Branch's face as he pushed deeper inside of him. With each gentle thrust, Branch's eyes grew heavier with ecstasy, his moans growing louder and more desperate.

As the minutes ticked by, the rhythm of their bodies grew more intense, their hearts beating in unison. Quincy's muscular body shone with a light sheen of sweat, his fur standing on end.

Quincy's deep, steady rhythm continued, each thrust bringing Branch closer and closer to the edge of euphoria. The omega's moans grew more frequent, his body writhing under the alpha's expert ministrations. Essence watched them with rapt attention, her hand moving faster and faster as she matched their tempo.

Branch's eyes fluttered shut as he felt the first waves of pleasure crash over him, his back arching off the nest. Quincy's cock hit all the right spots inside of him, making him feel alive in a way he never had before. The alpha's gentle yet firm grip on his hips kept him in place, ensuring he could take every inch of Quincy's love.

As the minutes stretched into an hour, Quincy's patience and skill paid off. Branch's body trembled with the force of his climaxes, each one more intense than the last. His cries grew more desperate, his nails digging into the soft fur of Quincy's arms as he clung to his alpha, lost in the sea of pleasure. Essence watched with a soft smile, her own hand working in time with Quincy's thrusts. She knew her turn would come, but for now, she was content to see Branch come undone under her husbands attention.

Suddenly, Quincy's movements grew more erratic, his own pleasure peaking. With a final, powerful thrust, he knotted inside Branch, his cock swelling and locking them together. Branch's eyes flew open, his body going rigid as another orgasm ripped through him, this one more intense than any he had ever felt before. He could feel the warmth of Quincy's knot inside of him, the pressure and fullness unlike anything he had ever experienced.

Essence watched the intimate union with a mix of awe and desire, her own body aching for release. She moved closer to the edge of the nest, her hand still working between her legs as she leaned down to kiss Branch deeply. The omega's eyes fluttered open, meeting hers as their tongues danced together, sharing the taste of their combined passion.

As Quincy's knot swelled within Branch, Essence took the opportunity to explore Branch's body further, her hands tracing the lines of his chest and stomach, feeling the muscles quiver beneath his skin.

The minutes ticked by, the only sounds in the room the mingled gasps of pleasure and the occasional laughter as Essence teased Branch with gentle kisses and nips at his neck. Quincy's knot remained firm, the sensation of being filled so completely making Branch feel both vulnerable and cherished.

With a playful smirk, Quincy leaned in to whisper in Branch's ear, "I think Essence might be feeling a bit left out. What do you say we give her some love, too?"

Branch nodded eagerly, his cheeks still flushed from his recent climaxes. After a few more moments Quincy’s knot started to deflate enough for him to pull out of branch.

Quincy leaned down and kissed Branch softly, his eyes full of love and concern. "Rest now," he murmured, his voice a gentle rumble in Branch's ear. "You've had enough for one night."

Essence took over, her hands gentle as she helped Branch clean up and made him comfortable in the nest. She knew that some of the first few times with a new omega could be overwhelming, especially one as shy and inexperienced as Branch. She watched with affection as the omega's eyes grew heavy but stayed open as he laid on his side watching them.

Quincy turned his attention to his wife, his purple fur ruffling with excitement. He kissed her deeply, his hands roaming over her body as they had done so many times before. Essence's eyes closed in pleasure as she felt her husband's familiar touch, the warmth of his mouth on hers. Her own hands slid down to his cock, already hard and eager from watching Branch's reactions.

Branch watched as Essence straddled Quincy, her blue hair cascading around them like a curtain. He had never felt so aroused by watching two people make love, but there was something about the raw intimacy between his two alphas that had him captivated. He could feel his own cock hardening again, the slickness of his earlier arousal still coating his skin.

Quincy's purple fur went perfectly against Essence's blue complexion as he guided her down onto his cock. She took him in with a gasp, her eyes squeezed shut as she adjusted to his size. Branch could see the muscles in Quincy's neck tighten as he fought to hold back, to give Essence the time she needed. When she opened her eyes, they locked onto Branch's, and she offered him a knowing smile that sent shivers down his spine.

The sight of his two alphas joined together was more erotic than Branch could have ever imagined. He watched as Essence began to move, her hips rolling and grinding against Quincy's with a practiced ease that spoke of a long and passionate history between them. The room was filled with the sounds of their lovemaking—the slap of flesh, the slick sounds of penetration, and the deep, rumbling growls of Quincy's pleasure.

Essence leaned back, her breasts bouncing slightly with each movement, and beckoned to Branch with a crooked finger. He scooted closer, his heart racing in his chest. She took his hand and guided it to her clit, showing him how she liked to be touched. His fingers were clumsy at first, but she patiently corrected his movements until she was gasping and moaning in time with Quincy's thrusts.

With newfound confidence, Branch began to stroke Essence's clit in a steady rhythm, watching her face for signs of pleasure. Her eyes never left his as she whispered words of encouragement, her breath coming in short pants. Quincy's eyes were on them both, a look of pride and desire in his gaze.

They went at it for a while, their bodies moving in perfect harmony, each one lost in the pleasure of the moment. Quincy's thrusts grew more powerful, and he could feel his knot swelling. He paused, looking up at Essence with a question in his eyes. "Are you comfortable with me knotting you?" he asked, his voice a low rumble.

Essence met his gaze with a knowing smile and gently shook her head. "Not tonight, my love," she said, her voice breathy with desire. She quickly pulled off of him just as Quincy started climaxing making his knot swell.

Alphas typically avoided being knotted in unless they had the desire to conceive, as the sensation was far from pleasurable for them. Instead, they took joy in the act of breeding, the feeling of their seed filling their omega's eager body. The only times Essence allowed Quincy to knot her was when they were trying to conceive the twins or when she was really feeling up to it.

Branch watched in amazement as Essence took Quincy's knot into her mouth, her cheeks hollowing out as she sucked him down eagerly. Quincy's eyes rolled back in his head, a guttural groan escaping his throat as he came hard. Essence's throat worked as she swallowed every drop, her eyes never leaving Branch's.

When Quincy had fully enjoyed his release, he gently pulled out of Essence's mouth, a satisfied smile playing on his lips. He turned her onto her back and began to kiss his way down her body, his furry chest brushing against her soft skin. Essence's legs fell open, inviting him in, and Quincy wasted no time. He buried his face between her thighs, his tongue flicking out to tease her clit. Essence's hips bucked upward as he began to lick and suck with enthusiasm, her legs trembling with anticipation.

Branch couldn't help but stare. Essence's moans grew louder, her body tensing as Quincy's talented tongue worked its magic.

As Essence reached her peak, Branch watched as her body shuddered with pleasure, her legs quivering around her husband’s head. She threw her head back, her hair fanning out like a halo around her face. Her eyes squeezed shut tightly, and a delicate flush spread across her chest and neck.

Finally, Quincy pulled away, a smug smile on his face. He looked up at Branch, his eyes glowing with satisfaction. "Come here, little one” he beckoned. Branch didn't need to be told twice; he eagerly scooted closer.

They all start cuddling, Essence shifting to lie beside Branch, her soft fur brushing against his skin. She draped an arm around him, pulling him close, while Quincy lay behind him, his body worn out. The three of them fit together perfectly, a tangled mess of limbs and fur.

After a few moments of comfortable silence, Essence leaned over Branch to grab something from her nightstand. "We have a little something for you," she whispered in his ear, her voice filled with excitement. She presented a small rectangular box, wrapped in glittering maroon wrapping paper.

Branch took the box with trembling hands, unsure of what to expect. He carefully peeled back the paper to reveal a sleek, futuristic device. "It's a phone," Essence exclaimed. "A Funk Troll communicator. It's the latest thing in Troll tech. It's got everything you need to stay in touch with us and keep up with what's happening in Vibe City."

Quincy nodded, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "We figured you could use something to keep in touch with your new family. Plus, it's got all the best tunes pre-installed. You can even take pictures with it!"

Branch's eyes widened as he examined the phone. It was unlike anything he had ever seen in the Pop Troll lands. The sleek device was covered in a pattern of swirling lights that matched the glow of their city outside. "Thank you," he murmured, feeling a warmth spread through his chest that had nothing to do with his earlier arousal.

Quincy chuckled, ruffling Branch's curly blue hair affectionately. "You're welcome, baby. We want you to feel like you're truly a part of Funk Troll society."

Essence nodded in agreement, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "And speaking of society," she began, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "Quincy and I have been talking about sharing our latest invention with the other Troll Tribe leaders. We think everyone could benefit from having one of these phones. That would make it easier for you and Cooper to communicate with your friends in pop village.”

Branch's heart swelled with gratitude at their kind gesture. He had never felt so included, so cherished. He knew that the Funk Trolls had their own ways of showing affection, but this felt like a true bond forming between them. He took the communicator in his hand, feeling the smooth surface and the gentle hum of the technology beneath. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion.

Essence leaned in, her breath warm against Branch's cheek. "You deserve it," she said, her eyes sparkling. "You've brought so much joy to our lives already." Quincy nodded in agreement, his hand squeezing Branch's shoulder in a comforting gesture.

The omega felt a surge of love and belonging that washed away any lingering doubts he might have had about joining the Funk Trolls. He knew he had a place here, with them. With a smile, Branch turned to Essence and Quincy, snuggling into the warm embrace of his new family.

“Now Branch in the morning you have your first therapy appointment. It’s important you communicate ok? You don’t have to share everything all at once but remember it’s there to help you,” Essence said gently, her voice soothing.

Branch nodded, feeling a little nervous about the whole situation. “Can you guys come with me?” He asked, looking up at them with hopeful eyes.

Essence leaned in and kissed his forehead. “We will be right outside waiting for you, but the therapist said it's important for you to go in alone for the first few sessions. It's so you can feel safe to talk about anything that's on your mind without worrying about us hearing it all.”

Branch's heart skipped a beat at the thought of facing his fears and emotions alone, but he knew that Essence and Quincy had his best interests at heart. He took a deep breath and nodded. "Okay, I'll try”, but as Branch drifted off to sleep he could help but be nervous about how the session was going to go.

Chapter Text

Sitting in the waiting room of the therapist was nerve-racking.

Branch’s heart was racing as he fidgeted with the hem of his shirt. The walls were covered in a swirl of neon lights that danced to a funky rhythm, and the chairs were made of a squishy material that . His tail kept thumping against the floor.

Quincy and Essence were sitting with him, their large, comforting hands holding his own. Their presence was a warm reassurance, a constant reminder that he wasn’t alone in this. Despite their size and regal status, they had a way of making him feel like he was the most important person in the room.

“You’re going to be ok, Branch,” Quincy said, his deep voice rumbling with confidence. “Remember, it’s a safe space. You can say whatever you need to, and no one will judge you.”

Essence watched Branch nervously fiddle with his new phone, the light from the screen casting a soft glow on his face. She knew that this was a big step for him, but she also knew that he was strong enough to handle it.

Branch let out a little whine thinking about the stuff he will have to talk about. So Essence leaned in closer, her alpha instincts kicking in. His alpha nuzzled against him, purring softly in a soothing manner that was natural for her kind. The gentle vibrations traveled through his body, helping to ease his nerves. It was a comforting sound, one that most trolls associated with contentment and safety.

The therapist's door finally opened, revealing an orange female alpha Funk Troll with short yellow and red hair and piercing pink eyes stepped out into the waiting area. She wore a pastel yellow flow knee length skirt with a white shirt tucked into it and flats.

“Welcome your hignesses, you must be Branch.”

Branch looked up at the therapist. She had a gentle smile on her face, her fur ruffling slightly with excitement. He wasn't sure about going in, but she had an air of calmness about her that was immediately reassuring.

"Go ahead" Essence whispered, giving his hand a final squeeze before releasing it. Quincy nodded solemnly, his own fur brushing against Branch's shoulder in silent encouragement.

With a deep breath, Branch pushed himself to his feet and followed the therapist into the room. Her office like the rest of vibe city is colorful but it contained more pastel colors. It is a space painted in soft lavender and light teal, decorated with vibrant artwork and plush, blue sofa with decorative pillows. In front of the sofa was a lounge chair with a cozy rug was placed in between there was also some plants and inspirational quotes on some shelves around the room.

The therapist gestured for Branch to take a seat on the sofa, and she took her place in the chair opposite him. She had a warm, calming aura that immediately put him at ease.

"My name is Cadence," she began, her voice as soft as a lullaby. "I'm here to help you work through whatever's on your mind, Branch. Remember, everything we discuss here is confidential. Now, why don't you start by telling me a little about what brought you here today?"

Branch was about to start but nervously glanced at the door not knowing if his alphas could hear. Hey didn’t want to say something stupid. No need to embarrass himself in front of them only a few weeks into being mated to them.

The therapist, Cadence, noticed his discomfort and chuckled lightly. "Don’t worry, sweetie," she assured him, "These walls are completely soundproof. Your alphas are just outside, you can be as loud or as quiet as you need to be without worrying about them hearing anything. We can't hear them and they can't hear us.”

Branch took a deep breath, his eyes flickering to the door once more before finally settling on Cadence. He began to speak, his voice low and shaky at first. "I... I just don't know where to start," he admitted.

Cadence nodded understandingly. "That's okay," she said soothingly. "Why don't you start by telling me about your life before coming to Vibe City?"

Branch took a deep breath, his eyes misting over as he thought back to his past in the Pop Troll village. He started to speak about his fears, his isolation, and the pain of being an grey in a world that often didn't understand his kind. As he talked, Cadence listened intently, nodding and offering gentle words of encouragement. She had a way of making him feel heard, of making him feel like his feelings were valid and important.

"How long were you isolated for, Branch?" Cadence asked gently, her eyes filled with concern.

Branch swallowed hard, trying to keep his emotions in check. "Well… I turned grey when I was 4 so like 18 years." he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. "My village didn't know what to do with me. I was different from the others, and they were afraid that if I was around them more they would become grey as well. So I just stayed away, I built a bunker underground, found my own food and supplies.”

She nodded sympathetically, her pink eyes never leaving his. "Can you tell me how you became grey, Branch?" Cadence inquired gently.

Branch took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest.

"It was when I was young," he began, his voice still quivering. "I lived with my grandmother in the Troll Tree. One day, I was singing, just like any other Troll. But my voice... Attracted the attention of a creature called a Bergen. It tried to grab me but my grandmother pushed me out of the way and got caught instead.” A tear slipped down his cheek, and he quickly brushed it away with the back of his hand but Csdence noticed and offered him a tissue box which he took hesitantly.”

Cadence's expression grew serious at Branch's revelation. She leaned forward slightly, her eyes never leaving his. "What is a Bergen?" she asked gently, her voice filled with genuine curiosity.

Branch took another deep breath, his eyes flickering with the remembered terror of that fateful day. "Bergens are these giant creatures," he explained, his voice shaking. "They thought that by eating us, they could feel happy emotions for a brief time. So, they trapped all the pop trolls in the tree and would have a holiday once a year called trollstice where they would think they felt happy for one day.”

Cadence's eyes widened slightly, her expression a mix of shock and empathy. Branch continued knowing she will have follow up questions after he finished. “that went on for generations till we escaped through tunnels 18 years ago. For that tike i was isolated till me and poppy had to go save our friends from them the bergens when they finally found our village because of a party.”

“Your village threw a party out in the open while in hiding? Cadence asked bewildered.

Branch couldn’t have liked this therapist more after she said that “thank you!” he said exasperated, “I told them that so many times that they shouldn’t be to loud or else we would be discovered. But they always called me paranoid and crazy.”

Cadence was growing more concerned “whose they? The village?”

Branch looked off to the side in thought “no actually, it was mostly the older generation that really lived through the Bergen stuff.” He looked back at her. “Most of the trolls my age or a little older didn’t really understand why their parents or guardians didnt want me around but some of the kids did pick up habits from them.”

Branch paused for a moment deep in thought. Cadence hadn’t said anything in a while but she thought it was good that he was getting all of this information out so she could help him process it. Eventually he kept going “most of the people my age apologized for some of the things they said and so did some of the older people but most of that group… still haven’t gotten used to me being in the village more often since I got some of my colors back.”

Cadence finally spoke up “and I’m assuming that was due to a significant event?”

“Yes” branch replied wondering how she knew. “Where and poppy went to go save her friends, we got captured and she lost her colors but I helped bring them back with the village and it kind of made me feel..not exactly happy but better. Since I’ve been with my alphas I’ve gained more of it back, my hair is still pretty dark for some reason though.” He said as he ran his hand through his dark navy blue hair a moment.

“Well branch omegas are usually treated with care and affection, like royalty almost. They are the emotional core of any troll society, and we protect them fiercely. Omegas are supposed to live happily and without fear or stress, within our control of course.” Cadence explained already getting the idea that Branch was never taught this so she knew he needed to hear it “See Branch the reason why your sub gender is so coddled is because we believe that any strong negative emotion can cause a negative reaction in an omega's body and can throw it off and cause it to go out of tune.”

Branch nodded along understanding the lesson but not getting the reason for it.

“But” Cadence continued “since you never had someone to coddle and help take care of you, along with being grey for so long without receiving proper help from any other troll. Your body doesn’t know how to react yet from all these new emotions you’ve been facing after being isolated and depressed for so long.” Cadence gave a reassuring but sympathetic look. “I will research more into it but I don’t believe there has ever been a grey troll that has survived for so long unless they got their colors back which usually happened by 2 years of losing them. So there is not a lot of information on your particular situation. But I believe over time, as long as you keep receiving the proper care, your colors will come back gradually.”She paused to let the information sink in.

Branch felt his throat tighten, his eyes misting up again. He had never considered that his lack of care could have been detrimental to his color. “I just want to be happy and normal again. I’m not sure how I feel about being spoiled, but I don’t want to be seen as a burden to anyone.” He whispered, his voice cracking under the weight of his emotions, he gripped his tail in his hands trying to calm himself down.

Cadence leaned in closer, placing a comforting hand on his knee. "You're not a burden, Branch," she said firmly. "You're a survivor. And now that you're with a family that loves and understands you, you're going to thrive. It's okay to let yourself be cared for, to enjoy the happiness you deserve. You shouldn’t associate happiness with being normal, because your experience is just as valid and special as anyone else's. What's important is that you learn to embrace your emotions, all of them, and learn how to manage them in a healthy way."

Her words resonated within him, and Branch felt a small spark of hope. He had spent so long trying to suppress his feelings, to be the strong, silent guardian that he didn't know how to accept care or affection without feeling guilty and chasing people away. But as he looked at the kind face of the therapist, he began to realize that maybe, he could allow himself to be happy.

“Now while we try to boost your mental health we need to focus on you physical health as well. Why don’t we discuss your eating habits.” Cadence suggested

————————-

When Branch went into the therapists office, Essence reached into her bag and pulled out a book that was t about omega health information while Quincy pulled out a tablet. They wanted to do more research on pop trolls along with information about omegan trolls as well. They would ask branch about it but they had come to know by know that his tribe hide failed to teach him many of the important information so they took it upon themselves to learn so they could help him.

Quincy searched through the archives of their ship, looking for any historical data on the Pop Trolls the funk trolls had before the great separation.

Meanwhile, Essence was scrolling through medical databases, looking for any information on how to help an omega who had been isolated for so long regain their health.

"Look at this," she said to Quincy, pointing at the book. "It says that omegas who face isolation for an extended period of time can lead to a weakened immune system. Should we discuss with his doctors if he needs special care or medicine?"

Quincy nodded, his gaze still on the screen. "Good idea," he murmured, before looking up. "I've found some information about omega pop trolls too. Apparently, they're more sensitive to emotions than most other troll omegas, I know Branch mentioned Pop trolls were big on happiness but I believe that is more because of the Bergen situation."

Essence nodded solemnly, her eyes scanning the text. "Their emotional sensitivity is both a gift and a curse," she said. "They can spread love, but also absorb negativity quicker than alphas.” She paused, looking away for a moment in thought. "We need to ensure that Branch's environment remains positive and supportive. We don't want any setbacks. He’s gained some more color already.”

The two alphas researched more, their eyes scanning through the pages of the book and the screen of the tablet eagerly. They stumbled upon various articles and studies that spoke about the importance of a stable and nurturing environment for omega trolls. One piece of information that stood out to them was the concept of "emotional absorption" – a process where omegas could absorb positive emotions from their surroundings, which in turn would help strengthen their immune systems. Essence looked at Quincy, a spark of an idea in her eyes. "Perhaps we could create a space for Branch, one that's specifically designed to be calming and cheerful," she suggested. "A place where he can go to relax and recharge that isn’t just his nest.”

“We could build him a greenhouse," Essence mused, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "It could be like a small forest, filled with plants from the Pop Troll village. It'll remind him of home and provide a peaceful retreat where he can unwind."

Quincy nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "That's brilliant, my love," he said, leaning over to kiss her cheek. "We should keep it a surprise for him.” He pulled up the ships map trying to find a good place to put the greenhouse room while Essence continued researching.

They knew Branch and the therapist couldn’t hear them because of the soundproof walls. They had a lot of research done by their security detail on the therapist to ensure she was the right one for Branch. Her name was Cadence and she had been a therapist for 50 years (trolls can live up to about 200 years). She had a specialization in omega care and trauma recovery.

Essence had personally reached out to her, asking for advice on how to help Branch. They discussed his background with her and she had suggested this therapy session as a starting point, and after sessions the therapist would ask Branch for permission for Cadence to discuss some things with Essence and Quincy and give them advice on what they can do to help him.

Everything was up to Branch's liking and if there was something that he spoke about with Cadence being repeated back to his alphas then she wouldn’t tell them it.

Luckily not all pop trolls had stayed in the village so there was some information scattered around. Essence read that while many omegan trolls cared about their hair and fur, pop troll omegas took a lot greater pride in theirs.

“Q,” she called out, showing him what she had found. “It says that pop troll omegas have a deep connection to their hair and fur. It’s like a representation of their soul. It’s why branch’s hair is still so dark, even though he’s gained most of his color back. It’s taking longer for his hair to recover because it’s a bigger part of his identity than he realized.”

The two alphas exchanged a concerned glance, understanding the gravity of the situation. Quincy put down his own tablet and leaned closer to Essence, scanning over the information she had found. "We need to be extra careful with his hair and fur," he said, stroking his own chin thoughtfully.

Branch’s grooming routine in the morning usually involved a quick brushing of his fur and a little bit of roughly styling his hair to keep it from looking too wild. Esssnce and Quincy couldn’t get over how soft his fur was. Quincy and Essence decided that they would need to create a more thorough and soothing routine to help him feel pampered and cared for, as they knew that it was an essential part of an omega’s self-esteem.

Just as Quincy was about to discuss something else, they heard the doorknob of the office turn. Essence put the tablets back in her bag and they stood up to greet Branch and Cadence.

Branch emerged from the office, looking slightly more relaxed but still with a hint of sadness in his eyes. Cadence followed behind, giving the couple a warm smile. "Your highnesses," she greeted, "Branch has made some significant progress today. Branch, do you mind if I have a moment with your alphas today, or do you not want me to tell them what we discussed?

Branch know that Quincy and Essence knew about most of the stuff he had discussed with the therapist so he gave the ok. So he sat I’m the waiting room on his phone while they talked.

Cadence sat down with Quincy and Essence, her eyes filled with understanding and a hint of concern. "Your omega has been through a lot," she began, her voice gentle. "The trauma he faced has deeply affected his emotional and physical health. But with time and patience, I believe he can overcome it. Has he ever discussed with you in detail about the Bergens and how he became grey?

Essence nodded solemnly. "We know of the Bergens and their cruel tradition," she said. "And we're aware that Branch was isolated from the happiness of his tribe for a significant period of time. We're doing our best to make him feel welcome and loved, but we know there's more we can do."

Quincy placed a comforting hand on Essence's shoulder. "What can you tell us about his emotional state, Cadence?" he asked. "We want to provide him with the best possible care and support."

Cadence nodded, her expression serious. "Branch has made great progress in accepting his emotions, but there's still a long road ahead. His past traumas have made him guarded and fearful of connecting deeply with others, even his own alphas." She paused, choosing her words carefully. "He's afraid of being seen as a burden, of not fitting in, and of losing his newfound happiness. We need to help him understand that his feelings are valid and that he deserves to be cherished and cared for."

Quincy spoke up again “We were worried about that, it’s almost like he’s afraid we will leave him if he makes a wrong move.” He sighed heavily, his hand on Essence’s shoulder tightening slightly.

Cadence nodded. “It’s common for trolls who have faced abandonment to develop a fear of rejection or loss. After being isolated for so long, Branch’s trust in others is understandably fragile. He’s going to need a lot of reassurance from both of you that you’re there for him, no matter what. Have him spend a lot of time with you and your some, usually I recommend the patient be close of people like their parents, siblings or when aunts and uncle a but from what branch told me he doesn’t have a any of those and his only living grandparent…passed away.”

They nodded in unison, fully grasping the gravity of the situation. "We will do everything we can," Essence assured her, her gaze unwavering. "Our son Cooper has bonded with him as well, and I know he'll be a great source of support."

After Cadence went t over a few more notes and Essence and Quincy showed her what they found out about omega pop trolls, which the therapist would study, they left the office with a promise to work with her closely to help branch.

When leaving the therapist an office in vibe city, they called Darnell and cooper over their communicators, asking them to meet at a reseraunt for lunch .

As they waited, Essence and Quincy couldn’t help but reflect on their conversation with Cadence. They felt a mix of relief that Branch was making progress and determination to do everything they could to support him. When their sons arrived, the twins were quick to hug the three of them.

“So what did you boys do today?” Quincy asked as they sat down at the cafe, looking through the menus.

“Well, D and I were messing around with my new hoverboard,” Cooper said, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “It’s so much fun! Maman, you should try it!”

While Cooper's enthusiasm was infectious, Branch couldn't help but feel a twinge of anxiety at the thought of trying something so new and unpredictable. He had always been more comfortable with the familiar, the safe. But seeing the joy on Cooper's face and feeling the excitement radiating from Darnell, he decided to give it a shot. "Okay, sure, I’ll try it sometime.” he murmured, trying to muster up a smile. Hey was more curious though on how the hoverboards work, his mind already racing with ideas for modifications and improvements.

Once they were done with their food. Quincy suggested they visit Lownote on his ship since the astronomer just got back from a trip.

They headed to the dock bay, where Lownote's ship was docked, eager to show Branch the wonders of Funk Troll technology. As they approached, the ship's saucer-like shape gleamed in the neon lights of Vibe City.

Once inside they are greeted by lownote, . His ship was filled with gadgets and instruments that Branch had never seen before. His curiosity piqued, he began to inspect them, asking questions with a child-like wonder. Lownote was more than happy to explain the workings of each device, his eyes lighting up with excitement as he spoke.

Quincy watched with pride as Branch’s eyes lit up with every new piece of information he learned. Essence, on the other hand, couldn’t help but feel a little guilty. They had taken him from his simple life in the forest and thrust him into this large world of technology and glamour. She hoped he wasn’t feeling too overwhelmed.

Cooper and Darnell were having fun looking at the different tech around the ship, but it was clear that Branch's curiosity was on a whole different level. His eyes scanned over the various devices with an intensity that spoke of his desire to understand them all.

Suddenly two female omegas walked in one was a blue troll with a purple dress and gold accessories involving the sun while the other was a purple troll with pink hair wearing a yellow jumpsuit.

Lownote, quickly noticed their presence and walked over to them with a warm smile. "Branch id like you to meet my mates, Rhythm and Blues.” He introduced the two females who looked at branch with a mix of curiosity and excitement.

“These two lovely ladies are scientists on the ship” Lownote announced proudly, gesturing to the female omegas. “They’ve had a hand in designing much of the tech you see here on the ship. They’re quite the geniuses when it comes to the funk side of things.”

The blue funk troll (who branch assumes is Rhythym) speaks up. “We’d love to show you guys around the ship!" she says, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I’m sure there’s a lot here that you’ve never seen before!”

Branch, Darnell and cooper followed Rhythm and Blues eagerly, the ship's interior was even more fascinating than its exterior. The walls pulsed with lights in sync with a rhythmic bass that seemed to come from the very structure of the ship itself. The corridors twisted and turned in impossible ways, as if gravity had no hold here. They passed by various pods filled with funky gadgets, each one seemingly more outlandish than the last. The omegas explained how each device served a specific purpose, whether it was to manipulate sound waves or create new and exciting textures for their clothing.

Suddenly they came to a room with a large screen that displayed various stars and planets. "This is the navigation room," Rhythm explained. "This shows where the ship is along with it’s surroundings while flying.”

Darnell and Cooper exchanged glances, their eyes sparkling with the same question. "Can these things be used for video games?" Cooper blurted out, his voice echoing through the room.

Rhythm and Blues giggled, amused by the young trolls' enthusiasm. "Well," Rhythm said thinking curiously, I’ve actually never tried. She turned to the screen with the two a looking over her shoulder hoping to find a game.

Meanwhile Blues was busy showing Branch some of the more intricate devices in the room. “So how long have you guys been working on the ship?” Branch asked, his curiosity piqued by the advanced technology.

“We started shortly after we officially became mates with Lownote about 7 years ago,” Blues replied with a proud smile. “But we’ve been working together on various projects for years before that. Lownote can be quite the adventurer, so he’s gone for long stretches of time and since mates can’t be separated for too long along with lownotes protectiveness over us, we decided to make our home here on the ship. That way, we can be part of the adventure, too!”

Branch nodded, “where did you guys meet him?” he asked, his voice softer than usual as he examined a strange looking device.

“Oh, we were introduced to him through Essence actually” she said beaming, “me and my Rhythm had been working on a long project that required us to visit the royal hall. Essence finally asked us one day if we would be willing to meet someone special. And that’s when we met our Lownote. It was love at first sight.”

After Rhythm made a game for the navigation system, they four played it for a while until they were all exhausted. The game involved using the ship's controls to navigate through a series of asteroid fields and neon-lit tunnels, collecting points that represented music notes. Branch found it surprisingly soothing, focusing on the patterns and precision required to avoid obstacles. Darnell and Cooper's competitive spirits showed as they tried to outdo each other, its surprising that they were separated for so long you. You could swear they had been together for years.

After the game, Essence suggested they head back to the apartments to rest before dinner.

As they made their way back, Branch couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging with Quincy, Essence, and their twin sons. He watched as Darnell and Cooper chatted about the game they played, their laughter filling the air. Quincy and Essence walked alongside him, making sure he was okay.

When they got to their bedroom, Essence had Branch sit in his nest while she did something on his phone saying they had a surprise. When She turned the phone back to him , hewas shocked to see poppy moving around on the screen, video calling him.

"Branch!" she squealed. "How are you?!"

The sight of Poppy on the screen brought a wide smile to Branch's face. Essence and Quincy had been working tirelessly with the other tribes to create more, better phones that could bridge the gap between their distant lands. They had finally finished the best version to a few people in the tribes like the leaders and a few others.

“Now you and Cooper can communicate with your friends in pop village better.” Essence said with a knowing smile as she handed the phone back to him.

They stepped out of the room, leaving Branch and Poppy to chat. Poppy’s vibrant hair was bobbing up and down as she talked, her eyes filled with excitement. “Oh my goodness, Branch, I can’t believe how much has changed since we last talked! You’re in Vibe City now! How’s it going?”

“Great!” Branch exclaimed, his nerves momentarily forgotten as he clutched the phone tightly. “But what’s been happening in Pop Village lately?” he asked, eager to hear about his old friends and the place that had been his home for so long.

Poppy’s expression grew more animated as she recounted her recent adventures. “Oh, Branch, you should’ve seen the party we threw last week! It was absolutely fabulous. The colors, the glitter, the music—everything was just perfect!” she gushed.

Branch nodded smiling, most couldn’t keep up when she went on these fast rants but he has had years of experience keeping up with her energy. “Oh and Barb had to wear my blue polka dotted pajama pants because someone spilled punch on her and.” Branch's ears perked up at the mention of the name 'Barb'.

“Wait. Barb was at your party?” Branch interrupted Poppy’s rant, his voice laced with disbelief.

Poppy’s cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink. “Well, yeah, she’s been around a lot more since we became friends. She’s actually been really helpful, especially with organizing events and stuff. But she’s been acting a little weird lately. In a good but unexpected way! Like, she keeps bringing me all these gifts and trying to spend time alone with me, offering to help carry heavy stuff.”

They blue omega's eyes widened in surprise. "Poppy..” He began, his voice trailing off as he tried to find the right words. "It sounds like... like she might be courting you."

Poppy's smile faltered slightly. "Courting? Nooo, we’re just friends!" she exclaimed, her voice rising in pitch.

But Branch wasn't so sure. "Think about it, Poppy," he urged her gently. "The gifts, the one-on-one time, it's all classic alpha behavior when they're interested in a potential partner and trying to show off."

The perky omega on the screen looked skeptical, but Branch knew he had to make her understand. He took a deep breath and decided to lay it all out for her. "Poppy," he began, his voice firm but gentle, "you know that alphas can be quite persistent when they're interested in someone (like his for example). And the way you're describing her behavior, it really does sound like she's trying to win your favor. It could be her way of showing affection it just sounds like she doing it in a rock troll fashion."

Slowly poppy’s face began to light up in realization “REALLY!” She squealed.

Branch felt a twinge of amusement watching her, “Well it looks like you’re not too disappointed about her courting. You have a crush on her?” He said smirking.

Poppy’s blush grew more pronounced and she stuttered, “W-What? No! I mean, we dont even know if she’s actually trying to court me.” Poppy looks to the side in thought for a moment before continuing “be right back I have to call someone else.” Hanging up before he could respond.

Branch sat there looking at the dark screen, his thoughts racing. He couldn’t help but chuckle to himself at the idea of Poppy being courted by a rock troll. It was a pleasant surprise to see the two of them getting along so well, considering everything that happened a few weeks ago.

A few minutes later poppy’s name appeared in the screen a so he picked up

“Me and Barb are dating!”

Chapter Text

Exactly a week later was the wedding, since all the tribes were communicating again and because Branch had gotten close to a lot of them during the clean up after Barbs world tour, they thought it would be great to invite all the leaders to the ceremony as well.

Currently Branch was in a spare bedroom in the royal hall following tradition for the spouses to sleep in separate bedrooms the night before. He was getting ready with Poppy, Rhythm, Blues along with Marimba and Tambora (Quincy and Essence don't know about the attempted sacrifice to Barb and Branch decided to keep it that way for now). Darnell and Cooper also kept popping in and out wanting to see their Maman and give updates on the ceremony preparations.

Traditionally, omegas wore white on their wedding day, symbolizing purity and the new beginnings that awaited them in their life with their new mates. However, Branch had requested a slight deviation from tradition.

Poppy was busy putting some light eyeshadow on him while the rest of the omegas were remembering their own weddings.

“So, Branch, are you nervous?” Poppy asked, her brush pausing in mid-stroke.

Branch took a moment to consider her question. “I’m not nervous, exactly. It’s more like... I’m overwhelmed by all the love and support I’ve found here in such a short time,” he replied, his voice filled with genuine emotion.

Tambora, who had been quietly watching the preparations with a warm smile on her face, suddenly waddled over to Branch. Her heavily pregnant belly leading the way, she wrapped her arms around him in a tight embrace. "Aww Branch, im so happy for you," she whispered in his ear.

Tambora, being very hormonal due to her pregnancy, couldn’t help but let her emotions get the better of her. Her eyes welled up with tears of joy as she pulled back to look at him. "You're going to be a wonderful mate," she sniffled, her voice thick with emotion.

Marimba, noticing her mates distress, immediately stepped forward. "Tambora, why don’t you sit down?" she suggested, leading her to a nearby chair. "You shouldn't overexert yourself."

Tambora nodded, her eyes still glossy with unshed tears. "I know," she said, her voice shaky. "It's just... it’s so beautiful to see everyone come together like this."

The rest of them smiled, sharing in the warmth of the moment. It was clear that the bond between Branch, Quincy, and Essence had grown stronger in the short time they had all known each other.

Just as Branch was about to respond to Tambora's kind words, there was a knock at the door. "Hey, Maman, you almost ready?" Prince D called from the other side, his voice muffled by the thick metal.

Poppy who had just set down the brush, was quick to respond “you can come in guys!” The door slid open revealing Darnell and Cooper, who were both dressed in their royal finery. They were dressed in pink suits except Darnell tie was gold and he wore star glasses similar to his dads while Cooper ’s tie was silver, still adorning his favorite hat.

Branch quickly stood up and hugged his sons who immediately hugged back. “You boys look so handsome!” he exclaimed, his heart swelling with pride.

“Thank you Maman!” Cooper exclaimed , beaming at the compliment going over to hug the other omega.

The girls looked at each other, understanding the need for some private time between Branch and his soon-to-be sons. With knowing smiles, they excused themselves and exited the room”

The boys finally separated and looked at Branch “you look amazing Maman, mom and pops are going to be so happy to see you” Darnell said with a wide smile. Cooper nodded in agreement “yeah you do!“

Branch who hadn't even seen his whole appearance yet, turns to his reflection. As he looked at himself in the mirror, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in his outfit. He had on the star earrings Essence had given him, along with the two gold chains around his neck from Quincy, The blue formal shirt hugged his torso. It was adorned with intricate gold embroidery, matching the gold accents that ran along the edges of his pants. He also wore a blue and white ombre cape, held in place by a thick gold chain along with black dress shoes.

Remembering the joy that small gestures had brought him in the past, Branch decided to give his new family something special for the wedding day. He had worked tirelessly with the craftsmen of Vibe City to create something unique and meaningful for each of them and now seemed like the perfect time to give the boys theirs.

"Darnell, Cooper," Branch began, his voice filled with excitement as he pulled out two small boxes from the drawer beside his nest. "I have something I'd like to give you both before the ceremony."

The twins exchanged curious glances before approaching their mother. Branch handed one box to Darnell and the other to Cooper. "Open them," he urged, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

Prince D and Cooper eagerly opened their gifts. Inside, they found matching gold necklaces with interlocking pendants, Prince Da shaped like a treble clef and Coopers a bass clef—The necklaces were crafted with amazing materials that Vibe City had to offer, and the detail was breathtaking. "Wow, Maman," they said in unison, their voices filled with awe.

Darnell looked up at Branch with a warm smile, placing the necklace around his neck.

“Maman, these are incredible!” Cooper exclaimed, fastening his necklace and admiring the reflection in the mirror.

Darnell surprised Branch by pulling out a small velvet pouch and handed it over. "But what about you, Maman?" he said, a mischievous glint in his eye.

Branch took the pouch and carefully untied the strings, revealing a gold star hair clip studded with diamonds. It glittered in the light, reflecting the neon colors of the room. His heart swelled with love and gratitude as he held the precious object in his hand. "You two," he murmured, his eyes misting up a bit. "This is... this is perfect."

With trembling hands, he placed the hair clip in his blue curly hair, feeling a strange sense of belonging as it nestled among the locks. The star matched the gold embroidery on his shirt, creating a cohesive look that made him feel like he truly belonged in the royal family. The gesture from Prince D and Cooper was not lost on him; they had clearly put a lot of thought into what would make their new Maman feel special on this his wedding day.

He pulls them in for another hug, nuzzling his head against them both while purring in contentment. "Thank you, my pups. This means the world to me."

They start heading towards the main hall for the ceremony. The hall was a spectacle to behold, with lights flashing and the walls vibrating to the rhythm of a funky beat that filled the air. The aroma of various foods wafted through the room, making Branch’s stomach rumble.

After having the hundreds of guests seated, Branch walked down the aisle leading to his soon to be spouses.

The sight of Quincy and Essence waiting for him at the end, looking so regal and full of love, made his heart flutter. He knew he was making the right decision. The vows were spoken in a mix of Funk and Pop Troll dialects, which was a first for any Troll wedding.

Essence stepped forward, taking the ribbon from Coopers pillow that he was holding, and took Branch's wrist in hers, looping the ribbon around it. "As we tie this ribbon, we bind our hearts together," she recited, her voice resonant with sincerity. "Our connection will be as strong and as colorful as the funk that flows through our city."

Quincy tied the other end of that ribbon around his wrist as well, making the three trolls connected. "We vow to protect our omega and cherish him," he added, his deep voice echoing through the hall. "Through thick and thin, we will face the music of life together, creating a symphony of love and unity."

After untying the ribbons they began the pop troll part of the ceremony. Branch took the solid Lapis stone bracelets from the pillow Prince D was holding while Quincy took the gold one.

Branch approached Essence first, taking her hand in his own. The room was silent as he slipped the blue band onto her wrist, then proceeded to do the same to Quincy. The king then placed the gold bracelet on Branch's wrist as well before they started the vows.

With eyes glistening with unshed tears, Branch took a deep breath. "Essence, Quincy," he began, his voice steady and sure. "I vow to be a strong omega, standing by you both through the battles of life and comforting you with the sweetest of melodies. I will cherish the love and protection you offer.”

They both kissed Branch, their lips tender and loving as they sealed their union. The crowd of trolls watched with smiles and some tears as the three of them shared a moment of pure joy, clapping as the couple separated.

Once the hall quietes down Essence announced they would be starting the crowning ceremony to which everyone stood from their seats.

As Essence stepped back, a young Funk Troll emerged from the crowd, holding aloft a crown that shimmered under the neon lights. The crown was an intricate wreath of gold-plated Branches and leaves, each one studded with the tiniest blue diamonds.

Essence taking the crown from the young Funk Troll, she has Branch kneel in front of her on the steps like her and Quincy did when they were crowned.

“Branch, do you swear to uphold the traditions of Vibe City, to protect it from harm, and to rule alongside us with wisdom and grace?” Essence asked, her voice strong and commanding despite the softness in her eyes.

Branch felt the weight of the moment, his knees slightly shaking as he nodded. “I do,” he said, his voice clear and firm.

With a smile that could light up the entire room, Essence placed the crown upon his head, the blue diamonds glinting as they caught the light. The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, their love and acceptance washing over him like a warm embrace.

Once he stood up they kissed him again, one on each cheek, their affection for him palpable in the air. Quincy's deep chuckle rumbled through Branch's chest as he pulled him into a tight hug. "Welcome to the family, officially," he whispered into Branch's ear, his voice a gentle rumble.

The three of them turned to face their friends, family and subjects, all looking at them with beaming smiles. The crowd erupted into cheers and music filled the air. The wedding had officially turned into a full-blown celebration.

The couple made their way around the party, receiving congratulations and well wishes from every corner. As they moved through the throngs of well-wishers, Branch couldn't help but feel like he was floating on a cloud of pure happiness.

Poppy and Barb approached them, both with broad smiles on their faces. "Congratulations, you guys!" Poppy exclaimed, throwing her arms around Branch in a warm hug. Barb followed suit, her burly arms surprisingly gentle as she embraced Branch and smiled at the funk trolls “congrats you guys" she said sincerely.

It had been a journey, but most of the trolls had indeed forgiven the rock trolls after their efforts to help rebuild the other tribes' homes. During the rebuilding process, they had come to understand that, while misguided, Barb had wanted to bring evryone together, she just went about it in an incredibly stupid way . Her intentions had not been entirely malicious, and that revelation had softened the hearts of most.

Branch looked to rhe side and saw Delta Dawn along with an orange country troll with blue hair approchaing them. Him and delta had bonded during the rebuilding of the country trolls’ village, when he had shown an interest in learning country music. She had been more than happy to share her knowledge and love for the genre with him.

He also apologized for what he and Poppy did when they first got to

“Congratulations, sweetheart!” She grabbed his face in her hands and kissed him on the cheek. Essence Watching the whole scene while Quincy talked with Barb, couldnt help but notice the genuine affection Delta had for Branch, it was almost motherly.

Branch blushed, feeling the warmth of her affection. "Thank you, Delta," he said, his voice a mix of joy and embarrassment. "This is all so overwhelming."

itll be ok darlin, yer mates there seem very sweet to ya. She then realized she hadnt introduced her companion “By the way baby, this here is my mate, Holly Darlin’,” Delta said, her voice filled with warmth as she stepped aside to reveal the omega standing shyly beside her.

Essence felt a warmth spread through her chest, watching Branch interact with the country queen.
Her omega had never mentioned any family besides his beloved grandmother, and to see him embrace a newfound connection with such open arms was nothing short of heartwarming. It was clear that Delta had taken a special shine to him, her motherly instincts coming out in full force as she fussed over him and scolded him for not writing to her more to make sure hes okay . Essence was thrilled that Branch had found someone who could offer him the familial love he had been missing for so long.

Though her and Quincy had been meaning to ask the omega what had happened to his parents and if he had any other relatives.

“We thought it would be a great way to bring more of the tribes closer together and to create bonds! Me and Barb are still figuring out all the details but we were hoping to bring it up at the next leader meeting!” Poppys excited voice brought Essence back to the conversation. The pop and rock queens had been telling them about something called ‘trollstopia’ which honestly sounded like a great idea to her. Essence nodded her head in agreement “We’ll definitely be there to support you guys in that!”

Branch seemed to have made a lot of friends during barbs world tour and the clean up because throught the first day of the wedding celebration several trolls came up to the new couple to congratulate them. One such group was the raggaetón trolls and k-pop gang who her and Quincy became slightly nervous to learn were bounty hunters being around their omega. They came up to Branch with wide smiles, hugging him and congratulating them.

The two alphas looked at each other slightly concerned but once they saw the genuine friendship in their eyes and the way Branch was laughing with them, they couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief. It was clear that these trolls had been nothing but good to him during his travels. (As far as they know)

Quincy leaned over to whisper in Essence's ear. "I'm so happy for him," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "We should speak to him and his therapist about the amount of friends hes made, ive never seen someone become so connected to different genres.” They decided to speak about it later as Branch was heading back over to them, delta and holly going to dance.

Once next to them, he wrapped his arm around Quincey and held Essences hand in the other.

They could tell their omega was a bit overwhelmed with all the attention which is why he was seeking comfort from them. "Thank you," Branch murmured to the alphas, his eyes shining with gratitude. "I forgot how crowded it was going to be."

Quincy pulled their omega into his side causing Branch to nuzzle up to him and start purring slightly. Suddenly they all felt two bodies collide with the small group. Cooper hugged Branch and Quincy as Darnell did the same with his mom.

"I'm so happy for you guys!" Cooper exclaimed. looking between the three of them. He couldnt help but nuzzle the other omegas face with his causing Branch to nuzzle back.

The bond between the twins and Branch had indeed grown stronger. Prince D had always known that his parents had wanted an omega in their life, but he had never anticipated it to be someone as amazing as Branch. And even better his twin (sort of) came alomg with the pop troll.

Quincy still noticing Branch's overwhelmed expression and suggested they find somewhere quieter to sit and catch their breath. Essence nodded in agreement, knowing that her omega was more comfortable in smaller, intimate settings. The five of them weaved through the dancing crowd, the vibrant lights and pulsating music seemingly dimming as they made their way up to a secluded balcony that overlooked the entire city.

The rulers had the balcony decorated with soft, plush pillows and a table laden with snacks and drinks. The moment they sat down, the chaos of the party faded away, leaving only the gentle hum of conversation and laughter to fill their ears. Branch sighed contentedly, leaning back against Quincy's broad chest, his head nestled under the king's chin. Essence sat opposite them, her hand in Branch's, her eyes never leaving her new omega's face.

Darnell took the opportunity to lean into Branch's side, placing his head in his lap. "Maman," he murmured, his voice sleepy with contentment. Branch's hand automatically moved to Darnell's ear, giving it a gentle scratch. The alpha trolls watched with smiles as their omega's eyes closed, his expression peaceful.

Cooper, cuddled closer to Essence, his head resting against her shoulder. "This is nice," he murmured. "I'm so happy." Essence wrapped an arm around Cooper's shoulders, her eyes filled with warmth as she gazed at her new omega. "We are too," she said softly.

Chapter Text

Branch stared at his hands, not sure on what to do after unloading all of the new information onto Cadence. The beginning of the story was great, the wedding (which she obviously already knew about) and the 3 day celebration.

Its what happened not too long afterwards that was bothering him.

After a week and a half of being married, his alphas were called to a meeting between the tribe leaders. Wanting him to get used to his new role as king consort before jumping into meetings (and he knows his alphas don't like him or the twins leaving the ship), they asked him to stay on the ship and do some of the tasks they had been teaching him. These usually included thing’s like signing off on some documents , learning about the different departments of Vibe City, and occasionally helping with some light diplomatic work with trolls that didn’t require his alphas to be present.

“So you see your highness, it’s imperative that we upgrade the trollings nursery wing of the hospital. They need a more spacious and state-of-the-art area where they can thrive and receive the best treatment after being hatched,” the advisor spoke to Branch, her voice filled with urgency.

Branch nodded, his gaze drifting to the blueprints scattered across the table. The hospital's directors, both of whom were Funk Trolls, nodded in agreement. One of them speaking up “See, we have some layouts to show you some examples that were thinking, we just need your approval on one of them.”

Branch sat for a moment looking at the sheets of blue paper in front of him. None of then looked…correct to him but he requested the project manager to go over each of them in detail. They were still wrong to branch.

“Do you happen to have a blank blueprint sheet?” Branch asked, his mind racing with ideas. The hospital directors looked at each other, surprised by his question but quickly nodded and handed him one. He took a deep breath, his mind racing with a flurry of thoughts and concerns. The nursery needed to be more than just an upgrade, it had to be a sanctuary for the new generation of Funk Trolls.

With a determined look in his eyes, Branch began to sketch out his own design, his hands moving swiftly and confidently across the paper. The directors watched in amazement as a new vision for the nursery took shape before their eyes. He incorporated elements of the existing Funk Troll architecture with a touch of Pop Troll creativity, creating a space that was both functional and whimsical.

Once he had finished, he presented his creation to the directors. "This is a temporary fix," he explained, his voice steady. "We can implement this design now, but…” he trailed off slightly,  “However, I want to wait for the approval of my alphas for any permanent plans since they are more experienced in these matters."

The directors' eyes widened in amazement as they took in the intricate and innovative design that Branch had come up with. It was clear that the young omega had a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of what was needed to create a safe and nurturing environment for the newborn trolls. "Your Highness," one of them stammered, "this is...this is incredible. We had no idea you had such a talent for architecture!"

Branch blushed under their praise, his cheeks tinting a light shade of blue. "Thank you," he murmured, feeling a spark of pride swell within him.

Later that night he couldnt stop thinking about  the nursery project, his mind racing with the what ifs and the worst case scenarios. He knew he was over thinking it but he couldn't help it. The safety of the trolls was his top priority, especially the newborns.

Cadence decided that was a good time to interrupt  the discussion. She cleared her throat, "Did you ever handled building tasks like those in pop village?”

Branch nodded, his expression earnest. "I've had to fix a few things here and there, but nothing on this scale. In Pop Village, we usually rely on natural materials and  out hair” Cadence made a puzzled face at him which he thought was hilarious but continued the looking at his own hands. "But here, with the advanced technology and gravity control, the possibilities are endless."

The therapist  nodded, taking in the information with a thoughtful expression. "And how do you feel about this interest in architecture, Branch?" she asked, her voice gentle and encouraging.

Branch took a deep breath, trying to put his thoughts into words. "I...I enjoy it," he admitted. "It's like a puzzle, finding the right pieces to fit together. And knowing that what I build can make a difference in someone's life...it's a powerful feeling. But safety is always nagging me everytime i design something, even when ive checked it over a thousand times!

Cadence leaned forward, her eyes understanding. "It's not a bad thing to worry about safety, Branch. It shows you care about the well-being of others. In your position, it's essential to consider every aspect of a project, especially when it involves the vulnerable, like trollings." She paused, considering his design. "But it seems like you've already thought of everything. Your background in Pop Troll engineering, combined with your newfound knowledge of Funk Troll technology, has created a unique perspective that could benefit Vibe City greatly."

Branch nodded along not knowing where this was going.

"But why do you think it's a bad thing to worry so much about safety precautions?" Cadence pressed, her gaze never leaving Branch's troubled eyes.

He sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. "It's just that...I don't know," he admitted, his voice filled with frustration. "It's been like this for the longest time. Even before I met you all, I've always second-guessed myself, always worried about what could go wrong. It's like...it's like I can't help it."

The therapist nodded along with him, her eyes never leaving his. "Now branch, i know you mentioned in our first sessions how you felt when you tried to warn your pop village about the Bergen attacks, how they called you paranoid and crazy. Could it be that this experience has made you overly cautious? That you fear not being believed again if something were to happen?"

"Maybe," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Branch, you've proven time and time again that your instincts are sharp," Cadence said gently. "You've saved lives and brought peace between the tribes. I think you have proven more than enough that your safety precautions comes with a reason and a purpose.” He lolked like he wanted to argue but she continued to give him the full picture "We all have moments that shape us, and the way the Pop Trolls reacted to your warnings could have easily made you feel like your concerns weren't valid. But here, with your new family and your new responsibilities, you're in a place where your instincts and talents are appreciated. It's okay to have fears, but it's important to not let them control you."

Branch's eyes widened as he thought about her words. It had never occurred to him that the pop trolle words had gotten to him more than he thought. This whole time he had convinced himself that the other pop trolls words didnt affect him because ehe had been fine alone all that time. Once he got some of his colors back he also convinced himself that the past was the past and it was best to leave it there. Though he had to admit, sometimes when he helped around the village after making peace with the Bergens, he could still hear some still mocking him or send glares his way.

But here, with his new family, everything felt different. They had always seen the potential in him, even when he couldn't see it himself. Quincy and Essence had been nothing but supportive, and even the twins looked up to him. It was a stark contrast to the doubt and ridicule he faced in Pop Village.

The day came for the construction to begin on the nursery, and as Branch hovered over the builders, he couldn't help but fret over every detail. He watched as they laid down the foundation, his heart racing with every brick that was placed. What if he missed something? What if he had overlooked a critical safety feature? His mind was a whirlwind of "what ifs" and safety measures. the matter?"

Quincy and essence are supposed to arrhve later than expected so they cant oversee the project which makes him even more worried. The night before he tried going to bed the first time, they called him asking if he would be ok alone as long as he stayed on the ship. “Its just for your protection  until we can get there, love," Essence had said, her voice soothing over the phone. He had nodded, trying to hide his nervousness. "I'll be fine." But now he was second guessing everything.

As the builders worked tirelessly on the nursery, Branch hovered anxiously nearby, his eyes darting from one worker to the next. He couldn't shake the feeling that something was off, that he had missed a crucial detail that could put the trollings in danger. Despite the assurances of the builders that the plans were more than sufficient, Branch found himself scribbling additional notes and suggestions on the blueprints, his heart racing with every new idea that came to mind.

Finally, it was complete, whcih just so happened to be the same day Quincy and Essence were returning. As the nursery wing was revealed, the couple was in absolute awe of the transformation. The space was not only larger and more technologically advanced, but it was also filled with whimsical touches that made it feel like a magical playground for the newborns. Cooper and Darnell couldn't stop babbling about all the cool features, to their parents.

To the families surprise, when the room was shown to the public,, there was no name of the builder anywhere to be found. Quincy and Essence exchanged a puzzled look, but decided not to worry about it for now. The nursery was everything they had hoped for and more, and it was clear that the builder had put their heart and soul into the project. They knew they had to thank whoever was responsible for creating such a safe and nurturing environment for their future trollings. They mingled with a few funk trolls and other trolls from different tribes who were visiting.

When they finally found the person in charge, a well-respected Funk Troll engineer named Flex, he was surrounded by a group of admirers. Quincy, ever the charismatic leader, approached with a confident stride and a wide smile. " Flex, we've heard nothing but great things about your work on the nursery," he boomed. "We must thank you for your hard work and dedication to the future of our trollings!"

The engineer looked surprised for a moment before his eyes lit up with recognition. "Your majesties," he said with a respectful bow. "I am surprised that you dont know. It was your omega who designed the whole thingg!" Quincy and Essence turned to Branch with astonishment, their eyes wide. "What?!" Essence gasped, while Quincy's mouth hung open slightly.

Branch shuffled his feet awkwardly, his cheeks flushing a deeper shade of blue. "I...I just wanted to make sure it was safe.”  their gazes. "I know it's not much, but I had some ideas..."

There was a moment of silence before one of rhem spoke."Branch, this is...this is incredible," Quincy breathed, his eyes scanning the room with admiration. Essence nodded in agreement, her eyes shimmering with pride. "You've outdone yourself.” She held him close kissing his cheeks darkening, “what a smart little omega we’ve got ourselves."

After Branch was dragged off to speak with a few of the builders. The two alphas, while happy branch worked on such and amazing project, couldnt figure out why he hadnt said anything about him being the master mind behind the renovations.

Noticing their parents stares, cooper and prince D looked at each other for a moment before Cooper stepped forward "You know, when Maman was still grey, he used to do this all the time," he said with a chuckle. "He'd build little shelters for us to hide in when we played hide and seek. He was always so meticulous about making sure everything was perfect and safe."

Essence's eyes softened at the revelation, a hint of sadness crossing her features. "Ah, so he's been doing this for quite a while," she murmured, stroking a lock of Branch's hair. "It must have been his way of coping with everything that happened.”  She looked up at Quincy, her gaze filled with understanding. "Our little omega is so brave and strong. To think he's been carrying this burden all along."

Prince d spoke up “did anyone try to stop him? He seems so…unrelaxed.”

Cooper shook his head sadly, “i didnt know how bad the stress was. Poppy was actually the one to find him first like this when he was 13. She said he was shaking and wouldn't let anyone near him when he was working on it. She tried to help him relax, but he was so focused on getting it right that he just...he couldn't stop. He kept saying it had to be perfect, that he had to make sure everyone was safe.”

“What about the other people in pop village, you know the ADULTS, did they try to help him?” Darnell questioned, his voice filled with concern for his new mother.

The young omega whined slightly thinking about it. "They didn't really get it," Cooper said, his voice small. "They just told him to do scrapbooking therapy to help him relax. But when that didn't work, they just told everyone to stay away from him. They said he was being paranoid and that he might attack someone if he got too stressed."

Darnell's eyes widened in shock. "That's stupid!"

Cooper nodded sadly, looking at the ground "Yeah, it was hard for him, especially after everyone turned their backs on him."

Essence looked at her son with concern. "But why didn't you tell us, Cooper?" She tirned to her youngest son cupping his chin to look at her.

Cooper shrugged awkwardly, his blue eyes meeting hers. "I don't know, I guess I didn't think it was a big deal. He was always like that when we i saw him. And after him and poppy made peace with the Bergens, he started to get his colors back, and I thought he had moved on. I didn't realize it was still affecting him so much. Plus i was just glad he changed and didnt have his fits anymore.”

He realized his family was staring at him strangely after he said that. "What?" He asked.

Essence stepped forward, her expression soft but he could see something similar to disappointment in her yes which made him worried. "Why were you so happy that Branch changed, Cooper?" She wuestioned.

“Yea! He wasnt having fits C, he needed help, he still needs help! How could you say your glad he changed when he was just trying to keep you safe!” Darnell’s voice grew stronger, his hands on his hips as he faced his brother. Cooper's expression fell, realizing the impact of his words.

Cooper sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping. "I know, I know," he mumbled. "But at the time, it was just...I don't know. I was scared of his fits too, they were so intense but they didnt really bother me. But when Peppy said he was going to find someone to calm him down, I got really worried because i didnt want to see branch be forced to maye but luckily Branch changed before that happened.”

The omega whined slightly just thinking about his father being forced to mate with someone other than his parents. He looked up to realize that Quincy and Essence's expressions had darkened significantly, their faces filled with a mix of anger and protectiveness. All three alphas started growling making him confused about what he said wrong "What?" Cooper asked, noticing their expressions.

"Cooper," Quincy said firmly, his voice low and serious putting a hand on his youngests shoulder, "you know that mating someone to 'calm them down' is a barbaric practice. It's not right to force someone into a relationship, especially for such a reason."

Essence nodded in agreement, her expression one of fierce protectiveness. "And it's certainly not something that should be used on a grey troll.” She said firmly, her eyes narrowing slightly.

Cooper shifted, his eyes looking around nervously not sure how to bring it ip to his parents. "It's...it's something they talk about back in Pop Village," he finally managed to get out. "When an omega is having trouble controlling their emotions or is too much for their family to handle, sometimes the elders will recommend finding them an alpha to be with. Before when i was too energetic they were already talking about what alpha  to pair me with so i could calm down." He said the last part uncomfortably, like he would rather be anywhere else than here talking about it.

He suddnly felt a body wrap around his, he soon realized it was his twin who was growling lowly at the thought of his brother being forced to change his personality because some pop trolls didnt like it. Cooper soon reciprocated the hug , feeling the warmth of his brother's body. "Thank you D," He whispered burying his face in the alphas shoulder for comfort.

Essence and Quincy exchanged a worried look, their hearts heavy with the realization that their son had been exposed to such archaic and harmful practices.

"We are going to start  getting you  help to deal with these toxic beliefs they tried teaching you," he said, squeezing Cooper's shoulder reassuringly. "And we'll be speaking to Queen Poppy about this. Shes and omega as well but shes the queen. Surely she doesnt agree with these practices. Do you know if Queen Barb has any knowledge of this? Surely she wouldnt want her Omega staying in a dangerous situation like that.”

Cooper pulled away from his brother's embrace, his expression determined as he spoke. "Poppy's been trying to change it," he said, his voice firm. "But Peppy and the elders are pretty stubborn. They still hold onto old traditions, thinking that's the way to keep order in the village.” He tried to think of his recent exchanges with poppy and barb. “As for queen barb i dont think she knows but im not sure.”

The monarchs of Funk Trolls looked at each other, the gravity of Cooper's words sinking in. They would hate to bypass Queen Poppy and contact her courting alpha, but with her being an omega, they feared she might not have the power to change the archaic practices that were still prevalent in Pop Village.

they bothe knew that the rock queen had no idea of the archaic practices that were still occurring in Pop Village. If she had known, she would have been outraged.

Quincy's eyes narrowed, a protective instinct rising within him. "We can't let this stand," he said, his voice firm. "We'll need to have a conversation with Poppy as soon as possible. If she's unaware, we'll need to work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all omegas in her village."

“And if she doesnt not accpet out help unfortunately  we will have to go over her head and contact Barb to make sure this does not happen to any other omega in her village,” Essence added with a sigh, her mind racing with the potential consequences of such an action.

Just as the conversation grew heavier, Branch walked back over to the group, noticing the tension in the air. "Everything okay?" he asked, his eyes scanning each of their faces. He could feel the negative emotions emanating from them and it tugged at his heartstrings. His omega instincts kicked in, and he knew he had to do something to alleviate their distress.

Quincy, noticing Branch's concern, quickly turned the conversation. "Branch, tell us more about the construction of this incredible nursery," he said with a forced smile. "You've truly outdone yourself."

"Oh, it was nothing really," he said, his voice filled with nerves. "I just wanted to make sure everything was...perfect for-“

Before he could finish, there was a bang and something small and fast shot past him, narrowly missing his head before it collided with the power box for the nursery. The lights flickered before going out completely, plunging the room into darkness.

Someone's strong arms wrapped around his waist and yanked him to the ground. All branch could hear was a few more loud bangs and the sound of something smashing against metal and screaming.

Chapter Text

Lownote couldnt believe it.

The ship was on lockdown after 16 years, the last time it happened was when Coopers egg had been stolen. It was a dark day for the king and queen.

He remembered his sister in laws cries as she wished for her trolling back.

A nurse, desperate for power, had stolen the egg from right under their noses. The group of trolls who supported him were cunning and had been plotting for months. They knew the egg was the key to controlling the future of the tribe, and with it, they could demand anything. Quincy and Essence were furious when they received the message, their scents turning sharp with anger.

But the groups joy was short-lived as the alarm bells began to ring through the city. The group hadn't counted on being caught so soon.

Lownote had been there when his brother had personally  interrogated the group of trolls responsible for the breach. Quincy had never been one to lose his temper easily, but the rage that filled him as he questioned the captives was unlike anything Lownote had ever witnessed. His pupils had grown wide, almost engulfing his eyes in a feral display of his alpha side, while the scent of anger grew thick and potent in the room, leaving no doubt as to who was in charge. The trolls, trembling in fear, stuttered and stammered their answers, each one hoping to avoid the wrath of the enraged king.

Finally, one of them cracked under the pressure and spilled the truth. The egg had been hidden in a small cavein the large forrest, on the outskirts of the Funk Trolls' territory. The group had chosen it because of its seclusion, believing that it would be the last place the royals would think to look.

Quincy's eyes grew colder than ever before as he heard this, his hand clenching into a fist. "Take us there," he ordered the trembling group leader. "Now."

The guards quickly mobilized, leading the way through the forest dragging the prisoner with Quincy and Lownote right behind them. The group of trolls followed, their steps pushing faster with the relief of finding the trolling. As they reached the cave, Quincy pushed past the guards, his heart racing as he saw the empty space where the egg had been hidden.

Turning to the prisoner, who was cowering in the guards hands, Quincy's voice echoed through the cave. "Is this a joke?!" he roared, his pupils dilating as his anger grew. The prisoner's eyes grew wide with fear as he took in the sight of the enraged king. "Tell me where my trolling is, or I swear by the funk itself, you'll wish you never laid eyes on it!"

The prisoner, desperate to escape the alpha's wrath, pointed a shaking hand to the far corner of the cave. "There!" he squeaked, his voice barely above a whisper. "I swear, it was right there!"

Lownote stepped forward, pulling out a small device that emitted a faint blue light. He scanned the area, his eyes narrowing as he searched for any sign of the egg's presence. His heart sank as he saw that the device's light grew dimmer, indicating that the egg was indeed missing. But then, something else caught his attention. A faint trace of another creature's scent lingered in the air, sometroll or something he had never encountered before.

Turning to his brother, he relayed his findings, his voice shaking with urgency. “Q…the egg was here, but there was sometroll or something else here too. Another creature was here. I can't quite place the scent, but it's definitely not one of us. Im sorry quinc but the egg is gone. I cant get a trace of which direction it went. “

Quincy's fury was palpable, his eyes narrowing into thin slits as he stared down at the trembling prisoner. "What have you done with my trolling?!" he roared, his voice echoing through the cavernous space. The prisoner, visibly shaking, tried to explain that they had taken the egg but had not meant to cause it harm. But the king's wrath was unstoppable. His grip tightened around the troll's neck, lifting him off the ground.

“It-it was here!” He chocked out.

“Then where is now?!” Quincys eyes burned with rage, his voice booming through the forest as the prisoner squirmed in his grasp.

The guards, who had never seen their king so enraged, exchanged confused and fearful glances. They had always known Quincy as a fair and composed ruler, but the fury that now consumed him was something else entirely. The air around them grew thick with the scent of his anger, making it difficult for them to breathe. They knew that in this state, it was best to follow his lead and not intervene unless absolutely necessary.

Lownote took a step forward, placing a gentle hand on his brother's arm. "We will find them, Q. But we have to remain calm and think clearly. This isn’t the time for anger, we need to find your egg." His eyes searched his brother's who wouldnt look away from the bastard who dared to steal from him.

The prisoner, sensing the shift in power, tried to speak up. "P-please," he stammered, his eyes darting between Quincy and Lownote. "We didn't mean to harm the egg. We just wanted to use it for leverage, to gain some power within the tribe. But we didn't expect it to be discovered so soon!"

Quincy's grip tightened, his eyes never leaving the prisoner's face. "Leverage," he spat. "You dare speak of my pup as if it's a bargaining chip?"

The prisoner, now trembling violently, managed to squeak out, "We-we didn't mean to hurt it!"

But it was too late. Quincy's pupils had fully taken over his eyes, turning them almost black with rage. His hand tightened around the leader's throat. The prisoner's eyes bulged as he struggled to breathe, his legs kicking wildly. The scent of fear grew stronger in the air, mingling with the potent aroma of the king's anger.

"Quincy, stop," Lownote said firmly, his grip on his brother's arm tightening. "We need him alive if we're going to find the egg."

The king's chest heaved with rage, but he slowly lowered the prisoner back to the ground, his eyes still feral. The prisoner gasped for air, his eyes watering as he clutched at his throat. Quincy's gaze remained locked on the troll, his pupils only slightly shrinking as he took a step back, regaining some semblance of control. The guards watched the exchange, their own fear evident in their postures.

"Call for back up," Quincy ordered, his voice low and lethal. "We need more ships and I want our closest sub genre tribes here immediately." The guards nodded, their own eyes reflecting the seriousness of the situation as they rushed to carry out the king's commands dragging the group leader with them.

Lownote turned to his brother, his own concern etched on his features. "Quincy, we'll find the egg. I promise." He knew the weight of this loss, the ache in Quincy's chest as an alpha who hadn't yet seen his trolling grow and flourish. It was a pain no troll wanted to experience, especially not his brother.

Quincy took a deep, shaky breath, trying to compose himself. "We have to," he murmured, his eyes flicking back to the spot where the egg had been. "Essence..." His voice cracked, and Lownote knew that telling her would be one of the hardest things Quincy would ever have to do.

The two alphas made their way back to the ship in silence, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily upon them. As they approached, Quincy's steps grew slower, his shoulders drooping with the weight of his failure. He knew the look in Essence's eyes would be one of heartbreak and anger, and he wasn't sure how he would handle it.

Finally, they entered their chamber, where Essence was waiting with a mix of anticipation and worry etched on her face. Their other egg in the crib next to her. Her eyes searched Quincy's for any sign of good news, but the moment she caught the scent of his anger and the lack of a baby's scent on them, she knew. Her eyes widened in shock, her hand flying to her mouth as the color drained from her face.

Quincy, unable to hold back the truth any longer, spoke in a broken voice as he got close to her, "The egg...it wasnt there. It was taken." Essence's knees buckled, and she would have fallen if not for the immediate support of her mate. Her eyes grew misty, and she let out a pained wail that echoed through the ship. The Funk Trolls outside the chamber paused, hearing the distress of their queen.

"We need to find it," she murmured through her tears, her eyes searching Quincy's for answers. "We must do everything we can." Her voice grew stronger, a fierce determination setting in. As alphas, they knew the struggle of conceiving without an omega, and the loss of one of their trollings was a blow they had never anticipated.

For three long years, they had attempted to conceive using a combination of magic and science that was within the Funk Trolls reach. The pressure of producing an heir had been so intense, they started trying to conceive slightly earlier then they were required. the joy of discovering Essence was carrying twins after thee years had been overwhelming. The birth had been difficult, the pressure making the funk queen pass out right after having the second egg.

Essence always wished she could have stayed conscious long enough to hold this one.

When she woke a few hours later she was crushed to know the egg she didnt get to hold was taken. She only had a glimps of this one to remember it.

They wanted more, though they knew no other trolling could replace the son they searched for16 years for.

Quincy didnt want to put essence through the terrible conception process again so they stuck with trying to conceive naturally but after several years with no success they had to face the harsh reality that they wouldnt have another. They were devastated, but they had their beautiful trolling, darnell, to focus on so they stayed strong.

Now as Lownote approached the nursery of the hospital with his mates, he couldn’t help but be brought back to that dark time.

The ship was on lockdown again. No one got in or out till the investigation was completed. He wasnt at the nursery opening having been on a mission only to be called back urgently to investigate. He didnt realize how bad the damage was till he got there.

The wall where the explosion was destroyed was a grim reminder of the chaos that had unfolded. Charred and blackened, it bore the unmistakable signs of a powerful blast that had sent shrapnel flying in all directions. The once vibrant and pulsating wall now stood as a silent sentinel to the tragedy that had struck the heart of Vibe City.

Not wanting his omegas to get hurt Lownote instructed them to stay back. "Rhythm, Blues, wait here," he ordered firmly, his eyes scanning the area for any signs of danger. "I'll make sure it's safe before we proceed."

Rhythm and Blues exchanged a concerned look but nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. They knew Lownote's instincts were sharp and that he would do everything in his power to protect them. They stepped back, giving the alpha troll enough space to investigate.

Lownote approached the wreckage cautiously, his eyes scanning the area for any clues. Despite his best efforts to remain focused on the task at hand, he couldn't help but feel a sense of déjà vu wash over him. This was the second time in his life that the safety of the nursery had been compromised.

He pulled out a small, high-tech scanning device from hispocket, the blue light sweeping over the debris. It beeped softly, indicating no other explosive devices remained in the vicinity. With a sigh of relief, he turned to his omega mates. "Looks like it's clear. You two can help me investigate."

The two of them cautiously stepped into the nursery. The once-lively room now lay in shambles. Toys and furniture were scattered everywhere, the smell of burned circuitry and plastic hung heavily in the air. Lownote's eyes fell on the destroyed power box, the source of the explosion. He picked through the twisted metal, his mind racing. This was no accident; it was a deliberate act of sabotage.

Rhythm and Blues,, approached him tentatively. They had been through so much together, but not through a a possible direct attack against his family. "What do we do now?" Rhythm asked, her voice trembling slightly.

Lownote took a deep breath, trying to process the chaos before him. He knew that his family's safety was paramount. "We need to gather as much information as we can," he said, his voice firm despite the turmoil he felt inside. "We can't let this go unanswered." This was gonna take a few days.

Branch sat in his nest, surrounded by the comforting scents of his family. Cooper slept peacefully against his chest, his soft snores a gentle rhythm in the otherwise silent room. With one arm wrapped around the younger omega, Branch felt a sense of protection and love that washed over him like a warm blanket. Darnell, on the other side of him, had his head nestled into the crook of Branch's neck, his breaths deep and even. The four guards stationed at each corner of the room stood at attention, their eyes vigilant and alert. They had been assigned by Quincy and Essence to ensure the families safety.

Branch could so nothing but stare into space in silence.

A bomb. sometroll had dared to plant a bomb in the very heart of their home, where their most vulnerable and precious trollings would soon reside. 3 days ago it went off. Eleven trolls injured.

The realization hit Branch like a ton of bricks, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on his shoulders. He had been so focused on making the nursery perfect that he had missed something so sinister. His eyes grew wide with horror as he thought about the trollings, the what-ifs racing through his mind. What if they had been hurt? What if something had happened to Quincy and Essence? The tremble in his hand grew stronger, his knuckles turning white as he gripped the blanket closer.

Thinking back to the peaceful days before the attack, Branch realized that he should have known something was amiss. There had been too many smiles, too much laughter, and too much tranquility. In his heart, he had always known that such peace was rare and often short-lived.

But he had allowed himself to be lulled into a false sense of security, to believe that their new life in Vibe City would be free of danger and fear. Now, as he sat in the darkness with his family, the harsh reality of their world slapped him in the face again, serving as a stark reminder that his life will aways be chaotic in some way.

He took a deep breath, inhaling the combined scents of Cooper and Darnell, their scents of strawberries and cherries calming his racing thoughts. He should have known better, he chastised himself. He should have been more vigilant, more attentive to the subtle signs that something wasn't right. After all, he had monitored some of the construction, ensuring that every beam was in place, every corner rounded for safety.

But fear gnawed at his heart. What if Quincy and Essence thought he had failed them? What if they believed he wasn't the right omega for their family, that he hadn't been able to protect their future trollings? The thought of their disappointment was almost too much to bear. They had already lost Cooper for so long, they wouldnt be able to handle losing him, darnell or worse. both.He knew how much they cherished their family, how much they had sacrificed to give them a life filled with joy and love. And now, because of his carelessness, that life was in danger.

Guilt consumed him, turning his thoughts into a tangled mess of doubt and recrimination. He had let his guard down, and now his entire world was falling apart around him. He should have been more cautious, should have seen the signs that something was wrong. The scent of burnt rubber and metal from the explosion lingered in the air, a constant reminder of his failure.

His mates had barely let him out of the bedroom, their alpha instincts to keep them safe overwhelming their usual demeanor. Essence and Quincy had been pacing outside, their eyes filled with worry and fear. They had not even allowed him to investigate the damage, knowing that his life could be put at risk.

So they had been trapped in the confines of their room, unable to assist in the aftermath. Of course he dint object to keeping their pups in his nest, knowing it was the safest place for them, and his omega side loves that his alphas were trying to keep him safe but his need to know was overwhelming. The need to contribute, to be useful was eating at him. He had to know who would do this to their subject, why would anyone want to harm their family.

Without thinking, Branch pulled Cooper and Darnell closer to him with his arms and tail, as if he could shield them from the horrors of the world with his embrace. His heart pounded in his chest. But as he held them tight, something inside him began to shift. A fierce determination took root in his soul. He would not let them down. He would not allow their family to be torn apart by the cruelty of others.

Essence's words echoed in his mind: " Our little omega is so brave and strong ." He had to be strong for them, for their unborn trollings.

Branch took a deep breath and stood up, the guards' eyes following him as he approached the door.  "I need to talk to Quincy and Essence," he murmured, his voice shaking slightly. "Please, stay here and keep an eye on the boys." The guards nodded, understanding the urgency in his tone.

When exiting the room, one of the guardsstanding next to the door, a yellow haired stoic alpha, stepped forward. "Your Highness," he began, "it might not be safe for you to go out there alone."

Branch nodded, his eyes glowing with determination. "I know, Aries," he replied. "But I need to speak with my mates.” He looked over at the sleeping forms of Cooper and Darnell, his expression softening briefly before steeling himself again. "I need to make sure they know I'm okay and that I won't let anything happen to our family."

Aries, nodded solemnly before leading the way through the dimly lit corridors of the ship. Their footsteps were silent as they approached the nursery, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on both of them. Branch took in the sight of the damaged area, his eyes narrowing in anger. The once vibrant walls were now marred with scorch marks and dents, a stark reminder of the violence that had intruded upon their peaceful sanctuary.

Quincy and Essence were outside the nursery wing of the hospital, deep in conversation with several Funk Troll advisors. Their expressions were grim, but when they saw Branch, they immediately walked over to him. "What are you doing here sapphire?" Essence asked, her voice filled with worry as she placed a gentle hand on his cheek.

He leaned into her touch and placed a habd on hers, “did they find out anything?” He asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Quincy nodded gravely, his furrowed brows speaking volumes. "Just that sometroll definitely did this on purpose.”

Essence's pupils grew larger, and Branch noticed the subtle change in Quincy's scent—a hint of fear and anger mingling with the sweetness of oranges. Quincy was trying to hide his worry, but as an omega, Branch was attuned to such things. He reached up and placed his hand on Quincy's chest, feeling the strong heartbeat beneath his palm. "Don't worry," he whispered, his eyes glowing softly. "We'll find out who did this."

Quincy looked down at Branch, his expression tightening. Without another word, he pulled Branch into a crushing embrace, burying his nose in the omega's curly hair. He inhaled deeply, filling his lungs with Branch's calming scent of blueberry muffins. The warmth of Branch's body melted some of the tension from his own. For a brief moment, Quincy allowed himself to be comforted, to lean on the strength of his omega.

Essence watched them, her heart aching for her husband and her love for Branch swelling. She knew that he had been through so much already, and now this. She stepped closer, wrapping her arms around the both of them which Quincy reciprocated while branch wrapped his tail around them.

The three of them stood there, united in their grief and fear, drawing comfort from each other's presence. They had promised him  a better life, a safe haven in Vibe City, and now it felt as though that promise was being shattered.

"We will," Essence said suddenly, her voice firm despite the tremble in it. "We will find who caused this and ensure they can never harm anyone again."

The three of them remained in that tight embrace for a while longer.

Finally, Branch pulled back slightly, his eyes searching Quincy's and Essence's faces. "Whats going to happen? Is there anything we can do to prevent this from happening again?"

Essence nodded, her expression grim. "We're going to have to increase security throughout the city," she said. "We'll have to increase the number of guards so no one else can get into important areas of the ship."

Quincy squeezed Branch's hand reassuringly. "And you, étoile bleue, will have a guard with you at all times," he declared. "As will Darnell and Cooper. We won't risk your safety or theirs."

Branch felt a twinge of annoyance at the thought of being constantly watched over. He had always valued his independence and didn't like the idea of being seen as a liability. "But I can take care of myself," he protested, his voice carrying a hint of the stubbornness that had gotten him through his toughest moments.

Quincy and Essence exchanged a look, their expressions a mix of understanding. They knew their omega's history, the battles he had faced in the past, and the strength he had displayed. But they also knew that this was a different kind of threat, one that required more than just personal resilience.

"Branch, we understand that you've been through a lot," Essence began, her voice gentle but firm. "But this isn't about you being able to handle it. It's about keeping our family safe. We can't ignore the fact that sometroll might be trying to hurt our family and subjects."

Branch's eyes flashed with anger at the mention of their unborn trollings. "I know that," he snapped, pulling away from their embrace. "But I've survived on my own before. I can handle myself. I don't need sometroll to hover over me all the time."

Quincy placed a hand on Branch's shoulder, his eyes serious. "We're not questioning your strength, Branch," he said with a stern look,  his deep voice resonating with the authority of a king. "But as your mates and the rulers of this city, it's our duty to ensure your safety. You are now a part of the royal family, and that comes with certain responsibilities and precautions."

The omega took a deep breath, trying to rein in his emotions. He knew they were right; the thought of his family being in danger was unbearable. "Fine," he conceded reluctantly. "But I'm not going to be babysat forever."

Quincy's gaze softened, recognizing the fiery spirit that made Branch who he was. "Of course not," he promised. "Once we find the culprits and implement the new measures, we'll ease up. But until then, we can't risk you or our trollings."

They knew that Branch had a strong personality, one that had carried him through years of solitude and fear. His independent streak was something they both admired and worried about (the admirable side is due to them wanting to have an omega yo pamper but also wanted one that could handle more important decisions on their own).

Quincy sighed, his furrowed brow smoothing out as he met Branch's gaze. "We know you're capable, étoile," he said gently. "But we also know how much you mean to us, and we can't risk anything happening to you."

Essence stepped closer, her hand resting on Branch's arm. "Your safety is our priority," she said, her eyes comforting to him. "And if that means having extra eyes and ears around you, then so be it."

Branch couldn't help but feel a bit overwhelmed. He knew that Quincy and Essence had his best interests at heart, but the thought of being followed everywhere he went was stifling. He took a deep breath and nodded, his eyes scanning the room. "Okay," he murmured. "But I want to help too. I don't just want to be the one being protected."

To his surprise, Quincy and Essence both looked at him thoughtfully. "We understand that," Quincy said. "And we agree. You should be involved in the process."

Branch's eyes lit up, and a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. He had always felt a bit out of place in the grand scheme of things, his past as a grey troll making him feel less than the vibrant alphas and omegas he grew up around. But here were his mates, not only acknowledging his capabilities but also welcoming his input. It was a gesture that meant more to him than they could possibly know.

They stepped into the damaged nursery together, surveying the destruction. The once bright and cheerful space now looked like a battleground. The walls were scorched, and the furniture was in shambles. The sight of the wreckage brought a wave of sadness over Branch, but he knew that it was important to keep his emotions in check and focus on the task at hand. He looked to Quincy and Essence, who were both visibly upset by the scene before them.

The wall that had been hit the hardest was the one that had contained the power box. It was completely obliterated, leaving a gaping hole that led to the outside of the ship. The scent of burning metal and plastic lingered in the air. He could see Lownote, Rhythm and Blues were here again investigating. According to the rulers, the trio had been researching the samples that they had found but had to go back to the site after bare results.

“This is more dangerous than we thought.” the head of security, Brio a red haired purple troll, reported, his expression grim. "The Ambassador reported the device was planted during the early stages of construction. It couldn't have been done from the outside. We believe it was sometroll working on the project."

The words hung in the air, thick with accusation and betrayal. Branch felt his stomach drop. The thought that sometroll they had trusted could have done this was almost too much to bear. His eyes searched the room, trying to find some clue, some sign that would point them in the right direction. But all he saw was destruction and fear.

"We've reviewed the security footage, but the file containing  the relevant timeframe has been deleted," the head of security continued, his voice tense with frustration. "And none of The footage shows anybody not authorized to be inside entering.”

Essence nodded solemnly "implement stricter background checks for anyone working on royal projects and increase the number of guards."

Quincy agreed “every troll working on the project will interviewed, we need to find out who knows what about this." His eyes narrowed, the gravity of the situation sinking in. “If anyone is found guilty of treason, they will face severe consequences.”

Looking over at Lownote, Branch noticed the alpha's eyes were slit in anger, something he had never seen from the usually calm and collected troll. Lownote's fur bristled as he examined the damage.

“What were you able to find out?” Branch asked, his voice tight with anxiety as he approached the trio. Lownote and Blues got grimmer looks before turning to him.

“sometroll with access to the construction blueprints and knowledge of our security systems did this,” Blues replied, her voice low and serious. “The device was planted with precision and malice.”

“Then..how else do we find who did this?” Branch questioned.

"We need to review everyone who had access to the blueprints and the nursery during construction," Quincy said from next to him, his voice a low growl. "We must question them all, no matter how much we trust them."

Essence nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning the room. "But we must also be careful not to cause panic among the Funk Trolls," she warned. "We need to keep this investigation as discreet as possible. The last thing we want is for fear to spread through Vibe City."

The three of them stood in silence for a moment, each lost in their own thoughts. Branch knew that Essence was right. The Funk Trolls were known for their laid-back nature, but this was an unprecedented event. The betrayal would shake the very foundations of their society if it got out that sometroll within their own ranks had attempted such a heinous act.

With a newfound resolve, Branch turned to Aries. "Gather everyone who had access to the blueprints and the nursery during the construction phase," he ordered. "We need to start interviewing them immediately."

Aries nodded and left to carry out the instructions. As the room buzzed with activity, Branch couldn't help but feel a growing sense of unease. The realization that sometroll they knew and trusted could be capable of such a thing was unsettling.

The first few interviews yielded nothing but confusion and shock from the trolls involved. Each one swore their innocence, and Branch believed them. He knew that the Funk Trolls were a peaceful people, and the very idea of one of them committing an act of sabotage went against their nature.

But as the hours ticked by, and the interviews grew more intense, Branch began to feel exhausted. His mind was racing, trying to piece together the puzzle before him, but the weight of the situation was taking its toll. His omega instincts were screaming at him to retreat to the safety of his nest, but his alpha mates' resolve kept him going. Finally, unable to push through the fatigue any longer, Branch excused himself from the meeting.

He walked down the corridor, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on his shoulders. Aries follwing behind him, acting as his unofficial guard at the moment. He decided checking on his trollings would calm him down. As he opened the foor to his room with guards posted on both sides of it, he could hear Cooper and Darnell were talking in hushed tones, their voices filled with concern. Having aries stand guard near the door Branch stepped inside to find the twinssitting on the bed, surrounded by the the protective barrier of branchs nest. Cooper looked up from his spot at the end of the bed, his eyes wide with fear.

"Maman," he breathed, his cherry scent mixing with the faint metallic tinge of anxiety.

Branch nodded, his own scent of blueberries a comforting presence. "I'm here," he said, his voice soothing. He sat down on the bed beside them, his tail wrapping around them protectively. "What's going on?"

Darnell spoke first, his strawberry scent a bit stronger than usual. "We're just worried," he said, his eyes downcast.

Cooper nodded in agreement, his cinnamon scent mingling with his brother's. "What caused the explosion? And why is no one telling us anything?”

The pop troll shook his head, feeling a twinge of sadness for the fear in their eyes. "It's just a precaution," he said softly. "We don't want to scare you guys with information that might not be helpful right now."

Darnell looked up, his gaze searching Branch's. "But we're not children anymore," he protested. "We can handle the truth."

Branch's expression softened, understanding the need for transparency. "You're right," he said, sighing heavily. "You guys arent kids, but we're dealing with a very serious situation and shouldnt be telling you much yet."

But before Branch could continue, Darnell snapped at him, his own fear and frustration boiling over. He sat up from his spot against main pillows "What does that mean?" he demanded, his eyes flashing. "Are we in danger? Are you guys keeping secrets from us?"

The sudden aggression took Branch aback. His pup was not allowed to talk to him that way. He turned to Darnell, his eyes narrowing to slits while his tail thrashed bavk and forth aggressively. "You need to watch your tone," he said firmly, his voice taking on a protective edge. "Your safety is our priority, and we will tell you everything when it's appropriate."

Cooper reaching over and placing a hand on Darnell's arm, his own scent growing stronger as he tried to calm his brother. "It's okay, Darnell," he said, his eyes pleading. "They are just looking out for us."

Essence stepped into the room, her eyes immediately going to the trio. She could sense the tension in the air and  the scent of fear emanating from Darnell and Cooper. "What's going on here?" she asked, her voice measured and calm.

Branch took a deep breath, trying to rein in his own emotions. "They're just worried," he said, his tone sounding understanding. "And they have every right to be."

Essence nodded, her gaze gentle. "We all are," she said, walking over to sit on the bed with them. "But we need to trust each other. And right now, we need to trust that your fathers and I know what's best right now."

Cooper leaned into Branch's embrace, his cinnamon scent mixing with the blueberry making for a comforting feeling. "We do," he whispered, his eyes squeezed shut. "We just want to help."

Essence took a moment to compose herself, her eyes never leaving her children's faces. She knew they were growing up fast, and she was proud of the strong trolls they were becoming. "I know," she said softly. "But for now, we need you to trust us and stay safe. We're working to find out what happened and make sure it never happens again."

Darnell, recognizing the firm alpha tone in Essence's voice, swallowed his protest and nodded reluctantly. He knew better than to argue with his mother when she was like this. Now he was left feeling guilty for talking to maman like that and he knew If his father, had heard him speak that way, he would have found himself getting a stern talking-to about respect and family. It was a lesson that had been drilled into him since he was young, he knew that talking back to his elders was not tolerated in their family.

He quickly hugged the blue troll, his expression showing regret. "Maman, I'm sorry," Darnell whispered, his voice thick with regret. "I didn't mean to yell at you."

"It's alright,," Branch murmured, holding him tight. "We're all scared and confused."

Essence looked at the twins "Why don't we get you two set up in Darnell's room to play some video games?" She suggested, trying to lighten the mood. "It'll keep your minds off things."

The twins perked up at the mention of video games, and Cooper looked up at Branch with hope in his eyes. "Can we, Maman?"

Branch nodded, relieved to see the tension dissipating. "Yes, of course," he said, standing up. He turned to the guards outside the door. "Take them to Darnell's room and make sure they have everything they need," he instructed firmly.

The guards nodded and led the twins out of the room, their eyes on high alert. As the door clicked shut behind them, Branch felt his shoulders relax slightly. He looked over at Essence, who was still standing by the bed, her expression a mix of concern and determination. "Thank you," he murmured, walking over to her.

Essence wrapped her arms around him in a comforting embrace. "You're doing well, little sapphire," she said, her voice a soothing rumble. "Its nothing you did, Darnell is just used to us telling him everything. But weve never been through such a serious situation like this with him. The closest was barbs attack but there was no hiding that from him"

Branch leaned into her warmth, feeling the steady rhythm of her heartbeat against his ear. "I know," he replied, his voice muffled. "But he's right. We can't keep them in the dark forever."

Essence pulled back and looked at him, her eyes full of understanding. "I know," she said softly. "But for now, let's focus on finding the culprit. We'll figure out what to tell them once we have all the information."

Branch nodded, taking a deep breath. He knew Essence was right. The safety of their family and the entirety of Vibe City was at stake. He couldn't let his fear for his trollings cloud his judgment. "Okay," he said, straightening up. "How are the interviews going."

Essence sighed heavily, her eyes reflecting the exhaustion that mirrored Branch's own. "We're done with the first round," she said, her voice laced with disappointment. "But we didn't find anything concrete."

Branch nodded, his gaze drifting to the floor. "I know," he murmured. "But we'll figure it out."

Essence studied him for a moment, her own worry for his well-being growing. "You should get some rest," she said gently. "You've had a long day, and you need to keep your strength up."

Branch nodded wearily, knowing she was right. The stress of the day's events had taken a toll on him, and he could feel the beginnings of a headache forming. He watched as Essence went into the bathroom, her tinsel-adorned gown trailing behind her.

Moments later, Branch's phone started to beep, pulling him out of his thoughts. He looked down at the screen, expecting to see Poppy or Quincy's name, but instead, he saw the name "Delta" flashing. Surprise washed over him. He hadnt spoken to his ma- Delta for a few days.

At his wedding reception he had to convince Delta to use the phone she was given. Delta, like many country trolls, had a deep-rooted aversion to modern technology. Branch knew that if they were to maintain a relationship and keep her safe, she had to adapt to some of the modern conveniences. He made sure to show her at least the basics like how to call, text, and video chat.

When he answered he was suprised to see hollys face but smiled warmly "Holly!" he said "How are you?"

"Branch!" Holly exclaimed, her eyes wide with excitement. "We just heard about what happened in Vibe City! Are you okay?"

Branch nodded confused,"Yes, we're all fine," he assured her, trying to keep the weariness out of his voice. "But how did you know about it?"

"It's all over the troll network," Holly said, her eyes flicking to the side, indicating sometroll off-screen. "Delta heard about it and got worried. She doesn't like these newfangled gadgets, but she's been watching the news feeds like a hawk."

Branch's heart skipped a beat, realizing that news of the attack had reached other tribes. So much for keeping the situation low.

"What's the news saying?" he asked, his voice tight.

Holly's expression grew serious. "They're calling it an 'accident'. But Delta's not buying it. She says she can smell the lie from here."

Branch felt a cold sweat break out on his forehead. He had hoped that the explosion would be dismissed as a malfunction, but the thought of Delta being able to sense the intent behind it was unsettling. He took a deep breath and tried to keep his voice steady. "We're looking into it," he said, trying to reassure her. "We just don't have any answers yet."

"Well, you know she's going to be worried," Holly said, her eyes full of concern.

Branch nodded, his hand tightening around the phone. "I know," he said, his voice heavy. "But I'm okay, really. Just... dealing with some things."

"she's going to want to know everything," Holly said, her voice filled with sympathy. "And she's worried about you, especially after everything that's happened."

Branch knew that Delta would be concerned, but he didn't want to burden her with the truth just yet. "Tell her I'm fine," he said, trying to sound more convincing than he felt. "We're just dealing with a... a technical issue."

But before he could say more, the phone was snatched from Holly's hand, and Delta's face appeared on the screen, her eyes narrowed. "Don't lie to me, Branch," she said sternly, her instincts picking up on the deception in his voice. "I can tell when you're not being honest. What's really going on?"

Branch took a deep breath, knowing that Delta would not be easily appeased. He decided to give her the truth, but only part of it. "sometroll did tamper with the nursery," he admitted, his voice low. "But we're handling it. The Funk Trolls are increasing security, and we're interviewing everyone who had access to the area. We just need some time to figure out who's behind it."

Delta's expression softened, but the worry remained. "Be careful," she said, her voice filled with maternal concern. "You're my baby, and I don't want anything to happen to you."

"I know," Branch said, a small smile tugging at his lips. "I promise I'll be careful."

Delta's gaze searched his for a moment before she nodded. "Good," she said, her voice firm. "Now go rest. Its no good for anyone if yer exhausted."

With that, they ended the call, leaving Branch feeling a mix of relief and guilt. He knew Delta wouldn't push him further, but he also knew that she wasn't fooled by his attempt to downplay the situation.

As he sat on the edge of the bed, the gravity of the day's events finally caught up to him. His eyelids grew heavy, and his body ached with the need for rest. He glanced over at Essence, who was still in the bathroom, the sound of water running indicating she was preparing a bath. He knew he should join her, but his mind was racing with questions and fears.

Without realizing it, Branch's eyes slowly closed, and he found himself drifting off into a fitful slumber after days of no sleep. His dreams were plagued by images of the explosion, the terrified faces of his family, and the unknown trolls that might be lurking in the shadows, seeking to harm them. Despite the turmoil in his mind, his body craved the comfort and safety that only his nest could provide.

Chapter Text

Hours later, the shrill sound of an alarm pierced the silence, jolting Branch awake. His heart pounded in his chest as he bolted upright, disoriented and panic-stricken. He blinked several times, trying to adjust to the sudden influx of light and noise. As his eyes focused, he saw Quincy and Essence laying on either side of him, clearly startled from their sleep as well.

The ship lurched to the side, and the three of them grabbed onto the bedframe to steady themselves. The walls groaned ominously, and the floor tilted at an alarming angle. "What's happening?" Cooper shouted, his cinnamon scent thick with fear as he and Darnell rushed into the room with two guards running in after them.

“I dont know” branch said looking around while his alphas helped him and the twins stand up correctly.

Quincy was the first to recover, his hand shooting to his wrist where his communicator buzzed urgently. He read the message with a frown, the gravity of the situation etched on his face. "There's been another breach," he announced, racing to get on whatever clothes he could find, his voice tight with tension. "This time it's the power center."

Essence shot out of bed, her eyes wide. "What? How is that even possible?" she asked, her hand going to her own communicator to check for updates.

“I dont know” quincy answered frantically throwing on clothes with his mates following his lead a second later.

“You two stay here” Branch commanded the twins while they are rushing to get out the door “Don't leave until we come back for you."

Coopers eyes flashed with alarm. "But, Maman-"

“No arguments.” Quincy shouted over his shoulder, his tone leaving no room for arguments. “You will stay there where its safe”

The boys looked like they wanted to protest but stayed quiet.

He turned to the guards. “You are not to leave their side. Understood?” The guards nodded firmly, and Branch knew they would follow his orders without question. With a final reassuring glance at the twins, Branch and his alphas rushed out of the room, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on their shoulders.

They sprinted down the corridor, the alarm sirens growing louder with each passing second. The ship's gravity stabilizers had kicked in, but the urgency of the situation was palpable. As they approached the emergency stairs, the bubble transporter to go to the main level  was non operational, flashing red lights signaling the malfunction.

As they ran through the city branch noticed that the funk trolls were in a state of panic. The usually vibrant and orderly streets were a mess of trolls and  misplaced furniture. The neon lights flickered erratically, casting eerie shadows across the distressed faces of the citizens.

When they finally got to the stairs leading to the lower levels, the ship lurched again as it was straightened out, sending Branch stumbling. He reached out for the railing, but his hand slipped, and he was thrown against the wall with a thud. Pain shot through his body as he slumped to the ground, his breath knocked out of him. "Branch!" Essence shouted, rushing to his side.

Quincy and the guards stopped in their tracks, their eyes wide with concern. "Are you okay?" Essence asked, her voice shaking as she helped him to his feet. Branch nodded weakly, though his eyes remained closed as he took a few deep breaths to steady himself.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” Branch murmured, pushing himself up with Essence’s help. He winced as his back protested, but the love and concern in her eyes were enough to make him push through the pain.

After a moment to make sure the ship didnt lurch again they continued rushing down the steps.

When they finally got to the lower level of the ship where the power center was located, the sight that greeted them was chaotic. Lownote and his mates were already there, their eyes wide with shock as they took in the damage. The room was a mess, with sparks flying from fried circuits and the smell of burnt wires lingering heavily in the air. The power had gone out in several parts of Vibe City, and the gravity in the vicinity was fluctuating unpredictably, making it difficult for the trolls to maintain their footing.

Lownote,, wasted no time in assessing the situation. "We need to get the backup gravity generators online immediately," he said, his voice calm despite the chaos around him. "The main generators are compromised. We can't risk letting the whole city drift off course or its going to flip over."

Essence nodded sharply, her own anxiety spiking. "Do it," she ordered. "While you do that, I'll join the security team and review the footage."

Lownote's gaze flicked to the security monitors in the corner of the room, his expression grim as he saw the blank screens. He knew the gravity of the situation and didn't need to be told twice. Quickly, he turned to the control panel and started typing away, his nimble fingers dancing over the glowing buttons. The backup gravity generator roared to life, the room momentarily vibrating as power surged through the systems. The gravity steadied, and the tension in the air lessened slightly as the crisis was averted for now.

As Lownote worked, he noticed something peculiar. A subtle mark in the programming, something that didn't belong. It was almost imperceptible, but his trained eye caught it immediately. "

"Quincy," he called out, his voice sharp with urgency. "I've found something."

The king's head snapped up from where he had been talking with the security team. "What is it,?"

Lownote pointed at the screen, his gaze intense. "This breach wasn't random. It was programmed from somewhere in Vibe City." His eyes narrowed as he zoomed in on the code. "And I can see exactly where it came from."

Without wasting another second, Quincy grabbed his communicator. "Assemble the elite guard," he barked into it before turning to his mates. "You two stay here. I'm going with Lownote to track down whoever did this." His eyes flashed with anger, his pupils dilating to the size of small planets.

Essence and Branch exchanged a quick look, both of them knowing that Quincys normal easy going attitude had shifted to something much more serious. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on their shoulders as they watched the king and his guards rush out of the room, leaving them to manage the aftermath. Essence took charge, instructing the guards to contact their technical team to come and help her in-laws get the power center back to full capacity.

Branch, still feeling the ache from his fall, decided to focus on the more immediate concern of their people. He approached one of the guards, and older looking omega with a stern look. "Could you tell me how the trolls in the city are doing"

The guard nodded, his expression serious. "Yes your  Highness, we've received reports of minor injuries and some property damage, but nothing life-threatening, thankfully. The ship luckily has automatic safety protocols for stuff like this, granted it has never had to be used before as far as i know but it kept everyone safe" he said, his voice filled with relief. "The medical teams are checking everyone who was hurt, and the engineers are already checking to see if anything was damaged internally."

Branch felt a weight lift off his shoulders at the guard's words, but he knew that they couldn't relax yet. "Good," he said, his eyes scanning the room. "We need to keep everyone calm and informed. Can you have someone broadcast a message throughout the ship, letting them know that  there was a situation but that we're handling it?"

The guard nodded and immediately set to work on the task. Branch turned to Essence, who was still deep in conversation with the technical team. He could see the worry lines etched on her forehead, but she remained stoic, a true testament to her leadership. He approached her, placing a gentle hand on her arm.

His touch comforted her, a silent reassurance in the midst of the chaos. After she sent the technical team off with a firm nod and a few final instructions, Essence turned to Branch, her gaze locking onto his. The fear in his eyes was mirrored in hers, but she knew they had to be strong for their people. Without a word, she reached out and took his hand, her thumb brushing gently over his knuckles. The gesture was small, but it spoke volumes. She leaned in, pressing her lips to the back of his hand in a tender kiss, her eyes never leaving his.

The sweetness of her gesture was not lost on Branch. He felt a surge of warmth and affection, his heart swelling with love for his alpha. Wanting to return the gesture he leaned up and pulled Essence down slightly so that their heads were aligned, pressing his lips gently to her cheek. It was a simple, loving action, but it conveyed his feelings in a way words couldn’t in the chaotic setting. Essence's eyes fluttered shut, and she leaned into the kiss, letting out a sigh of relief. For a brief moment, the chaos around them melted away, and all that existed was the comfort of their bond.

With renewed strength, they turned their focus back to the situation at hand. "We need to find out who's behind this," Essence said, her voice firm and determined. "This isn't just about the power center. Someone is targeting us, and we can't let them get away with it."

Branch nodded in agreement. "You're right," he said, squeezing her hand. "We should go to the holding cells and wait for Quincy."

They made their way through the ship, the gravity slowly returning to normal as the backup generators kicked in. The city roads were filled with trolls, some in various states of distress, while others were already busy with the cleanup efforts. The sight of their king and queen brought a sense of comfort and order, and many called out greetings and offered their assistance. Essence responded with a smile and a nod, her regal presence instilling a sense of calm as they passed by.

When they arrived at the holding cells, the atmosphere was tense.  The guards stood at attention they approached with their own guards following behind.  Branch looked at his mate, his blue eyes searching for answers. "has anything like this ever happened before, with the ship tilting?" he asked, his voice steady despite his racing heart.

"No," Essence replied, her own eyes scanning the room. "The last time was during the battle with the rock trolls. But they never came close to doing that much damage thanks to our tech."

Her words trailed off as they heard the sound of heavy footsteps approaching. Quincy and Lownote burst into the room, followed by Chief Brio and a group of guards who were struggling to contain not one, but three figures. The captives were  Funk trolls, all of them looking disheveled with looks of fear but mostly anger. The guards looked pissed as they dragged the culprits in front of the king and queen. Essence immediately wrapped a protective arm around her omega as they approached.

The leader of the trio spat at Branch’s feet, a growl rumbling from his throat. "pop troll bitch," he snarled, his pupils dilating with rage.

Before Branch could react, Quincy was there, his hand grabbing the orange troll by the throat and getting in his face. The terrorizers eyes grew wide, his pupils shrinking at the sudden display of dominance. "You will not speak to my omega that way," Quincy growled, his voice deep and threatening. The troll's own attempt at intimidation was pathetic in comparison to the towering rage of the king.

“Im not intimidated by you, your little slut should have stayed in pop village where he belongs!” The leader snarled back, trying to muster up some courage despite the vice-like grip Quincy had on his throat. His eyes were alight with a fiery hatred, and his co-conspirators snarled in agreement, though they remained cautiously pinned by the other guards.

Essence stepped forward, her own eyes narrowing in fury. “You dare speak to the king in such a way?” she demanded, her voice a thunderous crescendo that echoed through the corridor. The three Funk trolls flinched, and Branch could feel the power in her voice. It was a side of Essence he had rarely seen, a side that was as fiercely protective as it was terrifying.

The orange troll, sneered up at the monarchs, his eyes glinting with malice. “You cal this this pathetic creature a king?” he spat, his eyes flicking to Branch with contempt. “A pop troll omega? He’s not fit to lick the floor we walk on!”

In an instant, quincy 's calm demeanor shattered. With one paw still around  the troll's throat, he reared back and punched him in the gut. The orange troll doubled over, gasping for air, his eyes wide with shock. It wasn't usual for the calm ruler to show such a feral side, but when it came to sometroll hurting his mates and subjects, Quincy had no qualms about letting his alph instincts take over.

The room was silent except for the wheezing of the leader. Essence took a step forward, her own anger clear in her eyes. "You will respect him," she said coldly, her voice echoing with authority. "Branch is not just any omega. He is ours, and he is your king."

The guards tightened their grips on the other two trolls as they watched their leader struggle for breath. Essence looked at chief brio, her hand tightening around Branch's. "Take them to the interrogation rooms," she ordered, her tone leaving no room for argument. “Make sure their separated”

With their orders given, the guards dragged the three Funk trolls away, their eyes darting to the floor in submission as they passed their king and queen. The room remained tense, the echoes of the leader's words hanging in the air like a toxic cloud. Branch felt a mix of anger and fear, his cheeks burning with embarrassment at the way he had been spoken to in front of his mates and the guards. Essence noticed the change in his posture, her own anger morphing into a comforting aura for her omega.

She approached him and cupped his face with her hand, her thumb gently stroking his cheek. "You okay, little sapphire?" she asked softly, her eyes searching his for any sign of distress.

He leaned into her touch, his eyes closing briefly as he took a deep breath, inhaling the sweet scent of her skin. It was a familiar comfort, one that grounded him in the chaos around them. Her hand remained on his face, her thumb tracing small, soothing circles as she continued to whisper words of reassurance. When he finally opened his eyes, they were filled with determination. "Let's find out what's happening," he said, his voice stronger than before.

Essence nodded, her hand slipping away from his cheek. She knew that Branch was right; they needed to stay informed, even if it meant facing the distressing reality of the situation. They followed the guards to the interrogation rooms, where the three Funk trolls had been taken. Quincy was already there, his fur bristling with anger as he glared at the trolls.

"We need to question them," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "But we can't have you in here, Branch. We don't know how they'll react, and I won't risk messing with your mental health."

Branch looked up at Essence, his jaw set. "I can handle it," he insisted, his voice steady. "I want to be part of this. If they're a threat to our family and our city, I need to know whats going on."

Essence and Quincy shared a look, the same thoughts going through their heads. "Okay," Quincy said finally, his grip on Branch's shoulder firm. "But we'll be with you the whole time. No exceptions."

They entered the first interrogation room, where one of the attackers were being held. The room was small, with gleaming white walls and a single chair bolted to the floor. The Funk troll was secured to it with restraints, his yellow eyes darting back and forth in agitation. His skin was a deep shade of purple, with glittering tattoos snaking up his arms and neck.

The troll sneered as Branch entered, his gaze flicking over the omega before landing on Essence and Quincy. "Look who came to play," he said mockingly, his voice thick with sarcasm. "The great king and queen, with their pet pop troll."

Essence took a step forward, her eyes narrowing to slits as she leaned down to be eye-level with the prisoner. "You will speak to my omega with respect," she warned, her voice a low growl. "Now, tell us why you did this."

The purple-skinned Funk troll just smirked. "Or what? You gonna throw me overboard?” He jeered at Branch, his eyes filled with a malice that made Branch's tail twitch with anxiety.

Quincy stepped closer, his own fur bristling. "You're lucky we don't do that," he said, his voice a low rumble. "But we will find out what you know. And trust me, you don't want to make it any harder for yourself because we will do anything to protect our people.”

The troll 's smirk grew into a snarl as he spat out his words. "We're supposed to be your people!" he yelled, his eyes flashing with anger. "But you've chosen that pop troll scum over us, your own kind!"

Essence's grip on Branch's hand tightened, but she kept her voice calm and even. "Branch is ours, and he is one of us. He is a member of the royal family, and as such, deserves the same respect as any other troll in this city."

The purple-skinned troll sneered again, but this time, his eyes darted to the side, avoiding Essence's fierce gaze. "Why the nursery?" Branch asked, his voice laced with confusion. "What could you possibly hope to gain from attacking innocent trollings?"

The prisoner's expression didn't waver. "I'm not saying a word without my mates," he spat.

Quincy's eyes narrowed, his pupils dilating even further. "You will tell us what you know," he said, his voice a low growl. "Or face the consequences."

The prisoner just chuckled, a sound that was more like a hiss than anything else. "You think you scare me?" He spat on the floor. "I used to have so much respect for you and Essence till you lost your way.”

His gaze was unwavering, despite the clear threat in Quincy's voice.

The prisoner remained silent, his eyes flicking between Essence and Quincy, making sure to completely ignore Branchs presents. He was clearly baiting them, trying to push their buttons and disrupt their unity. But the monarchs werent swayed. They had seen and dealt with much worse in their time together, and they weren't about to let some disgruntled trolls shake them.

They continued trying to question him, but his lips remained sealed. His refusal to cooperate was met with a mix of frustration and determination from everyone. They knew that they couldn't let this stand, not when the safety of their city was at stake. They moved to the other two interrogation rooms, hoping that the other two members of the trio would be more talkative. But as they stepped into each room, the scene was the same. The two trolls sat there, their expressions a mix of anger and fear, but not a single word passed their lips.

Branch watched as Essence and Quincy tried different tactics, but it was like hitting a wall. They weren't getting anywhere. The silence in the room was palpable, and Branch felt his anxiety spike. He didn't like this, he didn't like the feeling of not being able to protect his mates or their city. Eventually he realized the pattern of them trying to use branch to piss off his alphas and distract them.

He took a deep breath, and made the decision to step away. "I think they're not talking because of me," he murmured to Essence, who was standing by his side, her eyes still boring into the prisoner.

Essence frowned but nodded. "Perhaps," she conceded. "Your presence might be...distracting them."

With a heavy heart, Branch stepped out of the interrogation room, the door sliding shut behind him with a hiss. He knew they were just trying to keep him safe, but it stung that he was being seen as the weak link. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts. He couldn't let them get to him. He had to trust that Essence and Quincy would get the information they needed.

Just as he was able to calm down, he heard the sound of someone approaching. Turning, he saw Lownote emerge from another interrogation room. The Funk troll's fur was ruffled, and his eyes were tired, but he offered Branch a small, reassuring smile. "How are you holding up?" he asked, his voice gentle.

Branch returned the smile weakly. "I'm okay," he lied. "They're not saying much, are they?"

Lownote's expression grew serious. "No," he said, his eyes darkening. "But we'll figure it out." He paused for a moment before speaking again. "I've got some ideas, but I need to talk to you and your mates first.”

The omega  looked up at the taller Funk troll, his blue-grey skin seemingly paler under the stark lights of the hallway. "You think you can help?"

Lownote nodded, his eyes filled with a steely resolve that belied his laid-back exterior. "I've seen my share of troublemakers in my time," he said, his voice filled with a wisdom that came from years of experience. "And I've found that sometimes, the quiet ones have the loudest secrets."

Branch felt a spark of hope flicker within him. "What do you mean?"

Lownote leaned against the wall, his arms folded over his chest. "I know it might seem strange, but I've been around for a while, little buddy. Longer than even Quincy." His eyes twinkled with amusement at the shocked look on Branch's face. "Yep, I'm the wise old astronomer of the Funk Tribe, so to speak."

The revelation stunned Branch into silence. He had always assumed that Quincy, being the king, was the oldest of the siblings. But as he thought about it, he realized that Lownote had a certain air of maturity and experience that even Quincy lacked at times. "But... but you're not king," he finally managed to say, his voice filled with bewilderment.

Lownote chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "No, I'm not," he said. "Theres a long story to that but i will have to save it for another time. For now, let's focus on these assholes."

Just as they were about to delve into the strategy, Essence and Quincy emerged from the interrogation room, their expressions grim. Brio and a few other guards followed closely behind, exiting the other interrogation room. They  congregated in the hallway, sharing a brief, tense look before Essence spoke up. "They're not giving us anything," she said, her voice tight with frustration. "They're playing dumb, but we know better."

Branch turned to Chief Brio. "What have you found out?" He asked, his voice echoing with authority.

"These three are Orion, Kane, and Reed," Chief Brio said, gesturing to the trolls in turn. "They're from well-respected familyies in Vibe City. They've never had any issues with the law before. This is...unexpected."

Quincy's gaze narrowed. "What could have driven them to this?" he murmured. Essence nodded in agreement.

Chief Brio cleared his throat. "We're still piecing together the motives, but so far we havent come up with any answers based on the given information.” He paused before adding, “But I suggest that we have our men interview trolls that are close to their social circles. Maybe someone knows something or has heard something that could lead us to the reason behind this."

Quincy nodded thoughtfully. "Good call, Brio. Get on it immediately." He turned to Essence and Branch, who were both visibly drained from the emotional weight of the evening. "Let's go see the twins.”

Essence wrapped her arm around Branch's shoulders, pulling him close as they made their way back to the royal suite. "You did well tonight," she murmured into his ear. "I know it wasn't easy, but you stayed strong."

Branch leaned into her warmth, feeling the reassuring beat of her heart against his side. It was comforting, reminding him that he wasn't alone in this. Quincy, noticing the tension in his stride, placed a gentle hand on Branch's lower back, his touch warm and steady. The three of them walked in silence, lost in their own thoughts as they navigated the neon-lit streets of the city.

Luckily the bubble transporters seemed to have been fixed so getting back to their home was a shorter trip. When they were near the bedrooms Essence held back from a second. She knew she needed to check something in the study that had been bothering her since the attack. "I need to take care of something," she told Quincy, her voice low. "You two go ahead and check on the twins. I'll join you shortly."m

The two males nodded and entered their bedroom.

The female alpha sighed heavily as she stepped into the study, the door gliding shut behind her. The room was dimly lit, the only source of light coming from the glow of the computer screen. Essence walked over to the desk. She pulled out her phone, scrolling through her contacts until she found the number for Poppy. She had been meaning to call her for a few days now, but the business of running a kingdom always seemed to get in the way.

As the phone rang, Essence couldn't help but think about the conversation she needed to have with the young pop troll queen. The treatment of omegas in Pop Village had been a topic of concern for her, especially after hearing whispers from some of the visiting trolls about the  discrimination they witnessed. It wasn't right, and she knew that Poppy would agree with her.

The line clicked, and the pink omegas cheerful face showed up on the screen. "Essence! How are you?!” she exclaimed, her voice a mix of excitement and concern. "Is everything okay in Vibe City?"

"Poppy," Essence began, her voice serious. "I'm calling because I need to speak with you about something important." But before she could elaborate,  a deafening explosion erupted from the other end of the call, the screen flickering with chaotic images of fire and smoke. Her heart racing, Essence watched in horror as the call dropped abruptly.

Without wasting a moment, she tapped her wrist communicator, her eyes wide with fear. "Brio!" she barked. "We need ships ready immediately. Pop village is in need of help!" The response was swift. "On it, your majesty," Brio's voice crackled through the device. "I'll mobilize the fleet."

Essence sprinted out of the study, her heart pounding in her chest. She couldn't believe what she had just seen. Her mind raced with questions as she rushed down the corridor.

Chapter Text

Essence watched as the smaller ships flew ahead. “We have to be prepared for the worst, but let’s hope for the best,” Essence murmured as Quincy squeezed her hand reassuringly. they were in the docking bay of their vessel, surrounded by Funk Trolls running around, preparing to aid Pop Village. The air was thick with anticipation and the faint scent of fear. Despite their advanced technology and the confidence that came with it, they couldn’t predict the extent of the damage that awaited them.

“Those ships will be there before us,” Quincy noted, his gaze fixed on the horizon where the small dots grew smaller. “They’ll assess the situation and report back. We’ll know soon enough if Pop Village is safe, or if we need to we can deploy more resources immediately.” His voice was steady, but the tightness in his grip betrayed his concern.

Essence nodded, her eyes shimmering with a mix of determination and fear. “Im just afraid its worse than what I saw, we havent heard anything from Queen Poppy and she's the only one there with a communicator so far.

Quincy took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm of worry that brewed inside him. “Branch is strong, if anyone can handle this, it’s him."

Essence squeezed his hand back, her eyes never leaving the disappearing specks in the sky.
She then looked behind her watching Branch speak with one of the nurses in the corner o the room. The nurse nodded giving a reassuring smile before scurrying away, leaving Branch standing there for a moment, his blue eyes reflecting the gravity of the situation. He started walking towards her and Quincy so she held out her hand when he got close and pulled him into her side.

They knew that the smaller ships were better equipped for a quick response if needed, and it was a relief to have them on their way. Quincy and Essence had assured their omega that they would arrive shortly after the vessels, hoping that they would be able to provide the immediate help that Pop Village might require.

"Barb still hasnt responded to my notes" Branch mumbled under his breath as he carefully puy his phone back in his pocket after a quick check. 'Do you think something happened to the rock tribe too?"

Quincy sighed, his broad chest rising and falling heavily. "I hope not, but we have to be prepared for the worst." they had tried to contact the rock queen multiple times, but she remained silent. The lack of response was concerning, but they had to focus on the task at hand.

Once the saucer-shaped ship of the Funk Trolls touched down just outside the vibrant edge of the Pop Forest, the gravity bubble dissipated, and the three leaders of the Funk Trolls, along with a contingent of guards and medics, began their journey on foot towards the village. The forest, a place usually brimming with music and laughter, was eerily quiet, as if the very trees held their breath in anticipation of their arrival. Branch took the lead, his golden tail swishing slightly as he navigated the familiar paths with a newfound sense of urgency. Despite his smaller stature compared to Essence and Quincy, his steps were swift and sure, a stark contrast to the heavy boots of the alphas following him.

As they drew closer to the village, the once-cheerful sounds of their music were replaced by the distant wails of sirens and the crackling of flames. The air grew thick with the acrid scent of smoke, stinging their eyes and nostrils. When the first glimpse of the village came into view, their hearts sank. Some pods looked like they had been burned halfway while others were gone completely leaving only vines hanging from the branches.

The Pop Trolls they encountered were a mix of shock and sadness, their usually bright expressions dulled with confusion. The sight of the destruction brought tears to Branch's eyes, pop village might have not been the best place in his life but seeing so much of the village that he helped rebuild and update with his new friends new friends in ruins was heartbreaking. They walked through the charred remains of what once were bustling pods and vibrant market stalls, the remnants of their former glory serving as a stark reminder of the tragedy that had unfolded.

Breo started dispersing the guards to help out as Branch approached the first few Pop Trolls he saw, desperately asking for information on the whereabouts of Poppy or any of the Snack Pack members. Their eyes, once filled with warmth and friendship, now narrowed with suspicion. Some even turned away, muttering under their breath about "the grey one" who brought bad luck. It was a stark reminder of the prejudices he faced in his early years, but he pushed on, driven by his love and concern for his friends. Some o the other alphas reactions were just the same. Once they got his scent they immediately knew he was an omega and while most of them weren't outright hostile, they were certainly not welcoming.

Quincy and Essence, and the way the Pop Trolls reacted to Branch's scent, the way his ears lowered everytime one of them whispered an insult. Their own instincts flared, and Essence's eyes began to show the beginnings of the fiery anger that simmered just beneath her cool exterior. Quincy, ever the diplomat, gently placed a hand on her arm to calm her. They knew that anger would not solve anything, but the protective instinct to defend their omega was strong.

Finally Quincy had enough and stopped one of the stuck up alphas that ignored Branch's desperate questions.

"Where is your Queen?" Quincy asked calmly, his hand still on Essence's arm.

The alpha Pop Troll looked surprised at being addressed so directly by a Funk Troll, especially one who was clearly an alpha. He quickly composed himself, his pupils narrowing slightly in annoyance at being stopped. "She's in the green mushroom over there with Dr. Moonbloom," he replied, pointing to the largest mushroom in the center of the village. The home looked undamaged, but the lack of vibrant sounds and lights from it was stark in contrast to its usual state.

Quincy's gaze immediatley turned cold after getting the answer. "And why couldn't you answer my omega when he asked?" he questioned, pupils dilating slowly.

The alpha Pop Troll took a step back, visibly intimidated by Quincy's towering presence and the subtle threat in his voice. "I-I didn't mean to disrespect," he stuttered, his eyes flickering to Branch for a brief moment before quickly averting them again. The difference in size between the Funk Trolls and the Pop Trolls was stark, with the former's height making even the most confident Pop Trolls feel small.

Essence stepped forward, her blue eyes flashing. "Ignorance is not tolerated, especially in times of crisis," she said firmly. "He only asked for help."

The alpha swallowed hard, his pupils dilating as he took in Essence's stern gaze. "I-I apologize," he stuttered before quickly retreating, disappearing into the crowd.

Quincy ran a comforting hand over branchs head. "Are you okay, sweet heart?" he asked, concern etched into his features.

Branch took a shaky breath, trying to compose himself. "I just want to find Poppy and the others," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. The scent of scorched wood and fear hung heavy in the air, making his stomach twist.

The three of them approached the central pod, its vibrant colors starkly contrasting with the ashen surroundings. The silence was deafening, a stark reminder of the once-thriving life that had filled the village. Quincy and Essence exchanged a worried glance before turning to the pod's entrance.

Suddenly, a commotion from behind them caused their heads to snap back. The distant rumble grew louder, and through the dusty air, a Rock Troll angler bus lurched into view, its metal frame screeching to a halt at the village's edge. The mouth opened, and out ran out Barb, her stern gaze scanning the destruction. Behind her, a contingent of Rock Trolls walked out quickly after their queen.

"Where is she?!" she bellowed, her voice echoing through the desolate village. Her eyes searched the wreckage, her heart racing with fear for her sister's safety. The Funk Trolls looked at her in surprise, but Essence stepped forward calmly, "Barb!"

Barb marched towards Essence, the anger in her eyes shifting to slight relief at the sight of the familiar alpha. "Essence, where's Poppy? What happened here?" she demanded.

Essence's expression grew serious. "She's in the buildi-mushroom over there, but we havent even seen her yet,".

Barb nodded curtly and took off at a sprint towards the giant vegetative house. The three of them followed close behind, their legs pumping to keep up with her urgent pace. The mushroom contained at least twenty injured pop trolls with injuries ranging from what looked like broken limbs to severe burns, it smelt of singed fur throughout the whole place.

As they walked through, they could hear the faint sound of crying and soothing whispers. Dr. Moonbloom, her eyes red and swollen, was tirelessly working on a patient, while a trolling with purple fur and green hair stood next to her. The young omegas own paws shaking, was passing her supplies. The two looked up at the newcomers, and Branch noticed Plum's eyes widen at the sight of him. He offered a small, comforting smile, though his heart was racing.

"What happened here?" Quincy asked, his voice tight with emotion.

The young troll looked up from her work, her own eyes reflecting the horrors they had witnessed. "We dont know. All we heard was a few bangs and then there was just.. so much fire."

Her answer only made them worry more.

Barb looked around frantically, her gaze searching for any sign of her omeg-courting omega. "Where is Queen Poppy?"

Dr. Moonbloom, noticing the urgency in Barb's voice, gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Your Highness, Queen Poppy is in the back, but before you might want to wait for me to escort you."

Barb's eyes snapped to her, her expression a mix of desperation and anger. "Why? What's wrong with her?"

The young girl took a deep breath before speaking. "She's in shock. The attack was... severe. We're doing everything we can, but she's not responding to treatment."

Branch felt a knot form in his stomach, his heart racing. Despite Essence and Quincy's gentle but firm grip on his shoulders, he couldn't stop his legs from shaking. He needed to see her, needed to make sure she was okay.

"Poppy," he whispered, his voice barely audible over the murmurs of the medical pod.

Quincy and Essence tightened their grip on Branch's shoulders, holding him back gently. "Let Dr. Moonbloom explain first, love," Essence said softly, making sure to take Cadences advice to help him through "Give yourself a moment to breathe."

She realized too late that she orgot to check on Barb. As soon as soon as the trolling finished talking, the Rock Troll queen had bolted towards the back where Poppy lay, leaving a trail of dust in her wake. Before Essence or Quincy could react, she had disappeared behind a curtain of privacy, her heavy steps echoing through the small space. "Barb, wait!" Essence called out, but Barb kept walking.

The sight that awaited her was one of utter despair. Poppy was laying unconscious on a makeshift bed, her tiny body wrapped in an assortment of bandages. Her breaths were shallow and rough. The room was filled with a heavy silence, broken only by the occasional whine of a medical device. Two trolls stood next to her bed side, their skin a vibrant shade of blue with their tails a matching color of their tails. They were Pop guards, fiercely protective of their queen.

Barb's eyes grew wide with shock and anger. She stepped closer, her paws clenching into fists. "What happened to her?" her growl bouncing of the enclosed walls.

"Smoke inhilation, and a lot of it." The rock queen turned to see Dr. Moonbloom walk in with Branch and his alphas follwing right behind.

"Poppy," Branch gasped out as he rushed to her side. He reached out a trembling hand to touch her cheek, the usually soft fluffy fur now matted down.

Essence and Quincy followed closely, their expressions filled with concern. They noticed Branch's ears drooping and knew what that meant. Quincy, with his gentle touch, placed a hand on Branch's shoulder. "Cher, it's okay. We're here," he murmured, trying to soothe his distraught omega.

Just as the apathetic doctor was about to explain further she noticed Barbara's pupils dilate, a clear sign of the Rock Troll's rising anger. Dr. Moonbloom had seen that look before, and knew that if left unchecked, it could lead to dire consequences. She was about to say something to ease the tension when Essence stepped in, her eyes shifting to Barbara with understanding.

"Barb," Essence said softly, reaching out to gently touch her arm.

Barbs eyes shot up at her trying to control her anger before looking back at the doctor, "what happened here?"

Dr. Moonbloom sighed heavily, "there were a series of fires, your highness. They started last night, burning through our pods, and we're not sure how they started. This isn't something that occurs naturally with us. We've never had a situation like this before," she replied, her voice filled with a mix of exhaustion.

Essence's grip on Barb's arm tightened slightly. "Did any trolls hear any explosions?" she asked urgently. "When I was talking with Poppy, I heard one before the line went dead."

Luckily, through the smell of burnt wood, Branch still smelt his scent before he walked in. the former king walked in with a smile on his face, but his Branch knew enough about him to know it was a lie. "oh, look who's here!" Peppy exclaimed, his eyes darting around the room before settling on the small group. "I didn't know we were expecting guests," his voice was sweet, but it didnt sound genuine like his daughters is.

The Doctor glared at Peppy for a moment, something unspoken passing between them. It was clear that there was a tension in the air that had nothing to do with the crisis at hand, but she swiftly composed herself and spoke professionaly. "Well Peppy." He glared back at her but she continued "They're here to check on Queen Poppy, as you know, and to understand what happened. The faster we can get to the bottom of this, the better."

Peppys eye twitches slightly at the though of these...foreigners being in pop territory.

"Well, as you can see, we're handling everything just fine," Peppy said, waving his hand dismissively at the chaos around him.

Essence's gaze swept over the medical pod, noting the mismatched beds that looked like they were borrowed from their pods and limited medical supplies scattered haphazardly. The stark contrast between the Pop Trolls' usual vibrant atmosphere and the current desolation was palpable. "Poppy," she murmured, her heart heavy as she took in the sight of the unconscious queen. "It doesn't seem like you have the resources to handle something of this scale," she said, her voice tinged with genuine concern.

Peppy's forced smile wavered at her observation. "We manage," he said, a hint of defensiveness creeping into his tone. "We've always managed."

Essence stepped closer, her blue eyes locking with Peppy's. "But, this is more than just a few sniffles and bruises. I understand your tribe has dealt with manys situations on your own" She kept her voice down slightly, not wanting the pop trolls to be reminded right now of the other horrific tragedies theyve faced. "But the tribes are communicating now, you can ask for help."

Barb nodded in agreement, she knew that the Pop Trolls had to have been sort of self sufficient to be living in a forrest, but this was beyond what they could handle alone.  "We need to get more supplies, and fast," she said, her gaze lingering on the makeshift medical setup. "Why isnt everyone at the clinic?"

Moonbloom sighed, her expression drooping. "The clinic... it was burnt down in the fire. We had some medical supplies, but it was mostly old herbs and wise tales from our ancestors. The more advanced equipment we had was recently gifted from other tribes, but it was lost in the blaze."

Branch held back a whimper at hearing more of the situation, his eyes shimmering with unshed tears. He quickly turned to look up at his mates, "Would we be able to... to move all the injured to the Funk ship? Maybe we could treat them better there" His voice was soft, hopeful.

Essence nodded gravely, understanding the gravity of the situation. "It's a good idea, Branch. Our ship is equipped with the latest medical technology, and we have more than enough space to accommodate everyone."

Barb and Dr. Moonbloom seemed to also like the plan, but the moment Peppy heard it, his smile faded. "Hold on," he said, his voice tight. "My village, my rules. I don't trust strangers with my trolls." His eyes narrowed at Essence and Quincy, who had both stepped closer to Branch in a protective manner.

Quincy spoke up calmly, "King Peppy, with all due respect, we are not strangers. We are here to help. The Funk Trolls have always been allies to the Pop Trolls, and we want to ensure everyone's safety and well-being."

Peppy's gaze remained skeptical. "But our ways are different. Our healing methods are special to us. And let's not forget, alliances are great for parties, but when it comes to taking care of our own..." He trailed off, his eyes flickering towards the unconscious Poppy, "We Pop Trolls know best."

Essence stepped closer, her voice firm but gentle. "King Peppy, we understand your concern for tradition and autonomy. However, when lives are at stake, we must put aside our differences and use every resource available to us. Our medical facilities on the Funk ship can provide the care that your Trolls need to recover fully. Please, let us help."

A growl escaped the former king's throat, his eyes narrowing. "I appreciate your offer, but we've always managed before. We don't need the interference of outsiders."

The room grew tense as Dr. Moonbloom's eyes flashed. She took a deep breath before speaking, "Peppy, with all due respect, we are at a critical point. Our medical facilities are in ruins, and we are running out of options. The Funk Trolls are offering their assistance, and we would be foolish to turn them away."

Peppy's nostrils flared, and he opened his mouth to protest, but before he could say another word, Dr. Moonbloom raised a hand to silence him. "Your pride does not outweigh the well-being of your subjects. If we are to preserve the spirit of this village, we must act swiftly and decisively."

"It isnot happening Ms. Moonbloom, end of discussion."

The doctor glared at Peppy, her frustration at the clear lack of care palpable. She said nothing as she turned on her heel and walked out of the room.

Barb, visibly upset by Peppy's refusal to accept help, stepped forward. "You can't be serious, Peppy," she said, her voice a mix of anger and desperation. "These Trolls are suffering. They need more than what you can give them here. If we leave them like this, we're signing their deaths." the rock troll alpha tried suppressing her anger so her eyes wouldnt go fully dilated.

Quincy placed a hand on her shoulder, his gaze never leaving Peppy's. "Barb's right. We're not saying we know better than you. We're just offering what we can." His words were measured, calm, trying to diffuse the tension. "Look around you. These are your subjects. Your family. They're hurting, and we have the means to help them. This isn't about pride or tradition. It's about doing what's right."

Peppy growled again, his cheeks flushing with indignation."This is not happening," he said firmly, his voice resonating through the quiet room. "We Pop Trolls take care of our own, always have, always will." His gaze swept over the medical pods, lingering on his unconscious daughter.

Just as the tension reached its peak, the doors to the makeshift medical bay burst open, and in rushed two trolls, their faces etched with worry and determination. Dr. Moonbloom followed closely behind them, "Be careful of her arms, andmake sure to keep all of her papers together so they know what we have tried treating her with. Im going to go direct the others."

Peppy's eyes snapped to her, his expression a mix of confusion and anger. "What are you doing?!"

The doctor just nonchalantly says, "Preparing to move the injured to the funk ship."

Ignoring Peppy's outburst, Moonbloom continued to bark orders at the medical staff and guards, her voice a mix of urgency and professionalism. "We need to act quickly! These trolls need advanced medical attention that we simply cannot provide here." The staff sprang into action, documenting every trolls name and writing brief medical notes about each one.

Meanwhile, Essence slipped away from the commotion and reached for her wrist communicator, a sleek, blue device that glowed gently under the dim light. She spoke calmly into it, her words carrying an underlying steeliness, "Brio, this is Essence. We need immediate backup at Pop Village. Send in the medical team and a group of guards. We're moving the injured to the Funk ship for treatment." The communicator crackled to life, and Brio's voice responded swiftly, "Understood, your majesty. The fleet will be there within 10 minutes."

Back in the medical bay, Peppy's protests grew weaker as the respected Dr. Moonbloom's instructions were carried out with swift precision. The doctor's reputation as a skilled healer was undisputed. The medical staff and guards moved swiftly under her command, lifting the unconscious trolls onto antigravity stretchers designed for safe transportation through the sky.

In a fit of anger and frustration, Peppy stormed out of the makeshift medical bay, leaving Moonbloom to watch over the situation with a stern look on his face. Quincy took a moment to appreciate the quiet before turning to Branch, whose eyes remained fixed on the exit.

"Are you okay, étoile bleue?" Quincy asked gently, placing a comforting hand on Branch's shoulder. Branch looked up at his husband with a hint of sadness in his blue eyes. He nodded, still processing the tension that had filled the room with Peppy's presence.

Barb who thought best to let the other monarchs deal with Peppy or else she would have already lost her shit and dealed witht thing by force. Her arms crossed and her pupils dilated with agitation. She didn't trust this alpha from the Pop Tribe; his dismissal of other advanced medical assistance and his stubbornness to put aside his pride for the sake of his troll's wellbeing was troubling. Before his memory loss issues became to much for him to rule, her father taught her that potecting the tribe came first over pride. Poppy was the one to remind her of that during the world tour. She could have tried to keep going, the only real threat being the funk trolls, but after Poppy broke the strings and showed her how ar the other tribes were willing to go to try and protect their music, she realized that wasn't what was best for her people.

Her future mate, Poppy, had shown her so much, especially how to handle the anger that was a trademark of Rock Trolls. Yet, as Barbara gazed around the medical bay, she couldn't help but wonder where Poppy's unyielding kindness had truly come from. It certainly wasn't from Peppy, who was as stubborn and prideful as they came.

The air grew thick with anticipation as the first few funk trolls began to arrive, their gravity-defying ships descending gracefully around the decimated village. They were a stark contrast to the pkant filled area. Even after seeing some of the technology other tribes had, it was still rare for pop trolls to see to certain laws. Quincy and Essence stepped out to greet them, giving directions on where to start.

The sight of the medical pods and their precious cargo was met with a mix of awe and horror. Many trolls stopped in their tracks as they watched Dr. Moonbloom, Branch, and the medical team carefully lift the unconscious Poppy into one of the gleaming funk vessels. Her tiny frame looked fragile against the gleaming metal, and her once vibrant pink hair was now muted by the grime of the explosion.

Barb, noticing the fear and confusion in the eyes of the Pop Trolls, stepped forward with a firm resolve. "I'll stay here," she announced, her voice carrying over the murmurs of the gathered trolls. "Until your queen is better, I'll help watch over the village. It's the least I can do."

Essence and Quincy exchanged a relieved glance. Since the world tour, Barbara had shown a softer side to them, one that was more understanding and empathetic.  They knew that with her on the ground, they could focus on healing Poppy and the others while figuring out the cause of the explosions.

"Branch," Essence called gently, her voice carrying the weight of her concern. "You think we should talk to Barb and Peppy about the situations in Vibe City?"

Branch nodded, his eyes still glued to the ship holding Poppy. "I think so," he murmured. "The incidents might be connected. We can't ignore the possibility." His voice was tight, a rare hint of fear lacing his words. The gravity of the situation was palpable, even for a troll as stoic as Branch.

They made their way up one of the undamaged trees to get to Peppy's pod. The journey was bittersweet; the vibrant leaves and colorful branches a stark contrast to the somber mood that had enveloped them. The tree's sturdy trunk was a silent sentinel, witness to the destruction below. Branch, being the nimblest and the most accustomed to climbing, took the lead. His blue-grey skin blended with the shadows of the tree as he ascended swiftly, his tail a silent guide in the darkness. Quincy and Essence followed closely behind, their larger forms moving with surprising grace. The higher they climbed, the more the reality of the situation sank in. The tree was a symbol of hope, reaching towards the stars, a silent plea for peace and protection.

When they reached Peppy's pod, the door was slightly ajar, the light from within casting a warm glow onto the surrounding branches. Essence rapped her knuckles against the wood, the sound echoing through the stillness like a drum beat. They waited, the silence thick with anticipation. Finally, they heard the rustling of fabric and the thump of a stick hitting the floor as Peppy approached the door. His expression was a thundercloud as he opened it, his eyes narrowing in annoyance. "What do you want?" he barked, his voice gruff.

The scent of smoke clung to Peppy's fur, a constant reminder of the horror that had unfolded below. His fur was matted and his eyes were red-rimmed from the tears and soot. Despite his anger, his posture was defensive, his body tense as if ready to fight them off. "We need to talk," Essence said firmly, her own eyes flashing with determination. She stepped forward, her blue solid lapis bracelet glinting in the light.

Peppy's gaze darted between the three of them, his grip tightening on his stick. "I've had enough of your kind poking around," he spat, his voice filled with bitterness.

"We're not here to argue," Essence said calmly, her eyes never leaving Peppy's. "Our ships are prepping to leave, but Barbara has kindly offered to stay behind with a few of our Funk guards to help with the recovery."

Quincy stepped up beside her, his deep voice soothing. "We know you're proud, Peppy, but this goes beyond that. The lives of your village are at stake. We have the resources to help."

Peppy's eyes widened in fury, his nostrils flaring. "I do not care. You can take the injured to be treated but bring them back as soon as possible. Now get out!" he bellowed, slamming the pod door shut. The force of his anger sent tremors down the tree trunk. They heard the clatter of his stick against the floor as he stomped away from the door. The three mates exchanged worried glances.

They descended the tree, the gravity of their conversation weighing heavy on their hearts. When they reached the ground, they found Barb, Guy Diamond, and Gia still tending to the injured, their faces a mask of concentration and concern. The sight of the Funk guards, who had remained behind, brought a sense of security to the otherwise chaotic scene.

"Peppy doesn't want us here for long," Essence said bluntly, her voice carrying the weight of the conversation they had just had.

Barb looked up from where she was wrapping a bandage around a small, soot-covered troll. Her eyes narrowed, and she planted her hands on her hips. "Well, that's just too bad for him, isn't it?" she said with a fiery determination that hadn't been there before. "We're not going anywhere until their village is safe and everyone is okay."

Gia nodded looking at the rock queen "thank you for helping us, we know queen Poppy would appreciate it as well."

Quincy noddedas well. "We need to respect his wishes, but we can't ignore what happened here. We're all trolls, and we need to stand together."

Branch, feeling a mix of anxiety and hope, turned to his alphas. "I think we should leave now, before it gets any worse." Essence wrapped an arm around him, her eyes filled with determination. "We'll go to the capital ship and figure this out together." Quincy agreed, his deep voice rumbling in affirmation.

The group made their way through the devastated Pop Village, the once-vibrant colors now muted by ash and soot. The air was thick with the smell of burnt hair and sadness. As they approached the edge of the village, the gravity of the situation weighed heavily on their hearts. The Funk Troll ship hovered majestically in the sky, its neon lights casting an eerie glow on the wreckage below.

Branch's thoughts were consumed by Poppy. He hadn't seen her since the attack, and the thought of her lying in a medical pod, possibly hurt or worse, made his stomach churn. "We have to go to her," he said, his voice strained with emotion. "We can't leave her alone."

Essence and Quincy exchanged a knowing glance before turning to him. "Of course," Essence said, her expression gentle. "We'll go see her as soon as we get to the ship."

The journey up to the ship was a silent one, the gravity tethers carrying them smoothly through the night air. Once on the ship, Branch led the way to the medical bay.

Vibe city was different then what it had been before.

The usually bustling streets of Vibe City were now filled with a tension so thick it could be cut with a spoon. Trolls moved with purpose, eyes darting and voices hushed. The air was heavy with the scent of fear and uncertainty. The Funk Trolls had increased security measures, and it was evident that the recent events had shaken the very foundation of their once carefree lives. The neon lights that normally danced along the buildings now flickered with a sense of urgency, casting stark shadows that played hide and seek with the figures that rushed by.

When they arrived at the medical bay they were immediately spotted by Dr. Funkwave who quickly walked over to them. "Your Majestys, all the pop trolls are now being taken care of. most have some broken bones, and some burns but they will all be okay."

Quincy’s gaze searched the room until it found the two guards standing outside a door. "And what about Queen Poppy?"

Dr. Funkwave's expression grew solemn. "Her Royal Highness is in a private room, as you would expect. She inhaled a significant amount of smoke and is receiving specialized treatment. From what i read though...lets talk in her room.

Leading them to the room in the back, the two funk trolls bowed and stepped aside to let the royals inside. Inside contained the stillness of a library, the only sound being the steady beeping of the medical equipment and the occasional whisper of the trolls in attendance. The room was a stark contrast to the vibrant chaos outside, the walls lined with sleek panels that emitted a soft glow, casting an eerie light upon the figures standing vigil.

There, next to the bed, were two of Poppy's personal guards different from earlier, their faces etched with worry and exhaustion. Smidge and Mandy Sparkledust. Branch's heart skipped a beat when he saw them. He had not expected to find trolls from Pop Village that werent injured. But the sight of the two alphas, however, brought a wave of relief and a touch of warmth to his chest. They had always treated him with kindness and respect, despite his gray and omega status, something that was not always the case with others of their genre.

Quincy nodded to the guards, his blue eyes filled with a silent question. "May we have a moment alone with the doctor? We will have some food brought to you" he asked, his deep voice resonating in the quiet space. The guards exchanged glances before Smidge, the smaller of the two, stepped forward. She gave a firm nod. "You know the rules," she said to the others before turning to the doctor. "We'll be right outside if you need us."

The four funk troll guards that had been standing in the corners bowed before leaving the room, their booted steps echoing down the hallway. The door hissed shut, sealing the three in with the rhythmic beep of machines and the soft, shallow breathing of the fallen queen. Essence stepped closer to the bed, her eyes scanning Poppy's still form.

Dr. Funkwave, a slender Funk Troll with a white lab coat adorned with glittering sequins, approached them with a data pad in hand. "Her Royal Highness had indeed suffered from severe smoke inhalation, like many of her kin," he began, his voice low and soothing. "But unlike the others, she experienced something... different."

Branch leaned in, his heart racing. "What do you mean?"

Dr. Funkwave paused, choosing his words carefully. "The Pop Troll physician noted that she had an episode. A sort of seizure, if you will."

Branch's brow furrowed in confusion. "Seizure?" he repeated, the term unfamiliar to his ears. "What does that mean?" The teal omega had read many medical books, borrowed from the small library in the village to learn to survive alone but that word didnt ring a bell.

Dr. Funkwave, noticing Branch's bewilderment, offered a gentle explanation. "It's a sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain, your highness," she said, her voice steady despite the gravity of the situation. "It can cause changes in behavior, feelings, and strange uncontrolled movements."

"But what causes them?" Branch pressed, his concern etched into his features. The omega's mind raced, trying to piece together information that might be relevant to their current predicament.

"Seizures can be triggered by various factors," Dr. Funkwave responded, her gaze flicking over the data pad before returning to Branch. "They could be caused by underlying health conditions, injuries, or even stress. But It's not uncommon in such cases of prolonged smoke exposure, so we are not too worried at the moment, we just need for her to wake up so we can assess her fully."

The room was quiet except for the soft beeping of the medical equipment surrounding Poppy. Her chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, and Branch took comfort in the fact that she was at least breathing. Quincy, ever the stoic one, placed his arms around branch, giving him a squeeze. "We're going to do everything we can for her," he assured, his deep voice a steady anchor in the sea of uncertainty.

Essence, her blue eyes filled with worry, nodded in agreement. "We're not leaving her side. But we should let Darnell and Cooper know she's okay, they've been worried sick." She glanced at Branch, who nodded solemnly. "I'll go get them," Quincy offered, gently squeezing Branch's shoulder before heading out of the medical room.

Branch pulled the chair closer to Poppy's bed, his knees almost touching the transparent barrier. He studied her peaceful, though slightly troubled expression, the blue light from the pod reflecting off his golden pants. He reached out tentatively, placing a hand on hers.

"The other trolls are doing well," Dr. Funkwave assured them, her gaze moving from the data pad to the various monitors around the pod. "Mild smoke inhalation for most, but we're keeping them here for observation."

Branch nodded his female alpha was listening along, but his thoughts remained glued to Poppy. Her condition was more critical than he had feared. The doctor's words about seizures echoed in his mind, and he found it hard to focus on the well-being of the others. His heart was with her, and he felt powerless.

Suddenly, he felt a familiar tingle on his ankle, and he discreetly pulled up the ankle of his pants slightly to reveal a portion of grey. It had returned. The realization hit him like a bolt of lightning. Sure his fur still hadnt been the vibrant blue it once was but he had been doing so much better, especially after meeting Essence and Quincy. Yet, here it was, a stark reminder of his past, the very essence of his fear and doubt creeping back in. He quickly pulled his pant leg down, not wanting anyone especially his alphas to see it.

Chapter Text

As some of her rock trolls filed into the village to help with the clean up, Barb could see Peppy glaring at her from the corner of her eye, his arms crossed over his chest. Despite his anger, she knew he was right to be cautious. The last thing they needed was to be indebted to another tribe, especially one that had such a vastly different way of life. But the sight of her omegas tribe suffering was too much for her to bear.

The clinic and the seven pods that had been destroyed were a stark reminder of the chaos that had descended upon the once-harmonious Pop Village. The air was filled with the acrid smell of burnt fabric and the metallic tang of ruined technology.

Barb and Sid approached Smidge, her expression a mix of concern and curiosity. "How many pods are there?" she asked, her eyes sweeping over the damaged buildings.

Smidge paused in her work, wiping a smudge of soot from her cheek. "There are a hundred pods in the village," she replied, her voice a bit shaky. “14 have been burnt down or need repairing."

Barb nodded, her expression determined. "We can rebuild some with stronger materials that might make them more durable."

"What are you suggesting, Barbara?" Peppy stepped in, his tone wary. "Pop Trolls have always built their pods with forest materials."

Barb narrowed her eyes at his use of her full name, but she chose to ignore it. Some of the elders of her own tribe had a tendency to cling to formality in tense situations, especially when it came to nicknames. "We're not just dealing with storms and natural disasters anymore, Peppy," she said firmly. "You're facing threats your tribe's resources are unable to handle."

Barb knew she was pushing the issue, she didn't want to give her future in-law a worse time with his daughter being unconscious, but she couldn't shake the feeling that something wasn't right. "If you say so Peppy," she conceded, her expression thoughtful as she took in the devastation.

Peppy's eyes flashed with anger, his nostrils flaring as he turned to her. "Why aren't you monitoring your own tribe?" he demanded, his voice echoing in the desolate space. "You're the Alpha, aren't you? You should be with your own people, ensuring their safety!"

Barb met his gaze, unflinching. "My siblings are taking care of it."

"The omegas? very risky move for you to leave it alone in their hands," Peppy said, his voice dripping with skepticism.

Barb's eyes narrowed. "What's that supposed to mean?" she asked, her voice sharp as a blade. "your own kid is an omega and she's been doing fine leading the Pop Tribe!"

"Poppy's different," Peppy replied, his tone defensive. "She's got me, an alpha, to help her. I would never leave her to rule on her own."

Barb's gaze didn't waver. "Yea, well from what I hear Poppy has gotten a lot done around here even before she got to be queen," she countered.

The former king just rolled his eyes instead of acknowledging the validity of Barb's words. "I know my own daughter," he said with a sniff, his tone implying that Barb didn't know what she was talking about. "I know what she is capable of and frankly you know nothing about my tribe-"

"Poppys tribe," Guy Diamond interrupted. "Poppy is the queen now, and she's proven her strength and compassion time and again. It's because of her, and Branch that we are all still alive"

Peppy's ears flattened and his eyes grew wide in anger at the mention of Branch's name. Some of the omegas close by, sensitive to the tension, took a step back, their eyes dropping to the floor as their instincts urged them to submit to the more dominant troll. This made the sign more annoyed as he was not used to having so many omegas around. But before Peppy could continue his tirade, Dr. Moonbloom's calm voice interrupted the heated exchange.

"Your Highness," Moonbloom began, her eyes flicking over to the small group of omegas who had been quietly watching from the side. "Your presence here is disrupting the village's healing process." Her tone was firm, yet respectful, but Barb could tell the two already had bad blood with the way the king and doctor glared at each other.

Barb stepped forward slightly, clearly not backing down from the argument with the pink alpha. "We can help you rebuild, stronger than ever. We've faced challenges in our own city, but together, we've always found a way. Let's do the same for your people."

As if on cue, an alpha, who was roughly Peppy's age with green fur and striking greyish-green hair, approached with a sense of urgency. His eyes, a vibrant shade of neon orange, bore into Peppy's own, hinting at the gravity of the situation.

"Your majesty," Scone addressed Peppy with a firm tone of respect. "We must talk in private."

Peppy's gaze shifted from Barb to Moonbloom, his eyes narrowing before he turned to follow Scone.

After watching the two pop trolls walk away Barb turned to Moonbloom, "What's his problem?"

Before she could start talking, Smidge answered for her. "It's not just you, it's the situation. Peppy feels... less respected, I suppose. After all he's been keeping secrets from Poppy, his own daughter."

Barb raised an eyebrow. "What kind of secrets?"

"He's kept the truth of the outside world from her," Smidge said, her voice low and serious. "The existence of other Troll tribes, our ancestors' betrayal, the... other things that could make her question everything she knows."

Barb nodded, a pang of guilt running through her. "And I introduced her to all of it violently all in two days."

"It's not just that secret," Guy Diamond spoke up, his voice gentle but firm. "Poppy's upset at Peppy for letting Branch be shamed for being gray for so long."

Barb looked down at her feet, feeling the weight of their words. "I had no idea," she murmured. Barb mentally added 'talk to Poppy about Branch's past' to her growing list of things to address. She knew that once the village was safe and Poppy had recovered, she would need to sit down with the omega and hear her side of the stories she's heard so far about the pop tribe.

After a moment of silence that felt like an eternity, she took a deep breath and looked up at the glitter troll again. "Where can I help?" she asked, her voice firm but not commanding. The two pop troll alphas shared a look, before smiling slightly and leading the way after saying goodbye to the pop troll doctor.

As Branch walked through the halls Aries and another guard named Sonnet followed not too far behind him. Both had been assigned to be his personal guards when he wasn't around his alphas. The pop/funk troll had tried to argue with his mates about having two guards instead of one like they discussed before, but Quincy and Essence made it clear the topic wasn't up for debate. They were worried about his safety and nothing he said would convince them otherwise.

Cooper and Darnell also had more guards assigned to them, which Branch definitely wouldn't argue with. He was proud of the twins for their willingness to help and the seriousness they took in the situation. The twins had always been eager to prove themselves and show that they were capable of handling responsibilities after everything about the recent events were finally explained to them.

They walked through the corridors, passing the nursery wing that was a flurry of activity. It was clear that Essence and Quincy had given Branch full creative control this time around. Before, he had held back, afraid his ideas would be met with anger from his mates for stepping out of line but the other two rulers told him this is his tribe now too and that he had their full support. That made him delve into wanting to know more about his new tribe and the other ones.

As they were close to the nursery, Branch stopped to look at the build site for a moment.

The newer one would be similar to his old design except he added a few other things through his research which was helped immensely by his whole family and some of the other trolls he met through the world tour. Most were more security tech but others were for the trollings comfort.

Pop trolling's fur and skin needed time to develop as it was thinner than adults, which is why he thought of adding special floors made of a soft, bouncy material that was both comfortable for the little trollings to crawl on and resistant to scuffs and marks. But when studying other genres, he was shocked to find out how...durable some of the tribes trolling's were. Especially the rock ones who were usually put in lava as tradition and modified some of their body temps as soon as they hatched. So he decided the floor idea could be saved for the nursery his trollings would have since they would be half pop troll.

While he worked on the nursery, Aries approached him with a look of genuine concern. "Are you okay, Branch?" Aries asked, his voice filled with worry.

Branch took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding, his eyes never leaving the intricate patterns of the lighting system. "I'm fine," he assured him, though his voice wavered slightly. "Just...thinking."

They continued walking through the bustling hospital, the sound of trolls chattering and the beeping of medical machinery creating a symphony of healing. The air was thick with the scent of antiseptic and faintly fresh herbs from the medical supplies.

Once to the room he was looking for two other funk troll guards standing by the door nodded with respect and let him in.

Branch's eyes searched for any signs of life as he entered the pop queens hospital room. The wing was a marvel of Funk Troll technology, a stark contrast to the organic, whimsical designs of Pop Troll healing pod. The air was thick with a blend of sterile scents and the faint whispers of the machines that surrounded her, beeping rhythmically. The sight of his friend, so still and frail three days after the explosions, brought a lump to his throat. Her normally vibrant hair was matted and dull, her eyes closed, and her chest barely rose with each shallow breath.

To his right, he noticed two imposing figures that stood out in the gleaming corridor: two Rock Trolls, their stony skin and stoic expressions a stark contrast to the colorful chaos of the Funk Troll medical bay. They were Carol and Sid, members of Barb's council, and they had been assigned to protect Poppy at all costs by the rock queen. Standing side by side with her were her own personal guards.

Barb had insisted on having a direct line of communication with these two, trusting them implicitly. If anything were to happen, she knew they would be her eyes and ears. Branch felt a flicker of comfort knowing that Poppy had such steadfast protectors by her side. He knew their presence was a testament to Barb's unwavering dedication to their alliance and her concern for the safety of all Trolls.

He approached her side, his gold sandals echoing softly on the gleaming floor. A soft sigh escaped his lips as he gently sat beside her bed, his golden tail curling around his legs. Branch took a moment to gather his thoughts, his heart aching at the sight of her. He reached out and grasped her hand.

"Poppy," he whispered, his eyes shimmering with unshed tears. Her hand felt cold, so unlike the warm, vibrant touch he was used to. The medical pod hummed quietly, displaying an array of lights and screens that monitored her vital signs. The starkness of the room was a stark contrast to the warm, organic healing spaces he knew from his village. The only familiar scent was the faint lingering of her hair, but even that was overpowered by the sterility of the hospital.

Dr. Funkwave, assigned by the royal family to take care of the pop queen personally, walked in the room, her expression a mix of concern and concentration.

"Has anything changed?" Branch asked, his voice barely a whisper.

The doctor  looked up from the pop trolls' readings, her expression unchanged. "Not yet, your majesty. But we are doing everything we can."

Branch nodded, his grip on Poppy's hand tightening slightly. He knew that the Funk Trolls had the best medical technology in all of Trollkind, but seeing Poppy in this state was unlike anything he had ever experienced. He had always been the protector, the one who tried to ensure everyone else's safety (even though in the village he had been seen as 'just an omega'), but now he felt utterly powerless. The only thing he could do was wait, and hope for the best.

Suddenly, a loud crash echoed through the sterile corridors, snapping Branch out of his thoughts. He looked around, his eyes wide with concern, just as Aries and Sonnet bolted upright, their eyes darting to the doorway. Medical staff and additional guards rushed past the open door of the hospital room, their footsteps pounding the floor as they raced towards the source of the disturbance.

At first he thought it was another attack, his heart racing as he instinctively shielded Poppy with his body. His eyes narrowed, and he could feel his own scent glands pulsing with adrenaline hearing a loud growl, his instincts telling him to be ready to fight or flee.

As the hours ticked by, Essence and Quincy worked his study office. They had been out gathering supplies and information from the other Troll tribes about the mysterious fire. The sight of Poppy in the medical pod brought a newfound urgency to their mission. Tomorrow, the other tribe leaders would be coming to the ship for a meeting, and they had to be prepared if any of them had faced events lately that could be linked to the attack on funk and pop.

"Do you think Barb will be able to make it with her technically handling two tribes right now?" Quincy asked Essence, his deep voice filled with concern as he glanced at the holographic screen displaying a map of the Troll lands. Essence nodded, her blue eyes focused on the documents before her.

"I've sent an invite," she said, her tone firm. "But if she can't make it, then we'll have to send someone to Pop Village afterward"

Their next idea for representing the pop trolls at least would have been Peppy but he...

Quincy and Essence looked at each other, knowing what the other was thinking. "We'll suggest he comes," Essence said gently, "but we can't force him." The two alphas knew all too well the stubborn nature of the Pop Troll king. Despite the gravity of the situation, his disdain for anything not made by Pop Trolls was very clear.

"Won't even step foot in our ship," The male alpha murmured, disbelief tinging his words as he stared out the window of their quaint saucer-shaped abode. The gleaming silver pods of Funk Troll architecture shimmered in the light, a stark contrast to the dilapidated state of Pop Village. He would understand if Peppy was afraid of the ship but from what Barb has told them, the male pink pop troll was just plain stubborn. "How could he do that to his own daughter, I know he doesn't like the other tribes but this is his flesh and blood!" Quincy's eyes narrowed growling.

The sound of a ringing phone pierced through the silence of their conversation. Quincy smiled briefly, recognizing the tune as Branch's favorite. He picked it up and brought it to his ear. "Etoile bleue, what's up?"

The response on the other end was anything but cheerful. Branch's voice trembled, barely above a whisper. "A-alpha... please come to the med bay.

Quincy's heart skipped a beat at the distress in Branch's voice. The use of 'alpha' in such a context was not common in their relationship; it was reserved for moments of true need. He glanced at the queen as Essence started getting a call from the med bay as well, her eyes grew wide with concern.

"Essence, we need to get to the hospital," he said, his own voice tight with worry.

Essence nodded immediately, and the two of them sprang into action. Their long legs ate up the distance as they sprinted through the corridors of the Funk Troll ship. The sounds of their footsteps and the occasional jingle of Quincy's anklet echoed through the usually vibrant halls, now filled with a sense of urgency.

As they arrived at the medical bay, they found a tense scene unfolding in one of the first patient rooms. Three pop trolls were in the room, two of them looked to be the patients bound to the room while one was in a wheelchair near the doorway looking scared. The two poptrolls alphas on the other hand weren’t so calm, their eyes narrowed, covered by their dark pupils and teeth bared, and were snarling at a group of omega medical staff. The omegas, used to the gentleness of their own kind, looked taken aback but remained calm, their professionalism shining through the tension. The guards, on the other hand, had their scent glands flaring, a clear sign of their readiness to defend them.

Quincy stepped in, his deep, authoritative voice cutting through the hostility. "What's going on here?" He asked firmly, his eyes scanning the scene for his omega.

The omega nurse, her eyes slitted with anxiety, pointed at the Pop Trolls. "They don't like us touching them," she said, her voice shaking. "We're just trying to help."

Quincy's gaze softened as he approached the Pop Trolls, his hand held out in a gesture of peace. "I understand your discomfort, but these omegas are here to heal you."

The Pop Trolls growled in unison, their eyes narrowing to slits as they laughed derisively. "We don't need your kind, especially not the ones that let omegas strut around like they own the place!" one spat.

Quincy and Essence exchanged a confused look. The very concept of omegas not being valued or protected was foreign to them, as the Funk Trolls had always been progressive in their treatment of all genders like most of the other tribes. Yes, omegas hundreds of years ago were often kept close by alphas or in the homes for their own protection, but that was due to their vulnerability during heats and not a lack of respect.

A faint voice echoed from nearby, where a young omega Pop Troll lay, her skin a soft lavender and her hair a pastel shade of pink. "Queen Poppy is an omega though," she murmured weakly, her eyes pleading with the angry trolls.

The purple Pop Troll rolled his eyes dramatically, "Poppy is a rare case," he said with a sigh, his tone dripping with condescension. "But you must remember, she's still one of you. Once she's mated, she'll be just like the rest of you omegas - confined to her nest, breeding, and cleaning the home."

The young omega's eyes flashed with anger, and she pushed herself up on her wheelchair despite her injuries. "Like your one to talk creek, you betrayed us all!" she shot back, her voice surprisingly strong for someone in her condition. "If you had half the courage Queen Poppy has, maybe you wouldn't have turned your back on us when the tribe needed you!"

The blue-skinned alpha snarled in response, his pupils dilating to almost cover his eyes. "Careful with your mouth," he warned, taking a menacing step forward. However, before he could act on his fury, the omega guard standing nearby swiftly stepped in, placing himself between the enraged alpha and the defenseless young omega. His eyes, narrowing into slits, revealed his protective instincts that surfaced.

In an instant, the second guard, a troll with vibrant blue hair, sprang into action. With surprising strength, he grabbed the irate blue alpha and pinned him down. The medical staff, noticing the escalating situation, moved swiftly to sedate him, their professionalism unwavering amidst the tension.

"Thank you," Quincy murmured to the omega guard, his voice laced with relief.

Essence's gaze was icy as she turned to Creek. "You have two options," she began firmly. "You can either be sedated like your friend here," she nodded to the unconscious alpha on the bed, "or you can calm down and get back into your hospital bed. We can't have you causing trouble while we're trying to help your tribe."

Creek's jaw clenched, and he shot a glare at the omega guard who had pinned him down. With a huff, he rolled his eyes and stumbled back towards his hospital bed, his pride bruised. He knew he didn't stand a chance against these Funk Trolls. As he settled back into the stiff, hospital bed, he muttered under his breath, "I don't need your help anyway."

"Now, Creek," Essence said calmly, her blue eyes stern. "We understand your feelings, but your wellbeing is important. And we need everyone's cooperation to ensure that."

Quincy nodded in agreement, his deep voice echoing the sentiment. "We're not here to argue, but to help. And if you wish to recover in the comfort of your own village, we can arrange for you to be taken back with one of our guards." he turned to the group of medical staff and guards, "Could someone please escort our guest back to her room?"

One of the nurses nodded and stepped forward wheeling the injured female omega back to her private room. As the door closed behind them, Quincy addressed the remaining guards. "Let's keep an eye on these two," he said, gesturing towards the alphas who had yet to be transferred to their own village. "We don't want any more incidents like this."

Essence nodded gravely, her gaze lingering on the door of the room where Branch was likely still with Poppy. "Let's go find our omega," she suggested to Quincy, her voice tight with concern. "He's probably worried about us."

They made their way through the gleaming corridors of the Funk Troll medical bay, passing by bustling medical staff and recovering trolls. The vibrant colors of the walls and the rhythmic beep of machines contrasted sharply with the gravity of the situation. As they approached Poppy's room, they saw two sets of guards standing outside - their own from the Funk Tribe, and the ones assigned to Poppy by the Pop Tribe.

The guards nodded in recognition, and the door to the room slid open. Inside, Branch was sitting by Poppy's bedside. They dismissed the guards to the hall before speaking.

"Hey, little sapphire," Quincy called out, his deep voice filled with warmth as he approached.

Essence's eyes searched Branch's, looking for any signs of distress before she walked around the bed. "Are you okay?" she asked gently, her hand reaching out to touch his forehead.

Branch nodded, "can't believe they are doing stuff like this while so many people are hurt. And Creek tries to still convince everyone he's Poppys future mate," he said, his voice shaking with anger.

Quincy's gaze grew stern as he wrapped his arm around Branch. "Don't let his words bother you, mon étoile bleue. We will make sure there are more guards to watch everyone to make sure this doesn't happen again," he murmured, nuzzling into the shorter troll's neck to comfort him. Essence mirrored his action, her hand gently rubbing circles on his back.

Essence hated bringing up the topic, but it was necessary. She took a deep breath and turned to Branch. "Love, I hate to bring this up but the other leaders will be here soon so we need to get to the docking bay to greet them."

Branch nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of the situation. "It's ok"  But he felt his chest tighten as he looked over at the pink omega, still lying unconscious in the bed hooked up to different machines that he was still learning the names of. It was hard to leave her side, especially when she was vulnerable like this. "But what if she wakes up?" he whispered, his voice barely above a murmur.

Quincy cupped his smaller mates cheek. "We've got the best of the Funk Troll guards stationed with her along with what I'm sure is the pop tribes and barbs' best trolls as well. they will contact us if she shows any sign of movement."

Essence nodded in agreement "We won't be far, and if she does wake up we're going to be right there."

He nodded knowing they needed to handle this. "I'll come," he said, his voice stronger now. He didn't want to leave Poppy, but he knew he had to be part of the discussion that prevented other trolls from getting hurt like her.

They started down the hallway, the soft hum of medical equipment and the occasional beep of a machine serving as a backdrop to their footsteps. As they got closer to the main room with the elevator, Branch noticed the tension in Essence's and Quincy's shoulders. Suddenly he came across a familiar scent that made him angry and it seemed his alphas caught the scents too because they pulled Branch to the opposite side of the next door they were passing.

Branch could swear Essence and Quincy's eyes dilated slightly as they glanced inside.

When they finally made it to the docking station, Branch's eyes grew wide at the sight of the smaller saucer-shaped ships, each one adorned with glittering lights and vibrant designs that reflected the Funk Trolls' love for music and color. Delta, Holly, trollex and trollzart came out of each of the three ships. They had chosen not to communicate via a holographic conference, fearing that someone might intercept the conversation or even hack into their systems. The three funk trolls they had arrested still wouldn't admit if they had more accomplices but they were certain there were more. They had to be cautious.

As soon as they spotted Branch, Delta and Holly rushed over, their eyes wide with excitement and concern. Branch felt his cheeks warm up as they both embraced him in a warm, tight hug. It was a strange feeling, but also incredibly comforting. Their scents of candy apple and cherry pie were so welcoming to Branch as he had already grown close to most of the other leaders of the different Troll Tribes.

"Aw Branch, I'm so sorry sweetheart," Delta said. "We've been worried sick about ya and Poppy. How's she holdin up?"

He returned their embrace gratefully, his heart swelling with the warmth of their affection. "She's going to be okay," Branch assured them, his voice muffled slightly by Delta's fur before leaning back. "The doctors said she should be waking up any time now."

The group of friends shared a collective sigh of relief. They had sent a ship to the Pop Village, hoping that either Peppy or Queen Barb would be able to make it to the meeting, but as the minutes ticked by with no response, it became clear that they would have to proceed without them. Quincy and Essence exchanged a worried glance, not wanting two out of the 6 tribes to miss the important information they were about to discuss.

Right after stepping out of the room the docking bay door could be heard opening again making them go back to the docking bay, curious as to who the new arrivals were. The moment the ramp of the ship descended, their eyes grew wide with astonishment as Riff and two other rock trolls emerged from the ship. Riff, the omega spotted the group and immeditaely headed towards them. The two other rock trolls followed closely behind.

"Branch!" Riff exclaimed, his eyes lighting up like stars as he rushed over to his friend. He threw his arms around Branch's neck and gave him a tight squeeze. Branch returned the hug tightly,having grown close to the troll after witnessing him stand up to queen barb during the world tour.

Essence immediately stepped forward after getting around the sight shock, "Riff, what a lovely surprise what are you doing here?"

Riff smiled up at her, "weelll, Barb was still busy so she asked me to step in for her."

Some of the leaders exchanged nervous glances. The presence of anytroll but the leader or their family members was unheard of in such critical gatherings. "I'm sorry Riff," Quincy spoke up, his voice filled with concern, "Only rulers or their immediate families are usually allowed in these meetings."

This resulted in Branch, RIff, Holly and even the two other Rock Trolls staring at Quincy and Essence with puzzled expressions. "What do you mean?" Branch finally spoke, "Riff is barbs Brother."

The rest of the leaders apparently hadn't known that given their shocked expressions.

"I didn't even know she had siblins." Delta said slightly laughing.

"Yeah she does," Riff nodded, "theres me and our sister Val who is holding down the fort while Barbs busy in pop village."

Quincy looked over at Essence, who was frowning slightly, and he knew she was thinking the same thing: Why had no one mentioned this before? but shrugged and smiled at the group. "Well, this is certainly unexpected, but the more the merrier, right?"

They all made their way to the meeting room in the Royal Funk Troll home, once in the meeting room they were greeted by a mix of vibrant colors and futuristic designs, the stark contrast to the damaged Pop Village was stark. The walls were adorned with shimmering sequins that danced under the soft glow of the neon lights, while the floor was a checkerboard pattern of chrome and iridescent tiles that reflected their every step. The table at the center of the room was made of a translucent material, with intricate patterns of light pulsing beneath its surface.

Before entering Quincy looked back at the two rock trolls who he assumed were acting as riffs guards which was customary for any omega leaving their tribe. "You two must stay out in the hall, no one but leaders and family are allowed in these meetings.

The two rock trolls, who had been silent since their arrival, exchanged a nervous glance. They didn’t like the idea of leaving Riff unprotected, especially in a place filled with unfamiliar alphas, the rock trolls were still the most distrustful of the tribes despite everything. After a moment, one of them looked at Riff, "Let us know if you need anything." before they walked out of the room.

After sitting in the chair between his alphas, Branch took a deep breath and began recounting the turbulent events that had unfolded since their reunion. His voice, though soft and steady, conveyed the gravity of the situation. "I know most of you guys have been told what happened but just to fill you in, a few weeks ago, A room in the hospital had an explosive device placed in it. Three trolls have already been caught who planted it but they won't tell us who else was working with them." He paused, looking at the concerned faces of the tribal leaders. "The device was set up during the rebuilding of the room so it went off where many trolls could have been seriously hurt. A few days after that there were fires set in pop village."

Essence placed a comforting hand on Branch's back as he spoke, her eyes narrowing in anger at the thought of someone targeting innocent trolls. Quincy's grip on the armrest tightened, his jaw clenched. The room fell into a tense silence, the implications of these acts of sabotage weighing heavily on everyone present.

Delta, his expression a mix of shock and determination, broke the silence. "What can we do to help? We stand with you in this." His voice was firm, the gravity of the situation not lost on the Funk Troll leader.

Holly, the blue-haired omega, leaned forward, her eyes wide with concern. "We haven't experienced anything like this in our tribe, you think there's more trolls involved than just the ones you've caught?"

Quincy nodded gravely. "We can't rule it out. These are not the actions of just a few trolls. This is coordinated, with a clear intent to cause fear and chaos."

Riff's gaze darted around the room, his mind racing. "So, who are these three you've caught?" His voice was tight with worry.

Quincy took a deep breath before responding, his tone measured. "There are three Funk Trolls from our ship, but they have no known criminal records in our community. We have tried interrogating them but they won't say exactly why they did it and who else works with them."

Essence interjected, "We suspect there might be a hidden faction within our own tribe. Someone is influencing them, feeding them hate."

At that moment, the silence was shattered by the sound of urgent chirps from their wrist communicators. Branch's heart skipped a beat as he saw the caller's name coming from the hospital wing: "Poppy." He quickly answered, only to hear the frantic voice of one of the medical staff. "Poppy's awake, and she's on her way to you!"

Quincy's eyes narrowed in concern as he turned to Essence, his mind racing. "Why didn't they stop her from leaving the hospital?" he asked, his voice tight with worry. Essence put a comforting hand on his shoulder, her own gaze reflecting his anxiety. "They probably couldn't risk upsetting her more than necessary, given her condition."

Branch, who had been quietly listening to the conversation, suddenly shot up from his chair, his eyes wide with a mix of excitement and fear. "I have to go to her," he exclaimed, his voice filled with urgency. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on him; he had been waiting for this moment for what felt like an eternity. Without waiting for a response, he bolted towards the meeting, his legs moving faster than they ever had. The clanking of his silver sandals echoed through the hallways as he raced to Poppy's side.

As he approached the elevator, he saw her standing there, surrounded by a mix of Funk, Rock and Pop Troll guards. They stared at each other for a moment, he took in her tired appearance even after 'sleeping' for days. The color had drained from her face and her hair had brightened slightly but didn't have the volume it usually did. He stepped forward and hugged her tightly, "You're okay," he murmured into her ear, the words a soft whisper that she probably couldn't hear.

Poppy leaned into the embrace, feeling the warmth of the other pop omegas arms around her, the familiar scent of him washing over her like a comforting blanket. She could feel his heart racing in his chest, a stark contrast to the steady beat of hers. "What happened?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Branch pulled back, his expression a mix of concern and sadness. "We're discussing it right now," he replied.

Branch held her hand tightly, guiding her through the halls. When they entered the room, all eyes turned to them, the conversations hushed to a stop. Essence and Quincy rose from their seats, their expressions mirroring Branch's.

"Poppy," Essence said gently, her voice filled with a mix of relief and urgency. She quickly had a wheelchair brought to the room, the sleek design a stark contrast to the vibrant colors of their attire. "You need to sit down, you're not fully recovered yet."

The omega looked at the chair with a hint of protest in her eyes, but the wave of fatigue that washed over her made her realize the truth in Essence's words. With a sigh, she allowed the alpha to help her into the funk troll sized chair, feeling the cushioned support welcome her weary body. The wheels squeaked ever so slightly as the taller queen pushed her towards the center of the room where the others had gathered, their faces a mix of concern and curiosity.

Quincy took a deep breath, their blue and purple bracelets glinting under the neon lights of the Funk Troll techno-med bay. "Where do we start?" They asked rhetorically, glancing at Essence who nodded in agreement. The two alphas began to recount the events, from the discovery of the saboteur's sabotage to the explosion and fires that had ravaged their village. Poppy's eyes grew wider with each detail, her grip on Branch's hand tightening as she digested the gravity of the situation.

Her heart raced with a mix of anger and fear as she heard about her tribe's plight. "I have to go back," she exclaimed, attempting to sit up straight despite her weakened state. "They need me." But Quincy and trollex who were sitting on opposite sides of her, each placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, urging her to calm down. "You need to heal first, Poppy," Essence said firmly but with a softness in her eyes. "Don't worry, Barb is taking care of everything."

Poppy felt a pang of longing for her girlfriend's warm embrace. "But what if she's not okay?" she murmured, her voice laced with concern. Quincy squeezed her hand reassuringly. "We have no reason to believe she isn't, she's as tough as they come." Branch nodded in agreement. Despite their words, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that had settled in her stomach.

"We will need to contact Barb immediately," Essence suggested, her voice echoing in the elevator's confined space. Quincy nodded solemnly, already reaching for their communication device. But before they could make the call, a sheepish look spread across Poppy's face.

"Well you don't have to do that actually," she admitted, her cheeks flushing a darker shade of pink. "I heard Carol calling her while I was running out of my medical room." The alphas exchanged a surprised glance, but the omega's determination to be involved was unmistakable.

Quincy paused, then nodded. "Very well, but you need to rest as much as possible. Your health is our priority."

Essence leaned in, her eyes intense. "We've gathered intel, but it's still not enough. The fires seem to be deliberate, and the saboteurs are clever. They know our weaknesses and have been targeting our resources and our two different tribes so far."

Trollex's grip tightened on the arms of his chair, his eyes narrowing. "But why? What could they possibly gain from this?"

"Well," Holly suggested, her voice hesitant. "Maybe some trolls aren't taken too lightly to the tribes reunited again."

"But why would those three funk trolls attack their own?" Trollzart asked, his eyes narrowed in thought.

Riff nodded solemnly, his expression grim. "People do crazy things when they want attention. Maybe they're scared of change."

"Or perhaps," Branch spoke up, his voice low and serious, "it's more than that. Someone could be using these incidents to drive a wedge between the tribes."

Quincy's eyes narrowed, his pupils dilating slightly, the scent of his orange and mint scent growing stronger as his alpha instincts kicked in. "If that's the case, we need to be cautious and figure out who's behind this before it escalates further."

Branch's gaze met Quincy's, the wheels turning in his head as he took in the implications. "How do we do that?" he asked, his voice steady despite the fear that had begun to coil in his stomach.

Essence spoke, her face seemingly radiating authority. "We've already had some of our trolls investigating both tribes. We need to pool our resources, share information, and find any connections between the incidents." She looked around the group, her gaze firm.

Delta nodded, her expression turning thoughtful. "I'll have some of my closest deputies keep an ear out for any gosipen.

"Good," Essence responded, a hint of relief in her tone. "The more eyes and ears we have on this, the better."

Trollex sighed heavily, his gaze drifting to the floor. "I hate to say it, but some of my subjects weren't too thrilled about our new visitors. They fear our way of life might get disrupted, or more betrayal." His eyes met Essence's, and she could see the conflict in them. "But I never thought they'd go this far."

The pop queen leaned on the right side of her wheelchair's armrest, "Yea most of mine are very...hesitant to get to know any one else. Mostly because we had no idea about other trolls even existing till we got barbs letter."

Branch frowned thinking about his old tribe, "That and...well, most Pop Trolls are really closed-minded to those who aren't happy and colorful all the time. It's like if you don't fit our usual mold, you're seen as boor." His voice trailed off as he remembered his own struggles with acceptance in pop village.

Essence reached over and took Branch's paw in hers, giving it a gentle squeeze.

Poppy winced at the thought of her own tribe's obvious narrow-mindedness. She knew all too well that not every Pop Troll was as welcoming as she wished. Despite the discomfort, she nodded in agreement. "Yea some of them aren't open to change...i was hoping after the world tour they would be a little more open minded."

Quincy gave her a reassuring look. "The same could be said for the Funk Trolls and every other tribe, my dear. It's not easy to break down walls of fear and ignorance built over centuries."

Essence nodded solemnly. "We've all got our share of work to do in that department. But for now, we must focus on finding the saboteurs before they can do any more damage."

Quincy's eyes narrowed as they looked at the worried faces around them. "We'll speak with the three alphas again," they announced, their voice firm and unwavering. "If they don't cooperate fully this time, we'll have to consider more dire consequences."

The other leaders murmured in agreement, the gravity of the situation weighing heavily on their shoulders. As they parted ways, the air in the docking bay grew thick with unspoken tension. Essence wrapped her arm around Branch's shoulders, giving him a gentle squeeze as they began the solemn march back to the hospital wing. The guards, Aries and Sonnet, flanked them, their expressions a mix of concern and determination. The vibrant colors of the Funk Troll city seemed to fade in the shadow of the crisis that had struck so suddenly.

Upon reaching the hospital, Essence turned to the guards with a soft smile. "Thank you for your vigilance," she said, her voice carrying an underlying warmth. "You've done well, but I think it's time for you both to take a break. Branch will be with Quincy and me for the rest of the day." Aries and Sonnet nodded and stepped back, allowing Essence and Quincy to lead the omegas into the medical bay.

Quincy wheeled the pop queen back to her hospital room, with Essence walking alongside, her eyes filled with a fierce protectiveness as they approached the room. all sets of funk, pop and rock guards, trailed behind them, their expressions mirroring the seriousness of the situation.

The medical staff quickly surrounded Poppy once they were inside, their movements efficient and practiced as they settled her back into bed. Despite her initial protests, the omega knew better than to argue with them in a medical situation. The room buzzed with the sound of monitors beeping and the rustle of medical supplies being organized. The air was thick with anticipation as everyone waited for Dr. Funkwave to arrive and continue her examination.

Branch hovered near the edge of the bed, his gaze flicking between the worried faces of Essence and Quincy and the flurry of activity around his best friend. He felt his own heart rate spike as he watched the doctors and nurses work, their scents of determination and concern filling the room. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on his shoulders, but he knew he had to be strong for Poppy. The silver belt around his hips jingled slightly with each anxious shift of his weight, the tinsel ankle bracelets on his left ankle chiming.

When Dr. Funkwave finally finished her examination she looked down at the pop queen. "Now, my dear," she said, her eyes scanning over the monitors, "I know you're feeling a bit... restless, but I need you to promise me you'll try not to pull out the wires again. It's for your own good."

Poppy groaned, her eyes fluttering open. "But what if I have to... you know, go to the bathroom?" she asked, her voice weak.

"Don't worry, we've got that covered," Dr. Funkwave assured her, pointing to the bed's control panel. "Just press this button and we'll be right here to help."

Poppy nodded, still looking a bit confused. "But why did I go unconscious?" she asked, her voice growing stronger. "all i really remember was shaking before that"

Dr. Funkwave's expression turned serious. "You inhaled a significant amount of smoke during the fires in Pop Village," she explained. "Smoke inhalation can sometimes cause trolls to have reactions like seizures. We're monitoring you and some of your injured tribe closely for the next few days to ensure there's no permanent damage from your injuries."

The pink omega let out a low whine making Branch go over and hug her. It took a moment for her to speak again, "How hurt are they? Did anyone..."

Essence put a comforting hand on her shoulder. "There were no fatalities, thankfully. The most severe cases are here in the hospital with you, everyone else is helping rebuild the village."

After thanking the medical staff profusely, Poppy took a few more moments to process everything. The pink omega turned to Carol and Sid fret smiling tiredly. "Heyy, do you think... do you think Barb would be allowed to visit?".

Sid smirked at her, "Come on pops, ya know she has a soft spot for you. She's probably racing here as we speak." The room filled with a light chuckle, easing the tension.

Quincy nodded in agreement, placing a comforting hand on Poppy's shoulder. "As soon as she arrives, I'll make sure she's escorted here and we can talk about what's been done in your tribe," he assured her. "But for now, you really should get some more rest."

Poppy's eyes widened slightly, a hint of stubbornness creeping into her expression. "But, I've been asleep for what? Days?" She tried to sit up, but a wave of dizziness washed over her, and Branch was quick to offer his arm for support. "I can't just lie here while everything falls apart!"

Essence stepped forward, her eyes gentle but firm. "You need to recover, Poppy. Your body's been through a lot, and it's crucial for you to get your strength back." She glanced at Quincy, who nodded in silent agreement. "The hospital will keep us informed, and we'll handle things until you're ready to take the lead again."

Poppy sighed, the weight of their words sinking in. She knew they were right, but the urgency to act tugged at her heartstrings. "Okay," she murmured, her voice barely a whisper. "But promise you'll tell me if anything else happens."

With a nod, Branch hugged her one last time before the three of them turned to leave, Wishing her and the guards good night before exiting the room.

As they made their way out of the hospital, the corridors were quieter now, the bustle of earlier activities had died down to a gentle hum.  Even the walk to through the city seemed more peaceful now then before with many night trolls walking around heading home early due to the curfew.

Quincy wrapped an arm around Branch, pulling him in close to his side. The omega leaned into the comfort of the alpha's embrace.

"We're going to get through this," Quincy whispered into Branch's ear. "Poppy is going to be okay."

The pop/funk troll turned to the other king who was bending down to be at eye level to the teal troll. Branch leaned in and kissed Quincy, the alpha’s larger form making Branch feel safe and protected, a stark contrast to the fear and uncertainty that had been plaguing him since the attack. Quincy’s scent of sweet oranges washed over him, soothing his frazzled nerves.

Essence, noticing the intimate moment, cleared her throat gently. Quincy looked at her smirking, "Oh im sorry baby, you feeling left out?' he teased as he reached out to Essence with his other arm, pulling her into a group hug. Essence chuckled, feeling the warmth of their combined embrace. The scents of cinnamon and strawberries mingled with the orange, creating a comforting aura around them as they continued walking.

When they arrived at their shared residence, the twins were both passed out in front of the darnells tv playing a game, the light flickering on their sleeping faces. Darnell laying on his bed with his brother sitting on a giant fluffy chair beside him, both in deep sleep. Quincy gently picked up Cooper, his smaller frame light in the alpha's arms. He carried the smaller funk troll to his room next door while essence and branch woke Danrell up to get him to his own bed.

Knowing there would be guards stationed in front of the boys doors, the rulers went to their own room, weary from the day's events. They all immediately started shedding their formal attire, eager to slip into something comfortable for the night.

Branch, his hands on his waistband, paused mid-movement as he caught the reflection of his ankle in the mirror. A sinking feeling washed over him as he took in the gray spot that was slowly spreading. He quickly averted his gaze, not wanting to worry Quincy and Essence, who were already dealing with enough. It had been a few days since the incident at the Pop Village, and the weight of his secret grew heavier with each passing moment. He had hoped seeing poppy wake up would help but deep down he knew nothing would change till these attacks stopped.

Shaking his head, Branch pushed aside the curtains of doubt and entered the bathroom, the scent of mint and freshness immediately filling his nostrils.

He started changing into his pajamas, his hands trembling as he lifted his legs to slip into the soft, warm fabric. When he looked down, his heart skipped a beat. The spot on his ankle, once a small speck of gray, had grown significantly, now almost the size of his paw. His stomach twisted into a knot.

The omega didnt have to go to many lengths to hide it from his alphas. They havent had any intimate moments in days. And when they changed he would go into the bathroom or just make sure they were busy.

Branch quickly finished slipping into his pajamas, his thoughts racing. The spot had been growing steadily, and he knew he couldn't keep it hidden much longer.

He tiptoed into the bathroom, the cool tiles a stark contrast to the warmth of his room. With a shaky hand, he flushed the toilet and let the sink water run, hoping the noise would be enough to cover his tracks.

Branch took a deep breath, trying to compose himself, as he stepped into the dimly lit bedroom. The soft glow of the moonlight cast shadows on the floor, dancing across the vibrant fabrics that made up their nest. Essence and Quincy lay intertwined, their drooping eyes proving their exhaustion from the day's events. Carefully, he navigated the maze of pillows and blankets, not wanting to disturb them. His heart pounded in his chest, the weight of his secret growing heavier with every step.

Quincy must have felt his presence, for he opened his eyes, those piercing blue orbs looking up at Branch. Before the teal omega could say a word, Quincy pulled him in between them, enveloping him in their warm, strong embrace.

"Are you guys ok?," Branch murmured, his voice a soft whisper in the dark. Essence stirred, her deep brown eyes fluttering open to meet his gaze. The gentle touch of her hand found its way to his cheek, her thumb brushing away a stray lock of hair.

"Oui, belle. Just tired." Essence's deep, velvety voice washed over Branch, the Funk language sounding so relaxing. He felt the weight of his secret pressing down on him, but the comfort of their embrace was too much to resist. He allowed himself to be pulled closer, nestling into the familiar scents of Quincy's sweet oranges and Essence's warm cinnamon.

Chapter Text

Branch had become a morning person from being a survivalist for so long, better to be awake before predators. Now, he woke to more pleasant things like the familiar scents of cinnamon and oranges mingling with his own blueberry musk. Quincy’s arm lay heavy across his waist, Essence’s breath warm against his neck. For a moment, he savored the peace—the soft hum of the ship before deciding to get up. Carefully, he slid from the nest, avoiding the legs of his mates.

In the bathroom’s harsh light, Branch started getting undressed to shower.

The comb’s teeth snagged on a stubborn knot near his nape. Branch winced, his reflection showing the tension in his jaw. He worked slowly, methodically, until his silver-blue hair fell smooth and loose around his shoulders before he decided it was good enough and stepped into the running shower.

On the shelf stood Quincy’s creations: small glass jars labeled in elegant Funk script. Branch uncorked one. The scent hit him first—blueberries and vanilla, branchs natural scent. Quincy’s experiments often blended Funk’s advanced chemistry with Pop’s herbal traditions. Hair was a very sacred thing for pop trolls and as soon as his husband learned that he went to work making things for him but didnt want to mask his normal scent as they loved it. Branch worked the creamy paste through his strands, fingertips massaging his scalp. Coolness spread where the balm touched, soothing the sting from earlier tugging.

He rinsed thoroughly, watching swirls of violet-tinted water circle the drain. The cream Essence had commissioned for his fur came next—Jacinthe-scented, texture like whipped butter. Branch smoothed it over his arms, legs, the sensitive curve of his belly. It clung like liquid silk, sealing in the vitamins Quincy insisted was vital for omega health. For a moment, his fingers lingered over the grey patch on his ankle, rough beneath the cream’s slickness. He scrubbed harder there, as if effort alone could erase it. it had gotten bigger during the past two weeks, spreading across his ankle like spilled ink.

After a uick rinse and dry, he threw on some shiny black wide pants, blue shirt and pulled on a silver  knee-length cerulean vest Quincy had tailored last week with some other new clothes. Branch had tried insisting he didn't need more stuff. "I have plenty already," he'd protested, watching Essence unfold yet another silk robe. She just chuckled, draping the robe over Branch's shoulders. "Humor us, little star," Essence murmured, adjusting the collar while her thumb brushed his scent gland. "We just love spoiling you." Quincy had nodded, already draping a new gold necklace around his neck. "Seeing you in nice things makes our hearts sing."

He walked out of the bathroom seeing Quincy getting dressed but didnt see his female alpha anywhere.. Quincy stood before the full-length mirror, adjusting the lapis bracelet at his wrists. Branch paused in the doorway, unnoticed yet. Quincy’s reflection caught him first—a flicker in the mirror, then a warm smile spreading across the alpha’s face. "Morning, baby," he rumbled, turning fully.

Branch stepped forward, letting Quincy pull him close. The alpha’s cinnamon scent wrapped around him as fingers traced the line of his spine through the thin cerulean vest. "Sleep okay?" he murmured against his omegas sensitive ear. Branch nodded, leaning into their warmth. Quincy’s thumb brushed the gold marriage band on Branch’s wrist—a silent question. Branch pressed his face against Quincy’s chest where the steady heartbeat thumped beneath fabric.

"Did Val confirm when she'll arrive with holly and Synth?" Quincy asked.

Branch pulled back slightly, "Around ten," he replied. Holly was still getting the opinions from the countries sub tribes."

Quincy hummed, his large paw resting possessively on Branch's hip. "Good. We'll need their input before finalizing the tower placements near the Pop borderlands."

Branch moved to the ornate vanity, its surface cluttered with velvet boxes. He picked up the jade marriage band first, its cool weight familiar against his wrist. The gold caught the morning light as he fastened it, a stark contrast against his blue-grey skin. Next came the tinsel ankle bracelets—silver threads woven through gold chains that Quincy had commissioned to match his vest. He secured them carefully over the black fabric, the tiny bells chiming softly with each movement.

He looked through his smaller drawers and decided on some of his silver jewelry. He put on a silver chain necklace with a star charm that Quincy had given him on his first day. He also put on a silver bracelet that matched. He then put on his earrings, which were silver studs with small blue sapphires that matched his eyes.

Branch turned to grab his sandals out of his closet. He found them neatly placed on the shelf, the silver straps gleaming. As he bent down, his pant leg rode up slightly, revealing the gray patch on his ankle. He quickly adjusted it, his fingers brushing over the spot where his blue skin had faded. The cool metal of the sandals felt grounding as he slipped them on, the familiar straps securing around his ankles.

Quincy was waiting by the door, his presence filling the room with the comforting scents of sweet oranges and cinnamon. Quincy offered his arm, "Ready, little sapphire?" he asked, his voice soft. Branch nodded,  as they moved into the hallway where the twins, stood with their Funk guards.

Prince D and Prince C (Which Darnell insisted they call Cooper) quickly hugged their parents, Cooper nuzzling into quincysside. "Morning Mammon, Pops!" Darnell chirped, strawberry scent bright as he adjusted his gravity boots.

Prince C tilted his head, scanning the hallway. "Where's Mama?" he asked, paws fidgeting with his sequined vest.  Branch, not knowing the answer looked up at his alpha.

Quincy smiled, down at them. "Your Mama went to go get Poppy," he explained, his deep voice resonating with warmth.

Prince C bounced ahead, cherry scent trailing as he peered at floating holographic fish in a wall panel. "Queen Barb said shes going to be here soon!"

Quincy smiled, his large hand rubbing Coopers head messing up his dreads and cap but earned a laugh from it. "Is Barb traveling with Val and Holly?" he asked, glancing at the twins. The strawberry-scented alpha shook his head, gravity boots humming as he adjusted his stride. "Nah, Pops. She’s finishing the rebuild on one of the bigger builds in Pop Village—said she’d be here later."

The meeting room door slid open with a soft hiss, revealing a sleek, mirrored table surrounded by floating chairs that glowed with neon blue light. Branch settled beside quincy, who took a seat at the head of the table

Cooper walked into the room, waving a datapad. "Val’s ship just cleared the Funk airspace perimeter!." \*He slid into a chair opposite Branch, his paws tapping the table surface to pull up a holographic feed showing the rock troll giant bettlebug ship descending through clouds.

The meeting room doors parted again with a soft chime. Essence entered, her layered gown swirling around her ankles as poppy walked beside her, the pop queen’s magenta skin and floral crown a vivid contrast to the funk queen’s cool blue elegance. Poppy’s tail flicked nervously behind her, but her smile was genuine as she squeezed essence’s paw. "Thanks for the escort," she murmured, her voice still raspy from disuse.

Branch instinctively straightened as essence took her seat beside quincy. Cooper’s holographic display flickered, zooming in on Val’s beetlebug ship as it docked with Vibe City’s gravity bubble. Darnell leaned forward, his strawberry scent sharp with curiosity.

Cooper beamed excitedly "Barb’s gonna be here after lunch, Poppy," he chirped, paws gesturing wildly.

Poppy’s eyes widened, her tail puffing like a dandelion. "Barb’s coming? Today?" she exclaimed "I haven’t seen her since... since everything."

Cooper nodded enthusiastically, his holographic display shimmering as he pulled up Barb’s itinerary. "Yep! She’s finishing up the last mushroom-house repairs in Pop Village." He grinned, tapping the projection.

Poppy’s eyes widened, her tail swishing excitedly against Essence’s leg. "Oh! That’s perfect timing—I need to thank her properly."

The door hissed open, cutting through the neon glow. Lownote strode in, his usual layed back  expression softened by the presence of Val, Holly, synth and suprisingly Trollzart trailing behind him.

Branch’s breath caught. Trollzart? He hadn’t expected the Classical Troll leader to make the journey. Without hesitation, Branch darted forward, wrapping his arms around Trollzart’s waist. The taller troll stiffened momentarily in surprise—Classical Trolls weren’t known for spontaneous affection—before gently patting Branch’s shoulder. "You came," Branch murmured into Trollzart’s silken tunic, the scent of aged parchment and lavender clinging to the fabric. Trollzart’s eyes crinkled at the corners. "Well when you told me about the attacks i thought i would try to be more consistent with comign along with Dante but..." Trollzart sighed softly, his voice dropping to a whisper only Branch could hear. "Dante had gotten sick. A sudden fever after our last rehearsal."

Quincy’s hand settled warmly on Branch’s lower back, grounding him. "We’re honored," Quincy said, his deep voice resonating through the chamber. Essence stepped forward, her gown whispering against the polished floor. "Everyone—thank you for joining us."

Val layed back in her own chair, "so we think we're gonna keep our tower near the arena, but we're still figuring out the design." Synth perched on the edge of his seat, his eyes darting between Essence and Branch. "We need your expertise, Branch. Your sketches were genius"

Branch leaned forward, his fingers tracing invisible blueprints on the glowing table surface. "The Rock Trolls' tower needs special materials," he said, his voice crisp with focus. "Lava-resistant alloys for the foundations and lower levels—nothing that'll melt or warp under constant heat exposure." He glanced at Holly, who nodded vigorously, her dreadlocks swaying. "And for Techno Reef? We can't risk rust near all that saltwater. Titanium cladding for the exterior supports, with hermetic seals on every joint."

Synth scribbled notes quickly. "Got it. Titanium for Techno, obsidian-infused composites for Rock." He paused, frowning. "But sourcing those quantities…"

Branch’s tail twitched thoughtfully. "Barb’s volcanic mines have raw obsidian. And Trollex’s deep-sea harvesters can extract titanium nodules." He tapped the table, activating a shimmering resource map. "Prioritize transport routes here and here—avoid the southern thermals."

Val whistled low. "Efficient. You’ve memorized every tribe’s exports?"

Branch shrugged, avoiding eye contact as he traced a thermal vent on the map. "Just practical." His tail coiled tight around the chair leg, knuckles white where they gripped the edge of the table. Quincy’s hand settled warm and steady on his thigh beneath the table, knowing his omegas still not big on getting compliments.

Synth leaned forward, holographic schematics swirling around his paws. "Transport’s feasible if Barb approves ore allocation. But Trollex’s harvesters—" The feed crackled as Val’s image flickered. "—need confirmation they can prioritize titanium without compromising reef stability."

Val leaned against the arm of her chair. "Barb already authorized emergency resource sharing last week." She pulled up the map of her home on the hologram.

Synth nodded, tapping his paw on the table. "Then I'll contact Trollex immediately about the titanium." He paused, glancing at Branch. "Though I'll need exact alloy ratios for the cladding."

essence's pulled up a 3d model of the tower's core supports. "Branch drafted these specs last night." The blueprint glowed amber between them, intricate load calculations scrolling alongside structural diagrams. "The alloy ratio is seventy-thirty titanium-obsidian composite. Heat-resistant, flexible under pressure." Her paw hovered over the shimmering numbers.

Quincy leaned back observing the information in front of them before looking around "Has there been anymore attacks?"

Everyone shook their heads, "No, Barb even mentioned nothing happening in pop village since the attacks stopped." Val added, poking the hologram to rotate the tower design. "But we've tripled patrols around resource stockpiles just in case." Synth traced a claw along the blueprint's stress points.

The meeting stretched past noon as they hammered out logistics. Lownote and Branch’s corrections ensured every weld point and alloy mixture aligned with seismic safety margins.

When the meeting finally ended Copper immediately stood and stretched his arms above his head. "My brain feels like overcooked noodles," he groaned dramatically. Darnell chuckled, laying his head down on the table with a soft thump. Essence ran her paw through his dreads affectionately while Quincy shut down the scattered holograms.

Synth tapped his communicator, its screen pulsing softly. "We'll depart immediately," he announced, nodding to Val, Holly, and Trollzart. "I'll oversee Pop Village's tower assembly personally—their tech adaptation requires close supervision." Pop trolls werent used to advanced technology so synth had to be there to help them understand how to assemble the tower. Val looked up from the game on her tablet. "Barb's miners extract obsidian faster than anticipated. We'll collect the first shipment en route and head to techno reef in an hour."

Cooper stretched, his joints popping softly. "Finally! My tail's asleep." Darnell yawned, rubbing his eyes. "Can we have a snack?" Quincy chuckled, ruffling Darnell's hair. "Kitchen's stocked with those berry tarts you love." As the group dispersed toward the corridor, Essence caught Poppy's wrist—a gentle but deliberate tug. "A moment, Poppy?" Her voice lowered, barely audible over Cooper's chatter about frosting flavors. Poppy paused, confusion flickering across her face as Quincy ushered the others out.

They sat back down at the polished table, its surface still glowing faintly. "We've heard troubling accounts," Essence began, her voice smooth but layered with concern. She traced the edge of a holographic blueprint still flickering on the tabletop. "I just wanted to address it with you as it is about pop village." Poppy leaned forward, her brow furrowing. Essence met her gaze steadily.

Poppy's fingers tightened around the edge of her seat. "Is there... is there going to be another attack?" The question hung in the air, sharp with the memory of crumbling pods and terrified screams. She glanced toward the corridor where the others had disappeared, as if checking they were truly out of earshot.

Essence's expression softened, but her gaze remained steady. "No, Poppy. The physical threats are contained. Barb’s patrols are vigilant, and Val confirmed no further sabotage." She leaned forward slightly, the scent of cinnamon sharpening in the quiet room. "But the reports from reconstruction crews and our own observations of you,Branch and a few other pop trolls we've met... they speak of deeper wounds. Omegas in your village are still flinching at sudden movements, hiding their nests even from kin. And your father’s words during the council meeting—"

Poppy flinched as if struck. "He was stressed, Essence. The coma, the guilt—"

"Stress doesn't breed prejudice, Poppy. It reveals it." Essence's voice was low, the faintest tremor of alpha intensity beneath the calm. "We've seen the way some alphas treat ones who they think are below them. We've heard Cooper speak of omegas being mated off to 'Calm them down'.

Poppy's tail coiled tight around her chair leg. "That... that's old village thinking. We're changing—"

"*You* are changing, Poppy," Essence interrupted gently, her pupils subtly widening as she leaned closer. The scent of cinnamon deepened, protective and grounding. "But sadly many in your tribe are not."

Poppy's eyes tightened into slits—a rare omega flash of anger—before she deliberately smoothed her expression. She turned away, gaze fixed on the shimmering gravity bubbles drifting outside the saucer ship's viewport. "I don't want to talk about this anymore." Her voice was clipped, the cheerful lilt replaced by something brittle. "My people are healing. That's what matters."

Essence's cinnamon scent spiked with concern, but she respected the boundary, nodding once. "Of course. Let's focus on that but we are going to eventually sit down and have this discussion Poppy."

They walked out of the meeting room together, the heavy, soundproofed doors sliding open with a soft hiss. Outside, Essence’s personal guards.

Essence paused, her gaze softening as she looked at Poppy. "Do you want to go to the docking bay to say bye to the ambassadors and trollzart?

Poppy smiled but shook her head, already backing toward the corridor leading to the hospital. "I need to get to my last physical. Dr. Funkwave said it’s mandatory before discharge."

Essence fell into step beside her, their footsteps echoing softly in the wide, chrome-lined hallway. "I’ll walk you. I have a meeting there in a few minutes actually."

As they moved through the corridors, Essence’s gaze lingered on Poppy’s form next to her.

“So,” Essence began, a playful lilt in her voice as she nudged Poppy’s shoulder. “Barb’s arrival has you practically vibrating."

Poppy stumbled slightly, cheeks flushing a vivid magenta. “Yea, we were being so good with going on dates at least once a week until the attacks happened. I hope we can go back to that once things calm down.” She fiddled with her bracelet, avoiding Essence’s knowing smirk.

The Queen’s expression softened. “You’ve got it bad, Pop Queen. Quincy and I were the same when we first bonded.”

Poppy paused, glancing at Essence’s lapis bracelet. “How did you know they were… y’know. *The ones*?”

Essence chuckled, the sound low and melodic. “Quincy was sent to interview me for the astronomer position when we were jiust nineteen.” She smoothed her gown, eyes distant. “He asked about my studies first… but then we ended up talking about our favoriteinterest for hours instead. Missed his deadline entirely.” Her fingers brushed the lapis bracelet.

essence continued, "At the end of the night he asked me on a date. Said he'd already gotten everything he needed from me—my laugh, my terrible jokes, the way my eyes lit up talking about nebulas." She touched the silver star necklace "This was his courting gift to me."

Poppy smiled brightly "That's so romantic! But... how did you know Branch was your omega so quickly during World Tour?" She hesitated, lowering her voice. "You didnt even know him."

Essence’s expression softened, her cinnamon scent warming the air. "Cooper talked about Branch constantly after returning from Pop Village," she murmured, tracing the edge of her lapis bracelet. "How protective he was, how much he helped around the village despite his own struggles." She paused, remembering Cooper’s wide-eyed admiration.

"Then at World Tour," Essence continued, her voice low and resonant, "Branch stood between you and barbed wire when Barb’s guitar sparked. He didn’t hesitate—just shielded you with no question."

Poppy’s eyes widened slightly. "I remember. He yelled at me afterward for almost getting impaled."

Essence chuckled softly. "Exactly. That fierce protectiveness mixed with exasperation. Pure omega instinct." Her gaze drifted toward the infirmary doors. "i know we had made the proposal and we love the dedication he has but at that moment we realized how much he already meant to us because of that one moment we thought we had lost him forever."

Poppy nodded slowly, fingers twisting in her hospital gown. "He always puts others first. Even when..." She trailed off, swallowing hard. "Even when he shouldn't have to."

The hospital lobby doors opened with a soft sigh, revealing Essence and Poppy stepping into the antiseptic-scented air. Fluorescent lights hummed overhead, casting sterile brightness over rows of curtained cubicles where muffled coughs and low conversations drifted. Poppy’s smile faltered as they passed rooms filled with recovering Pop Trolls—Bandit curled beneath a blanket, Harper sketching with a bandaged wrist, Gemma sleeping fitfully while Keith fidgeted beside her.

once they got to a certain point essence stopped and smiled down at the pop queen "i'll come check on you after my meeting with the hospital director, alright? get as much rest as you can after your appointment poppy." she gave the smaller troll's shoulder a gentle squeeze before turning down the corridor toward the administrative wing. her heels clicked against polished floors that smelled faintly of lemon disinfectant.

Dr. Dizzy Gillespie's office door stood ajar, revealing walls plastered with anatomical charts of troll biology and framed certifications. The funk doctor himself—a lanky troll with gradient purple fur and neon-green dreads—looked up from his holo screen as Essence entered. "Your Majesty! Right on time." He gestured to the plush visitor's chair upholstered in shimmering silver fabric.

Afterthe funk queens guards stepped out, Essence settled gracefully, crossing her ankles beneath her layered gown. "Director. Your report mentioned 'concerning patterns' among some patients." Her voice remained even, but her fingers tightened imperceptibly around her lapis bracelet.

Gillespie leaned forward, steepling his paws. "It's delicate, Your Majesty. Several Pop Trolls—mostly omegas—have expressed... reluctance to return home." He tapped his holo-screen, pulling up anonymized quotes: *"No one yells here when I nest," "The doctors don't touch my scent glands without asking," "Alphas look away when I say no." The air thickened with the scent of antiseptic and unspoken fear.

Essence's pupils dilated slightly, swallowing the amber of her irises. "Did they specify incidents? Names?" Gillespie shook his head, ears drooping. "They clam up when pressed. Only a few have spoken up, but they don't say much. A trolling mentioned his father being sad all the time and lots of unfairness against both alphas and omegas.." his ears twitched slightly and he got a very judgmental look on his face. "One of the trolling patients from our own tribe said a few mentioned that their was certain jobs  that alphas and omegas had to choose from and that some omegas didnt go to school after a certaain age because they 'wont need it'"

Essence stood abruptly, her gown swirling like storm clouds. "Schedule private sessions with every omega from Pop Village. Use my personal comms—encrypted, i also want every hospital guard here." She paused at the door, her knuckles white against the frame. "And Dr. Gillespie? Any Troll who wishes to stay... ensure they know Funk's borders are open. Permanently." The director's solemn nod was the last thing she registered before striding into the corridor, the scent of willow bark and antiseptic suddenly suffocating. She walked quickly towards the hospital exit, her mind racing.

After her physical, Poppy was escorted to her room by her security guards. She found Carol and Sid Fret standing by her door smirking. SHe smiled at them but wondered why they were smirking and not inside her room like they usually were.

Carol pushed Poppy into the room and Sid Fret closed the door behind her, locking it from the outside. Poppy's eyes widened as she heard the lock click. She turned back to the door pouting at it. "Hey!" she called out, panic rising in her voice.

Suddenly, strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind. Poppy froze, her breath catching in her throat. The scent of ash and leather filled her nostrils—sharp, commanding, and unmistakably Barb.

"Missed me, Popstar?" Barb's voice was a low rumble against Poppy's ear, her claws tracing gentle circles on Poppy's stomach. Poppy leaned back instinctively, her body melting into the familiar warmth. She tilted her head, her lips finding Barb's jawline first—a fleeting brush against stony skin—before lifting her chin to capture Barb's mouth in a deep, desperate kiss.

After they seperated, poppy turned around and hugged Barb tightly, burying her face in the rock queen's shoulder.

Barb chuckled softly, her arms wrapping around Poppy's waist. "Heard you were locked up. Thought you could use a jailbreak."

Poppy sighed against her shoulder, the adrenaline fading. "Honestly? I'd love to sleep." Her voice was muffled against Barb's leather vest, exhaustion seeping into every word. "Haven't slept properly since... well, since everything." The scent of volcanic ash and amber clung to Barb, oddly comforting against the sterile hospital smell.

Barb pulled back slightly, her crimson eyes narrowing as she scanned Poppy's face—the shadows under her eyes, the tension in her jaw. Her thumb brushed Poppy's cheekbone, rough but deliberate. "Well i guess im taking a nap too." She scooped Poppy up effortlessly, ignoring her muffled protest. "Hospital beds suck so dont expect a five star experience though."

Barb placed her omega on the bed with gentleness. She kicked off her heavy leather boots, the thud against the floor echoing in the quiet room then peeled off her studded jacket next. The scent of volcanic ash intensified momentarily as the garment landed on a chair, revealing scarred arms corded with muscle beneath her black tank top.

Poppy watched, eyelids heavy, as Barb climbed onto the narrow hospital bed. The springs groaned in protest under their combined weight. Barb settled on her back, pulling Poppy firmly against her side. One arm wrapped possessively around Poppy’s waist, anchoring her against the alpha’s warmth. Poppy instinctively nuzzled into the hollow of Barb’s throat, breathing in the deep, smoky amber scent radiating from her glands.

Barb chuckled softly, the vibration rumbling against Poppy’s cheek. "Missed you, Popstar," she murmured, fingers tracing idle patterns along Poppy’s spine. The pink queen felt a wave of drowsiness pull at her eyelids.

Poppy mumbled something incoherent into Barb’s collarbone, her fingers curling weakly against the alpha’s ribs.

1 hour earlier-

Essence walked quickly with her guards going at the same pace to keep up, worried what was said un that maeeting that would make their queen move so fast.

Essence strode through the glittering corridors of Vibe City, her heels clicking a sharp rhythm against the mirrored floors.

Her thoughts churned with Dr. Gillespie's revelations—Pop Troll omegas denied schooling, masny barred from careers, their boundaries violated. The scent of sweet oranges and cinnamon (Quincy and Branch) pulled her toward the docking bay. If  they lingered there after the tower meeting, she'd find them quickly.

Essence pushed through the shimmering gravity-lift doors, her guards flanking her. Relief washed over her as she spotted Quincy's tall frame near the edge of the bay. Branch stood beside him, his smaller form dwarfed by Quincy's protective stance. They were deep in discussion with Synth and Lownote, blueprints fluttering in the gentle artificial breeze. Branch's grey fur peeked through his golden vest sleeve where he'd nervously scratched. Essence’s steps quickened.

Quincy sensed her first, turning with a warm smile that faltered as he caught her expression. "Essence?" His voice held concern. Branch’s ears twitched, his gaze snapping to her. The scent of her controlled fury—sharp ozone beneath her cinnamon—made his own blueberry scent spike with worry. Before Essence could speak, a commotion erupted near the bay entrance.

Barb strode through the gravity-lift doors, her spiked armor gleaming under Vibe City’s neon lights. Val, who’d been examining a holographic schematic with Holly Darlin’, spun around. "Barb!" Val’s shouted. Barb didn’t hesitate. She closed the distance in three long strides, crushing her sister in a fierce embrace that lifted Val clear off her paws. Holly discreetly stepped back, giving them space.

"Missed you," Barb mumbled into Val’s shoulder, her usual rasp softened. She inhaled Val’s familiar scent—smoke and worn leather—before setting her down. Her crimson eyes scanned Val’s face, never havign been away from her siblings as long as she had. "How’s home been?"

Val shrugged, a laid back smile touching her lips. "Same as usual." Her voice was steady, but exhaustion bled through. "Dads been having some good days lately so hes been able to join in on a lot of the concerts."

Barb nodded, her expression softening. "Good." She turned to Holly, her gaze sharpening. "Pop Village is rebuilt. Finished yesterday." She paused, letting the words settle. "I'm heading back to Volcano Rock City tomorrow."

Holly's ears perked up. "That's amazing news!" She glanced toward Val, who was already pulling out her comm device. "Synth is about to head over there with Lownote to have the new cell tower put up."

Barb's eyebrow ridge lifted. "Cell tower?"

Val tapped her comm, pulling up the plans Synth had sent. "Funk Trolls are expanding their network. Branch suggested sourcing materials from you and Trollex." She angled the hologram toward Barb—a sleek, spiraling structure designed to blend with Pop Village's mushroom homes. "Obsidian from your lava flows, titanium from Techno reefs. Synth's handling coordination. We're trading dome materials witht the techno trolls by the way. Once synth notifies his brother we will start work."

Barb's brow furrowed. "Synth's brother?" She glanced at Holly, then back at Val. "Since when does Synth have a brother involved in trade?"

Val blinked, her confusion evident as she tilted her head. "Synth's brother *is* Trollex.

Barb froze, her eyes widening slightly. "Trollex? Synth is related to Trollex?" Her voice carried genuine surprise, the usual rock-hard edge softening into disbelief. She glanced at Holly, who nodded slowly, confirming the connection. "All this time... I never knew they were siblings. How did I miss that?"

Val chuckled, her tail swishing lightly. "Synth keeps his family ties quiet. Says it avoids 'unnecessary royal fuss.'" She tapped her comm again, enlarging the holographic tower design. "But back to business. Your obsidian would anchor the foundation. Trollex’s titanium alloys for the framework. We’d need shipments by next tomorrow morning."

Barb nodded, her gaze lingering on the blueprint. "Consider it done. My miners can extract the obsidian tonight."

Val's shoulders relaxed. "Appreciate it. Synth will send the specs." She glanced at Holly, who was already tapping her comms device.

Barb's eyes swept the room, her expression shifting from business to concern. "Where's Poppy? Thought she'd be glued to Branch by now." Her scent—smoke and petrichor—sharpened slightly looking around for her future omega.

Essence stepped forward, her voice low but carrying the weight of Vibe City's gravity wells. "I was just there. Poppy’s discharge was delayed so they had her come ion for another appointment"

The rock queen nodded, "Im going to go wait in her hospital room then." she turned back to her sister "Ill call you and riff later, let me know if you need me to come back sooner."

Barb turned to leave but Essence caught her attention. "Before you go—once Poppy’s cleared, we need to discuss the other Pop Troll omegas discharge.' trying not to cause too much alarm to everyone about the pop village situaton....yet.

Barb nodded in response "You got it E." She then turned back to her sister while walking backwards towards the door. "Dont go in my room while im gone, and dont forget to feed Debbie." She then turned around and walked out the door.

Branch watched Barb leave, his blue-black hair shifting as he tilted his head turning to Val. "how is it being siblings with her?" he asked, gesturing towards Barb's retreating form. "She's so... intense."

Val chuckled, adjusting her guitar strap. "You get used to it. Though I still jump when she sneaks up on me during soundchecks." She paused, smirking as she watched Barb disappear around the corridor's neon curve. "Honestly? It's hilarious seeing her and Poppy together. Barb gets all nervous when she thinks no one is looking."

Synth snorted, tapping his holographic tablet.

Val grinned, shrugging. "What? It's true. Barb practically vibrates when Poppy enters a room." She leaned closer to Synth, lowering her voice conspiratorially. "Last week, she spent an hour tuning her bass just because Poppy mentioned liking 'deep, rumbly notes.'"

Val definitely used her sibling privileges to tease Barb. Synth rolled his eyes at Val's antics, but Lownote chuckled softly, shaking his head, exchanging an amused glance with Quincy.

Val gave a mock salute. "Alright, duty calls! Synth, Holly—let's bounce before Barb realizes I spilled her secrets." She slung her arm around Holly's shoulders, steering her toward the docking bay entrance where Synth's sleek, chrome-plated shuttle hummed softly. Synth tapped his tablet, and the shuttle's hatch hissed open, revealing plush violet seats and glowing control panels.

Branch watched them go, then turned to Quincy and Essence. His ears twitched slightly as he caught Essence's lingering tension. "You okay?" he murmured, stepping closer. His paw brushed hers—a small, grounding gesture Quincy had noticed him using more often since their bonding. Essence squeezed his paw back, her regal posture softening fractionally glancing between them and lownote. "We need to discuss something urgent."

Lownote cleared his throat, not sure if this was a 'mates' moment or tribe matter. "Think I should—"

"You too," Essence commanded softly, she led them to quincys study. The heavy door shut with a muffled thud. Branch immediately pressed his forehead against Essence's shoulder, breathing deeply. "Your scent's... sharp. Like ozone before lightning." Quincy's paw settled on Branch's back, grounding him as Essence spoke. "Dr. Gillespie's report. Pop Village tribe members are terrified to return. Unsolicited scenting. Denied apprenticeships. Deliberate isolation." Each word landed like a stone. Branch's grey fur bristled visibly along his spine. ' *Peppy,*' he his mind screamed, claws flexing. "It's systemic," Essence confirmed. "I've ordered asylum here. Confidential therapy sessions."

Branch lifted his head, eyes darting between his mates. "What are we going to tell Poppy?" His claws dug into Essence's sleeve. "She defended Peppy earlier—"

"That's what my meeting with Barb is about later," Essence interrupted, her voice tight. She stroked Branch's fur, feeling the tremors beneath her paw. "I tried speaking to Poppy after the meeting. She just seems so hesitant to admit something could be wrong."

Branch pulled away slightly, his grey fur bristling. "Poppy's my closest friend." His voice was low, strained. "But she grew up being the center of Pop Village. The tribe only focuses on being happy. Anything else? It's shoved aside and ignored." He paced, tail lashing. "She sees Peppy as this perfect king because he *made* her believe it. Admitting he failed omegas? Admitting he failed *her*?" He stopped, claws digging into his palms. "Shes afraid of it."

Quincy exchanged a grim look with Essence. "That blindness could fracture Pop Village," he murmured. "Especially now."

Branch's ears flattened sighing. "It already has. when the village escaped the tree the first thing everyone did was party." he rolled his eyes thinking about it "me and poppys friends wouldnt have been captured if they hadnt been ignoring the fact we were still close to the bergens."

Essence placed a paw on his shoulder, her touch grounding. "That avoidance runs deep," she murmured. "But Barb won't tolerate it. Not after what Dr. Gillespie uncovered." Her gaze hardened. "She's waiting at the hospital now."

Branch nodded, shoulders tense. "Barb... she'll force Poppy to see." He sounded uncertain, conflicted. Loyalty warred with the painful truth he knew Poppy needed to face.

Essence placed a gentle hand on his arm. "Barb won't tolerate ignorance, Branch. Especially not when it hurts others." Her gaze drifted towards the balcony doors, where the distant glow of the hospital complex pierced the twilight. "They're probably spending time together right now. Barb hasn't seen Poppy in person for two weeks."

Quincy leaned against the polished obsidian desk, his expression thoughtful. "Two weeks apart after... everything? That reunion must be intense. Barb's protective instincts are running high" He trailed off, shaking his head slightly. "lets give them a few hours."